Brimming with golden sands and glamour, the evolving city of DUBAI changes so quickly that even Google Maps can’t keep up. Amidst its futuristic skyline and glittering hotels, find chill seaside cafes, fine-dining restaurants and a vibrant club scene.
Whatever it is that you’re seeking – Dubai has it all.
Aditya Khanna, Social Media Analyst, recommends:
Mint Leaf of London
“It is the perfect place to meet someone over dinner – it feels a little fancy with the great views of Downtown Dubai and Burj Khalifa. And I’ve never been disappointed with the food,” he says. If it’s going well, take your party to the Lounge area, where you can get to know each other a little better (wink), sip on craft cocktails and nod to some deep house tunes.
Level 15, South Tower, Emirates Financial Towers, DIFC
For reservations, call: +971 4706 0900
Nippon Bottle Co.
Thanks to its discreet entry – it’s literally behind a bookcase – not many (thankfully) know about the Nippon Bottle Co. This chilled out speakeasy bar makes you feel like you’re in a Tokyo alley, with its mood lights, neon signs and Japanese whisky cocktails. You can be sure your date won’t forget the experience.
Dusit Thani Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road
For reservations, call: +971 4357 0779
Priya Rajpal, Marketing professional, recommends:
The Scene
If you’re getting tired of the fancy shmancy (read: pretentious) fine-dining places, this quirky Brit-style establishment is your best bet. Set as a 1950s mock living room, the cozy, countryside-style interiors include everything from a fireplace to a sewing machine – and there’s an amazing view involved. Priya keeps going back, thanks to the ever-smiling, front of house staff.
Level 4 at Pier 7
For reservations, call: +971 4422 2328
The Hamptons Café
A super cute three-level café with a terrace garden is what lazy Sunday brunches are made of. THC houses a wide selection of teas (they have a tea society!), hearty café-style food and yummy bakes. Priya recommends the Long Island French toast and homemade granola – because love can start at breakfast.
Villa 12, Opposite Mashreq Bank, Street 9A, Umm Suqeim 1
For reservations, call: +971 4453 5496
Sirf Coffee picks
Bazxar
What’s awesome about this place? You can pick your setting according to your mood (and date). Get your hands greasy with a juicy NYC gourmet burger at the ‘Meat District’, or let your date immerse in the Asian street culture with hot noodle soup and Vietnamese baos. Stop for a coffee at the bakery-café, or chill at the wine bar (with 30 labels to choose from). Did we mention themed brunches every Friyay?
Gate Precinct, Building 4, DIFC
For reservations, call: +971 4355 1111
