Pull up a chair as we present the latest news, reviews and must-try menu highlights from Dubai’s most talked-about restaurants, bars and cafés
Dubai’s favourite Thai restaurant is back after a stunning makeover. Perched on the 24th floor of Dusit Thani Dubai, Benjarong offers glorious skyline views, which serves as the perfect backdrop to a memorable meal featuring royal Thai dishes.
In keeping with its name, which means “five colours” in Siamese, Benjarong’s chefs strive to create the perfect balance of five flavours with every dish – sweet, spicy, sour, salty and creamy. Hitting all the right notes are specials such as the chicken satay, tom kha gai and khao soi. For dessert, the sticky rice pudding with fresh mango and coconut ice cream is not to be missed.
The Pointe on Palm Jumeirah is quickly becoming a dining destination in its own right, thanks to the launch of several new venues, bringing flavours from around the world to Dubai. Zor is the latest concept to get on the bandwagon with its delectable mix of home-style dishes from Uzbekistan. Specials on the extensive menu include traditional Uzbek beef and lamb soup, braised lamb chops, shashlik and more.
Café Society is giving diners a delicious start to their day with a sumptuous breakfast menu, available daily from 9 to 11am. A wide range of options caters to all tastes, including smoked salmon with poached eggs and toasted French brioche. There’s also a sumptuous vegetarian breakfast on offer with blueberry muffins, granola, passion fruit and chia seeds.
The Pointe’s newest Greek dining destination, Aiza brings the hearty flavours of the Cyclades to a stunning location on Palm Jumeirah. Here, it’s not just about the sumptuous fare – think homemade bread, spinach pie and grilled meats. The venue stays true to its roots by celebrating the rich Greek culture with traditional dances and plate smashing acts performed by the staff every evening.
Giving Indian cuisine a modern twist, Farzi Café in City Walk takes traditional favourites from the subcontinent and elevates them to new heights by infusing the principles of molecular gastronomy into its dishes. Culinary art takes centre stage at the venue, presenting diners with unique treats and daring combinations, such as tomato soup with basil air, pulled beef and carrot salad with coriander pesto, chilli paneer bao, paneer ratatouille and shrimp biryani.
Beirut export Em Sherif Café is now welcoming diners to its all-new Dubai location. Across the street from Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall, guests visiting for dinner are in for a real treat as it’s not just the food that promises a remarkable experience but up-close views of the world’s tallest building brilliantly lit up after sunset. Those who’ve visited are claiming that the café serves the best hummus in town. Are you ready to take a bite?
New in town: Our top three picks
Aka
This Japanese lounge has opened its doors on Palm Jumeirah and is poised to take Dubai’s sophisticated nightlife scene to another level this season with immersive live performances and an Asian-inspired menu.
Foxglove
A brand-new gastropub in Downtown Dubai, Foxglove blends traditional décor with contemporary touches, offering guests an entertaining atmosphere with a selection of British pub staples, including burgers, fish and chips and steak.
Li’ Brasil
A unique fusion of Lebanese and Brazilian flavours, Li’ Brasil has opened at Address Beach Resort in JBR. Try the hummus loaded with feta, lamb or sweet potato as well as a selection of grills, mezze and Brazilian curries.