logo
Your complete guide to Bluewaters from rent to restaurants

Your complete guide to Bluewaters from rent to restaurants

Time Out Dubai4 days ago

Welcome to Bluewaters Island.
A very noticeable neighbourhood, this part of town not only sticks out into the Arabian Gulf, but it's also home to the largest observation wheel in the world — so you really can't miss it.
Home to some plush apartments, awesome attractions and restaurants that you won't forget easy, this place is a popular spot both to live or visit just for the day.
If you like this: Your ultimate guide to every Dubai neighbourhood
Whether you're visiting simply dropping by or considering a permanent move, here's everything you need to know.
Renting in Bluewaters
(Credit: Delano Dubai)
Average rent price/housing type: Dhs300,000 per year (one-bedroom apartment).
Sleek apartments, sea views and all the holiday feels, it's no surprise that the impressive island comes with a higher price tag.
Made up of more modern apartment buildings, you'll likely have a glittering sea view looking back onto JBR or out onto the horizon.
To rent a one-bedroom apartment, the latest data from Property Finder currently estimates it will cost you Dhs300,000 per year.
To buy a one-bedroom apartment in Bluewaters, it will cost you an average of Dhs1.35 million.
Where to eat in Bluewaters
Credit: Alici
Boasting some top-tier views, it's no surprise that Bluewaters is packed with places to eat that allow you to admire the vista.
If you're visiting for brekkie, there's a giant croissant at Bakerist calling your name (just make sure you order it in advance).
If you want to visit one of the best seafood restaurants in the city then make a beeline for Alici and browse the menu filled with flavours from Southern Italy and the Amalfi Coast.
If it's a stacked burger you're after, then head for a game of duckpin bowling and a patty or two at the newly opened BrewDog bar.
Things to do in Bluewaters
(Credit: Supplied)
When it comes to a day (or night) out on Bluewaters, fun is quite literally your next-door neighbour.
First of all, you can take a spin around Ain Dubai in one of the pods to get some bird's eye views of Palm Jumeirah (and beyond).
Sticking to the attractions, head for a round of crazy golf at Swingers, or go and meet your favourite celebrity's waxwork at Madame Tussauds.
During the evening, check out the 88 Terrace rooftop before getting into the comfort of the AC with a few games of bowling or a game in the adults-only arcade at Brass Monkey.
If you're taking the whole family for a day around the island, take the little ones to the epic soft play (and restaurant) that is Ribambelle, or go explore everything that Tr88house has to offer from trampoline parks to laser tag.
Transport in Bluewaters
(Credit: Canva)
The neighbourhood isn't served by the metro line, but you can catch the F57 bus if needed to get you to Dubai Marina and hop on the red line from there.
Or if you fancy travelling by sea, jump on a water taxi to Dubai Marina Mall and enjoy sailing over to do your shopping for only Dhs7 a trip.
If you want to avoid the traffic, you can stroll all the way to JBR and Dubai Marina by using the footbridge, which also offers up a great spot to pose for a pic.
Living in Dubai?
Take things slow: Dubai's relaxed things to do and spots to know
Everywhere you need to explore
The 14 cheapest neighbourhoods to rent in Dubai 2025
The most affordable places to live in the city
Don't say 'let's go', say 'yalla': 20 very Dubai words we use every day
It's time to swot up on the Dubai lingo

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

25 new brunches in Dubai: Hot spots to book
25 new brunches in Dubai: Hot spots to book

Time Out Dubai

time17 hours ago

  • Time Out Dubai

25 new brunches in Dubai: Hot spots to book

If there's one thing we love, it's uncovering Dubai's latest and greatest brunches — and making sure you're the first to hear about them. From vibrant evening brunches to delicious buffet spreads and irresistible Sunday feasts, the city's brunch scene is bursting with flavour and excitement. Ready to brunch like a pro? Here's our pick of the hottest new brunches in Dubai for 2025. Grab your crew and dig in. New Brunches in Dubai: April 2025: Azure Beach The Rixos Premium Dubai beach club brings a splash of fun to Sundays with its brand-new 'Wet Brunch' experience, turning the weekend into a lively 90s-themed party by the pool. You can enjoy unlimited house beverages for Dhs300 or upgrade to premium drinks for Dhs395, with the brunch running from 2pm to 5pm. Brunch package holders can also indulge in dishes from the live poolside food station with a 50 percent discount, making it a perfect afternoon of sipping, snacking and soaking up the vibes. The fun doesn't stop there… from 5pm to 8pm, guests can take advantage of the 'Sunday Funday' bottle service promotion with a complimentary upgrade to a pink grape with every bottle purchased. Dhs300 (house beverages), Dhs395 (premium beverages). Sun 2pm-5pm. Rixos Premium Dubai, JBR, (052 777 9472). Lunico Soak up Spanish beach vibes at Lúnico's Brunch Ritmo, a lively Saturday feast set against sea views at J1 Beach South. From 1pm to 4pm, you can dive into a sharing-style menu featuring classic tapas like patatas bravas, padrón peppers, gambas al ajillo, and tartar de ternera, followed by hearty mains including smoked short ribs in a Spanish-Asian BBQ glaze, buttered sea bass, and romesco egg pasta. Sides like truffled fries and grilled vegetables complete the spread, with San Sebastian cheesecake and dulce de leche cookies for a sweet finish. A DJ sets the tone from 1pm, with a live percussionist keeping the after-party buzzing from 3.30pm to 6pm, alongside a happy hour. Dhs450 (house beverages), Dhs350 (soft drinks). Sat 1pm–4pm. J1 Beach South, Jumeirah. (050 277 6503). Rowley's Rowley's in DIFC hosts a laid-back yet lively Saturday brunch dedicated to serious meat lovers, offering a full carnivorous feast in a stylish setting. The unlimited brunch menu features endless servings of steak, crispy truffle fries, juicy beef skewers, beef tartare, tater tots and a rotation of signature salads. You can indulge as much as you like while enjoying the cool weekend atmosphere. Dhs260 (house beverages), Dhs190 (soft drinks), free (kids under seven). Sat 12pm-3.30pm. DIFC, (04 257 4754). The Lighthouse The Lighthouse at Dubai Hills is bringing bold Mediterranean flavours, a lively vibe and expertly crafted drinks to the heart of Dubai Hills. Expect a curated menu with sharing starters, a choice of main and side and a dessert platter. Highlights include steak frites with black angus striploin and peppercorn sauce, truffle-infused salmon carpaccio, harissa-crusted seabass, and plenty of sweet treats to finish. Dhs390 (sparkling), Dhs490 (bubbly), Dhs260 (soft drinks). Sat 12.30pm-4pm. Dubai Hills Business Park 2, Dubai Hills, (04 557 6731). XU (Credit: XU) XU at Mall of the Emirates is bringing a blockbuster twist to your weekends with Brunchflix, a brand-new Saturday brunch inspired by the magic of the movies. Expect an electric vibe with live entertainment, DJ sets, interactive Asian food stations, and XU's signature karaoke sessions. Each month, Brunchflix will take its theme from a different iconic film, kicking off with a detective mystery edition packed with intrigue, suspense, and surprises. Dhs425 (house beverages), Dhs525 (premium beverages), Dhs295 (soft drinks). Sat 1pm-5pm. Kempinski Hotel, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai, (04 409 5999). New Brunches in Dubai: March 2025 Frou Frou (Credit: Frou Frou) Bringing the charm of Parisian brasseries to Dubai, Frou Frou's new Brunch à la Parisienne is a glamorous Sunday feast packed with timeless French flavours and plenty of flair. Expect a buffet featuring a towering seafood station, cheese and bread displays, and decadent desserts, all set against a vibrant 80s and 90s backdrop. Sip on soft drinks, house beverages or upgrade to bubbly while enjoying waterfront views and Burj Khalifa vistas. Dhs495 (house beverages), Dhs770 (house beverages + Perrier Jouet Champagne), Dhs350 (soft drinks). Sun 1pm-4pm. Frou Frou, Business Bay, Tang Tang Downtown is launching a brand-new Saturday brunch, bringing the lively spirit of izakayas to the heart of the city. Expect a lively afternoon filled with live sushi, seafood, dim sum and duck stations, plus table-served plates like salt and pepper calamari, wagyu robatayaki, and dynamite shrimp. Main courses range from spicy beef tenderloin to salmon teriyaki and kung pao cauliflower, finished off with a live dessert station. A DJ will be spinning upbeat tracks while guests enjoy free-flowing drinks and stunning Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain views. Dhs595 (house beverages), Dhs695 (bubbly), Dhs475 (soft drinks). Sat 1pm-4pm. Tang, Downtown Dubai, New Brunches in Dubai: February 2025 Rhodes W1 Set against the stunning backdrop of Dubai Marina, Rhodes W1 at Grosvenor House Dubai offers a refined yet relaxed Saturday brunch inspired by classic British flavours. Tuck into sharing starters, à la carte mains like the British breakfast plate, roast pork belly bap, classic RW1 burger and mushroom risotto, and finish with sweet treats like Eton mess and treacle syrup sponge. There's also a dedicated Bloody Mary, Pimm's and G&T station, plus a live DJ spinning iconic singalong tunes. Kids can enjoy their own specially curated menu, too. Dhs475 (house beverages), Dhs575 (sparkling), Dhs375 (soft drinks), Dhs175 (kids aged six-12). Sat 1pm-4pm. Rhodes W1, Grosvenor House Dubai, Dubai Marina, (04 317 6000). New Brunches in Dubai: January 2025 Arrogante La Dolce Domenica Brunch at Arrogante offers a relaxed Sunday experience from noon to 4pm. Enjoy a salad station, choose from pasta, pizza, seafood, or meat for the main course, while you enjoy a live singer and saxophonist duo. Kids can make their own pizzas and enjoy ice cream. Perfect for families and friends looking for a lively, Italian-inspired brunch. Dhs375 (house beverages), Dhs425 (sparkling), Dhs275 (soft drinks). Sat noon-4pm. Opera District, Address Residences (04 570 3653). ChouChou This French beach house in J1 hosts a Riviera-style party brunch where you can dine on French cuisine and unwind in a beach setting while enjoying scenic sea views at J1 Beach. The à la carte style brunch offers dishes like French viennoiserie, eggs prepared in various ways, Benedict eggs, and avocado toast with poached eggs. Mediterranean starters include beef tartare, smoked salmon tartare with caviar pearls, and roasted peach salad with goat cheese and walnuts. Main courses feature grilled tiger prawns with smoked paprika butter, black angus beef with béarnaise sauce, roast baby chicken, sea bass and tagliolini pasta with spicy chorizo and shrimp. Dhs490 (house beverages), Dhs299 (soft drinks). Sat 1pm-5pm (three-hour package) . J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, (04 558 1877). Jamavar Credit: Jamavar Dubai This delicious Indian restaurant offers a swanky weekend brunch every Saturday and Sunday from 12.30pm onward. The offering includes a menu inspired by India's royal kitchens and coastal regions. Here, you can enjoy street food-inspired starters, South Indian delicacies and main courses like prawn and vegetable biryani. Desserts include rhubarb chuski, falooda and gajrela with vanilla ice cream. Dhs395 (house beverages), Dhs295 (soft drinks). Sat 12.30pm to 4pm. Address Residences, Downtown Dubai, @jamavardubai (04 553 7852). Jou Jou Brasserie This Mediterranean-inspired brunch is set on a picturesque terrace and features a variety of dishes inspired by Southern Europe and international flavours. So expect fresh seafood, Arabic mezze, cold cuts, cheeses, salads, and live cooking stations that offer dishes like seared French scallops, grilled foie gras, and Turkish lamb loin. There's also a sushi selection, pasta station and barbecue options. Desserts include seasonal fruits, pastries and a candy station. The brunch is complemented by live music and a kids' corner offering entertainment like face painting and character visits. Dhs715 (house beverages), Dhs850 (bubbly), Dhs485 (soft drinks), Dhs240 (kids aged six-11). Sat 1pm-4pm. Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, Jumeirah 2, (04 270 7777). O Beach O Beach Dubai's O-Brunch blends Mediterranean dishes, lively entertainment and cool beach club energy from O Beach Ibiza. In collaboration with Secret Parties, O-Brunch offers a premium tapas-style brunch with a mix of Mediterranean and global dishes. Expect a variety of hot and cold dishes like sushi, salads, truffle croquettes and bang bang chicken, along with desserts like vanilla cheesecake and caramel éclairs. The event takes place every Saturday from 1pm, featuring a lively poolside and beachfront setting, with entertainment from KISSTORY and surprises throughout the day. Dhs395 (house beverages), Dhs295 (soft drinks). Sat 1pm-4pm. Al Habtoor Grand Resort, Dubai Marina 2, (052 858 0464). So/Uptown Dubai Credit: SO/ Uptown Dubai Explore a Parisian street-market inspired setting with multiple stalls offering fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and an atmosphere filled with classic French ballads and beret-clad hostesses. Dhs395 (house beverages), Dhs495 (bubbly), Dhs295 (soft drinks). Sat 1pm-4pm. So/Uptown Dubai, Uptown Dubai, (050 421 0579). New Brunches in Dubai: December 2024 Beefbar Kicking off the weekend in style, Beefbar's Beef, Bar & Brunch promises a lively experience. Running from 12.30pm to 4.30pm every Saturday, this brunch offers a selection of Beefbar's signature dishes. With Latin-inspired Flamenco vibes and a party atmosphere, the brunch features a DJ, live percussionist and guitarist. The entertainment evolves each week, which means that if you revisit, you'll definitely get something new. Expect dishes like rock corn, KFC made with Kobe beef tallow, hamachi crudo and pizza. For mains, you'll get best-sellers like steak frites, black cod, or smoked beef amatriciana. Brunch culminates in a table-sharing selection of desserts. Dhs450 (house beverages), Dhs750 (bubbly), Dhs350 (soft drinks). Sat 12.30pm-3.30pm. Jumeirah Al Naseem, Umm Suqeim (058 105 0099). New Brunches in Dubai: November 2024 Mi Amie Credit: Mi Amie Why wait for Friday to party? Mi Amie's Thursday night brunch, hosted by the legends at Secret Parties, is where the weekend officially begins. With endless food, flowing drinks, and electric live entertainment, it's the ultimate vibe to kickstart your weekend in style. Dhs495 (house beverages), Dhs595 (premium beverages), Dhs395 (soft drinks). Thu 8pm-11pm. Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Sheikh Zayed Road, @miamiedubai (04 319 8567). Ronin Step into a world inspired by Japan's rebel warriors at Ronin's irezumi-inspired brunch. Located on Level 9 at the beachfront resort, FIVE LUXE, Ronin serves up Japanese cuisine with a twist. Dine on a menu that incorporates the four elements — from fire-cooked A5 wagyu hambagu steak taking centre stage to hand-rolled sushi and more, in a chill yet vibey setting, all framed by the backdrop of the Ain Dubai the beach. Dhs495 (house beverages), Dhs395 (soft drinks). Sat 1pm-4.30pm. FIVE LUXE JBR , luxejbr/ronin (04 275 9999). New Brunches in Dubai: October 2024 Creek Kitchen Creek Kitchen at Marriott Marquis Dubai hosts the Nautiluna Seafood Night Brunch every Friday night. Start your day with freshly shucked oysters, whole poached salmon, lobster tails, crispy octopus, and various sushi rolls. The main course highlights feature local seabream, seabass, and panzanella prawns. Finish off with a range of desserts like caramel mousse, fresh fruit pavlova and chocolate éclairs. Dhs345 (house beverages), Dhs245 (soft drinks), Dhs125 (children aged six-12 years). Fri 6.30pm-11pm. Marriott Marquis Dubai, Jewel of the Creek (04 599 0310). La Brasserie Sur Le Boulevard Expect a menu blending Mediterranean and international flavours with French flair. Highlights include fresh seafood, à la minute shucked oysters, a sushi corner, pan-seared foie gras, and pasta prepared on a Parmesan wheel. Desserts feature French waffles and crêpes Suzette. The chic atmosphere includes live entertainment and both indoor and terrace seating, making it a perfect weekend brunch destination in Downtown Dubai. Dhs478 (house beverages), Dhs329 (soft drinks). Sat 1pm-4pm. Kempinski The Boulevard, Downtown Dubai (04 561 8888). Nell Gwynne New brunches in Dubai. Credit: Nell Gwynne. Nell Gwynne Pub in Marina Byblos Hotel hosts a weekly 'Bottoms Up! Saturday Brunch' featuring traditional British dishes alongside modern options, served in a lively atmosphere with a live DJ. Dhs250 (soft drinks), Dhs400 (premium beverages). Sat 1pm-4pm. Marina Byblos Hotel, Dubai Marina (052 411 9313). TATEL Dubai The Spanish restaurant's Noche TATEL brunch offers up a lively red-themed evening brunch that celebrates authentic Spanish cuisine with a curated set menu and unlimited beverages. Start with dishes like ostras crujientes (tempura oysters), patatas tatel, gazpacho tradicional and croquetas Tatel. Main options include arroz con pulpo (octopus rice), lubina (sea bass), and filete de costilla (rib-eye). Desserts feature tarta de queso and churros. Enjoy live international entertainment in a traditional Spanish setting. Dhs475 (house beverages), Dhs725 (bubbly), Dhs375 (soft drinks). Thu 8pm-11pm. Hotel Boulevard, Autograph Collection, Downtown Dubai (04 215 2121). The Noodle House New brunches in Dubai. Credit: The Noodle House. The Noodle House, a beloved Pan-Asian restaurant in Dubai, hosts the KIAI Brunch at its Souk Madinat location, with a menu that journeys through the seven Asian regions. This lively brunch features over 30 dishes from China, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Vietnam and Singapore, served buffet-style and at live stations. Highlights include martabak, chicken pocket, and Vietnamese rice roll as starters, with signature dishes like Singapore noodles, shio ramen, and Thai green curry. Finish with a Japanese sweet basket and drinks, all while vibing to a resident DJ. Dhs265 (house beverages), Dhs195 (soft drinks). Sat noon-3.30pm. Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Al Sufouh (800 666353). VNYL Hi-Fi New brunches in Dubai. Credit: VYNL Hi-Fi. VNYL Hi-Fi hosts a laid-back brunch featuring a fusion of Japanese Izakaya favourites. Every Saturday and Sunday from 1pm to 4pm, you can enjoy crunching on the terrace, which combines retro aesthetics with fun table settings. Dine on hand-rolled sushi, a variety of cold and hot starters, and binchō-tan specialities, all paired with refreshing mixed drinks. Saturdays feature upbeat DJ vibes, while Sundays offer a more relaxed atmosphere, all set against terrace views. Dhs295 (house beverages), Dhs395 (sparkling), Dhs195 (soft drinks). Sat & Sun 1pm-4pm. Bluewaters Dubai (04 553 8109). New Brunches in Dubai: September 2024 Citronelle Club New brunches in Dubai. Credit: Citronelle SO/Uptown's Citronelle Club hosts a weekly night brunch called the Tiger Brunch, featuring a blend of Pan-Asian flavours. Here, you can enjoy elevated street food, creative mixed drinks, funky house music and city views. The night starts with the Citronelle salad and Korean fried chicken, followed by a chef's selection of main courses, including tamarind sea bream and grilled Australian lamb chops. Don't miss the sharing desserts, like the Insta-worthy bamboo show. Dhs250 (soft drinks), Dhs350 (house beverages), Dhs450 (premium beverages). Fri 7pm-11.30pm. SO/Uptown, Uptown Dubai (050 421 0753). Siddharta Lounge New brunches in Dubai. Credit: Siddharta Lounge by Buddha-Bar Siddharta Lounge by Buddha-Bar has launched an evening brunch, with delicious bites, drinks and unbeatable views of the Dubai Marina, Dubai Harbour skyline and beyond. Starting from Dhs350 per person and taking place every Friday from 8pm until 11pm guests can expect an upbeat atmosphere under the night sky. With a three-course sharing-style menu, start the evening feast with a range of bites like tuna tartare, creamy burrata, shrimp tempura and more. To follow for mains, share braised wagyu short ribs, soya glazed salmon, spicy aubergine and a side of hand-cut truffle fries. Siddharta Lounge's resident DJ will be providing the tunes, promising to set the tone for a great weekend. Guests are advised to book in advance to avoid disappointment. Dhs350 (house beverages), Dhs450 (premium beverages), Dhs650 (bubbly). Fri 8pm-11pm. Grosvenor House Dubai , Dubai Marina, (04 317 6556). All things brunch… 25 new brunches in Dubai: Hot spots to book Dubai's best brunches to try now (as well as those to avoid at all costs) 36 top Sunday brunches to try in Dubai Your guide to fabulous feasts that round off your weekend Brunch in Dubai: Your ultimate guide The only list you'll ever need

11 restaurants in Bluewaters to have on your radar
11 restaurants in Bluewaters to have on your radar

Time Out Dubai

time2 days ago

  • Time Out Dubai

11 restaurants in Bluewaters to have on your radar

Sitting pretty underneath Ain Dubai, there's no doubt that Bluewaters is a very aesthetic place for food. Home to some of the city's best seafood and one of its biggest croissants at the same time, a meal here never disappoints. If you like this: Your complete guide to Bluewaters from rent to restaurants So if you need some inspiration on where to tuck in, here are some of the coolest spots to have on your radar. Restaurants in Bluewaters Alici Credit: Alici This charming spot overlooks the Arabian Gulf and JBR, meaning it's ideal for holidaymakers, while those who live in Dubai will also enjoy the vacation feel. Focusing on flavours from Southern Italy and the Amalfi Coast, the cute blues and whites give a fresh feeling, while the menu stars Italian seafood dishes. From raw plates to the specialty ingredient anchovies (Alici means anchovy), there's plenty to try for seafood-lovers. The lobster pasta is artfully presented, served table-side and comes with tender shellfish in an unctuous tomato sauce. Plus, it's officially one of the best restaurants for seafood in Dubai. Open Mon-Fri noon-4pm, 5pm-11pm, Sat-Sun noon-11pm. Bluewaters Dubai, (04 275 2577). Bakerist If you're visiting for brekkie, there's a giant croissant at Bakerist calling your name (just make sure you order it in advance). The French bakery and coffee shop also offers up a range of normal-sized desserts and savoury options too, from pistachio and chocolate covered strawberries to a creamy eggs shakshuka. Open daily 8am-midnight. Bluewaters, (050 715 2343). BrewDog (Credit: Brewdog) The fun, quirky and in-your-face brand has drinks inspired by everything from punk rock to Elvis Presley to Willy Wonka and everything in between. A bar first created in Scotland, the venue recently opened beneath Ain Dubai, filled with dart boards, sports screens and some seriously-stacked burgers and bar bites to get your teeth sunk into. Open Sun-Thu noon-midnight, Fri-Sat noon-2am. Bluewaters, (052 956 5688). Clay Credit: Clay The Japanese-Peruvian fusion first landed on Bluewaters back in 2022 after first launching in Bahrain. Serving up a selection of Nikkei-style dishes, you can nibble on dishes from sake taco and katsu sando to ceviches, prawn and tofu tempura. Boasting an Ain Dubai view, the terrace is an ideal spot to enjoy a few dishes, or for free-flowing drinks, head to the weekly Saturday brunch instead. Open Sun-Thu noon-midnight, Fri noon-1am; Sat 1pm-1am. Bluewaters, (04 422 5600). Demon Duck (Credit: Demon Duck) When there's a celebrity chef involved, expectations are high. Mix in a prime dining spot at Bluewaters Dubai and you know you're in for a treat. Created by chef Alvin Leung, the Chinese restaurant serves duck in every shape and form think duck gyozas, duck soup, minced duck wraps, the lot. But there's much more than that to dig into, and in the cooler months, you can enjoy your dinner out on the garden terrace. Open daily 6pm-noon. Banyan Tree Dubai, (04 556 6466). Din Tai Fung Located on Bluewaters Island, it's Din Tai Fung's fifth outpost in the city – with popular venues already delighting diners in The Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Mall, Al Ghurair Centre and Nakheel Mall. The menu is the same as its other branches with the same no-frill approach to tasty and wallet-friendly food. A must order dish? Don't miss out on the xiao long bao. Open daily 11am-1am. Bluewaters, (04 288 7786). Frank Credit: Instagram @frankmeat_me This casual spot is a perfect place to kick back with something from the grill. All about the meat, you can try everything from beef ribs to lamb steaks and juicy burgers. Covered in red neon lights and graffiti creeping up the walls, you can expect hip-hop tunes (and generous portion sizes). If you fancy something chilled on the side of your grill, there are happy hours running every day of the week. Open Mon-Fri 1pm-noon, Sat-Sun 1pm-1am. Bluewaters, (058 634 8811). Ribambelle (Credit: Supplied) Head over to Bluewaters with the little ones this weekend and get a table at Ribambelle, the restaurant that comes complete with an in-house slide and ball pit. Designed to give the kiddos a magical experience while you finally get to enjoy that coffee (or glass of grape), the play zones include candle-making and even T-shirt painting. Plus, the cost of their soft play entry also comes with a kids' meal included. Dhs95 (kids, weekdays), Dhs150 (kids, weekends).Open daily 9am-10pm. The Wharf, Bluewaters Island, (04 581 5555). The Pods If you're looking for a spot for the 'gram, or want to feel like you're still outside during those hot summer months, then these are the pods for you. Offering up a pan-Asian menu, you can also nip in for breakfast and try the restaurant's take on eggs benedict and French toast. Letting you look over to JBR during the day and a glittering skyline at night, these private dining capsules make the perfect place for a good gossip (or to impress your other half). Open Mon-Fri 7am-1am, Sat-Sun 7am-2am. Bluewaters, (04 453 8994). The Spaniel The British brasserie is serving up everything you would expect from a classic gastropub, from a quality roast dinner to huge slabs of fish and chips. You can enjoy different deals every night of the week, from beef Wellington Wednesdays to steak frites Saturdays and a weekly business lunch. Open Mon-Thu noon-midnight, Fri noon-1am, Sat 9.30am-1am; Sun 9.30am-midnight. The Spaniel, (04 554 3728). VNYL Hi-Fi Credit: VNYL Hi-Fi The listening bar is a laid-back record spot during the day, turned electric speakeasy by night. Pick from a selection of Izakaya-style small plates (think shrimp toast and wagyu katsu sandos), or head straight to the miso-braised short ribs. While you're there, be sure to browse the shelves of shiny vinyl cases and even listen to a record or two on the in-house players. Open Mon-Wed 4pm-1am,Thu-Fri 4pm-3am, Sat-Sun 1pm-3am. Bluewaters, (052 249 4004), Hungry for more? New Dubai restaurants 2025: The just-opened spots you need to try next The new dining spots you need on your radar 12 seriously underrated Dubai restaurants and cafés (that are not tourist traps) Places Dubai locals swear by 5 incredible Bali-inspired cafés to spend the day in Chill out at one of these super cool spots

25 towns in regional Victoria are competing for gold in prestigious tourism awards
25 towns in regional Victoria are competing for gold in prestigious tourism awards

Time Out

time2 days ago

  • Time Out

25 towns in regional Victoria are competing for gold in prestigious tourism awards

Victoria is dotted with regional towns that have so many attributes making them worth a visit. Our state has plenty of spots that are perfect for weekend getaways, offering everything from world-class galleries to fine-dining restaurants, and off-grid escapes to stunning hotels. Every year, these places across Victoria compete to claim an award in the TAC Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards, with only three towns in the whole of the state claiming a title. The finalists for 2025 have just been revealed, with 25 towns making the cut, and it seems like the competition will be a close call if the calibre of these towns is anything to go by. It all comes down to votes from the public that will help to decide who the winners will be. To make it a fair competition, the three award categories are defined by population size, which means that there are three prizes to be won. The Top Tourism Town award is for regional cities with a population of more than 5,000 people, with nine Victorian destinations in the running to claim the title. The finalists for this category are the historic goldfields towns of Ballarat and Bendigo, the riverside spots of Echuca, Swan Hill, Mildura and Shepparton, the seaside towns of Warrnambool and Lakes Entrance, and last but not least, Werribee (which was once its own town, but is now an outer suburb of Melbourne). The next prize to be awarded is the Top Small Tourism Town, with qualifiers having a population between 1,500 and 5,000 people. The wine havens of Heathcote and Rutherglen, the lake laden spot Camperdown, the peak-side town of Mount Beauty, picturesque Paynesville and the coastal towns of Port Fairy and Portarlington make up the seven finalists for this category. Last but not least, there's the Top Tiny Town award, encompassing places with a population of fewer than 1,500 people. The nine finalists for this category are the Grampians ' Dunkeld and Halls Gap, seaside spots of Flinders, Kilcunda, Marlo, the mountain range towns of Natimuk and Noojee, as well as Whitfield and Trentham. To be selected as a finalist in the TAC Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards, each hopeful town had to make a submission demonstrating a strong commitment to tourism, increasing visitation to the destination, collaborating with local businesses, and overall making the town the best destination it can be. A panel of expert judges then chose the top destinations to determine the finalists. Last year, the winners of the three awards were Bendigo for Victoria's Top Tourism Town, Daylesford for the Top Small Tourism Town Award and the ice cream haven of Timboon came out a winner for the Top Tiny Tourism Town Award. Now, the public get to decide who this year's winners will be. Voting for the TAC Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards is now open, and will close on June 27 at 5pm, so make sure to cast your vote here.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store