Restaurants

After opening in early May, this new concept hotspot from the Buddha-Bar is one to check out. Sat in the Grosvenor House, the large restaurant with terrace has views over Dubai Marina. Malouf is a popular name in the Levantine culinary scene, not to mention well known in Dubai and is head chef at the new location. Fans of Ruya will remember the space fondly, as this was the last restaurant to operate here. The newest venture by the famous Lebanese Australian chef is a modern take on Middle Eastern fare. The celebrity chef has dreamed up creative takes on…

Dubai’s much-loved Al Safadi restaurant has reopened its branch on Sheikh Zayed Road in DIFC. Refurbished to accommodate 360 hungry diners under Al Safadi’s new brand image, the 22-year-old restaurant chain still promises its “homemade” experience, with delicious Lebanese food made from the freshest produce and only the most authentic spices and herbs from the Levant. Sit by the large windows to revel in city views from day to night. Unlicensed. Open daily, 9am-1am, Sheikh Zayed Road, DIFC (600 500 601).

Batchig on the fifth floor of Millennium Place Mirdif hotel will appeal to those who love to tuck into homestyle Armenian and Lebanese cooking. The Lebanese import has plenty to get stuck into for those who like to order several dishes to share. Choose from the hot and cold mezze menus which include dishes such as falafel, kibbeh, halloumi, hummus and moutabel. Open daily, noon-1am, Millennium Place Mirdif, (04 605 7777).

Those who know Amelia in its guise in Beirut would have had doubts when hearing about the beloved restaurant opening in Dubai. In the Lebanese capital, it occupies a spot in an atmospheric 500-year-old Gothic building with industrial-style interiors that encourages partying until the wee hours. However, the team has managed to pull it off, securing a location (which few people knew existed) at the base of Address Sky View and delivering the same feeling and style, but with a glossy upgrade. A soaring double-height ceiling, gigantic gyrating plane (Amelia Earheart’s, of course) mounted on the wall, delicious Japanese-Peruvian menu and…

This restaurant is housed at the huge 77-storey Address Beach Resort. The restaurant boasts a combination of Lebanese and Brazilian flavours, so if you’re looking for something a little bit different this could be for you.  Dishes on the menu include a range of different hummus – from loaded with feta or lamb to sweet potato versions – as well as other mezze and a selection of grills and Brazilian curries. Address Beach Resort, JBR (04 879 8888).

Located within Dubai Marine Beach Resort and Spa, this award-winning restaurant is the perfect place to appreciate traditional Lebanese cuisine. Open for lunch and dinner, you can either relax over a light bite to eat for lunch or enjoy an evening of entertainment, courtesy of an Arabic band, singers and a dancer. A great option for al fresco dining, the outdoor terrace overlooks the lush gardens and pools.

If you’re looking for a real Lebanese restaurant with authentic dishes that you can rely on, then Arz Lebanon is the place to go to. A well-established restaurant, it offers diners a traditional taste of Lebanon. The staff are friendly too, so you’ll quickly feel at home at any one of their branches dotted around Dubai. Make sure you try their healthy fresh juices, as these are as delicious as their dips, meat and vegetable mains.

Take time to soak up your surroundings at Chandelier, a Lebanese restaurant and cafe situated on Marina Walk. Chandelier understands that quality food and ambience go hand-in-hand, from soft lighting and candles, to the presentation of each dish on the menu. Savour mezze and cool beverages while enjoying a view of the water and families taking their evening stroll.

Offering authentic Lebanese food and live entertainment, Awtar is the perfect venue to experience an Arabian night. You can begin the evening with a lavish selection of Arabic dishes including hot and cold mezzes. The grilled meat and seafood are designed for sharing, with dessert also available if you have room. The traditional tent-style ceiling and entertainers add authenticity to the night.