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As Dubai is a Muslim city, many restaurants, especially at the cheaper end of the market, are not licensed to serve alcohol. However, restaurants in the tourist and business hotels almost always serve alcohol. Sales tax at 10% is added to all bills. Service charges at 10 to 15% are also frequently added but, if they are not, a 10% tip is expected. |
Gastronomic:
Al Mahara
Making a fair stab at being the most expensive restaurant in Dubai, the Al Mahara often divides local opinion. Some say it is overpriced for what you get, but others swear by it, and dining here is a real treat,
Business
Al Dawaar
This revolving 140-seat restaurant, atop the Hyatt Regency Hotel, on the 25th floor, has some of the best views of any restaurant in the city. Contemporary and sophisticated, the restaurant revolves over a two-hour period, offering panoramic views of the entire city and out towards the Arabian Gulf. The most popular dining option is the
Trendy
Butcher Shop & Grill
The backbone of this eatery, if you pardon the pun, is meat, meat and meat. The influence is South African with a hearty butcher on hand if you have a kitchen back where you are staying. If not, settle in for a
Budget
Cactus Jacks
It may never win any culinary awards but Cactus Jacks seldom disappoints a hungry stomach. A Mexican theme for the décor includes Aztec fabrics and bright designs, as well as multicolour tiled pillars. Upstairs there are five tables for diners looking for a touch more privacy. The restaurant has a live DJ at weekends and things can turn
Personal Recommendations:
Café Chic
With a double Michelin-starred head chef, Philippe Gavreau, at the helm this hotel eatery really cannot go wrong. Mix in top quality ingredients, smooth service and a menu that cuts deftly between the classics and some daring variations and this is a top dining choice.