Watching chefs armed with Samurai-like knives prepare your food at the restaurant’s teppanyaki tables is part of the show at Sakura, but the food is just as impressive, with a menu of classic Japanese dishes including Salmon-Skin Maki Rolled in Spring Onions and Shabu Shabu (Japanese hotpot). Ideal for dining with a group of friends or entertaining colleagues, the stylish and elegant interior is decorated with framed calligraphy and elaborately adorned walls. Telephone +971 [0] 4 331 1111 Email fbreservations.cpdubai@ihg.com
Styled to look like a traditional taverna with low archways, Spanish artwork, and a warm colour palette for walls and furnishings, you feel like you’ve arrived in Seville when you step into this Wafi tapas restaurant. There’s al fresco dining too, if you like to feel the sun on your skin as you tuck into plates of Paella and classic tapas favourites, including Calamares Fritos, Chicken Flamenquines and Patatas Bravas. Telephone +971 [0] 4 324 4777 Email fnb.sales@wafi.com
An evening at Hong Loong is not only a delectable dining experience, but also a cultural journey through Chinese traditions, in a beautiful and understated setting with service that is second to none. Take your pick from traditional recipes cooked in clay pots alongside the usual dim sum, soups, fish and seafood, meat and poultry, tofu and vegetables, rice and noodles, and thought-provoking desserts. Telephone +971 [0] 4 455 6677 Email H6541@sofitel.com
The name of this restaurant is taken from the handi, a deep, narrow-mouthed cooking vessel used in northern India, Pakistan and Bengal. The aim of Handi is to take you on a culinary journey and offers a collection of curries, dal and biryani, all flavoured with spices from the North of India. Menu highlights include tandoor baked kebabs and an extensive selection of spicy vegetarian dishes. Telephone +971 [0] 4 223 2222
This renowned restaurant specialises in a variety of Thai cuisine, from unique regional dishes, to authentic classics and even celebrated street food. It’s a very trendy, modern space. Expect dark lighting, bright neon flashes of light and oriental decor features like hanging intricate temple bells. Try menu favourites such as Saku Sai Gai (tapioca dumplings), Kung Yang Phuket (grilled tiger prawns) and Phad Pak Choi Sai Hed (Pak Choi Stir Fry). Telephone +971 [0] 4 414 3000 Email jwdubai.dining@marriotthotels.com
Enjoy a taste of North India courtesy of Indian celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor, whose eatery Khazana is situated just behind Al Nasr Leisureland in Oud Metha. Try the grilled tandoori seafood and gravy-based dishes, as well as the kebabs and Anglo-Indian novelties, such as British Raj railroad curry. You’ll be privy to a dose of culinary artistry, with chefs mixing the usual fare with Anglo-Indian novelties. Telephone +971 [0] 4 336 0061 Email info@khanakhazanadubai.net
All-you-can-eat buffets don’t always come cheap in Dubai, but this stylish restaurant changes that with affordable buffet rates throughout the week. Guests are invited to fill their plates from overflowing displays of international cuisine while enjoying comfortable, contemporary surroundings. Think modern furniture, lots of natural light and potted plants for a touch of greenery. Telephone +971 [0] 4 397 7444 Email restaurants.burdubai@fourpoints.com
For truly authentic Emirati dishes at a beachside location, look no further than Seven Sands. Located at The Beach opposite JBR, the exciting all-day dining concept serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Seven Sands represents culinary delights from across the seven emirates, bringing together the unique history of each. Sample Emirati pancakes Choubab or Mohalla, fragrant saffron-flavoured crepes stuffed with sweet vermicelli (balaleet), served with date syrup, honey and cheese. Also be sure to try Maleh Korse, a fish delicacy served on a bed of sautéed onions, capsicum, mushrooms and parsley, served with a garden-fresh rocca salad. With recipes that date…
A chic space with subtle touches of authenticity tucked away in the Radisson Blu, the China Club serves up tasty recognisable favourites as well as new creations. The excellent Peking duck is theatrically carved tableside. It’s also one of the best value Friday brunches in the city.