< PreviousFood 60 OCTOBER 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 pairs 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 market 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 paired 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).Food 62 OCTOBER 2025 TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM Twiggy Family An all-round brilliant day out with the kids in the sunshine Let’s face it , the kids in Dubai can certainly live the life. Whether it’s chocolate fountains at brunch or going to the pool after school, it’s pretty dreamy. And Twiggy Family takes things up a notch further for the whole gang. The child-friendly version of one of the most-loved pool clubs in town, Twiggy, has the same sugary sand, sweeping lagoon, stunning city views and top food menu, all nestled at the chic location that is the Park Hyatt. It even has a DJ set up on the faux beach come the weekend. The staff are excellent, providing everything from Barbies to buckets and beach balls for a fun-filled day playing in the sand. Not having to lug your gear all over town is a win-win. The possibilities are endless here. The kiddos will be alternating between building sandcastles and wading in the lagoon, diving in the pool and running about the splash pad. There’s even a petite indoor play area with soft and wooden toys for when they need to escape the sun. It’s all in a compact area too, which is a bonus. Of course, you’re going to get hungry with all that fresh air, and being from the team behind La Cantine, the poolside fodder is of high quality. A classic tomato pasta comes with an unctuous sauce, push the boat out and add juicy prawns for a hit of protein and texture. Salads are fresh and bright and there are grills if you’re feeling like a full meal. The pizzas are pillowy and great to share. The kids’ menu isn’t perhaps as exciting as you might hope, however, so opt for a selection from the regular menu to share if you have older kids. Toddler on a beige diet? Fret not, there’s mac and cheese, chicken nuggets and chips to save any meltdowns. All bases are covered and the staff really make an effort, treating them to sweets and smiles. That’s not to say it’s a cheap day out. It’s not redeemable (at the same price as the adults’ Twiggy, Dhs200 in the week and Dhs250 on weekends), plus you’ll have to fork out for kids over four to get in. For that reason you’ll find that most families there have toddlers or are hotel guests. Add lunch, drinks, ice cream et al and it’s a spenny way to spend day. But, that said, it’s a top treat for the gang when you want a day in the sunshine with way better-than- average poolside fare. Eating ice cream, while splashing at a lagoon pool with Burj Khalifa views? As we said, living the life. O Open daily 9am-sunset. Licensed. Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, twiggy.ae (04 602 1105).64 OCTOBER 2025 TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM Bars, Pubs & Clubs 1920 A classy Art Deco bar in DIFC with live jazz and a glittering skyline view Tucked behind a velvet curtain, 1920 doesn’t just tip its fedora to the past – it practically does the Charleston with it, bringing the razzle-dazzle of the Prohibition era to DIFC’s sky-high nightlife scene. Perched on the 52nd floor of ICD Brookfield Place, the speakeasy-style bar manages to still have an air of seclusion, despite sitting proudly in one of the busiest parts of the city. It has just the right touch of mystery – the kind of joint you’d need a password to get into back in the day. In this Art Deco watering hole, the old and new shimmy side by side as heavy drapes are pulled aside to reveal a glittering Dubai skyline – a backdrop that’s as glamorous as a flapper in full fringe. As you stroll in, you’ll pass a swish row of tall yet secluded booths only big enough to fit two, designed, it would seem, for gossip that shouldn’t be overheard. But if you’re here for the dynamic energy of the roaring ’20s, then make your way round to the bar, offering live music every night of the week from traditional bands to live vinyl DJs with serious moxie. Hop on a red velvet bar stool and swivel away while the team talk you through the menu. Mixed drinks are at the forefront of what’s on offer, with a sweet bubbly option dressed to impress. Sticking to its Prohibition playlist, the evenings are full of upbeat jazz, while you admire everything from the fringed lampshades to the towering seven-storey bar filled with gleaming bottles from a Gatsby-worthy bar. Claiming to celebrate the ‘finer things’, the D.ream Group venue (the brains behind the iconic COYA and Amazónico) doesn’t come cheap. But it’s the kind of spot where you could easily savour one drink for hours just as much as you could splash out. Whether you’re swaying to the beat at a high table or sinking into a sofa by the band, TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM OCTOBER 2025 65 Three to try Super speakeasies Honeycomb Hi-Fi If you’re into music, then Honeycomb Hi-Fi is for you. To enter the bar you have to walk through a record store, while once you’re inside you’ll feel like you’re in a recording studio. As you’d expect, music is key here, so get ready for a roster of brilliant DJs, top beats and a lively vibe. O Open Mon-Thu 7.30pm-2am, Fri-Sun 7.30pm-3am. Pullman Dubai Downtown, Business Bay, honeycombhifi.com (04 412 6666). Moonshine Disguised as a friendly neighbourhood sandwich shop, the dark and moody Moonshine is hidden behind the Wise Guys deli in DIFC. The bar is accessible through a green fridge door, which leads you into a wobbly mirrored corridor that opens up into Moonshine. Inspired by the prohibition era, Moonshine serves modern takes on classic mixed drinks and delicious bites that complement the mixed drinks. As night falls, the bar transforms into a lively party spot with DJs playing upbeat music. O Open Tue-Wed 6pm-1am, Thu 6pm-3am, Fri-Sat 6pm-4am. Gate District, The Marble Walk (052 450 7795). Voyage by Amelia Amelia is a place that’s popular for everything. Late-night dinners, mixed drinks, Nikkei bites – if you’re looking for a chic, steampunk-inspired space in Downtown Dubai – this is it. And not only does it cater for the every night crowd, but for those in the know there’s Voyage, a secret space tucked above the main bar. A private spot tucked away from the crowds, if you want something low- key but fun, this is a place for those after the latest thing. O Open Thu-Sat 11pm-3am. Address Sky View Dubai, Downtown Dubai, amelialounge.com (04 328 2805). it’s easy to lose track of time in a place like this – it has a classy cosmopolitan edge that makes you feel cool just to be part of the crowd. So whether you’re out for a swanky sunset sip or riding the good-time train into the wee small hours, a night behind the curtain at 1920 is the bee’s knees. O Open Sun-Wed 5.30pm-1.30am, Thu-Sat 5.30pm- 3am. Licensed. ICD Brookfield Place, DIFC, 1920.ae (04 498 1920).66 OCTOBER 2025 TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM Picture this. It’s a sunny afternoon in Paris and you’re sat in 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 walk 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 TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM OCTOBER 2025 67 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 step 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, Palma 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).Bars, Pubs & Clubs 68 OCTOBER 2025 TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM A poolside hangout that’s relaxed and playful nestled at the trendy J1 Beach La Baia If La Dolce Vita got a beachside remix and moved to Dubai, it would look a lot like La Baia. With a pool that doesn’t take itself too seriously, inflatable flamingos bobbing around the water and a tiramisù that’s genuinely hard to forget, this playful J1 Beach spot serves up Amalfi vibes – just with a slightly more laid-back filter. La Baia, simply meaning ‘The Bay’ in Italian, is somewhat of an underdog in the J1 Beach lineup. It’s definitely unpretentious and fun, plus it manages to sidestep any kind of try-hard energy, but it might not be the first place that springs to mind when you picture J1. Colourful pool loungers and vibrant striped towels keep things Instagram- friendly, while matching umbrellas hang like oversized lamps and mellow house beats hum from the resident DJ booth. There’s a garden party vibe in the air – part chic, part slightly chaotic – especially as a fleet of inflatables (perhaps a little too many, if we’re being fussy) starts drifting across the pool. It cements La Baia’s status as the ‘good time friend’ of the neighbourhood. The focal swimming pool is very unserious and boasts a vibrant tile pattern in alternating swathes of yellow, green and blue – a nod to the space’s penchant for colourful, bold lines that verges slightly on novelty over luxury. The food menu is where La Baia really shines. Adhering to the venue’s signature Italian charm, the stacked offering is full of elevated crowd pleasers such as fresh seafood, pasta dishes, burrata by the bucketload and, of course, velvety espresso- soaked tiramisù. Salads are pared-back, yet hearty and delicious. Ravioli, stuffed with burrata butter and zesty Amalfi lemon, is a rich highlight, while pizzas strike the right balance between crisp and chewy. Millefoglie di patate with black truffle adds a fancier flourish, though it may not fully justify the price tag. The food leans toward the pricier side (it is J1, after all), but the more approachable La Baia keeps the vibe light with feel-good deals throughout the week, making it easier to indulge in a bit more Italian fun. Wellness Wednesday is a midweek wellness ritual combining yoga, meditation, and journaling, set against the serene beachfront backdrop. On the same day, the venue also hosts a Ladies’ Pool Party from noon to 4pm for unlimited drinks from a select menu for Dhs200. Ultimately, La Baia isn’t here to be the most serious kid on the J1 block, but with its fun-loving spirit and a menu that mostly delivers, it’s a solid choice for an unpretentiously sweet day out. O From Dhs300 (Dhs200 redeemable). Open daily 10am-2am. Licensed. J1 Beach, Jumeirah, labaia- dxb.com (04 570 2482). “It manages to side-step any kind of try-hard energy”NOVEMBER 02-01 | WADI HUB, HATTANext >