Stretching across the Palm’s Crescent foreshore, and with the iconic seashell-pink Atlantis, The Palm looming in the background, the Royal Pool strikes a balance between a family-friendly destination and a relaxing spot for the unaccompanied grown-ups. The oversized five-star pool is perfect for a dip, with or without younger family members. Or take the kids down to the private beach, the nearby jungle gym or the lawn badminton court to totally tire them out before dinner. We recommend the signature grilled tiger prawns. +971 4 426 2626
Troyka conjures up a little of Russia’s old-world charm from its base in the Ascot Hotel in Bur Dubai. The Tuesday night buffet is all-inclusive and comprises time-honoured Russian delicacies such as chicken Kiev and beef stroganoff. You’ll adore the liveliness of the Russian-themed entertainment here as a band plays every night from 10.30pm, and an extravagant, live Vegas-style show begins at 11.30pm.
British Celebrity Chef Silvena Rowe is the master behind Omnia Gourmet, located at Jumeirah Fishing Village. It celebrates the flavours of local cuisine with a menu that is almost entirely gluten free. There is also an extensive range of raw, sugar free, dairy free, Paleo and vegan desserts on the menu. Enjoy dishes with regional ingredients including Emirati burrata and ricotta cheese, locally farmed chicken, and freshly caught local fish.
You’ll have a night to remember at the stunning Pai Thai, from the abra boat ride to the tasty Thai cuisine. Located in the Madinat Jumeirah, the restaurant makes full use of the outdoor seating, which offers delightful views across the canal and a menu with some exciting twists on familiar favourites. Float across the beautiful, relaxed ambience, and indulge in Thai food that will make your taste buds dance with satisfaction.
Sumibiya, located at Radisson Blu Hotel Deira Creek, is the first Yakinika-style restaurant in Dubai. All the tables are arranged around a central grill (tailor-made in Tokyo), where you are invited to grill your own meat, seafood and vegetables. Sumibiya prides itself on using the freshest ingredients, which are enhanced by a range of classic Korean side dishes, such as the legendary fermented cabbage, kimchi. The restaurant also offers a nightly BBQ buffet.
We have the celebrated face of Indian cuisine Sanjeev Kapoor to thank for this elaborate restaurant in Movenpick Hotel Deira. Think plush red velvet chairs, dim lighting, crystal curtains and sparkling chandeliers. When it comes to the food, you wont be disappointed. Try signature creations including Sham Savera (spinach koftas cooked in tomato gravy) and Kachhi Goshtki Biryani (biryani marinated in a mixture of raw papaya paste, yogurt, lemon juice, ginger and garlic). Delicious.
After a summer of renovations, the landmark beach club has relaunched even bigger and better than before, adding 2,000 sqm of leisure areas. Boasting a 39-metre-long glass-fronted infinity pool and an expanse of private beach-front, the venue is also home to fresh-focused kitchen, serving an international menu that includes everything from Lebanese mixed grills to lighter salads. Known for its ability to attract major music acts (Fat Boy Slim’s recent set was the gig to be seen at), day loungers are encouraged to linger into the evening, with the poolside still open for a dip long after sunset. +971 4…
Get a dose of true Pakistani fare at Karachi Darbar, a simple restaurant that has built a name for itself on the premise of good food. Stick to popular, well-known dishes like biriyani, or venture out and sample the excellent haleem, a spicy ground meat and lentil stew. Here, you will get Pakistani dishes prepared to perfection.