< Previous50 SUMMER 2025 TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM No reservation required just rock up first thing to bag your spot for the day. Wear your best swimwear, this is a place to see and be seen. O From Dhs200 (fully redeemable, Mon-Wed), from Dhs300 (fully redeemable, Wed-Sun). Open daily 10am-7.30pm. FIVE Palm Jumeirah Dubai, palmjumeirah.fivehotelsandresorts.com (04 455 9989). Fluid Beach Club If impressive views are an essential accompaniment to your poolside bathing and lazing (in addition to a chilled beverage, of course), Fluid Beach Club is the spot for you. A sleek, streamlined infinity pool area complete with views of Ain Dubai, Marina skyline and the Palm itself while sun beds are first come, first served. O Dhs200 (Dhs150 redeemable, Mon-Fri) Dhs250 (Dhs200 redeemable Sat-Sun). Open daily 9am-7pm. Th8 Palm, Palm Jumeirah, th8palmdubai.com (04 525 8888). the bed, but you can book the cabanas in advance. Sip on a cold glass of grape and tuck into a freshly made pizza (and stick around for sunset). O Dhs200 (fully redeemable, Mon-Fri), Dhs250 (fully redeemable, Sat-Sun). Open Mon-Fri 9am-10pm, Sat- Sun 9am-midnight. The Club, Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeirah, solutions-leisure.com (04 423 8322). Restaurants Al Ustad Special Kebab For some iconic dishes Al Ustad Special Kebab in Bur Dubai has been a local favourite since its opening in 1978. There are no reservations here, simply turn up and wait your turn for some of the oldest (and tastiest) kebabs in town. O Open Sat-Thu 11am-1am, Fri 5.30pm-1am. Bur Dubai, @ostadi_1978 (04 397 1933). The 305 O Beach Dubai The iconic Ibiza beach club now has a permanent home in Dubai, and you can experience the same incredible music, entertainment and all-day party. Of course, if you’re desperate to get on one of those floating beds you’ll need to book in advance. But O Beach offers general admission with pool access (no lounger) for Dhs100 with two drinks included. O From Dhs200 (general admission). Open Tue- Sun 11am-10pm (closes Sat Jun 28 for summer). Habtoor Grand Hotel Beach Front, Dubai Marina, obeachdubai.com (052 858 0464). The 305 Looking for a cool place with even better views? This Miami-inspired beach club is an Insta-worthy spot to park up on a lounger, where you can spend the day chilling under an umbrella or bobbing in the pool. The earlier you arrive, the better “Spend your day chilling under an umbrella or bobbing in the pool”No reservation required TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM SUMMER 2025 51 Calicut Paragon If authentic Keralan cooking, packed full of flavour and spice, is what you’re searching for, Calicut Paragon is for you. An excellent Indian restaurant specialising in Southern Indian cuisine, this has been one of the most popular spots in town for years. Not only are almost all of the dishes under Dhs50, but there are no reservations allowed here, so you can stroll in anytime. As one of the best budget spots in town (it picked up a Highly Commended gong at the Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards 2025), it’s a hit all round. O Open daily 7am-midnight. Karama, @calicutparagon (04 251 2545). Eleven Green The Time Out Dubai award-winning burger joint is super casual, and a cooler-than-cool, place to grab a juicy patty. If you’re hunting for a last-minute bite with none of the fuss and all of the flavours, then sink into a seat and tuck-into a Double Trouble or the signature Bull burger, smothered in melted cheese, house-made bacon jam and Eleven Green’s famous sauce. O Open Sun-Thu 12.30pm-midnight, Fri-Sat 12.30pm- 1am. Umm Suqeim, eleven-green.com. Kokoro Massive fan of sushi? Need a last-min dinner plan? This place is for you. The handroll sushi bar has been a hot spot ever since it opened in Alserkal Avenue, and has operated on a first-come-first served basis from day one. From spicy hotate rolls to a zesty negitoro, you might need to wait a little for a table to open up, but this foodie- favourite is more than worth it. O Open Sun-Wed noon-11.30pm, Thu-Sat noon- midnight. Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, eatkokoro.xyz. LahKee A newer addition to Al Safa, walk in and grab a window seat at the newly opened pan- Asian restaurant, where you can tuck into classics (with a twist). From gnocchi burrata in tteokbokki sauce to noodles with beef short rib and caramelised toast with teriyaki sauce, make sure you bring your appetite. O Open daily noon-10pm. Park Complex, Al Safa, @lahkee8 (04 575 6183). Le Relais de L’Entrecôte The steak sensation from Paris has now opened a restaurant in Dubai and it only serves one dish. Accepting walk-ins only, you’ll need to line-up with the other hungry diners and eagerly shuffle closer to the front of the queue (get there early to avoid the line). Once you’re in, you can enjoy two servings of tender sirloin steak with a *secret* family sauce, fries and a crisp walnut salad on the side. O Open daily noon-3.30pm, 6.30pm-11.30pm. ME Hotel, The Opus by Omniyat, Business Bay, @relaisdelentrecotedubai (04 327 0388). Kokoro Spoilt for choice TIME OUT MARKET DUBAI Can’t decide what you’re in the mood for come dinner time? We have the ideal solution. Time Out Market has 17 different vendors offering some of the best dishes from across the city. Whether you’re after a zingy pad Thai, a creamy burrata curry (you heard right) or a classic pepperoni pizza you can take your tray to any table in the Market, no reservation required. You can even head there for breakfast on a weekend and tuck into everything from scrambled eggs to breakfast pizzas. There’s even live music on certain evenings. Plus you’ll get a side of top-notch Burj Khalifa views when you dine at this brilliant Downtown Dubai destination. O Open Mon-Thu noon-midnight. Fri noon- 1am, Sat 10am-1am, Sun 10am-midnight. Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, timeout. com (054 375 2421). Pickl One of JLT’s finest, the multiple Time Out Dubai award-winning burger bar has quick and easy dining down to a tee. No need to book in advance, simply turn up and you’ll most likely get a table. Then it’s time to pick your patty (plus plenty of pickles) and browse the incredible sides selection (the sando fries should not be missed). O Open Sun-Thu 10am-2am, Sat-Sun 10am-4am. One JLT, eatpickl.com (04 584 6859). The Duck Hook Need to head somewhere with the fam? Haven’t made a booking? Here’s where to go. The Duck Hook is one of the best pubs in the city with its daily roasts, weekend barbecues and sports schedules. And although it’s a little hot for the famous garden, the pillowy Yorkshires are still worth going for. The pub operates as walk-ins-only, meaning you might have to wait for a table so try to arrive early to beat the crowds. Get ready for some proper pub grub. O Open daily 11.30am-midnight. Dubai Hills Golf Club, @theduckhookdubai (800 323 232).52 SUMMER 2025 TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM Za Za Slice After an utterly dream pizza this summer? Za Za Slice is one of the most talked about pizzerias in Dubai and for good reason. You can either opt for a takeaway or join the queue to sit in. It might be a short wait, but it’s worth it to hop up on a barstool and watch your thin, crunchy slices being prepared in front of you. Now with restaurants in both Satwa and Creek Harbour, browse the six pizza options on offer and cure that crust craving. O Opening hours vary. Dubai Creek and Satwa, @zazaslice (04 337 6679). Nights out BLING BLING is the party to be at on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday (yes, really). Of course you can throw some dosh down on a VIP table, but you can also opt to stand at the bar with no prior reservation. Playing old-school hip-hop and R&B into the early hours, you can even make an entrance by driving a supercar right into the centre of the dance floor. Because… why not? O Entry prices vary. Open Thu-Sun 10pm-4am, Tue 10pm-4am. FIVE Palm Jumeirah Dubai, blingdxb.com (058 869 8996). Goose Island Tap House , JBR Ernst Biergarten & Wirtshaus German bar Ernst Biergarten is renowned for its hops, especially of the German variety. Located at Trade Centre, you can make a reservation but there are usually a few tables spare, or room at the bar. O Open Sun-Thu noon-midnight, Fri-Sat noon-1am. 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central, Trade Centre Area, ernstbiergarten.com (04 201 2155). Fibber Magee’s The legendary Dubai pub guarantees a good time, and the good news is it’s all indoors for summer. You can make a reservation, but there is always room to squeeze in a few walk-ins for a pint of the black stuff. O Open daily 8am-3am. Saeed Tower One, Sheikh Zayed Road, fibbersdubai.com (04 332 2400). Lock, Stock and Barrel, JBR One of Dubai’s most famous party bars, there’s a lot of space to dance, so you can usually walk in with no problems. Keeping the vibes going into the early hours every single night, you can make the most of deals from ladies’ nights to happy hours. O Open daily 4pm-3am. Rixos Premium JBR, The Walk, JBR. lsbdubai.com (04 423 8307). Za Za SliceNo reservation required TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM SUMMER 2025 53 McCafferty’s JVC With picnic-style tables always buzzing with excitement, finding a seat can be a challenge, but you can easily find a spot near the bar or crowding around a pool table without calling ahead. O Open daily 10am-2am. Circle Mall, JVC, mccaffertysjvc.com (055 784 9220). McGettigan’s JLT A resident favourite, McGettigan’s JLT is always up for a good night, especially a last- minute one. This is more the type of place where you just turn up and hope you can grab a table, but there are options to book. With live music and great deals the Irish pub always offers up hassle-free fun. O Open Mon-Thu noon-2am, Fri noon-3am, Sat 10am- 3am, Sun 10am-2am. Cluster J, JLT, mcgettigans.com (04 356 0470). Monkey Bar Offering some top-tier views of the Museum of the Future, this rooftop spot has a first come, first served policy for the bar area, meaning you can get in without a reservation. With live beats and some very cool foliage, make sure you get there early. O Open Sun-Thu 5pm-2am, Fri-Sat 5pm-3am. 25h Hotel Dubai One Central, Trade Centre, monkeybardubai.com (04 210 2566). Goose Island Tap House, JBR This JBR pub ticks all the boxes when it comes to a great night out with your pals. Not only is it a destination for true hops connoisseurs (there are 23 different varieties of hops on tap), but you can easily grab a table or mill around the bar without a reservation. A top spot to watch the big games, this is a chilled choice for a last- minute night out. O Open Mon-Thu noon-2am, Fri-Sat 11am-3am, Sun 11am-2am. FIVE LUXE JBR, gooseislanddubai.com (04 455 9989). Paradiso This Time Out Dubai award-winning bar is an absolute vibe – with epic rooftop views, circus-style décor and some very creative mixed drinks. Of course you can make a reservation (and should if you want to bag the best seats in the house) but there is often space for walk-ins. O Open Sun-Wed 5pm-2am, Fri 5pm-4am, Sat 4pm-4am. FIVE LUXE JBR, paradisodubai.com (04 455 9989). ROKA The swish Business Bay spot has a walk-ins only policy for its happy hour, and do you know what’s even better? That happy hour was named the city’s best at the Time Out Dubai Nightlife Awards 2024. Hop onto a barstool and tuck into discounted bar bites for as little as Dhs35. Drinks are the same price. You’re welcome. O Available Sun-Fri, 4pm-8pm (bar area only). The Opus by OMNIYAT Level 1, Business Bay, rokarestaurant.com (04 439 7171). The Dubliner’s If you’re in the mood for an old school Irish pub and a fuss-free pint of the black stuff, the classic Irish hangout welcomes walk-ins every night of the week. Keeping last-minute plans going since 1996, simply rock up, catch some live sports and have a good old laugh with your pals all the way until 3am. O Open daily noon-3am. Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre, Garhoud, thedubliners-dubai.com (04 702 2508). The Irish Village, Garhoud Another long-standing Irish pub in the northern end of town, there’s always room for you at The Irish Village. Located out next to Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, you can sing along to the live music and grab a pint (or two) without having to organise anything in advance. It’s a top spot for a night out with your pals for a taste of Ireland. O Open Sun-Thu 11am-1am, Fri-Sat 11am-2am. Garhoud, theirishvillage.com (04 282 4750). Paradiso54 SUMMER 2025 TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM Food FZN by Björn Frantzén A boundary-pushing European tasting menu, raising the bar for fine dining in the UAE Despite being part of a tidal wave of new arrivals, FZN by Björn Frantzén stood out from the moment it opened its very inconspicuous red door in November 2024. As guests approach the discreet entrance and ring the doorbell, FZN sets the stage for something extraordinary. Found within Atlantis The Palm’s The Avenues, it quickly soared straight to the top to earn the accolade of Best Tasting Menu in the city and Restaurant of the Year at the Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards 2025. So, what’s in store? It all begins in a Scandinavian-inspired living room, filled with light wood, cosy seating and knick-knacks, where the first few courses are served. It’s clear that at FZN there’s always a focus on fresh, well-sourced Nordic dishes, incorporating Japanese techniques. While the menu changes regularly, one especially standout starter so far is Frantzén’s famous råraka – a crispy golden cylindrical potato hash that’s filled with vendace roe and topped with bright red pickled onion. After enjoying the first few bites, diners are introduced to the fine produce that will make up the rest of the 12-course tasting menu, a delicate journey through some of the world’s finest ingredients, from Tahitian vanilla to German caviar. Following that fun produce moment, an impressive grape cellar awaits, featuring everything from boutique producers to internationally acclaimed labels. Next pit stop on the tour? A dimly lit dining room, with sleek, minimalistic Scandi- style furniture. Wooden stools seat guests at a large U-shaped counter facing the action, where you’ll watch a team of skilled European chefs expertly prepare each course. This is less open kitchen, more in- kitchen dining. At the time of writing, a rose-shaped course featuring Japanese bluefin tuna surrounded by a refreshing colatura fish sauce kicks off the main dining experience. It’s followed by a highly unique Koshihikari rice-studded langoustine paired with a rich egg white emulsion. Some of Frantzén’s most well-known dishes from his outposts Time Out reviews anonymously and pays for its mealsTIMEOUTDUBAI.COM SUMMER 2025 55 Three more to try Award- winners Dinner by Heston Blumenthal Time Out Dubai’s Best European Restaurant 2025 comes from one of the most famous chefs in the world, Heston Blumenthal. A stunning experience from start to finish, the service is impeccable, grape list wide ranging and dishes creative and expertly prepared. You’ll have seen the Insta posts of the famed ‘meat fruit’ and it’s well worth trying. O Open Tue-Sat 6pm-11pm, Sun noon- 3pm, 6pm-11pm. Atlantis The Royal, Palm Jumeirah, dinnerbyheston.com (04 426 2444). La Petite Maison A global giant, this is the best French restaurant in Dubai. It’s so good, in fact, that we named it Restaurant of the Decade at the Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards 2025. Found in DIFC, there’s a sophisticated vibe to match the delicious dishes made with quality ingredients. The atmosphere is always buzzing, while those snails are a gloriously garlicky must-try. O Open Mon-Fri noon-1am, Sat-Sun 12.30pm-1am. Gate Village 8, DIFC, lpmrestaurants.com/dubai (04 439 0505). Prime68 Officially the best steakhouse in Dubai, Prime68 not only serves delicious, expertly cooked meat, it also offers some of the best views around. As you’d expect from the name, you’ll find this steakhouse on the 68th floor of the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai with stunning skyline views. Dig into top cuts from all over the world, including a tomahawk if you’re in the mood to share. O Open daily 5.30pm-midnight. JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, Business Bay, @prime68dxb (04 414 3000). boundaries, making for a dining journey that is nothing short of spectacular. FZN by Björn Frantzén is a prime example of modern European dining at its most ambitious. Once your dinner is over, you’ll finish back where you started in the living room with a selection of warm madeleines and petit fours. Stay as long as you like, chatting and enjoying the music before ducking out of that unassuming red door and back into the real world. O Dhs2,000 (tasting menu), Dhs3,4000 (with grape pairing), Dhs3,100 (mixed drinks pairing), Dhs2,750 (zero percent pairing). Licensed. Open Tue-Sat 7pm (last seating at 8.15pm). Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, restaurantfzn.com (050 107 6322). in Singapore and Stockholm also make an appearance in his Dubai restaurant, including a lightly grilled king crab in a dreamy saffron beurre blanc. The tasting menu evolves regularly, keeping the experience fresh and exciting for repeat guests, with the service as personalised as it gets. The precision and care taken in each course exemplify why FZN has been recognised as one of the best restaurants in Dubai in such a short time. At Dhs2,000 per person, dining at FZN is undoubtedly a luxury. However, the restaurant is a fine example of what high- end dining in the UAE can be. It pushes the “Modern European dining at its most ambitious”56 SUMMER 2025 TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM Khadak A destination for Indian cuisine cravings, inspired by Mumbai’s iconic street food Khadak means road , but not just any road. Taking inspiration from Mumbai’s busy Bhendi Bazaar, where you’ll find a never- ending treasure trove of India’s best street food, Khadak is about community. Picture wooden tables filled with family and friends bonding over bold flavours and spices while catching up on life. While we may not be in India, those popping flavours and feel-good vibes have landed in Jumeirah in the form of Dubai’s very own Khadak. The casual Indian restaurant, which is a relative newcomer to the scene, is already making waves for more reasons than one. Upon arrival gorgeous blue tiles sit adjacent to an open kitchen where a whole of culinary magic happens. Whether you fancy a spot indoors, complete with white and peach armchairs, or, in cooler weather, al fresco dining on the airy green-filled terrace, you can’t go wrong. Both spots are sunny and light, with funky rock music as the soundtrack. Even on a late Sunday afternoon, the whole place is packed with groups indulging in a leisurely lunch. It’s giving wholesome and oh so comforting... the same feeling you’ll get when you peruse the menu. Inspired by ‘forgotten recipes and bygone eras of India’, the selection here is an exciting one. Carefully curated by the former chef director at London’s renowned Dishoom (yes, that Dishoom), it’s innovative and fun, with a fusion you probably don’t expect. It’s a mish-mash in the best way. Start with small plates, which are proof that delicious things come in tiny packages. The broccoli and pomelo bhel, a reimagined take on the quintessential Indian snack, is a winner. Think rice puffs with steamed broccoli, pomelo, walnuts, pistachio and pomegranate, tossed in a honey, lime and tamarind dressing. It comes highly recommended from the server and for good reason. It’s light and refreshing, but with a kick. It’s a 10 out of 10 for presentation too. The baida roti, a Bohri favourite, boasts little golden parcels of pulled chicken and egg wrapped in rich naan dough and shallow fried paired with chutney. While it has all of elements of a true comfort food dish, the broccoli reigns supreme of the two. For the main event the boneless chicken oysters prepared in a fragrant coconut masala and tempered with curry leaves is a hit. Khadak’s recipe hails from the coastal kitchens of Mangalore and the thought behind it shows. The shabrati nihari, starring pulled goat slow-cooked with warm spices and served with ginger julienne, fried onions and lime, is another stunner. Our advice? Pair it with warqi paratha, flaky layered bread, infused with milk, ghee and a hint of ajwain for the ultimate combo. Portions are perfection, neither over or underwhelming. Wash it all down with an Irani chai, a rich blend of black tea, milk and cardimom. If you have space for dessert, the chilia bread and butter pudding is a delicious sweet yet spiced indulgence, as well as the chocolate chikki. It’s a rich tahini chocolate slab with salted peanut toffee and cardamom milk chocolate mousse you simply need to try. When a Indian cuisine craving hits, the road here in Dubai leads to Khadak. O Open Sun-Thu 9am-midnight, Fri-Sat 9am-1am. Unlicensed. Al Wasl Road, khadak.com (058 979 7830).Food TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM SUMMER 2025 57 Lana Lusa A refined (and relocated) dining experience, with Portuguese cuisine done properly Let’s get straight to the point. The food at Lana Lusa is up there when it comes to superb Portuguese cuisine in Dubai. In fact, it’s a go-to when it comes to a fabulous dinner of any cuisine in the city. And that’s not because dishes are zhooshed up with any bells and whistles. There’s no billowing dry ice, sprinkling of gold or pillows of foam here – it’s simple, clean food. Nestled in the very bougie Four Seasons Private Residences, Lana Lusa moved to this location in 2024, having previously called Wasl 51 home. Lana fans will be familiar with its laid- back approach, but if you’re looking for a more dressed-up affair (and a licensed one at that), the restaurant’s Canal-side digs promise a more luxe experience with the same warm service and cosy vibes. In winter you’ll be drawn to its spacious outdoor terrace that offers some of the best views of the Dubai Water Canal. Meanwhile, in summer, the inside is charming too – expect a colour palette that’s giving sunny Lisbon. Think burnt orange, bright yellow and gorgeous mismatched furniture made out of blonde rattan woods and comfy armchairs you can sink into. Opt for the private table corner for a great view of the extensive bar acting as the restaurant’s centrepiece, an ideal spot for date night or a catch-up (only with a top-tier friend of course). The space also features plenty of cute antiques and knick-knacks and stunning art on the walls, making you feel like you’ve stepped into the home of a very chic Portuguese interior designer. An addition to this location’s menu is the ‘Portuguese Heritage’ section, which offers recipes inspired by the founder Jessica Kassim Viveiro’s grandmother. Order the bacalhau à bras, a hearty bowl of salted cod fish mixed with thinly sliced potatoes and scrambled eggs, or the bife à Portuguesa, a classic Portuguese steak cooked medium-rare that meat-lovers will definitely be impressed by. Generously sized shrimp croquettes pull apart to reveal steaming, fragrant centres packed with the titular crustacean. For the main event, it’s all about the arroz de tamboril – a robust monkfish, rice and veg stew boasting a mesmerising aroma when the terracotta lid is lifted. But we’re not done yet. Don’t miss the pastel de nata. Buttery yet light pastry houses creamy custard – these little beauties are a treat whether for dessert, with a morning coffee or taken home in a box and shared with friends. Also open for breakfast on weekends, its morning menu has something for everyone, with eggs however you fancy, to pancakes and pastries. Prices are reasonable with a few dishes on the upper end of the spectrum. Staff are attentive and while some speak Portuguese themselves, you’ll be questioning whether you’re really by the Dubai Water Canal or by Canal Central de Aveiro itself. O Open Mon-Thu noon-midnight, Fri-Sat 9am-1am. Licensed. Four Seasons Private Residences Dubai at Jumeirah, Jumeirah 2, lanalusa.com (04 380 1515).Food 58 SUMMER 2025 TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM Rowley’s Consistently great steak-frites from a famed London name, now in DIFC When dinner starts with a craving and ends with a plate piled high with golden fries and perfectly cooked steak, you know you’re in for a goodie. There’s no denying that steak-frites is always a stellar staple. The no-frills-but-all-thrills approach to lunch (or dinner) has taken over many a plate in the city, and the latest to tap into the surge is Rowley’s in DIFC. The name may be new to Dubai, but it will be familiar to steak-lovers. Having opened its first restaurant more than 50 years ago in London, its tried and tested approach just keeps getting better. Known for signature entrecôte steak and a secret herb-infused Roquefort butter sauce, Rowley’s prides itself on premium cuts sourced through a six-month search for the finest beef, all at a, perhaps surprisingly, pocket-friendly price starting from Dhs138. Choose between the classic, signature or a ‘cut of the day’, ranging from juicy tenderloin to rib-eye, although served pre-cut (a no-no for steak connoisseurs), the serving is generous. Whatever you go for, the meat comes with a French salad, an unlimited portion of French fries and a library of sauces, including ‘fox’ (somewhat spicy), secret, fresca and peppercorn. Differing from other steak-frites establishments in the city, however, are the fries themselves, with the option of upgrading to Parmesan or spicy iterations. Despite the white tablecloths, red velvet booths and a neatly laid-out terrace, Rowley’s atmosphere is relaxed and friendly. Service is attentive, taking your order with a scribble on the paper placemats to ensure your steak is cooked how you like. There’s no waiting around for a second (or third) helping of fries either. Once your plate is looking scarce on supplies, it’s soon topped up with golden skinny potatoes, perfectly crisp and seasoned. Come the weekend, the generous offering continues with brunch, but with endless servings of steak and crispy truffle fries, juicy beef skewers, beef tartare, tater tots and a rotation of signature salads include. If you’re one to race through to dessert, you may be left underwhelmed with the limited choice here, but definitely not with the flavour. Tuck into the creamy Basque cheesecake or take it home for a special treat (along with those extra helpings of fries if you ask nicely). Whichever day you find yourself at Rowley’s, there’s only one rule: indulge in as much as you are able to. Just don’t forget to head downstairs to its secret bar, Tap Line, to experience an innovative mixed drink or two. In a city always chasing the next big thing, Rowley’s doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel, it does a great job at perfecting it. With a plate full of fries, what else would you need? O Open Mon-Thu noon-11pm, Fri-Sat noon-midnight, Sun 1pm-11pm. Fri-Sat noon-midnight. Licensed. Central Park Towers, DIFC, rowleysrestaurants.com (04 257 4754).Food TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM SUMMER 2025 59 Bar des Prés French finesse meets Japanese flair at this super cool sky-high DIFC newcomer There’s something about dining 51 floors up that makes every bite and sip feel extra special. Add in panoramic views of DIFC, a sushi counter glowing softly under copper lights, a menu that dances between Paris and Tokyo and a late-night bar that hums with understated energy – and suddenly, you’re not just out for dinner. You’re somewhere else entirely. New to the city, but not to those in the know, Bar des Prés is the brainchild of French chef and TV personality Cyril Lignac. The space is home to a layered sophistication you’d expect in the backstreets of Saint-Germain, only here, Parisian blue velvet and copper tones meet bamboo and rattan. It’s moody, it’s elegant – and it nails the balance between luxury and cool. From the moment you step inside, it’s clear this isn’t your typical fusion spot. Food-wise, you’ll want to start with the signature crispy rice, topped with a trio of tuna, salmon and yellowtail, a dish that’s as satisfying in texture as it is in flavour. Each golden, bite-sized block of rice is pan-seared, offering a warm, toasty base for the trio of raw fish layered on top – tuna, salmon and yellowtail. Finished with a brush of soy and a whisper of lime zest, the starter is next level. No visit to Bar Des Prés would be complete without trying the chef’s signature crab and avocado galette. Creamy, ripe avo sits on a bed of madras curry crab before it’s topped with small bites of green apple for a little bit of acidity. A dish you might not stop thinking about long after you’ve left. From there, options lean indulgent. Chilean sea bass with a complexly flavoured tom yum foam is a clear standout – flaky, rich and delightfully sweet. While the A4 Japanese wagyu entrecôte comes charred and tender, ready to be dragged through a sticky barbecue sauce. It’s a real highlight for carnivores. You’ll want to make room for dessert. Lignac’s pastry background shines in the vanilla mille-feuille with pecan praline, though the Guanaja chocolate biscuit (which is actually a hazelnut fondant) might just steal the show. Service is slick albeit a bit rapid. You could be in and out in under 90 minutes – if you wish – whether you’re seated at the buzzing sushi counter or in a comfy booth. Bar des Prés doesn’t lean too hard into formality and prices are relatively reasonable for the area. Whether you fancy a quick lunch with friends or a leisurely late-night dinner (a DJ comes on nightly from 9pm), the vibe at this hot spot stays consistently cool but approachable. It’s easy to see why this elegant newcomer is already making a good impression on Dubai diners – 51 floors up, but very much grounded in good taste. O Open daily noon-3pm and 7pm-midnight. Licensed. ICD Brookfield Place, DIFC, bardespres.com (04 498 1616).Next >