
4 of the best restaurants to try in Dubai this weekend: July 18 to 20
Here are 4 of the best restaurants to try in Dubai this weekend Girl and the Goose
What first started as a supper club by Nicaraguan-born Chef Gabriela Chamorro has blossomed into the UAE's first restaurant that brings together the diverse and vibrant cuisines of the Mesoamerican region under one roof. The chef enthralled and delighted the taste buds of many a discerning diner before expanding her home into the stunning space at Anantara Downtown. And those are exactly the comforting vibes you want as you tuck into the ravishing Central American fare – all reimagined by Gabi's travels around the world during her time as an Emirates crew member.
Location: Anantara Downtown, Downtown Dubai
Times: daily, 12pm to 1am
Contact: (0) 52 772 9888
@girl.and.the.goose Rare
Rare Dubai
Rare is a What's On award-winning restaurant in Dubai for a reason. The Art Deco New York cocktail bar meets Parisian brasserie has had Team What's On visit on multiple occasions, and it has not disappointed. On the menu, there are steaks that give a whole new meaning to the term 'well done.' But for diners who aren't red meat eaters, there's plenty, from oysters, bone marrow on toast to chicken thigh skewers, succulent prawns, and more. It's perfect for date night or even spending time with friends or colleagues. PS. Don't ask the waiter to take away the Brussels sprouts before you even try them—they are delicious.
Location: City Walk Dubai, C2 Licensed District
Times: Sun to Thurs 12pm to 1am, Sat and Sun 12pm to 2am
Contact: (0)4 287 4604
therare.ae Revolver
Revolver Dubai
Singapore's sleek experimental South Asian export, Revolver, opened in Dubai earlier this year at T he Opus by Zaha Hadid. Its interior is a stark difference from the ME Dubai, bringing raw industrial aesthetics, dark wood, and metallic surfaces to the bright and futuristic hotel. The twisting round of glowing bullets suspended above is eye-catching, as are the fiery and smokey theatrics of the chefs behind the open kitchen. But it's not just for your entertainment, as the dishes that come out from the kitchen are packed with flavour. It's all the creation of Chef Jitin Joshi, who has a Michelin-starred history. No matter how hungry you go, you'll want to return to try other dishes on the menu. For your first dishes, we recommend you try the Goan prawn calchao, the burrata – a unique pairing of peanut sauce and warm churros, and the seafood and tender coconut pot.
Location: T he Opus by Zaha Hadid, Business Bay
Times: daily 6pm to 1am and weekdays for lunch 12pm to 3pm
Contact: (0)4 257 9334
revolverdubai.ae
Tresind Dubai
If you love Indian cuisine, this fine dining restaurant at One&Only Royal Mirage is one to book this week. Chef Mohammad Zeeshan takes the restaurant's bold claim of 'the birthplace of innovative Indian cuisine' to new heights as he curates bold Indian flavours with a modern lens. Try the degustation menu, which includes lip-smacking dishes such as cannoli samosa with tomato chutney, portobello steak with chimichurri chutney and truffle, a 'modernist' chaat tart, and paan-flavoured cotton candy. It's recognised by the Dubai MICHELIN Guide for a reason, which means you have to try it.
Location: One&Only Royal Mirage, Dubai Marina
Times: 12pm to 11.45pm
Contact: 056 420 9754
tresind.com
Images: Supplied and Instagram
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What's On
a day ago
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Location: Uchi, DIFC, Dubai Times: Sunday to Wednesday, 12pm to 1am, Thursday to Friday, 12pm to 2am Contact: (0)4 298 5044 @ VNYL This is a new chip on the block – VNYL Dubai likes to call itself a Hi-Fi bar and has a swanky space plastered with all things music. Here, you'll find records on records from the very best of yesteryear, and guests can have their very own high-fidelity listening party. This is where you'd come for a no-frills night out and when you're done with dinner and drinks. Head on over for the after party, which truly comes alive post midnight. Location: VNYL HiFi, Bluewaters Island Times: Monday to Thursday, 1om to 1am, Friday to Sunday, 1pm to 4am Contact: (0)52 249 4004 @ Cucina Cucina feels like a family neighbourhood Italian, with the warmth and the carbs to show for it. This is a family-oriented restaurant and perfect for a cosy weeknight or weekend dinner date where you all want is a bowl of safe, delicious pasta and the company of a special person. They also have a gelato parlour, because you can't end dinner without a delicious dessert. Location: Cucina, Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah Times: Daily, 7am to 1am Contact: (0)4 666 1408 @cucinathepalm KATA As far as sushi in the mall goes, Kata really takes the cake. This Japanese restaurant has incredibly plated food that will look gorgeous on your socials, and where the food looks good, it tastes even better – we promise. And it's mall dining, which means you can end up here after a day of shopping or just because and it's all chill. From maki towers to braised short rib, our personal favourite? The mushroom truffle rice pot. Location: KATA, The Dubai Mall Times: Daily, 10am to 12am Contact: (0) 4 273 3800 @ Isola Ristorante Tucked away in Jumeirah Islands Clubhouse, Isola Ristorante channels the breezy charm of Italy's southern coast. It's stylish but unpretentious—think sun-soaked terraces, lemon trees, and a menu that leans into fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and crisp Mediterranean flavours. Perfect for long lunches or slow, wine-filled dinners, Isola balances elegance with ease. It's not trying too hard—just really good food, warm service, and that effortless Italian way of making you feel at home. Location: Isola Ristorante, Jumeirah Islands Clubhouse Times: Monday to Thursday, 12pm to 11pm, Friday to Sunday, 8am to 11pm Contact: (0) 4 583 3124 @isolarestaurantdubai Lola Taberna Lola Taberna is all about good food, good vibes and Spanish flair. Inspired by Andalusian streets and flamenco icon Lola Flores, its rustic‑chic décor and colorful murals set a lively tone. The menu spans regional classics – from Madrid's patatas bravas and gambas al pil‑pil to Valencia paella and Iberian charcuterie. Friendly service, authentic wines and cocktails, and vibrant evenings complete the fun, welcoming vibe. Location: Lola Taberna, TRYP By Wyndham Dubai Times: Daily, 1pm to 1am Contact: (0) 4 247 6688 @lolataberna SOON Izakaya For the music-loving, party people – SOON Izakaya is a cool, neon-lit tribute to Tokyo's late-night dining culture. Tucked away in JLT, this retro-futuristic spot blends Japanese street-style eats with playful 80s nostalgia. From yakitori skewers and gyoza to creative cocktails and sake, the menu is made for sharing. With arcade games, bold décor, and an edgy soundtrack, SOON offers a quirky, immersive experience that's equal parts izakaya, bar, and underground hangout. Location: SOON Izakaya, JLT Times: Monday to Thursday, 12pm to 1am, Friday, 12pm to 3am, Saturday, 5pm to 3am, Sunday, 5pm to 1am Contact: (0) 55 434 0575 @soondxb Rare Brasserie & Bar As you step through the doors, Rare Brasserie & Bar comes alive, with the sounds, sights and smells that feed your other senses before you even begin to eat. The first thing you'll see is the stunning bar – it's hard to miss. Everything is draped in shades of red, wine and brown, from the ceiling to the wood walls and the deep velvet seating to the curtains. It's edgy, it's glamorous – it's a mysterious woman in a leather jacket wearing a killer red lip. Location: Rare Brasserie & Bar, City Walk Times: Sunday to Thursday, 12pm to 1am, Friday and Saturday, 12pm to 2am Contact: (0) 4 287 4604 @theraredxb Miss Lily's Miss Lily's in Dubai brings the vibrant spirit of the Caribbean to the heart of the city. Located at the Sheraton Grand Hotel, this NYC export is known for its bold Jamaican flavours, retro island vibes, and lively soundtrack. From jerk chicken to rum punch, the menu is a tropical celebration. Expect laid-back charm, colourful interiors, and a party atmosphere that keeps the energy high every night of the week. Location: Miss Lily's Sheraton Grand Hotel Times: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 7pm to 2am, Wednesday, 7pm to 1am, Friday, 7pm to 3am, Saturday, 8pm to 3am, Sunday, 2pm to 6pm, 7pm to 1am Contact: (0) 4 356 2900 @misslilysdxb Soul Kitchen A concept by Factory People, a Beirut-based group of artists and music enthusiasts, Soul Kitchen advertises that it's here to 'redefine the nightlife scene in Dubai while supporting Arab culture, cuisine, musicians, and artists.' Located in Business Bay, the art-focused venue features a stunning cocktail bar, outdoor terrace and two restaurant areas. There's an energy at Soul Kitchen, even on a Monday night, that makes a visit absolutely worth it, with a cool crowd that made us feel like we were a part of something great. Location: Soul Kitchen, Marasi Drive, Business Bay Times: Monday to Thursday, 6pm to 2am, Friday, 6pm to 3am, Saturday, 12pm to 3am Contact: (0) 4 836 0900 @soulkitchendxb Berenjak Persian food, done right – that is Berenjak for you. A grand space that envelopes you with the warmth of a Persian home, here you'll find not just the classics, but also inventive takes on Persian cuisine, packed with flavour, feel and filling ingredients that offer a hearty dining experience. Persian carpets, crystal chandeliers, colourful portraits and grand drapes – you eat not just with your mouth, but with all your senses. Now open across Dubai and Sharjah. Location: Berenjak, Dar Wasl Times: Monday to Thursday, 12pm to 5pm, 6pm to 11.30pm, Friday and Saturday, 12pm to 12.30am, Sunday, 12pm to 11.30pm Contact: (0) 4 295 3644 @ Primi Primi in Dubai serves up Italian-inspired comfort food with a fresh, modern twist. Located at The Beach, JBR, it's a bright, breezy spot perfect for casual dining with friends or family. Think handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and bold, seasonal flavours. With its open kitchen, friendly vibe, and beachside views, Primi delivers a relaxed, feel-good experience that blends contemporary design with the warmth of classic Italian hospitality. Location: Primi, City Walk Times: Sunday to Thursday, 12pm to 12am, Thursday to Saturday, 12pm to 1am Contact: (0) 56 992 4326 @primi_ae Khadak A mint from the Culinary Class of 2024, Khadak is the brainchild of Chef Naved Nasir, the captain of the ship that was the Dishoom brand for 15 years as it grew into a chain of beloved restaurants across the UK, introducing Indian food to curious diners. It's a wonderfully laidback and easy dining experience, made memorable by incredible food, welcoming hospitality and a come-as-you-are policy. Spontaneous dates begin here. Location: Khadak, Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah Times: Monday to Friday, 12pm to 12am, Saturday and Sunday, 12pm to 10am Contact: (0) 4 558 3787 @khadak_ae Images: Socials