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Many would agree that it’s the gastronomy of a country that stays with you long after your trip is over, especially in a country which is home to an array of special cuisines. What really makes a night out worthwhile is the quality of food that’s been consumed, and those intending to capture the real essence of Dubai can locate a multitude of great restaurants. Here are 10 of the best restaurants in the downtown area that strive to offer you the dining experience of a lifetime.

Seaweed Salad

Hukama

A popular establishment that offers authentic Chinese cuisine, Hukama provides a contemporary atmosphere, along with a spectacular view of the Burj Khalifa. With the option of dining at any time in the day, one can bask in the cool and sleek ambiance while enjoying a traditional dinner overlooking the illuminated and vibrant city. The interior combines both Western and Asian cultures to complement the wide array of dishes, with a grand chandelier to tie up the elegant decor and invite you in. Chefs use ingredients such as seafood and local delicacies including pistachios to present a new twist on renowned recipes, culminating in an explosion of flavor for the taste buds.

Address: 6th floor, Emaar Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, +971 4 4368888
Classic_martini | © Ken30684/Wikimedia

Neos

A luxurious sky lounge, located on the 63rd floor, offering a heightened experience for those seeking relaxation and pre-dinner snacks and beverages. As the evening arrives, the Dubai fountain welcomes the change in time by radiating bright lights that are sure to entertain you as you relax in the spacious seating area. Treat yourself to a Titan Martini while sampling a wide range of freshly prepared snacks that include a decadent cheese platter and oysters along with more filling foods such as braised beef ribs and chicken shawarma. This lounge also marks the perfect end to a night on the town as one can enjoy a delectable chocolate mousse or fruit salad that is mouthwatering enough to make Neos a regular destination. Children can choose from soft drinks or freshly squeezed fruit juices, making this lounge a perfect setting for both adults and minors.

Fuego Contemporary Mexican

Fuego offers a spicy and refreshing take on one of the most sought-after cuisines, which can be sampled at the Souk Al Bahar at the foot of the Burj Khalifa. The name of the restaurant, meaning fire or flame, is a definite fit as foods are cooked on a grill. Indulge in delicacies such as parrillada de camarón (tiger prawns, mixed capsicum, tortilla, pinto beans, Mexican rice) and sea bass ceviche (citrus, basil pesto, serrano chili, avocado, salsa verde, sweet melon). This is one of the few restaurants with a large variety of vegetarian dishes.

Address & telephone number: Level 3, Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, Dubai116945, United Arab Emirates, +(971)44490977

Arabic Mixed Grill

Al Hamidieh

When visiting a new country, people usually want to sample indigenous cuisines. This restaurant offers tourists authentic Middle Eastern dishes, rooted from countries like Lebanon and Syria. You can also try shisha, commonly smoked in the Middle East. Al Hamidieh is good value for money: try the mixed grill and kharoof mahshi. Alcohol is not sold, in keeping with the Islamic laws however, many other beverages are available to quench your thirst after devouring a hearty meal.

Address & telephone number: Dubai Marina, Iris Blue Tower, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 04 5521648
Kebabs| © Martin/Flickr

The Courtyard

The Courtyard specializes in blending Mediterranean recipes with an Arab twist to offer tourists a less spicy alternative. Situated across from the Dubai Mall at the Manzil hotel, it offers outdoor seating, perfect after a long day of shopping. Try one of the refreshing dishes such as tzatziki to cool off from the intense heat.

Address & telephone number: Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard | Manzil Downtown Dubai , The Old Town, Downtown Dubai, Dubai114822, United Arab Emirates, +971 4 428 5888

Ribeye

Nezesaussi Grill

Any sports fans can flock to this grill (a combination of flavors from New Zealand, South Africa and Australia), which is situated at the Manzil Hotel, to watch a game. It’s a meat lover’s paradise with high quality steaks, burgers and sides to accompany the entertainment. The grill has multiple screens showcasing different games so customers originating from down under can feel at home in a foreign land. Theme nights such as Ladies’ Night are popular and there’s no-smoking throughout the venue.

Address & telephone number: Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard | Manzil Downtown Dubai, Dubai 00000, United Arab Emirates, +97144285933

Schnitzel_platter

Fümé

This neighborhood restaurant serves foods from around the world, ideal for those who can’t decide what to choose. The concept stems from the Asian custom of balancing sweet and spicy blends to create perfection. The venue is comprised of two levels and an outdoor seating area overlooking the Burj Khalifa and boulevard. Sample a duck hash or a veal schnitzel swimming in a warm potato salad, or opt for a traditional Arabic breakfast to kick start your day.

Address & telephone number: 1st Floor, Pier 7, Dubai Marina, Dubai 1st Floor, Pier 7, Dubai Marina, Dubai, UAE, United Arab Emirates, +971 4 456 8784

Cantonese Wonton soup

Mazina

Mazina caters to many tastes and palates while accommodating the interests of younger customers. Children can play on a large bouncy castle and enjoy face-painting as well, either before or after their meal. Your drinks are always refilled and the portions of food are generous.

Address & telephone number: Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard | Dubai Marina,Dubai, United Arab Emirates, +971 4 4367777

Kimbap

Fazaris

A combination of two immensely different cultures, Italian and Japanese, makes for an unforgettable experience. One can appreciate the fine greenery that is opposite the restaurant, a rarity in a country which is more cosmopolitan than Western countries such as the UK. After devouring a sumptuous pasta dish or feasting on healthy sushi, customers are treated to a chocolate room, reserved for presenting countless numbers of chocolate-based desserts guaranteed to curb your sweet tooth. With top-class service from the wait staff, coupled with a bar and Internet facilities, customers can truly feel relaxed and satisfied. Although the food is more expensive, you can be assured that it’s worth the money.

Address & telephone number: Lobby Level, The Address Downtown Dubai |Mohamed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Dubai 123234,United Arab Emirates, +971 4 4367777

Dal_tadka

Patiala

Located a stone’s throw away from the Dubai Mall at the prestigious Souq Al-Bahar, Patialahas been named one of the six best Indian restaurants in the world and is owned by celebrity chef Kunal Kapur. There’s the opportunity for customers to try signature dishes typical of India such as butter chicken and shahi paneer. Experiment with refreshing mango lassi ice cream to end your meal.
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