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19+ Mother's Day gifts that go beyond spa days

19+ Mother's Day gifts that go beyond spa days

NBC News22-04-2025
Everyone believes that their mom is the best in the world, so as Mother's Day approaches on May 11, it's important to show her exactly how much you care. Along with the dinners, spa days and flower bouquets, picking out the perfect Mother's Day gift is a great way to show your mom how much you appreciate her and her interests.
To help you wade through the avalanche of potential gifts, I rounded up some of the best Mother's Day gifts I think you should consider for this year's holiday, including flowers, tech, skin care, home decor and more.
The best Mother's Day gift ideas in 2025
Below, I've rounded up the best Mother's Day gift ideas for every kind of mother, including products we've reviewed in the past along with some NBC Select staff favorites. Be sure to check shipping times to confirm that your gift will arrive on-time and avoid showing up to the celebrations empty handed.
Gifts under $50
Taskrabbit Gift Card
This Mother's Day, one of the best gifts you could give your mom is probably something she very much needs: a break. Taskrabbit is an online service marketplace that lets you choose freelance workers (called 'taskers') for tasks like cleaning, mounting, repairs and more, making it just what your mother may need to help alleviate any pressing to-dos from her plate. NBC Select SEO editor Nikki Brown, whose family has welcomed three new babies in the past year, loves gifting Taskrabbit services to the busy mothers in her life. 'What the mothers in my life have appreciated from me more than anything are money toward more practical experiences, like a cleaning service from Taskrabbit,' she says. She knows that motherhood can be busy, which is why she loves 'being able to help out in that way so they can have a couple of hours to relax.' You can purchase Taskrabbit gift cards in amounts from $25 and up — just be sure to check the app for a service cost estimate before buying.
If your mother is a fan of the arts, or just looking for a new hobby to help her relax, this watercolor paint set from Kuretake is sure to be a hit. The colors are Gansai paints, which are traditional Japanese watercolors that are based on colors seen in nature, according to the brand. They have a smooth, slightly shiny finish and are held in pans that are larger than the usual watercolor trays, making them easy to use with small and large brushes. Each set includes 48 beautiful colors, along with a color chart and a sheet that acts as both a protective cover and a palette mixer.
Everyone on the NBC Select staff knows that my Lego Botanicals set is one of my favorite purchases from last year — not only is it a fun way to pass time, but you're also left with a pretty piece of decor to display once it's over. This mini orchid kit has five peach-colored blooms, along with buds, leaves, a flowerpot and a stand to make it as lifelike as possible, according to the brand. The set has 274 pieces and includes instructions on how to assemble the flower (along with a link to a digital version in case your mom loses the printed version).
Pura 4 Diffuser
This diffuser was originally introduced to NBC Select associate reporter Bianca Alvarez by her mom, and she loves using it to keep her apartment smelling great, she says. It's a mixture of a classic diffuser and a scent plug-in — your mom can connect it to her phone via the app and control her settings, giving her a customized experience. She can make schedules, change scents, adjust the fragrance's intensity and more. Alvarez also loves that this diffuser helps give her a bit of peace of mind while scenting her home. 'Unlike candles, I don't have to remember to blow it out and I can easily turn it on and off from wherever I am,' she says.
For the mothers who love to get sentimental, try going the personalized route with your gift-giving. This photo book from Artifact Uprising has a cutout softcover design with customizable, foil-printed lettering that both come in a range of colors for you to choose from, according to the brand. You can create your book using the layout templates provided, and can also choose from hardcover options and three different sizes, including 5.5 x 5.5 inches, 6 x 8 inches, and 8.5 x 8.5 inches.
Naturium Glow All Out Body Bundle
Naturium 's Glow Getter line is a favorite among NBC Select staff, including myself. Since I started using the body wash, my skin feels smoother and stays hydrated even when I'm fresh out of the shower and starting to dry off. This bundle includes full sizes of the Glow Getter Multi-Oil Body Wash and the Glow Getter Multi-Oil Body Butter, both of which have hydrating ingredients like squalane, botanical oils and glycerin to help keep your mom's skin moisturized both during and after her bath routine.
Gifts under $100
The Sill Subscription
The Sill is one of the best places to buy plants online, and any moms who have a green thumb will love the retailer's subscription service as a gift this Mother's Day. For $55 per month, your mom will get a new plant and ceramic planter delivered straight to her doorstep. This particular subscription includes smaller plants that are easy to care for, with the variety changing monthly to avoid duplicates. Each plant is also guaranteed to arrive in good condition — if not, your mom can submit a request for a replacement that'll be shipped to her right away.
The mothers in my family are notorious for each having a serious sweet tooth, making a delicious treat a great gift to help feed their candy craze. These gourmet chocolates by Richart come in a double box with two types of chocolate. Your mom will get 16 Petits Richart chocolates, which each hold a different surprise filling inside, along with 16 Ultra-Fines, which are thin, square chocolates that come in an assortment of dark and milk chocolate, according to the brand. The Petits Richart fillings are designed to be adventurous, with flavors like licorice, yuzu, and even curry, making it a yummy and unique tasting experience for your mom.
Pandora Moments Heart Bracelet
I got my Pandora bracelet almost ten years ago, and it's truly the gift that keeps on giving — for every memory or milestone, my loved ones give me a charm to symbolize it, making my bracelet a portable collection of treasured moments. This bracelet has a snake chain and a heart-shaped clasp that's perfect for showing your mother just how much you love her. It comes in sizes ranging from 6.3 to 9 inches, and a range of finishes including sterling silver, 14k gold, 14k rose gold and mixed metal options.
The Bouqs Co. Mom Goals Bouquet
Flowers are a classic Mother's Day gift, and this year you can brighten your mom's day with this stunning bouquet from The Bouqs Co. Made from a mix of calla lilies, pink roses, snapdragon, eucalyptus and hypericum berries, the bouquet includes 24 mixed stems and arrives in a recyclable Bouqs gift box. 'I sent my mom a bouquet of flowers from Bouqs and she was so pleasantly surprised,' says NBC Select commerce editor Cory Fernandez. 'I love that the brand has such carefully selected bouquets and that they have same-day delivery for certain cities.' This bouquet is also available in small and large sizes, and comes freshly picked and in bud form (the brand recommends allowing 2 to 3 days for the buds to fully bloom).
Sometimes, a practical gift is the best way to go, which is exactly what makes this steamer such a great choice. It has a sleek, aesthetically-pleasing design and is lightweight and easy to pack, making it the perfect travel accessory for your mom's next trip. It has a one-button control and heats up in only 15 seconds, according to the brand, and also includes a wall mount bracket and a storage bag for on-the-go use. The steamer's head is also rotational, so you can use it in any position.
We're big coffee lovers at NBC Select, and if your mom is anything like us then she'll love this adorable espresso maker from Bodum. It's made from stainless steel and has a nonreactive interior, meaning it keeps the coffee tasting fresh and clean without any metallic aftertaste, according to the brand. It can brew coffee in less than two minutes and is compatible with gas, electric and induction stovetops. The espresso maker also comes in vibrant colors that are sure to add some flair to your mother's kitchen counter.
Canon Ivy 2 Mini Photo Printer
Although Instagram is great, nothing beats the nostalgia of a physical photo, especially when it comes to preserving family memories. This photo printer from Canon is compact and pocket-sized, and uses dye-based crystals to print your photos out directly from your smartphone, according to the brand. Since it doesn't use ink, your mom won't need to purchase cartridge replacements, and can simply connect her phone to the printer via Bluetooth whenever she wants to use it.
Gifts $100 & over
Apple iPad (11th Gen)
Tablets are the perfect multifunctional gift — they can act as an entertainment centre, a workstation, an organizational tool and more. Apple's iPads are some of our favorite tablets, and this 11th Generation model has a new, faster A16 processing chip, which means your mom will be able to browse the web, stream her favorite shows, or scroll through her go-to apps with faster connectivity than previous models, according to the brand. Fernandez loves his iPad and says he uses it more than he thought he would. 'It's the perfect travel accessory and prevents me from getting bored on long-haul flights,' he says. Plus, I love pairing it with a cover that doubles as a stand.' You can buy this iPad with either 128GB, 256 GB, or 512GB of storage, and in colors like blue, yellow, silver and more.
For the crafting mother in your life, I suggest the Cricut Joy Xtra, which is a craft and print digital design machine that's perfect for her next creative project. When Fernandez tried the Cricut Joy Xtra, he loved how easy it was to use along with the machine's compact, space-conscious design. 'I'm always surprised by everything this machine can make,' he says. 'I love using it to make personalized greeting cards and apparel.' If your mom is a dedicated crafter or just in the market for a new hobby, she'll love the chance to use this machine for DIY projects like wall decals, decorations, personalized clothes and coffee mugs and more.
Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote
When it comes to stylish work totes, the Longchamp Le Pliage is a classic favorite of ours. Its minimal design pairs easily with outfits and looks across the board, and it comes in seven colors, including black, red and navy. NBC Select editorial operations associate Jem Alabi brought her mom to the Longchamp store and bought her this tote as a gift, and says it's one of her mom's favorite gifted possessions.
This smart bird feeder is a step up for any nature-loving moms; it has a built-in camera that connects to your Wifi and streams footage directly to your phone via the linked app, according to the brand. The bird feeder can also take photos and videos of the birds to help you identify different types, and has a perch and a roof to prevent rainfall from ruining the seed.
Boox Palma 2
NBC Select commerce editor Jordan Bowman tested the Boox Palma 2 for over three weeks, and it quickly became his go-to reading device. However, this e-reader is for more than just books — your mom can use the Boox Palma 2 to browse the web, listen to music and more, according to the brand. It's designed to be a stirpped-down, black-ink version of an Android smartphone, meaning your mom can connect to the Google Play store to download her favorite reading and audiobook apps to keep with her while on-the-go.
Fitbit Charge 6
Whether your mom is a fitness beginner or full-on fanatic, the Fitbit Charge 6 is a great choice for a fitness watch gift. It's small, so it doesn't weigh down or take up too much space on your wrist, and tracks metrics like heart rate, step count, calories burned, nightly sleep and more, according to the brand. It can also be paired with her smartphone to show notifications for text, calls and emails while wearing it, and can connect to other home gym equipment via Bluetooth.
I tried this red light therapy face mask from Dr. Dennis Gross for three weeks, and I definitely recommend it for any moms who are serious skin care enthusiasts. It has three modes (red light, blue light and both) to address skin care concerns like fine lines and acne-causing bacteria, and each cycle only lasts for three minutes. It has an adjustable strap that gives it a close, customized fit, and the mask itself works well as a short but effective boost in any daily skin care routine.
Why trust NBC Select?
I'm an associate SEO reporter at NBC Select who has given dozens of gift ideas for a variety of holidays and occasions, including the best zodiac gifts, aesthetic gifts, and fun-size gifts. For this article, I researched products across shopping categories like home, tech, kitchen, wellness and more, including previously-covered NBC Select staff favorites, and compiled the best gifts for moms to consider this year.
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37 brilliant Wednesday happy hours in Dubai you need on your radar
37 brilliant Wednesday happy hours in Dubai you need on your radar

Time Out Dubai

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  • Time Out Dubai

37 brilliant Wednesday happy hours in Dubai you need on your radar

It's already the middle of the week and to celebrate, its time to become acquainted with the best Wednesday happy hour deals in Dubai. From seriously cool DIFC bars to laid-back pubs in JLT, there are plenty of top-tier spots to enjoy a discounted beverage or two. You might also like: A guide to the best happy hours in Dubai Here are the best mid-week deals that are more than worthy of being shared in the group chat. Enjoy. Best Wednesday happy hours in Dubai 2025 Akabeko What: 50 percent off pints of hops, 20 percent discount on mixed drinks and 10 percent discount on Japanese hops. When: Tue-Fri 6pm-8pm voco, Dubai The Palm Hotel , Palm Jumeirah, (050 561 8288). Alma Bar Credit: Alma Bar What: Drinks at Dhs38 When: Monday – Friday 4pm – 8pm Gate Village 05, DIFC (04 227 5569). Check out our full Alma Bar review here Asil Credit: Asil What: Buy one, get one free on selected beverages, with prices starting from Dhs50. When: Sun-Fri 5pm-7pm Rixos Premium Dubai, JBR (04 520 0055). Atelier M (Credit: Supplied) What: Selected beverages from Dhs25. When: Sun-Thu 5pm-8pm Pier 7, Dubai Marina (04 450 7766). Check out our full Atelier M review here Aura Skypool Credit: Aura Skypool What: Two hours of unlimited sparkling bubbles for Dhs180 per person. When: Sun-Thurs from 8pm to 11pm The Palm Tower, Palm Jumeirah, (04 566 2121). Bar Du Port Credit: Bar Du Port What: House drinks from Dhs35. When: Sun-Fri 4pm-7pm Dubai Harbour Pier Club, (050 969 9820). Check out our full Bar Du Port review here BrewDog What: House drinks from Dhs35. When: Sun-Fri 4pm-7pm Dubai Harbour Pier Club, (050 969 9820). Check out our full Bar Du Port review here Boca (Credit: BOCA) What: House beverages from Dhs43 When: Mon-Fri 3pm-7pm; Sat-Sun 4pm-7pm Gate Village 6, DIFC, hola@ (04 323 1833). Check out our full Boca review here Canary Club (Credit: Canary Club) What: 50% off selected beverages When: Mon-Fri 5pm -7pm Banyan Tree Residences, JLT, (04 584 5999). CLAW BBQ (Credit: Supplied) What: Selected beverages from Dhs34. When: Mon-Fri noon-6pm. Pavilion at The Beach, Jumeirah Beach Residence (04 577 4357). Coterie Social Credit: Coterie Social What: Grape and hops for Dhs35. When: Mon-Thu all day, Fri noon-8pm, Sun noon-4pm IBN Battuta Mall (04 570 8072). Crafty Fox What: Selected beverages from Dhs30 When: Mon-Thu 4pm-7pm Jumeirah Golf Estates, craftyfox@ (04 586 7767). Crown & Lion Credit: Crown & Lion What: Selected beverages from Dhs35. When: Mon-Fri 3pm-8pm, Sat 3pm-9pm, Sun noon-9pm Ibis Hotel One Central, Trade Centre (04 370 6598). Ernst (Credit: Ernst) What: House beverages from Dhs40 and discounts on food menu. When: Sun-Thu 4.30pm-7.30pm 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central, Sheikh Zayed Road (04 210 2511). HUSSH (Credit: Hushh) What: Drinks from Dhs20, arcade games from Dhs10 and bowling Dhs150. When: Sun-Thu 5pm-8pm Social Distrikt, Downtown Dubai (052 309 0335). Iris (Credit: Iris) What: Selected beverages from Dhs30 When: Sun-Fri 6pm-8pm Meydan Grandstand, Nad Al Sheba (04 334 3355) La Mezcaleria Credit: La Mezcaleria JBR What: Discount on selected house beverages, with prices starting from Dhs40. When: Sun-Fri 4pm-7pm. Pavilion, The Beach, JBR (056 520 2020). Lock, Stock and Barrel (JBR) (Credit: Lock, Stock & Barrel JBR) What: 30 percent off selected beverages When: Mon-Sat 4pm-8pm, Sun 2pm-8pm. Rixos Premium JBR (04 423 8307) Lola Taberna Credit: Lola Taberna What: Selected drinks for Dhs35 When: Sun-Fri 4pm-7pm TRYP by Wyndham Dubai, Barsha Heights (04 247 6688). LPM Restaurant + Bar (Credit: LPM) What: Mixed drinks for Dhs48 at the bar only When: Mon-Fri 5pm-7pm Gate Village 8, DIFC, (04 439 0505). Mama Shelter What: House beverages including grape and bottled hops for just Dhs25 When: Mon – Thu, 5pm – 8pm Al Asayel Street, Business Bay (04 527 0888) McGettigan's JLT Credit: McGettigan's JLT What: Discounts on selected beverages When: Mon – Thurs 12:30pm – 7pm McGettigan's JLT, Cluster J, JLT (04 356 0470) Nonya (Credit Nonya) What: Selected house beverages from Dhs35. When: Mon-Fri noon-8pm Taj Jumeirah Lake Towers, JLT (04 574 111). Peaches & Cream (Credit: Peaches & Cream) What: 50 percent discount on selected beverages When: Mon-Fri 5pm-7pm Clubhouse Al Nafura by the Shoreline Apartments, Palm Jumeirah (052 947 4552). Roka What: Selected beverages and bites from Dhs25 When: Sun-Fri 4pm-8pm The Opus by Omniyat, Business Bay (04 439 7171). Salmon Guru (Credit: Salmon Guru) What: Selected house beverages for Dhs45. When: Sun-Fri 4pm-7pm. ME Dubai Hotel, The Opus by Omniyat, Business Bay (052 814 9537). Sexy Fish Credit: Sexy Fish Dubai What: Selected drinks and bar bites from Dhs49. When: Mon-Fri 4pm-7pm. Innovation One, DIFC (04 381 9000). SoBe (Credit: Supplied) What: Buy one get one free mixed drinks from Dhs60. When: Sun-Fri 5pm-8m W Dubai – The Palm (04 245 5800). Check out our full SoBe review here Street XO What: Two hours of free-flowing drinks from Dhs175. When: Mon-Fri 5pm-7pm One Za'abeel, Trade Centre (04 666 1617). Tania's What: 50 percent off on mixed drinks, short measures, grape and hops When: Mon – Fri, 4pm – 11pm Tania's Tea House,. Dubai Hills Estate, Business Park 3. (04 282 4606). The Croft (Credit: The Croft) What: Discount on selected beverages, with prices starting from Dhs30. When: Mon-Sat 4pm-7pm, Sun 12.30pm-7pm Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites, Dubai Marina (04 319 4000). Check out our full The Croft review here The Irish Village Credit: Faisal Khatib for ITP What: Dhs35 for selected house beverages. 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18 tasty ramen spots in Dubai worth ruining a clean t-shirt for
18 tasty ramen spots in Dubai worth ruining a clean t-shirt for

Time Out Dubai

timean hour ago

  • Time Out Dubai

18 tasty ramen spots in Dubai worth ruining a clean t-shirt for

There is nothing better in this world than a warm, comforting bowl of ramen. That's just an objective fact. And whether you're into thick, creamy broths or crystal clear soups, you're going to find something worth tucking into here. Ramen is meant to be slurped, and that will often mean that you'll leave the restaurant with a full belly and a messy shirt. But wear these stains with pride. Make it a fashion statement. Oh, this orange splodge? I'm wearing Kinoya's chef special. For the ramen-heads among us, there are a few go-to established names that we love to keep going back to and a few newcomers well worth checking out. Plus, we shine a spotlight on some of the instant ramen libraries that have been popping up across Dubai in recent times. Best ramen restaurants in Dubai Bento-ya One of Dubai's OG Japanese dining spots, Bento-ya serves up some of the most slurpable ramen in the city. Serving one of Dubai's best ramen menus, by virtue of its broad scope (and relatively keen prices), Bento-Ya's offering ranges from spicy miso corn ramen to classic shio and tantanmen. Portions are hearty, and if you fancy veering off-piste, there's a selection of udon noodle soups to slurp your way through too. And, if you fancy giving some home cooking a try, then check out the Gourmet-ya Japanese grocery store a stone's throw away from the Sheikh Zayed Road restaurant. Multiple locations Daikan Daikan has proved to be so popular that you can now find it at four locations across the city. There are ramen bars at the Depachika Food Hall in Nakheel Mall, at Lakeshore Tower in JLT and now at Nad Al Sheba Mall, plus a licensed izakaya-style venue that opened in City Walk back in 2024. In Dubai, the City Walk venue has the most expansive menu and an effortlessly cool vibe —think concrete, vinyl, hip-hop, and open kitchens—with the same ramen Dubai fell in love with at the heart of it all. A similar izakaya-style venue can be found at Yas Bay in Abu Dhabi. Menu highlights include the Daikan OG (Chef's Special), a spicy miso broth topped with tantan chicken, chicken chashu, veal bacon, and the signature ajitama egg, as well as the smoked shio dashi—a rich, shellfish-based salt broth with layers of umami depth. Stylish yet laid-back, Daikan Izakaya delivers authentic Japanese dining with bold flavours and unbeatable value, making it a must-visit for both ramen enthusiasts and casual diners. Fujiya Looking for authentic Japanese cuisine? It doesn't get more traditional than this. The menu is packed full of low-key dishes including ramen, hot pot and sushi. The vibe is friendly and the interiors are suitably pared back. For Japanese restaurants in Dubai, this should be on your hit list. Garhoud. Kinoya Credit: Kinoya One of Dubai's more low-key spots, this chilled-out ramen bar is one of the best Japanese restaurants in Dubai. With a laid-back vibe and a come-as-you-are dress code, there are little pockets of spaces for cosy dinners in this traditionally styled restaurant with the ramen counter and chef's table offering visitors a close-up look at their bowl being assembled before their very eyes. Set up by Neha Mishra, of Dubai supper club fame, Kinoya has become such a hit in Dubai that it now has a branch in London's most exclusive department store – Harrods. Read through the menu for the story behind each specially curated bowl. Here in Dubai, it can be found in The Greens in an unassuming office block tower, serving up a wide range of utterly delicious chicken, duck or vegetarian-based ramen. Licensed. Onyx Tower The Greens, (04 220 2920). Kiku Something of a local ancient, but as awesome as ever. A classic, licensed Japanese restaurant (with a few Korean touches to the menu), Kiku's offering runs the full spectrum of Japanese cuisine, from sashimi to soba, via a hairpin turn at yakitori and live barbecue. Most appealingly for many fans, it uses the most authentic and traditional meat for ramen and makes it worth the journey to Garhoud. Airport Road. @kikudubai Konjiki Hotogisu (Credit: Konjiki Hotogisu MOE) Perched on the Mall of the Emirates' second floor, this charming spot expands on the menu provided by its Tokyo namesake. The mall setting is in stark contrast to its quiet setting down an alleyway in Shinjuku, but the result is no less tasty. The menu stars comforting bowls of ramen based on Chef Yamamoto's signature clam-based tare, which was meticulously evolved out of endless trial-and-error, and adapts it for the Dubai audience. For dessert, treat yourself to a classic Japanese shaved ice dish of kakigori. No bookings here, but the doors open just before noon and there's usually a seat waiting for you at the counter. Unlicensed. Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha (04 227 6811). IchiRyu Ramen House Take one step inside IchiRyu Ramen House and you'd be forgiven for thinking you'd accidentally wandered into the background of an anime scene. You'll find a fake cherry blossom tree, a livestream of the iconic Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo, a whole range of colourful characters and some of the best ramen bowls in the city. This spot is run by a group of three Filipino brothers, including one who studied the art of ramen in Japan since the 1980s. Over the decades, he's refined his recipe and landed on a selection of dishes that resonate with the Dubai audience. Based at Wasl Ports, IchiRyu Ramen House was the first to introduce Bocchi Seki, translated to 'lonely seats', style dining in the UAE. These seats are perfect for those who want to hide away and slurp their bowl in solitude. Wasl Ports Views Building 7. Maru Udon Let's get this out of the way, shall we? Udon noodles, the thicker and chewier cousin of thin and firm ramen noodles, are not typically found in bowls of ramen. However, there's no denying that Maru Udon serves up some of the most slurp-worthy Japanese soups in Dubai. Found at the Neighbourhood Food Hall in Motor City and Majestic Tower in Business Bay, it's one of the most popular places to get budget Japanese bites. Included in the extensive menu is an extensive range of soups such as paitan chicken, tantan shezuan and karamiso spice. Multiple venues. @ Rameow This cat-obsessed ramen bar is hidden away inside the popular Electric Pawn Shop bar at The H Dubai. It's a casual dining spot open in the daytime before the venue converts into a rowdy bar. During the day, things are more relaxed and serene. Here, you'll find a rich, foamy shoyu (soy-sauce) ramen broth in their signature chicken paitan in addition to duck-based and miso-based vegan broth. A business lunch starts from a reasonable Dhs54, and includes a drink. Décor here is effortlessly cool with neon signs and the restaurant's cute cat mascot all over the place. Licensed. The H Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road. @rameowramen REIF Japanese Kushiyaki Credit: Reif Japanese Kushiyaki Chef Reif Othman is a well-known name here in Dubai, and his cooking is so good that he even has a spot in Time Out Market Dubai. This licensed branch of his eponymous restaurant is a top spot for when you're in the mood for tasty, Japanese dishes in a cool, low-key setting. Renowned for its silky smooth ramen and delicious kushiyaki, there are plenty of street food-style plates to get stuck into, so gather your mates and order a bunch of stuff to share. One of the best Japanese restaurants in Dubai, ideal for when you want something more casual but just as tasty. Licensed. Dubai Hills Business Park, (04 255 5142). SIO Named after the Japanese word for 'salt', this dedicated ramen house is all about soul-warming bowls made with serious love and tradition. Expect elevated classics like the signature SIO Ramen, a masterful blend of Reif Othman's homemade broth, steamed chicken, marinated egg and a bright zing of sudachi citrus. Feeling a little extra hungry? The carbonara udon delivers with silky onsen egg, crispy beef bacon and a snowstorm of shaved pecorino. And for spice lovers, the spicy vongole ramen brings the heat – a broth-less, flavour-packed bowl bursting with fresh clams, hojiso, shiso, and a fiery yuzu togarashi punch. Licensed. The Link, One&Only One Za'abeel, @siobyreif TakaHisa (Credit: TakaHisa) TakaHisa takes Japanese food very, very seriously, with two exclusive omakase dining experiences to choose from. Led by sushi master chef Takashi and wagyu master chef Hiseo, the restaurant prides itself on using the finest ingredients and bringing original flavours to its diners every time. This restaurant is absolute top-tier and definitely one for a special occasion. While ramen isn't technically on the menu here, you'll get one of the best bowls in the city if you ask the highly attentive staff. So, what will you get? An outstanding bowl packed with A5-grade Kobe beef wagyu, noodles using specially sourced wheat from Hokkaido and a chicken and vegetable broth that's simmered away for 10 hours. Bluewaters. @takahisa_dubai Uchi DIFC has long been one of the most popular dinner spots in Dubai. Whether you're into seeing, being seen, or fancy food served in a buzzing setting, there's always something new to try here. And one of these is Uchi, a petite, intimate Japanese izakaya, located on the edge of Gate Village at the street level. The restaurant offers a wide array of Japanese dishes and one of the standouts is its 48-hour simmered broth. The short-rib ramen includes sweetcorn, asparagus, den miso, a sprinkle of sesame and jammy egg. And the egg is the star of the show here, it's cooked over a low temperature and the result is a unique texture likened to a delicate custard. DIFC. Wokyo One of the more budget-friendly options for ramen in the city, Wokyo packs a whole lot of flavour into its boxes and bowls. A busy open-kitchen is somehow combined with a very casual dining atmosphere, making it low-key one of the best places for ramen in the city. Wokyo specialises in Sapporo-style ramen, perfected in the northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido. This style of ramen is typically miso-based and, at Wokyo, they slow-cook the broth for over 10 hours and toss it over some wok-tossed vegetables. While the more authentic Sapporo-style is miso-based, you can opt for a shoyu broth as well. Choices also include a meat-based broth with chicken, beef and a jammy nitamago egg and vegan broth with corn, menma and pak choi. Wokyo has several locations across Dubai and can be found in Al Seef, Ribbon Mall, JLT Cluster J and Wasl Square. Multiple locations. @wokyo YUi Ramen House (Credit: YUi Ramen) This is Dubai Design District's homegrown ramen spot. Try the signature YUi ramen (with rich paitan broth and yakiniku rib eye), alongside favourites like tantanmen and miso veggie ramen. If you prefer not to slurp, go for the yakitori skewers (hello, wagyu and king oyster mushroom) or a tight list of Japanese bites to round out the offering. It's minimalist, flavour-packed, and seriously satisfying. Ramen lovers, your D3 slurp stop is calling. Unlicensed. Ground Floor of Building 7, Dubai Design District, Dubai, (042434217). And some cool instant ramen libraries worth checking out If money is tight and you don't want to wait around for a homemade bowl, then why not check out an instant ramen library? These spots in Dubai will offer a wide range of top instant ramen brands from across the world and allow for greater customisation and the chance to DIY in a pinch. It's typically more common to find Korean-style ramyeon noodles at these spots, with the likes of the ultra-spicy Buldak proving to be a particularly popular choice. K Myeon Here, you'll find a range of top Korean instant noodle brands and various toppings including lobster balls, crab rolls, carrots, spring onions and kimchi. This one can be found at the Korean pavilion in Global Village so look out for it when it returns. Ghil Dabang Found in JLT, this is a Korean café with a massive selection of top brands from South Korea. You'll be able to tuck into top Korean snacks and drinks, while adding your favourite toppings to your instant bowl. Meokja This spot can be found at BurJuman Mall and allows you to DIY your bowl to your liking and add some toppings you might not typically have in your pantry at home. Toppings include kimchi, cheese and rice cakes. Still hungry? New restaurants in Dubai that you need to visit right now From casual eats to fine dining, there's bound to be a new venue you'll want to try These are Dubai's best restaurants: 85 incredible places to dine All the winners of the Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards 25 of the best restaurants in DIFC: Reservations you have to make now Tried, tested and highly rated restaurants to try in Dubai's financial district

This Surprising Brand Is Full Of Could-Be Designer Dresses - And I Can't Stop Wearing Them
This Surprising Brand Is Full Of Could-Be Designer Dresses - And I Can't Stop Wearing Them

Graziadaily

timean hour ago

  • Graziadaily

This Surprising Brand Is Full Of Could-Be Designer Dresses - And I Can't Stop Wearing Them

Confession: I recently pledged to dress appropriately for the great British summer, and it's been a revelation. Having spent most of my summers in the Mediterranean and the tropics, my idea of warm-weather dressing has never quite aligned with the UK's… let's say interpretation of summer. Earlier this year, I found myself obsessed, compulsively refreshing Monsoon's new-in section and making 'accidental' detours past the gorgeous Princess Street store in Edinburgh. The colourful prints, the rich colourways - they lure me in every time. Plus, I found that Monsoon dresses were versatile enough to become my go-to for whatever the British weather throws our way during summer. Mission complete. ©@annelorasscagliusi ©©@annelorasscagliusi It all started with the pink Patricia ruffle-sleeve midi dress I wore on Mother's Day. Honestly, I felt like a princess for the day. The dress caught plenty of stares, and the good kind. Those ruffles? Bold but totally wearable, with a flow that felt like it was made just for me. It's hands down the best dress in my wardrobe right now, and I've shamelessly worn it on repeat for my anniversary and any day I want to feel a little extra. Since then, Monsoon has had me hooked, a seamless mix of daily go-tos, workwear wins, and occasion-ready pieces that I keep coming back to. The prints always feel like a holiday, and the shapes somehow flatter perfectly. Whenever I'm stuck on what to wear, these dresses save the day — always on point, just like my favourite Self-Portrait pieces. They're the kind of dresses that never fail to make me look and feel flawless. ©@annelorasscagliusi ©©@annelorasscagliusi If you're not familiar with the brand, Monsoon's designs are effortlessly elegant yet approachable. Think floaty silhouettes, intricate embroidery, and rich textures that nod to bohemian romance without feeling overdone. Moving seamlessly from easy day dresses to occasion-ready styles, some pieces could easily be mistaken for designer without the eye-watering price tag. And I'd say most of the pieces I have fit true to size, so I always recommend sticking with your usual. As a petite woman, I find its dresses tend to run a bit longer than I'd like, but that hasn't bothered me. So, without further ado, and after plenty of scrolling, here are the Monsoon dresses truly worth your attention. Consider this your go-to list of pieces you'll want to wear on repeat. 1. Patricia Ruffle-Sleeve Midi Dress If I had to choose just one Monsoon dress to wear forever, it would be this. My beloved pink version is sadly sold out (for now), but thanks to its cult following, it's back in stock in a rich red and classic navy. Honestly? If I were you, I'd get both - it's the kind of dress you'll want in every colour. The exaggerated ruffle sleeves are dramatic yet totally wearable, the skirt has the dreamiest swish, and it's guaranteed to make you feel special. I reach for it on anniversaries, family occasions, or any day I want to feel extra feminine. For daytime, I pair it with mesh ballet flats; for evening, strappy heels do the trick. 2. Mae Devore Midi Dress Bow, puff sleeves, and polka dots, the timeless trio that never loses its charm. This sheer, velvet-spotted midi is finished with a collared neckline, short puff sleeves, and a statement bow at the front, making it equal parts feminine and polished. It's the kind of piece you can wear to work, a meeting, or a smart dinner without having to overthink your outfit. Just add heels, and you're set for morning-to-evening dressing. 3. Agatha Tie Front Check Midi Dress New in and already a pre-fall favourite, this dress will quietly dominate wardrobes once the leaves turn crimson. In rich burgundy check, with charming tie-front bows along the bodice, it's perfect for those "just in case" plans. Dress it down for coffee or style it up for dinner — it's a versatile winner you'll reach for on repeat. 4. Tasmin Button Denim Midi Dress If denim isn't usually your thing (it's not mine either), but you'd still like to weave a little into your wardrobe, this dress could be the one. What won me over is its perfect balance, casual thanks to the denim, yet polished with its structured shape. If you're only buying one denim dress this year, make it this one. A classic collared, button-through design with long sleeves and a swishy midi hem, it's timeless and endlessly versatile. I've worn mine to a weekend picnic, for a leisurely city stroll, and even on a quick coffee run. Pair it with boots in autumn, trainers come spring, or sandals when the sun's out. It's the definition of an effortless wardrobe workhorse. 5. Briana Tie Floral Appliqué Midi Dress Black in summer? Always. I wore this on my birthday with my Strathberry Osette Raffia bag, and it was the perfect celebration dress. The XL tie straps (totally on-trend), super flattering form-fitting bodice, and sheer A-line skirt scattered with bold embroidered florals make it effortlessly dramatic. It's the kind of dress that turns heads without trying too hard, and it's the kind of dress that makes you feel confident about your body, even if you're showing some skin. 6. Sicily Fit and Flare Midi Dress Polka dots aren't just for New Year's Eve; this print has ruled every IT-girl's feed all summer, and it's here to stay. For dressier occasions, the Sicily fit and flare midi (available in multiple prints and colourways) secures its place as a forever dress. It was the most popular dress on the internet last year, and with its fitted sleeveless bodice and swishy fit-and-flare skirt, it's easy to see why. Universally flattering, endlessly wearable and yes, it has pockets. 7. Suki Long Sleeve Ruffle Maxi Dress Another ruffle moment? Absolutely. This one is pure magic, think peak Sienna Miller in her 2000s boho-chic glory. Made for autumn days when you want to turn heads, it features romantic blouson sleeves, a smocked waistline, and cascading ruffles that flow as you move. Wear it desk-to-dinner with heeled boots and nothing else. 8. Nancy Appliqué Puff-Sleeve Midi Dress For butter-yellow lovers, this is your dream dress. This one's earned its fair share of 5-star reviews and for good reason. The fit is beautiful, the shade of yellow is spot-on for the season, and it pulls you in at all the right places. Simply put, it's a dress worth buying. Made from a cotton-linen blend in a dreamy yellow shade, it features voluminous puff sleeves, delicate appliqué swirls, and vintage-inspired buttons down the front. It feels like sunshine and nostalgia rolled into one, the ultimate pick for brunch, cruise holiday, garden parties, or any sunny occasion where you want to channel British summer vibes to the fullest. Image credit: @annelorasscagliusi Anne Lora Scagliusi is a fashion commerce writer at Grazia with over a decade of international experience. She began her career in Dubai, covering major fashion events and global trends, and her work has appeared in Vogue, Vanity Fair, Marie Claire, and Glamour. Now based between Italy and the UK, Anne is rarely seen without one of her signature Self-Portrait dresses and believes that great style should be as practical as it is polished, especially when parenting a toddler.

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