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Time Out Dubai
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
Best afternoon teas in Dubai 2025: 10 top-rated spots to try next
Located in some of the city's most luxurious hotels, the best afternoon teas in Dubai offer a a taste of luxury with endless sweet and savoury treats included. Check out the full list of Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards 2025 winners here And with the temperatures soaring in Dubai right now, we think this is one of the best ways to enjoy the indoors (if we say so ourselves). Whether you're looking for a one-off celebration or a catch-up with friends, here are the top-rated afternoon teas in Dubai to book and pronto. Time Out Dubai reviews anonymously and pays for all its meals. For more on the review process click here. These are officially the best Afternoon Teas in Dubai, as recognised by the Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards 2025. The best afternoon teas in Dubai 2025 WINNER The Royal Tearoom Afternoon teas in Dubai. Credit: The Royal Tearoom For afternoon tea connoisseurs who have been there, done that, this is a must-try. Served in the huge lobby of the world-famous hotel, next to the water droplet sculpture and just back from the fire walls on entry, there's a lot to catch your interest at this one. But the afternoon tea that arrives is guaranteed to keep your attention. Served with flair – and explanations about the tea-brewing process – there's a selection of high-quality sandwiches and a generous selection of cakes. Dhs560 for two. Atlantis The Royal, Palm Jumeirah, (04 426 2626). Check out our full The Royal Tearoom review here Highly commended Bijou Patisserie Best afternoon teas in Dubai. Credit: Bijou Patisserie This super-cute spot is home to one of the best afternoon teas in Dubai, having picked up this award in the past. Served in a vault, this is another that has a fun twist on a classic tea setup. Being at a French patisserie the cakes, as you'd expect, are exceptional, though there aren't any scones (word for the purists). You'll not feel like you're missing out those as the pastries and sweet treats are so delightful. Expect canelé, madeleine, millefeuille and more, as well as savoury stuffed croissants, brioche and éclair. From Dhs195 per person. Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk, Oud Metha, (04 281 4111). The Gallery Best afternoon teas in Dubai. Credit: The Gallery Held in its striking lobby with views over Marasi Bay Marina, afternoon tea at The Lana is a sophisticated event created by award-winning pastry chef Angelo Musa. Begin with an assortment of six traditional finger sandwiches, including coronation chicken, lobster & prawn, and truffle egg. These are followed with raisin and plain scones served with Devon clotted cream and the chef's signature jams. Pastries are the highlight here, including a rich chocolate ganache tart and Paris-Brest, with everything presented on the most delicate porcelain. You won't pour your tea out of a finer pot than this. Licensed. From Dhs600 per person. The Lana – Dorchester Collection, Marasi Drive, Business Bay, (04 541 7755). Shortlisted Al Fayrooz Lounge Best afternoon teas in Dubai. Credit: Al Fayrooz Lounge This longstanding lounge is great to visit, especially if you have visitors in town. With a prime view of the Burj Al Arab, the terrace is the ideal place to sit in cooler months to really take in the sights. Tea is a perfectly presented affair with a wide selection of sandwiches, cakes and scones, while the atmosphere is elegant with friendly, efficient service. There's an excellent choice of teas to pick from too, if you're partial to a cuppa. Licensed. Jumeirah Al Qasr, Umm Suqeim, (800 323232). Check out our full Al Fayrooz Lounge review here Al Mandhar Lounge Credit: Al Mandhar Found in the chic Jumeirah Al Naseem hotel, this afternoon tea also has views of Burj Al Arab as well as a traditional feel. The Turtle Tea (named thanks to the hotel's turtle lagoon) comes served on a stunning turtle-shaped stand, which is a unique touch. Sandwiches are delicate and prettily presented, the cakes are moreish and the scones are just as good as you'd hope they'd be. Don't forget to head outside to the terrace to get that perfect Insta snap of the iconic sail-shaped building before you leave. Licensed. Jumeirah Al Naseem Umm Suqeim, (800 323232). Blüthner Hall Best afternoon teas in Dubai. Credit: Blüthner Hall One of the most striking, opulent settings around, Blüthner Hall's afternoon tea is a full-on traditional affair with sandwiches, scones, pastries and more. The regal entrance hall has a massive chandelier, ascend the staircase and take your seat on one of the plush sofas or large, upholstered armchairs as you take in the surroundings. Tea comes on elegant stands and there's a large spread with plenty to get stuck into. Licensed. Raffles The Palm Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, (04 248 8888). Mosaico Best afternoon teas in Dubai. Credit: Mosaico This hotel from the high-end fashion house has a classic tea that's as well presented as you'd expect. Served on a crimson stand with various little sections, treats such as prawn sandwiches and turkey ham and cheese millefeuille are joined by plain and raisin scones, a selection of cakes and a wide selection of teas to sip on. The terrace is cute, overlooks the pool, and has an elegant setting. Licensed. Palazzo Versace Dubai, Al Jaddaf, (04 556 8850). Check out our full Mosaico review here Raffles Salon Best afternoon teas in Dubai. Credit: Raffles Salon This longstanding afternoon tea in Dubai's Raffles hotel is a charming one for families and for those who love a traditional mid-afternoon meal. With huge comfy sofas, slick service and an old-school vibe, it's a treat for an afternoon out. Classic sandwiches and scones come with pots of cream and jam, and plenty of cakes, you'll probably end up taking a few home for the next day. Licensed. Raffles Dubai, Oud Metha, (04 324 8888). Check out our full Raffles Salon review here Skyview Lounge Afternoon tea at Burj Al Arab is a bucket-list experience that doesn't disappoint. This year, the experience relocated from the Sahn Eddar lobby café to the 27th floor Skyview Lounge with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. The menu changes regularly and is themed for specific seasons, but expect to start with delicate savoury items like tartlets, millefeuille and beignet. A step-up from the standard sandwich, all made with the finest ingredients and adorned with the likes of caviar and gold leaf. Sweet bites follow, with perfectly executed choux pastries, shortbread and sponge among them. It is one of the most high-end afternoon teas and a wonderful opportunity to see the city from a high vantage point. Licensed. Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, Umm Suqeim 3, (800 323232). Shai Salon & Terrace Best afternoon teas in Dubai. Credit: Shai Salon & Terrace At such a venue as the Four Seasons, a high-end afternoon tea offering is expected, and that's what you'll get. There's a selection of sandwiches, cakes and pastries from around the region, so it's a twist on a classic, if you're looking for something a little different. Taking place in the elegant Shai Salon, there are beautiful views out to sea from the terrace, while the interiors are elegant and chic. Dhs240 for two. Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, Jumeirah 1, (04 270 7805). Check out our full Shai Lounge & Terrace review here Other award-winning spots in Dubai The 10 best tasting menus in Dubai for a world-class dining experience Places you have to try at least once 10 best family restaurants in Dubai to suit everyone Everyone will be happy, trust us 10 of the best cafés in Dubai that deserve a visit So good, you won't want to leave
Khaleej Times
05-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
UAE-based chef Angelo Musa on crafting desserts that evoke emotion
Food is a rainbow of feelings. It's a walk down a nostalgic hallway lined with memories, that echo of laughter you thought you forgot, that shiver down your neck from the explosion of flavour, that shared feeling of comfort or anticipation at trying something different. For award-winning chef Angelo Musa, the person behind Bonbon Café Angelo Musa and The Gallery at The Lana, Dorchester Collection Hotel, the crafting of a menu begins by identifying 'an emotion, a memory, or a specific ingredient'. 'Then comes the technical work: balancing textures, flavours, and aesthetics. I always think about how each dessert will be experienced, from the first bite to the last, ensuring harmony and a sense of surprise,' he tells City Times. It is this homage to details, to the way something 'should be' experienced, that feeds some of Musa's success. It requires precision, he admits, to create a pastry but it also requires creativity to tease out the notes that may be buried before heat and technique are added to the mix. 'Passion and curiosity have always been my driving forces,' claims the chef named World Pastry Champion in 2003 and Best Craftsman of France, baking category, 2007. Musa's journey to the crinkle of crust began much after he went to hospitality school in Metz, in north-east France. It was a love that he discovered when he was in a motorcycle accident and had to defer his exams. Fortunately, this also gave him the time to undertake an internship in pastry. He recalls the dessert that changed his life. 'I remember the 'Tarte au fromage blanc' from my mentor, Claude Bourguignon. The first time I tasted it during my apprenticeship, it changed my entire perspective on what makes great pastry. It was simple but executed to perfection, and that moment defined how I approach my craft,' he says. The focus on detail also led Musa to be named Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters, in a nod to his contribution to the profession in France and abroad. He was also the winner of the Coupe de France and the captain of the French team for the World Pastry Cup where he created the winning dessert. The treat, known as Papilio, or a family of butterflies, sees the delicate wings of a butterfly adorning a smooth chocolate mousse. He has also opened a number of restaurants over the years including one at Harrods in London. When he decided to take on two projects at Dubai's The Lana, he saw an opportunity to try two contrasting experiences. 'Bonbon Café is about indulgence in its purest form, offering refined yet approachable treats that guests can enjoy at any time of the day. The Gallery, on the other hand, is where elegance meets artistry, with meticulously designed plated desserts that celebrate craftsmanship and storytelling,' he explains. The approaches allow him to experiment – to dive deep into the traditions of French pastry making and then redefine them, to 'respect the fundamentals while exploring new flavours, textures, and techniques. For example, I might introduce Middle Eastern spices, floral notes, or unexpected pairings'. It's an approach that works well for the Dubai crowd, made up of palates from around the world. 'Dubai's culinary scene is incredibly dynamic, a melting pot of cultures and influences. The level of ambition and creativity here is inspiring, and the clientele is adventurous, open to new experiences. This allows for a lot of freedom in developing unique creations,' he explains. As long as the spirit of experimentation is tempered by discipline, there's no stopping creativity. 'I stay curious, taste a lot, and take inspiration from outside the kitchen: architecture, art, nature. Sometimes, a simple walk can spark an idea,' says Musa. What makes a good bite? In the pastry crafting business, one of the most important things to remember is texture. 'Texture is everything. A great dessert isn't just about flavour but contrast: crispy, creamy, airy, chewy. Each element has to complement the others while creating a dynamic tasting experience,' he explains. It all begins with the base. Which is why, he suggests home bakers focus on that one pastry that can be the foundation for other treats. 'The art of making a proper pâte à choux is something all home bakers should master. It's a gateway to so many classic pastries, from éclairs to Paris-Brest, and mastering it gives you an incredible foundation,' he explains. As important as it is to know the classics, it's just as necessary to introduce yourself to the trends. Ones that excite Musa centre on getting the essence of the ingredients right. 'There's a return to natural, bold flavours with less sugar, focusing on the essence of ingredients,' he says, adding, 'there's a growing appreciation for artisanal craftsmanship over overly complex, over-designed desserts'. Which makes us wonder, what would a Dubai-defining pastry look like, taste like? 'It would be a fusion of cultures, a dessert that blends French technique with Middle Eastern flavours, like a mille-feuille infused with date caramel and saffron cream,' he says. Sounds decadent? So is everything else you'll find on your plate when Musa is cooking. 'Luxury isn't just about rarity; it's about the journey behind a creation: the care, the expertise, and the ability to evoke emotion with every bite,' he stresses. Crafting something that leaves a delicious aftertaste is a learned behaviour, and in line with this, Musa calls for chefs-to-be to be resilient. 'Be patient, stay curious, and never settle. Learn from every experience, seek mentorship, and remember that passion and dedication will take you further than talent alone,' he says.
Jordan Times
10-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Jordan Times
Indulge in chic, epic experiences in an all-girls' Dubai getaway
DUBAI – Dubai is the ultimate destination for women planning a getaway with friends. Indulge in dining experiences like royal afternoon teas and glamourous dinners with live shows, explorethrilling activities, or even unwind for a cozy outdoor cinema night. Whether seeking an adventurous or relaxing holiday, the city offers countless experiences for a memorable girl's trip. Dining experiences Instagrammable cafes • Tania's Tea House: Tania's menu is as delicious as it is aesthetically pleasing. The café is offering an exclusive CRAFTernoon Tea on 9th February and 13th February where guests can craft cake jewelry boxes or pretty paper flowers while they sip and snack on a dreamy afternoon tea set. • El&N: First found fame in London, the café lives up to its name with its striking pink interiors, floral flourishes and neon slogans along with pretty plating make this eatery a social media sensation. • Blue Box Café Dubai: Blue Box Café by Tiffany & Co. is found in Dubai Mall, next to the iconic jewellery brand's flagship store. Echoing its sibling on New York's Fifth Avenue, this 41-seat sanctuary is swathed in Tiffany blue and boasts Peter Marino-designed furnishings. Afternoon Tea • The Lana: Recognised as the world's best pastry chef, Angelo Musa brings his award-winning creations from France to Dubai with The Gallery, located in The Lana, Dorchester Collection. Guests are invited to choose from an extensive array of teas spanning various categories, meticulously prepared by two certified tea sommeliers. • Bijou Patisserie: Bijou Patisserie is best known for serving one of the most popular Afternoon Teas in Dubai: Le Goûter – Sofitel's signature French afternoon tea. It is a unique combination of flavors served in a sophisticated vault, unlocked with a special key. • High Tea at Mosaico: Within moments of stepping into Palazzo Versace Dubai, you will be greeted by the opulent Mosaico lounge. It is here that you can experience the quintessential High Tea featuring an extensive selection of the finest teas and tempting treats. Best spots for dinner • Flamingo Room by tashas: The venue offers a contemporary menu and an incredibly enticing aesthetic. It may look like a stylish movie set or the perfect backdrop for a fashion shoot – that's how stunning the interiors are. The location is also enviable, sitting adjacent to Jumeirah Al Naseem's turtle lagoon. • Sienna Clubhouse Dubai: Sienna presents a fusion of Mediterranean taste and urban sophistication inspired by the warmth and comfort of the town of Siena, Italy. It imbibes a combination of timeless traditions with a spark of innovation, alongside an excellent presentation. • Le Relais de l'Entrecôte Dubai: One to not to miss during the trip, head over with the girls to the newly opened Relais de L'Entrecôte – the renowned Parisian bistro known for its single-dish menu, the delicious steak and fries. • TerraMar: Celebrate friendships with TerraMar's exclusive offerings, starting with a specially curated 4-course menu from 10th to 16th February featuring insta-worthy dishes. Plus, don't miss out on the 2-for-1 special Brunch on 16th February – perfect for a friends gathering. • CE LA VI: Join CE LA VI for exclusive special three-course lunch on Friday, February 14th, from 12:00 pm to 3:30 pm. Indulge in a delectable set menu, promising an unforgettable dining experience, setting the perfect tone for a day of laughterand friendship. Healthy dining • SEVA: This plant-based café amidst its tranquil zen-like garden complete with cobbled pathways, rustic log tables and colourful décor, is one of the city's hidden gems. With health as the key focus, the food served here is free from gluten, sugar, dairy and artificial ingredients, but doesn't compromise on taste. • Bounty Beets: Situated at Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort, this is a popular spot for breakfast in Dubai thanks to its extensive selection of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options and snap-worthy, pale pink aesthetic with lots of quirky catchphrases at every turn. • Comptoir 102: Located on the Jumeirah Beach Road, the concept store and coffee shop in one, Comptoir 102 offers a chic mix of interior design, fashion accessories, and gorgeous gifts. Rechargewith a wholesome menu featuring vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free and sugar-free options. Live entertainment • Belcanto: This eatery, which sits at the top of the Dubai Opera, offers exceptional Italian dishes with impressive live entertainment. Come here for a pre-show meal, or plan a visit just to sample chef Giacomo Lombardi's delectable food. • Josette: From the moment you step into Josette, located in DIFC's prestigious ICD Brookfield Place, you'll feel like you've been transported back to 1920s Paris. Enjoy musical acts and accomplished French cooking to make this a must-visit hotspot. • Arrogante: Located in the heart of Downtown Dubai, Arrogante offers a casual yet premium Italian dining experience with front row views of the Burj Khalifa. Don't miss Le Note d'Arrogante, a Friday night affair with soulful live Italian music. Activities Arts & Crafts • Jewelry making: Charm making is all the trend right now! Book an appointment with a group of friends at The Charm Bar, the first and only charm shop in Dubai. Get creative and select a chain and pick from over 500 charms to create your own custom charm jewelry, whether it's a necklace, bracelet, or even a bag charm. • Pottery classes: Located in Dubai's creative hub Alserkal Avenue, Yadawei Ceramic Studio is a purpose-built space offering pottery, bisque painting and sculpture classes. • Resin art workshops: Learn how to create one-of-a-kind piece of resin art at The Meraki Design & Art Studio by attending sessions that give you an introduction to the art or teach you to mix resin with other items like paint, and even how to pour like a pro. • Painting session: Located at Al Quoz neighbourhood, Wild Paint House invites everyone to jam with art. A first-of-its-kind experience in Dubai, the studio offers six activities – splat, spin, swing, pour, neon and graffiti. Gastronomy classes • Sagra Italian Pastificio: Located in Jumeirah 3, Dubai, Sagra Italian Pastificio is the premier pasta-making workshop where you learn how to make delicious fresh pasta yourself. The course is divided into three sections, starting with the history and traditions of pasta, then making your own pasta dough and techniques and finally, experiencing the taste of your own hand-made pasta. • Co-Chocolat: Celebrate chocoholic love, fun and friendship over a cacao ceremony, meditation and a chocolate-making workshop exclusivley on 13 and 14 February at homegrown UAE brand Co Chocolat. The activity will begin with a meditation and a cacao ceremony, followed by a chocolate-making workshop where guests get the chance to mold two bars, with custom toppings and colored foil wrappers, and name the flavor name, a perfect gift for a friend. • The H Dubai: Book a private baking and pastry classes at The H Dubai's exclusively on 5, 12, 13, 22, 26, and 27 February. Guided by the talented Chef Heirida, this 90-minute immersive experience, prepares to unveil secret techniques and detailed recipes, allowing you to master the art of creating mouthwatering desserts. Unique activities • Museum of Candy: This interactive attraction is designed to celebrate the art, joy, and nostalgia of candy. With a mission to blend creativity, education, and fun, the museum offers a series of themed rooms that encourage exploration, play, and wonder. • ARTE Museum: Adding to the ever-growing art and culture scene in the city, ARTE MUSEUM offers the ultimate immersive art experience. Situated in Dubai Mall, the venue houses works across 14 zones under the theme of 'Eternal Nature'. • Cat Café Vibrissae: One for the cat lovers – book an experience with your friends and interact with the friendly resident cats of the café while savouring on a dessert and beverage, all in a calm, comfortable environment. • Roll DXB: A fun activity with friends, RollDXB is the first indoor roller-skating rink in Dubai. Inspired by the American skating rinks of the past, it offers a concept new to the region for people to enjoy and experience a pinch of 70s nostalgia. Wellness and Fitness experiences • Dior Spa The Lana: The Lana, Dorchester Collection is home to Dior's first spa in the UAE. It has relaxing spaces that are dedicated to rest and wellness. Among its treatments are two unique 'Diorituals' created especially for Dior Spa The Lana: Stopover at the Lana and Dior Stone Therapy. • Ciel Spa: Located at SLS Dubai, Business Bay, the spa features a state-of-the-art fitness centre, the world's highest overflow pool, and an IV therapy facility. • AWAKEN: Nestled in the Royal Towers of Atlantis, The Palm, the spa offers top-notch treatments, with a wide variety menu and world-leading skincare brands which offers facial and body treatments to keep you feeling fresh and fabulous. • Talise Ottoman Spa: Rejuvenate and unwind at the exquisite Talise Ottoman Spa, located in Jumeirah Zabeel Saray on Palm Jumeirah. The vast wellness facility is equipped with 42 treatment rooms, steam rooms, saunas, snow rooms and two thalassotherapy pools. • Gigi Dubai: Fitness lovers - Gigi Dubai is the latest trend in the city, being the first and only studio in the Middle East to feature Miniformers. Located at Mirdif Avenue Mall and Villa Aumèdan in Nad Al Sheba, the studio also offers Megaformer, yoga, sculpt classes, and sound healing. • The Retreat Palm Dubai MGallery by Sofitel: The 24-Hour Retreat Package offers the perfect escape for those looking to reset and reconnect. Guests will enjoy nutrient-rich meals at Vibe Restaurant, a 60-minute Rayya Customised Massage, and guided breathwork, yoga, meditation and active stretching sessions to support mental and physical well-being. An in-room night self-care sleep ritual completes the experience, fostering deep rest and rejuvenation. • Matcha Club: The city's favourite boutique padel club and community hangout is the perfect spot for a day out with the girls. Located in Al Qouz, you can join for a padel tennis session in the outdoor courts and join a yoga or meditation classes. Unwind atNETTE, a French Japanese restaurant serving all-day breakfast and healthy dining options. The Matcha Latte is a favorite! Shopping Experiences • Bloomingdale's: Located in Dubai Mall, this upscale department store spans three levels of designer fashion, featuring brands like Gucci, Tom Ford, and Valentino. Don't miss Magnolia Bakery for one of its famous sweet treats. • Galeries Lafayette: Located in Dubai Mall, the 3-level department stores features exclusive luxury brands and beauty like Bottega Venetta, Burberry, Fendi, Gucci and many more. • Harvey Nichols: Located at the Mall of the Emirates, this premier department store features a variety of international fashion, beauty, home and jewellery collections including brands like Lanvin, Phillip Lim, Alice + Olivia and Alexander McQueen. Where to stay Beach Resorts • Atlantis The Royal Dubai: Atlantis The Royal on Palm Jumeirah features luxury rooms, including options with private infinity pools, and stunning skyline and sea views. It is also home to the world's highest number of celebrity chef restaurants, featuring names like Heston Blumenthal and José Andrés. • Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach: Set back from its own private beachfront, the resort offers two outdoor pools, an indoor lap pool, one of the best spas in the city and 12 lounges and restaurants, including Japanese favourite Mimi Kakushi and Mediterranean-inspired Nammos. Heart of the city • ME Dubai: Located in Business Bay as part of the Opus Building, making it the only hotel in the world designed by the legendary architect Zaha Hadid. Experience the 'spatial fluidity' through the striking lighting, furniture and elegant rooms. • Kempinski Central Avenue: This hotel offers a luxurious stay with modern design and local influences. With stunning Burj Khalifa views and easy access to top attractions including a direct access at Dubai Mall, it's perfect for the ultimate girls' trip. Unique stays • Al Maha Desert Resort: Al Maha, a Luxury Collection resort by Marriott, offers a luxury desert escape inspired by Dubai's Bedouin heritage, with 42 suites and stunning views. Guests can enjoy a number of traditional experiences, such as dining among the dunes, gazing at the stars and camel trekking. • Anantara World Islands: Accessible via a 15-minute boat ride from Palm Jumeirah, Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort offers 70 lavish seaside villas and suites as well as pools, alfresco dining and beach access. The Sunset Beach Pool Villa is the ultimate spot for resplendent moments at dusk. Relax by your private pool, or dip your toes in the sand and watch the sun sink into endless blue waves. For more inspiration on Dubai's wide range of activities, attractions and offers to enjoy during your holiday in Dubai, Make sure to check out Visit Dubai website (
