The UAE is undeniably known for its exotic supercars and sparkling sky-scrapers, but most importantly – its incomparable culinary scene. Elevate your date night plans with romantic evenings spent indulging in South African flavours under whimsical light installations at Flamingo Room by tashas, or head over to the Middle East’s first-ever listening bar for a change of pace.
Bungalo34
Step inside the stunning venue of Bungalo34, where guests can enjoy Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and be transported to a refined and intimate setting that is perfect for a romantic date night in Dubai. Together with loved ones, you can share a delicious Genovese pasta, savour the wood-fired pizzettes baked on the spot on the terrace, or even choose from the fresh seafood display. As the waves crash on the shore in the background, the restaurant provides a serene and peaceful ambience that allows for an intimate and memorable dining experience.
Where: Nikki Beach
For reservations contact 04 238 1780 or visit sevenrooms.com
Avli by tashas
Located in the heart of DIFC, Avli is reminiscent of modern Athenian culture and the open-air courtyards of the Mediterranean – where every meal is an occasion, each moment is a celebration and friends become family. The food, showcasing Natasha’s Greek heritage and roots, includes fabulous meze, salads, vegan delicacies, seafood and slow-cooked meats exuding the simplicity of authentic Mediterranean flavours. Each dish at Avli is created with heart and authenticity, backed by the sourcing of many ingredients directly from Greece.
Where: DIFC
For reservations contact 04 359 0008 or visit avlibytashas.com
KATA Dubai
Embark on a romantic journey at KATA, a contemporary Japanese gem nestled in Downtown Dubai. The menu at KATA presents an innovative take on contemporary Japanese cuisine, featuring hand-crafted sushi, a remarkable robata selection, and thoughtfully curated non-alcoholic choices. KATA offers breathtaking views of The Dubai Fountain from its outdoor terrace. Inside, a bespoke mural by the acclaimed artist Wong Ting Fung sets the stage for an exceptional dining experience, making KATA the perfect spot for a romantic date night.
Where: Dubai Mall
For reservations contact 054 582 9933 or visit kata.ae
LPM Restaurant & Bar Dubai
Celebrated for its imaginative Riviera-inspired cuisine, thrilling original cocktails and harmonious design, is world-renowned LPM Restaurant and Bar. LPM Restaurant & Bar is the perfect date night spot for lovers of French-Mediterranean cuisine looking for an intimate setting for their evening. Adorned with chic interiors, stunning art pieces, and lined with white tablecloths, LPM Dubai is sure to provide couples with a night that resembles a getaway to Côte d’Azur.
Where: DIFC
For reservations contact 44 390 505 or visit lpmrestaurants.com
Miss Lily’s
Nestled in the heart of Dubai, Miss Lily’s transports couples to a romantic Caribbean oasis. The vibrant atmosphere, exotic drinks, and island-inspired cuisine create an intimate and unforgettable dining experience. As they savour signature dishes like the succulent Jerk Chicken and savoury Oxtail Stew, lovers are swept away by the warm, romantic ambience. With lively music and sunny vibes, Miss Lily’s is the perfect date night spot for couples seeking a romantic escape.
Where: Sheraton Grand Hotel
For reservations contact 04 356 2900 or visit misslilys.com
MEDA
Inspired by the Latin name for ‘Middle of the earth,’ Meda celebrates the iconic Mediterranean spirit expressed through a contemporary interpretation of its cuisine and culture. The kitchen is led by Chef Omar Basiony, revealing a menu of raw delicacies and crudos, complete with cold and hot tapas, main courses, and desserts. The bar at Meda introduces a delightful spectrum of artisanal cocktails and traditional spirits, complemented by energetic and engaging presentations by the stellar team.
Where: Business Bay
For reservations contact 056 711 2277 or visit medadubai.com
Flamingo Room by tashas
Perfectly situated on Jumeirah Al Naseem’s turtle lagoon, Flamingo Room by tashas provides an elevated dining experience, ideal for every occasion. The contemporary menu showcases simple classics with South African flavours, made with the highest quality ingredients, and a beautiful cocktail menu that embodies the glam and flair of Africa. Guests will be swept away to the timeless style and romance of bygone eras, dining under the glowing baobab light installations overhead, creating a beautiful reflection along the whole restaurant, and adding an extra dimension to the glamorous atmosphere.
Where: Madinat Jumeirah
For reservations contact 42 44 7278 or visit flamingoroombytashas.com
TABŪ
TABŪ is a high-end restaurant and lounge, serving authentic yet modern Japanese cuisine, showcased and plated with an artistic finesse. Located on the rooftop at The St. Regis Downtown, Business Bay. TABŪ’S diverse theatrical elements are a mix of immersive and elaborate as well as passive and understated, the venue’s dinner and show theatrics aren’t limited to just the performances. The food, beverages, and service style are all integral parts of the TABŪ avant-garde experience.
Where: Business Bay
For reservations contact 052 950 1309 or visit sevenrooms.com
The Artisan
Indulge in a romantic evening at The Artisan, an enchanting Italian restaurant tucked away inside the opulent Waldorf Astoria in DIFC, Dubai. With accolades from the world-renowned Michelin and Gault & Millau Guides, The Artisan is the perfect destination for a memorable date night. The restaurant exudes a timeless yet modern aesthetic, with warm interiors and walls adorned with unique art pieces from regional to internationally renowned artists. Every dish is crafted with the utmost care to ensure a truly exquisite dining experience that will leave you and your loved one with unforgettable memories.
Where: DIFC
For reservations contact 04 338 8133 or visit theartisan.ae
Hutong
The restaurant received many awards, including the first Michelin star award for a Chinese restaurant in the city. Today there are five Hutongs in the family – London, which opened in 2008 in The Shard, Europe’s tallest building; New York, named the fifth-best restaurant by the New York Times; Miami and Dubai. Situated in the leading financial hub and vibrant district for lifestyle, arts and culture, the Dubai outpost of Hutong opened in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) in 2020. The venue overlooks iconic landmarks such as Emirates Towers and the Museum of the Future, and just around the corner is DIFC’s Gate Building. Hutong Dubai features a bespoke interior design inspired by ‘The Four Arts’ of the Qing Dynasty, paying homage to the ancient trade route, the Silk Road.
Where: DIFC
For reservations contact 04 220 0868 or visit hutong-dubai.com
Honeycomb Hi-Fi
Launched in October 2022, Honeycomb Hi-Fi is the first listening bar to open in the Middle East. Honeycomb is the first venue in the Middle East to feature a custom-built Ojas speaker system by Devon Turnbull. The rotation of DJs and music curators will be serving a moving audio feast. Guests can expect anything on the turntables, from electronic to jazz, to soul, to world music and film scores. Award-winning chef Matt Abergel of Yardbird / Ronin Hong Kong fame has created a traditional menu incorporating modern expressions of izakaya dishes, including a selection of cold/raw, hot, binchotan grill, rice, and noodle dishes.
Where: Business Bay
For reservations contact 04 412 6666 or visit honeycombhifi.com
Salmon Guru
Born in Madrid in 2016, the multi-award-winning and revolutionary concept Salmon Guru is acclaimed for its whimsical and extraordinary cocktail bar experience curated by Diego Cabrera and his team. Situated in the heart of Business Bay at The Opus by Omniyat, Salmon Guru Dubai is an adaptation of the Madrid branch and features three distinct spaces. The first is a classic 60’s tropical bar, the second is a whimsical and exciting Asian night market, and the third is an enchanting comic brought to life. The creative and quirky Madrid bar has been awarded several prestigious awards; they were recognized by the World’s 50 Best Bars ( #19 in 2019 / #24 in 2021) and is also recognized as the Best Bar in Spain.
Where: Business Bay
For reservations contact 052 814 9537 or visit salmonguru.es
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