< PreviousFood 50 NOVEMBER 2025 TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM Putting a spotlight on on modern British-European plates in Dubai Marina is The Beam by Nick Alvis, a super eatery that combines tasty plates with a friendly vibe and a holiday atmosphere. Sitting pretty in Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa, The Beam fills the space that previously housed longstanding seafood spot Geales. And it’s had a slick makeover. A fresh, modern new look comes with comfy seats and a neutral colour palette with swathes of cream, rattan furnishings and a central bar – with the décor lifted by hints of navy, giving a bit of a nautical look. It’s a particularly attractive spot in winter thanks to the sprawling terrace overlooking the lush hotel gardens – and boasting Ain Dubai as a backdrop – really cementing those holiday feels. Helmed by chef Nick Alvis – one half of the famed folly by Nick & Scott duo – the chef set up shop earlier this year at the Brilliant British spot at a beach hotel, serving straightforward but stylish cuisine The Beam by Nick Alvis spacious spot at the beachfront hotel. And much like at his previous home-grown favourite, the menu at The Beam boasts modern European cooking, done right. Alvis is joined by fellow folly alumni Bojan Cirjanic, who, as executive chef, brings his expert touch to the plates. Promising ‘simple food cooked exceptionally well’ – The Beam delivers. There’s a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients, with care put into the sourcing. The menu is straightforward, meaning you’re sure to find something – if not everything – calling your name. Kick off with the Tunworth cheese croquettes, moreish little orbs filled with deliciously gooey and rich cheese, served with a fig compôte, adding a spiced tang to cut through the richness. The goat’s cheese mille-feuille also deserves mention – not just for its artistic plating but for its balance of earthy and sweet flavours. Fans of the crispy hen’s egg (IYKYK) will be delighted to see a take on the creation on the menu at The Beam. Gently break the crispy coating apart to reveal a gloriously jammy yolk, sitting atop artichoke risotto. Fish-lovers can browse the fish market, while if you’re in the mood for home-cooked faves, then a (slightly bougier) take on a classic comes in the form of truffle braised beef cheek and Portobello pie. Carnivores will want to get stuck into the dry-aged Westholme steaks served with crispy fries, salad and a sauce – there’s no need to order extras here. Last but not least, puds are a riff on classic British (trifles, rhubarb and custard et al) and shouldn’t be missed. More a savoury fan? As is in vogue, various trolleys do the rounds, and we’d recommend opting for the cheese version. There’s also a cute bar next door – Blush – set up by the team as well, which is worth popping into for a glass of something cold or an innovative mixed drink to take in the views and go full holiday mode. With stellar dishes and a charming setting, The Beam shines brightly. O Open Mon-Fri 5pm-11pm, Sat 1pm-Sun 1pm-4pm, 5pm-11pm. Licensed. Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai Marina, thebeamdubai.com (04 316 5550).52 NOVEMBER 2025 TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM Rialto Whenever a new hotel opens in Dubai, much is made of the restaurants and bars within it; after all, more people in the city will have a chance to dine there than stay. Jumeirah’s new flagship hotel Marsa Al Arab has around 13 venues inside it, plus more on the marina boardwalk outside, but the jewel in its crown might just be Rialto. The sophisticated spot has its own high- end deli, a walk-in bubbly cellar and a (kind Sophisticated Italian restaurant that shines in a swish new hotel of) secret bar opposite. The dining room itself is a grand, vaulted space with a touch of Art Deco about it. There are deep blues in the fabrics, cream and gold in the fixtures and fittings. Oddly, with so much thought into the look of the place, and the stylish outfits for the predominantly Italian waiters, the hostesses feel like they’ve been flown in from another venue altogether, with striking red dresses and a rather abrupt manner at the door. But once seated, you can relax into Rialto, which is the perfect place for a long, late lunch. The type where you linger at the table with a drink long after the last spoonful of gelato has gone. How Italian of it. The menu is also typically Italian, and by that we mean the kind of restaurant you actually find in Milan. There’s a distinct focus on ingredients (they would say ‘produce’, of course) and simplicity. In fact, there’s a portion of the menu dedicated to the majesty of tomatoes (no, really). The result is the kind of experience you don’t find too often in Dubai, where the plates are free of bells, whistles and dry ice and the attention instead is on the flavours and quality of fish, meat, pasta and super fresh vegetables. Take the tomato tartare, which is exactly as you might expect. Finely sliced red, golden and green discs, dressed with impeccable olive oil and seasoned – a dish of masterful restraint. Similarly pared back is the fettucine alfredo, which is more than big enough to share and consists of freshly made pasta, butter and Parmesan. While the chefs have resisted adding anything unnecessary, they certainly haven’t held back on the butter and cheese. Main courses of sea bass and lamb chops also excel thanks to the attention on quality over quantity. With another dozen restaurants to compete with inside the same magnificently curved walls, it might be the thing that makes it stand out. O Open Mon-Fri 12.30pm-5.30pm, 6.30pm- 11.30pm, Sat-Sun 12.30pm-4pm, 6.30pm-11.30pm. Llicensed. Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, Umm Suqeim, jumeirah.com (800 323 232).54 NOVEMBER 2025 TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM Bars, Pubs & Clubs African Queen An uber-stylish J1 Beach spot serving up Med cuisine in a 1960s-inspired setting Forget your typical beach club experience. Because at African Queen, you’re not just getting a regular ol’ day by the water – you’re getting a passport to a whole other era. With its quirky interiors, splashes of glamour and a quiet yet utterly assured confidence, this spot instantly whisks you miles away from the familiar sands of J1 Beach. And trust us, no one commits to a theme quite like African Queen. Originating from the sun-drenched French Riviera with roots tracing back to the swinging 1960s, Dubai’s African Queen beach club oozes an undeniable cool. It’s naturally photogenic and packed with theatrical touches that feel straight out of a classic Hollywood film set – a fitting tribute to the 1951 movie, The African Queen, from which it takes its name. The vintage-inspired, terracotta-hued sun loungers are delightfully pillowy and primed for a long day of doing nothing. Wiry trees stand tall instead of your usual palm trees. The focal, rectangle-shaped pool could be labelled conventional as far as Dubai’s pools go, yet still manages to feel and look really good. It’s also exquisitely cold (perfect when the temps are anything but). A dedicated DJ plays upbeat remixes of old school songs – think Perry Cosmo’s Papa Loves Mambo. There’s just the right amount of atmosphere to feel like you’re on holiday without anyone interrupting your peace. The beach is just a few steps away, ensuring that the beach club feels intimate and cosy. It feels like a snug outdoor cave, but one stuffed with burnt orange towels and theatrical vases. The menu thoughtfully leans into its signature Mediterranean Riviera cuisine, featuring expertly reimagined classics. Expect elevated crowd-pleasers like wood- fired pizzas, a tableside mixed Niçoise salad and even exotic fruit-infused curries. For something lighter, don’t miss The African TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM NOVEMBER 2025 55 Three more to try J1 hot spots Bâoli Famous Cannes hot spot Bâoli has a cool outpost at J1 Beach and offers up a pretty stunning destination right by the beach. Here, you’ll get modern Japanese cuisine with a hint of new Asian flavours. The vibey and upbeat beach club has amazing music blasting, where well-dressed diners are on their feet dancing with sparklers in hand. O Open Sun-Wed noon-1am, Thu-Sat noon-2am. J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, baoli- restaurant.com (04 558 6381). GITANO Tulum-inspired beach club GITANO is a Mexican-themed spot that features traditional dishes as well as a ‘Gypsy Disco’ experience. Founded by British-born James Gardner, the venue is kitted out with a modern jungle feel, branded with neon signs and, of course, the iconic disco ball – a nod to its New York flair. Looking out over the beach, plus with views of Burj Khalifa, you can expect lively ladies’ nights, evening brunches and more. O Open Sun-Thu 11am-1am, Fri-Sat 11am- 2am. J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, gitano.com/ dubai (058 566 2320). La Baia This restaurant and beach club is packed with an air of *that’s amore*, from the stripy sunbeds to the fresh lemons on the tables. Get ready to lounge by the pool and feel like you’re in Italy. The menu includes everything from Mediterranean seafood to artisanal pastas, stuffed courgette flowers and some ultimate burrata creations. Inside the restaurant, there’s even an exclusive dessert room, where you can admire the sweet treats taking centre stage (think tiramisu and Sicilian cannoli). O Open daily 10am-midnight. J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, labaia-dxb.com (04 570 2482). Queen Caesar salad with spicy tandoori chicken, or the surprisingly moreish kale salad. Add the truffle fries for a poolside lunch of champions. Sweet potato hummus is richly layered with North African spices and paired with hunks of pita bread – so good you’ll be desperate to recreate it at home. While the mixed drinks list is impressive, it gets the ‘taste to brag-worthy’ ratio just right. Perfect for a sip by the pool. African Queen gives a masterclass in creating a beach club that’s both luxurious and thrilling and is a notch above the rest. Much like Bogart and Hepburn on their wild journey, African Queen at J1 Beach transports you. It’s not just a beach club; it’s a directed scene of luxury and a space where every moment feels like a blockbuster vacation, ensuring you’ll be looking forward to a sequel. O Open Sun-Thu 10am-midnight, Fri-Sat 10am-1am. Licensed. J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, africanqueen- restaurant.com (04 570 5546).Bars, Pubs & Clubs 56 NOVEMBER 2025 TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM Picture this. It’s a sunny afternoon in Paris and you’re sat in a curved rattan chair, sipping from an ice-cold glass and looking out over the bustling Rue d’something or other. Now, swap out the cobbled street for the rippling waters of Dubai Creek, and you have yourself an evening at Ruby Ru by Iris. Created by the team behind the popular open-air lounge at Meydan Racecourse, Ruby Ru was designed with conversation in mind (no shouting over booming speakers here). And it’s nailed the concept down to the very last detail. Found inside the Marriott Marquis, Jewel of the Creek, you stroll through a glamorous walkway of billowing white fabric (an ideal spot for the ’gram) before emerging onto a terrace that stretches around the back of the building. Designed with a French street-side bar in mind, the venue presents as a glamourous Dubai terrace dusted with subtle nods to Paris. From the marble bistro tables with blue and cream chairs to the well-stocked grape selection, it’s full of laid-back charm. It’s a stunning place to park yourself for sunset, with 180-degree views of both old and new Dubai that are sure to impress. A live DJ keeps the vibe up from a mirrored booth in the corner, but this place has so much more than just good music. There’s a wide selection of beverages on offer, including a list of signature mixed drinks starting from around Dhs80. If you want the most bang for your buck, don’t miss Ruby’s daily happy hour, offering grape, classic mixed drinks and even a glass of sparkling (or two) for almost half the price. Grab a stool at the bar on the softly lit back wall, or opt for a cream-cushioned sofa under the parasols if you’re looking for an extra dash of comfort. An elegant Parisian-inspired bar from a popular name, overlooking Dubai Creek Ruby Ru by Iris The venue has its own restaurant with a full-blown menu, so expect bar bites to be top-tier. Order the rock shrimp or baked feta, both of which are perfect sides to your skyline sips. There’s also sushi to nibble on. Open until the wee hours, Ruby Ru wears a few different hats. Whether you visit for an effortless sundowner or prefer to soak up late-night vibes, it hits all the high notes every time. Pairing Parisian charm with a cityscape that is always dressed to impress, your post- work aperitif just got better. O Open daily from 4pm-2am. Licensed. Marriott Marquis Dubai, Jewel of the Creek, Dubai Creek Harbour, @rubyrudubai (04 599 0222). “Designed with conversation in mind – no shouting here”Bars, Pubs & Clubs 58 NOVEMBER 2025 TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM A glam new addition to Delano Dubai for any day of the week Rose Bar An immediate magnet for anyone craving a sophisticated evening, Rose Bar at Delano Dubai on Bluewaters is more than just a seat at a counter. From the moment you walk in, the velvet tones, quartz-topped bar and lighting feel like you’re stepping into a cosy snug. Located just off the hotel’s sprawling pool, it channels the glamour of its Miami namesake – a famed spot that drew in a who’s who of the city during its tenure. The plush seating and moody booths make a great spot for a more romantic encounter or simply for when you’re after ‘just drinks’. With a special ‘rose hour’ from 6pm to 8pm, this is the time to enjoy a selection of small plates off a curated, seasonal menu. Choose from a selection of beef sliders with black truffle arancini or lobster tacos and you’re bound to skip starters come dinner. Or, stick with the complimentary snacks of almonds and breadstick-style bites, though both are a little on the dry side. As for drinks, mixed beverages are classic, with Delano signatures on the menu such as ‘back where the magic started’. Each is beautifully presented, albeit premium in price but balanced in flavour. Those not there for mixed beverages are also thought of with its ‘innocents’ menu. Go for the ‘skinny beach’ and sip on a refreshing, Parma Violet-esque mix of sparkling lemon and mandarin while the ‘green and spiced’ is hefty with a ginger base, topped with miso and pandan notes. Service is attentive and knowledgeable, with staff confidently navigating the expansive menu. The kind of place where if you become a regular, your name is bound to be remembered. If you’re looking for glamour in Bluewaters, this is it. O Open daily 6pm-2am. Licensed. Delano Dubai, Bluewaters, delanohotels.com (04 556 6466).Next >