Dubai, the business hub of the Middle East, continues to attract world attention with its larger-than-life construction projects, such as the world’s tallest building Burj Khalifa, its huge shopping malls, and fantastic beaches. Of course, Dubai’s restaurant scene does not disappoint either. Whatever brings you to Dubai – whether it’s business or pleasure – these restaurants are not to be missed. Why? Because next to outstanding food, they provide you with some of the greatest views across the city.
Accents Restaurant & Terrace
The Dubai Marina is always worth a visit if you’re after one of the most stunning harbour views you’ve ever seen. Set in elegant surroundings, Accents combines international flavours with traditional cooking methods to create memorable dishes. We recommend dining outdoors on the terrace to make the most of the fabulous harbour views.
BiCE Mare
BiCE Mare was crowned the ‘Best Seafood Restaurant’ at the 2013 BBC Good Food Awards and it’s easy to see why. Not only does the restaurant provide mouth-wateringly fresh seafood, but it also offers fantastic views of The Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa. Situated within Souk Al Bahar, BiCe Mare is also known for being the go-to-place for Dubai’s elite and celebs. So if you fancy indulging in some people-watching while you enjoy grilled lobster or seafood risotto, this is the place for you.
Sea Fu
Beach bunnies, listen up: Sea Fu is located right on a private stretch of Jumeirah Beach and charms guests with its luxurious yet relaxed atmosphere and outstanding food. Here, you can indulge in Asian seafood and even watch dishes being cooked to order at the wok station. Tables out on the terrace offer wonderful views of the Arabian Gulf, while live DJs set the mood – it’s an absolute must-visit.
Bateaux Dubai
Fancy dining on the water? Then look no further than the elegant Bateaux Dubai. It’s more than just a cruise – Bateaux Dubai offers gourmet cuisine and takes you on a four-course culinary journey paired with live entertainment and panoramic views of the city’s iconic skyline.
Luna Sky Bar
This rooftop bar is simply stunning, with its black and gold colour palette and a back bar featuring rotating cage-like liquor displays. But it’s only the interior that impresses guests – the huge windows (and outdoor terrace) offer breath-taking views of the Burj Khalifa and beyond. It’s the perfect place to enjoy creative cocktails and pan-Asian bar snacks like spicy tuna maki rolls and truffle chicken dumplings.
101 Dining Lounge and Marina
If you need to break away from the daily hustle and bustle, then book yourself a table at 101 Dining Lounge. Accessible only by a long pier or a private boat straight to its dock, you’ll feel like you’re on a tropical escape. Enjoy the sweeping views across the water and the city skyline enjoying tapas, fresh salads and seafood from the Mediterranean menu. At the weekend, the resident DJ entertains guests with chill-out sounds.
Shimmers
This open-air Mediterranean restaurant is located just metres from the sea and is one of the most popular beach eateries in the city. Offering authentic Greek cuisine, the restaurant’s casual yet chic atmosphere makes for the perfect chilled out dinner location.
At.mosphere
Situated on Level 122 of Burj Khalifa, At.mosphere is the world’s highest restaurant and one of Dubai’s most iconic dining destinations. The panoramic views of the city skyline and the Arabian Gulf are unrivalled. The restaurant’s culinary offerings are equally impressive. Expect top quality ingredients including prime cuts of beef, fresh seafood, and oysters from Brittany. The sky is the limit here!
Visit OpenTable to make your reservation or discover more restaurants in Dubai.
This is a guest post from freelance journalist Beatrice Clark. She has written for Vogue, Glamour and Vanity Fair, among others, and has spent the past 15 years living in France, England and Scotland. She is currently based in Berlin and is always on the hunt for the perfect Eggs Benedict.