Dubai, UAE, 01 October 2024: From fancy restaurants that pull out all the stops or casual eateries perfect for some intimate ice-breaking, discover a round-up of original date night destinations to feel a spark with someone special.
The Meat Co.
The Meat Co. is a premier steakhouse known for its succulent meat cuts and tender ribs. Set in the bustling Souk Madinat Jumeirah, The Meat Co. is a classic date spot across food, vibes and views. Its steaks are prepared to perfection by expert chefs, with a menu featuring everything from juicy rib eyes to tender fillets and succulent lamb chops, burgers, and seafood. The restaurant’s modern yet warm décor creates a soothing atmosphere, but the actual draw is the outdoor seating front-row to the promenade’s breathtaking waterways, floating abras and Burj Al Arab.
Where: The Meat Co, Souk Madinat Jumeirah
SHI
For an elegant, upmarket affair that impresses even the most selective dates, look no further than SHI. Serving gourmet Chinese and Japanese cuisine along the Bluewaters waterfront, this stylish restaurant brings age-old recipes into the modern era using organically sourced ingredients. Masterful plating makes each order a treat for the eyes and the taste buds, set within a sophisticated, moody ambience evocative of Shanghai’s high-end lounges.
Where: SHI, Bluewaters
RSVP
This Michelin-selected restaurant promises delectable cuisine in a cosy, French bistro-inspired environment. Its take on French cuisine with an unexpected Japanese twist is the perfect way for two foodies to get to know each other over delectable and experimental cuisine. The mouthwatering charcoal-smoked lamb chops with teriyaki sauce, Carpaccio de Betteraves with shaved goat cheese, noisettes croquantes with a light beetroot foam, aubergine gratinée topped with rich pesto and tangy tomato fondue, and decadent pasta are but some of RSVP’s most unmissable highlights. There is no room for disappointment with a menu as well-crafted as theirs.
Where: RSVP, Boxpark
Anar
Tuck into authentic Iranian cuisine at Anar, which combines a sophisticated ambience and exceptional hospitality for an unparalleled dining experience. The food is rich in the culinary heritage of Iran, with succulent kebabs, fragrant rice dishes, and meticulously crafted dishes that evoke history, culture and tradition. The restaurant boasts a stunning waterside view of the iconic Burj Al Arab, which lights up in dazzling colours after sunset.
Where: Anar, Souk Madinat Jumeirah
The Pods
The Pods at Bluewaters Dubai bring indoor dining outdoors. Book one of the charming glass enclosures for a private dining experience that offers breathtaking views of Dubai’s iconic skyline and Pan Asian cuisine and rives with a dramatic flair. They offer a variety of bespoke packages starting at AED199 so that you can arrive at a pod decorated for every occasion, from heart-shaped balloons and meticulously scattered rose petals to a striking red-carpet welcome. The Pods also organises memorable proposals if you’re looking to secure a resounding “yes” with candle lights, a flourish of red roses or a theatrical welcome with sparklers, dazzling “Marry Me” signs and more.
Where: The Pods, Bluewaters Dubai
Last Exit
Take your date on a cruise through the city with a pitstop at any of Dubai’s four Last Exit locations. Each destination tells its a unique story, with different themes and gourmet street food stops on offer, from freshly grilled burgers and takeaway steaks to pizza, smoked brisket, bubble tea, ice cream, doughnuts and more. From ranch-inspired vibes at Al Khawaneej to a blast from the past at Last Exit DXB Bound, the post-apocalyptic food hall at Last Exit AUH Bound to the equestrian-themed destination at Al Qudra, uncover exceptional experiences across the city on a throwback style date in the comfort of your car.
Where: Last Exit DXB Bound, Last Exit AUH Bound, Last Exit Al Qudra, Last Exit Al Khawaneej
Tagomago
Located in Azure Beach, Tagomago provides supremely romantic views and vibes for a night out with a loved one. This stunning waterfront restaurant is known for its exquisite cuisine, where Mediterranean flavours are brought to life with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Whether dining under the stars or enjoying a sunset meal getting to know someone special, Tagomago provides an idyllic setting that satisfies all the senses.
Where: Tagomago, Azure Beach, Palm Jumeirah
Taverna Greek Kitchen
Taverna Greek Kitchen offers an authentic Greek dining experience at the heart of Souk Madinat Jumeirah. Embracing the rich culinary traditions of Greece, its menu highlights classic delicacies, from flavourful moussaka and tender souvlaki to fresh salads and creamy tzatziki. The restaurant embraces the traditional charm of a Greek tavern with its cosy stone walls. An equally charming outdoor terrace affords picturesque panoramas of the surrounding waterways and architecture—all crafting a truly inviting space.
Where: Taverna Greek Kitchen, Souk Madinat Jumeirah
Coterie Kitchen
Coterie Kitchen at Meydan District One is an elegant and intimate spot, ideal for a sophisticated, laid-back date night. This stylish, contemporary neighbourhood eatery offers a menu rich in international flavours crafted from fresh, high-quality ingredients and a warm ambience that make it a great spot to unwind for nearby residents, especially moms and dads looking to reconnect.
Where: Coterie Kitchen, Meydan District One
Wokyo
Wokyo is a casual Asian eatery that serves up noodle and rice dishes made to your liking. Its station at Al Seef stands out for its unique blend of cultures—its exteriors evoke Emirati heritage and history, reflective of the broader destination, while its interiors lean into the restaurant’s Asian roots with paper lanterns hanging above and elevated floor seating by windows overlooking the Dubai Creek. Customise your dish from a selection of noodle and rice bases, meat and vegetable toppings and lip-smacking sauces. While the ramen always hits the spot, Wokyo’s Laksa soup is among the best in the city.
Where: Wokyo, Al Seef
Kyma
Kyma at Palm West Beach creates a stunning beachfront dining experience for an exceptionally romantic dinner. Against the backdrop of the Arabian Gulf, indulge in refined Mediterranean cuisine while making the most of its private pool, beach, and lounge. With its serene atmosphere and intimate setting, Kyma is the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or a candlelit dinner by the water.
Where: Kyma, Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeirah
Sushiyaki
Sushiyaki brings a fresh perspective to Japanese cuisine in Dubai. Renowned for its exquisite sushi and irresistible yakitori, a reflection of contemporary Japanese culinary artistry, this quaint eatery harmonises tradition and modernity for an elevated dining experience. Revel in serene views of the Souk Madinat Jumeirah and the restaurant’s trendy interiors, boasting eye-catching murals and parasols hanging high above.
Where: Sushiyaki, Souk Madinat Jumeirah
Al Fanar
Experience authentic Emirati cuisine and hospitality at Al Fanar. Its location on the outer banks of Dubai Creek embraces the restaurant’s culture and heritage. Its rustic interiors, with hanging lanterns and wooden beams, bring a flavour of the nearby Al Fahidi Historic District indoors while out on the deck, you can watch wooden abras float by from under a thatched roof. Its ambience perfectly complements Al Fanar’s classic land and sea dishes, including machboos, thereed, and hearty stews. Breakfast is a wholesome affair for early risers (and night owls, since it’s available all day), with freshly baked kameer bread, bajella, balalit and more simmering with a touch of local nostalgia.
Where: Al Fanar, Al Seef
Clay
Indulge in exceptional Nikkei cuisine – a blend of Japanese and Peruvian culinary heritage – at Clay. This elegant restaurant offers an intimate and upscale date night atmosphere with vibrant artwork, dark interiors and lighting, and a tempting menu of sushi, omakase, ceviche, tiraditos, and Nikkei grill. Each dish is presented with a memorable flare, whether sushi served on a miniature Ferris wheel or wrapped in edible gold to savoury and sweet plates presented in traditional Peruvian clay pots. Clay is helmed by the talented Chef Jolbi, the mastermind behind Souk Madinat Jumeirah’s Sushiyaki, so you can trust that your meal is in expert hands.
Where: Clay, Bluewaters
Mezzanine Bar & Kitchen
Located in the scenic Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Mezzanine Bar & Kitchen serves up an extensive menu of British favourites to delight gourmands. The venue boasts chic interiors and two outdoor terraces, a perfect setting for a date night under the stars. Mezzanine’s carefully curated menu includes classic dishes, great vegan and vegetarian options and signature drinks, as well as captivating views of the destination’s water canals and the iconic Burj Al Arab.
Where: Mezzanine Bar & Kitchen, Souk Madinat Jumeirah
Limonata
This charming beachfront gem at Club Vista Mare offers spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf. Limonata’s vibrant yet cosy atmosphere and menu of delightful Mediterranean-inspired dishes, each bursting with fresh flavours, are a stunning spot to catch the sunset over the water or dine under the moonlight. Serene and intimate, in part due to its vibrant beach club aesthetic, Limonata is ideal for those looking to while away the hours over great food and conversation.
Where: Limonata, Club Vista Mare, Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeirah
Old Tbilisi
Old Tbilisi transports diners to the charming eateries of Georgia in the heart of JBR The Walk. Its rustic interiors, exposed brick and stonework, wooden beams and vibrant carpets make for a memorable date night spot, but its menu is the real showstopper. Tuck into traditional shoti bread straight from the tandoor, stuffed Khinkali (or Georgian dumplings), or Acharuli Khachapuri (a boat-shaped bread filled with melted cheese and a yolk heart) for an authentic taste of Georgia in Dubai.
Where: Old Tbilisi, Rimal 5 JBR Walk
McCafferty’s Irish Pub & Restaurant
McCafferty’s brings a genuine Irish experience to Dubai. This local watering hole is famous among Jumeirah Village Circle residents for its traditional tunes and locally sourced Irish dishes. It’s the perfect spot if you’re still getting to know someone, with its festive atmosphere, laidback charm, and a delicious drinks list that help break the ice and keep conversation flowing.
Where: McCafferty’s Irish Pub and Restaurant, JVC
Trattoria
Trattoria is a much-loved Italian eatery helmed by the talented Chef Omar. The restaurant brings to life warm Italian hospitality with a carefully crafted menu that includes age-old recipes, modern flavours and handmade pasta. Its rustic interiors make for a peaceful dinner escape year-round, but when weather cools down, opt for a table al fresco to be transported to Venice, sitting alongside the idyllic waterways of Souk Madinat Jumeirah.
Where: Trattoria, Souk Madinat Jumeirah
Alusia
Located in the Jumeirah Islands Pavilion, this community favourite is all about unforgettable dining experiences. With a blend of Levantine and Andalusian flavours, cosy vibes, and tapas-style dining, Alusia’s floor-to-ceiling windows make this spot perfect for a daytime date, soaking in the sun amid its warm interiors.
Where: Alusia, Jumeirah Islands Pavilion
Trader Vic’s
Trader Vic’s Madinat is an exotic tropical island destination that offers international specialities and world-famous drinks in a waterfront setting. This Dubai classic is a great spot to grab pre-dinner drinks or a nightcap, with its South Seas theme, Asian fusion bites and live Cuban music.
Where: Trader Vic’s, Souk Madinat Jumeirah