Latest news with #Dhs225
Time Out Dubai
19 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
Vida Dubai Mall's Origins is offering an unlimited drinks deal on these days
If your friends are in town and you're after a quick, classy catch-up without any fuss, this spot should definitely be on your radar. We're talking about Vida Dubai Mall's Origins. A laid-back dining spot that's got all the right ingredients for a chill night out with your besties: delicious food, good music, better drinks and an elegant setting. And why is this just perfect for your visiting friends? It's got these stunning views of the Burj Khalifa. And something for you to remember when you're looking to make your next visit. From Thursday to Saturday, between 7pm and 10pm, Origins shifts from easygoing eatery to stylish evening hangout. The lights dim, the live band tunes up and the drinks begin to flow. The highlight here is their rotating mixed drinks lineup and curated grape selection, all served fresh from the live bar station. You can choose the Dhs225 package for three hours of unlimited drinks and a tapas board, or go for the Dhs299 option if you fancy adding some hubbly bubbly into the mix. It's not about going big here. The spot keeps things easy and effortlessly fun. You'll enjoy a few hours of solid vibes, a drink in hand, good company and a lively soundtrack of smooth, contemporary tunes. Just the right kind of buzz to keep things interesting. Origins has always been a go-to for those who like their food on the wholesome side, but now it's also offering up a low-key nightlife experience. Catching up with a friend after work? Make a booking now: From Dhs225. Thu-Sat 7pm-10pm. Vida Dubai Mall (04 549 8888).
Time Out Dubai
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
Why Studio Frantzén should be your next night out on the Palm
Looking for an out-of-the-ordinary dining experience? We know just the place to head to. With a playlist personally curated by the founder himself, a menu of bold French-Asian flavours, and a whole lot of personality, this modern European bistro from one of the most iconic chefs in the world, Björn Frantzén, the only chef alive with three restaurants awarded three MICHELIN stars, redefines what dining out should feel like. Tucked away on The Palm, Studio Frantzén channels the spirit of a refined bistro with a playful edge. A glittering chandelier steals the spotlight, red chairs pop against crisp white tablecloths and every corner reveals a playful surprise. Here, dining moves to its own rhythm, making it just right for casual meet-ups, late night drinks with friends or a date night to remember. Look inside This spot is made for those who like to linger, with an exclusive bar and lounge, intimate booths, a chef's counter overlooking the open kitchen and a private dining room for moments that call for a bit more ceremony. And can we talk about the playlist? Featuring 300 handpicked songs by Björn himself, the music offers a mix of genres, from classic rock hits like Guns N' Roses to timeless tracks from The Smiths, creating the perfect background for an unforgettable evening. What's on the menu? The menu showcases bold French-Asian flavours and refined techniques that highlight pure ingredients, reflecting Björn Frantzén's culinary philosophy. Expect dishes that make the best of natural ingredients but with unexpected touches. Think baby chicken with miso beurre blanc and burnt hay oil, or a Caesar salad that swaps the usual chicken for guinea fowl, adds pine nuts, and throws in a little miso togarashi to keep things interesting. Even the sides come from the fireplace, so there's warmth in every bite. Want a grape to pair your decadent meal with? Let the sommelier select the perfect match from a cellar boasting over 1,800 labels. Whereas, the mixed drinks bring bold character for those seeking something different. Weekend lunches And if you're in the mood for a proper weekend wind-down (or wind-up, depending on your energy), their Luncheon happens every Saturday and Sunday from 12.30pm to 4pm. It's Dhs195 for the set menu of two courses and a side. If you fancy pairing it with two hours of free-flowing beverages, simply top up for Dhs225. Click here to peruse the menu. You'll be choosing between dishes like grilled prawns with lacto fermented red curry dressing and ginger aioli or a summery artichoke and grilled green asparagus plate with pea miso and pistachios. Grape lovers, take note Experience The Hidden Cellar, where head sommelier Ognjen Samardzic hosts an intimate monthly dinner in the private dining room, featuring a curated selection from over 1,800 labels and a thoughtfully prepared menu for just fourteen guests. The event is usually announced during the first week of each month. This intimate grape dinner experience is Dhs1,200 per person and the latest one is happening on Wednesday May 28, from 7.30pm. We'll see you there? Make a reservation now: Open Mon-Fri 6pm-1am; Sat-Sun noon-4pm, 6pm-1am. Weekend lunch: 12.30pm-4pm. Atlantis, The Palm, Palm Jumeirah
Time Out Abu Dhabi
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
25 fabulous beach and pool day passes in Abu Dhabi for summer
We are spoilt for choice when it comes to fantastic pool day passes and offers in Abu Dhabi for you to book now. Whether you're looking for upmarket island options or chilled-back, inner-city hangout spots, here are all the pool day passes to splash out in the capital. Beach and pool day passes in Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi Edition Credit: Abu Dhabi Edition Head to the roof for a luxury pool day sipping drinks on one of the capital's fanciest hotels. Cabanas, chilled music and light bites all day make this a perfect hideaway when you need a break. Mon-Thu: Dhs150 (fully redeemable on F&B at Alba Terrace); Fri-Sun: Dhs225 (Dhs150 redeemable on F&B at Alba Terrace). Open 9am-6pm. Al Bateen Marina, (02 208 0000). Al Maya Island & Resort Credit: Al Maya Island & Resort Get out of the city, and take your pool day to a new level with a 10-minute board ride to Al Maya Island & Resort. Once there, find a spot on the unspoilt beach or by the pool, make friends with the island's gazelles and revel in your mini holiday. Weekdays: Dhs200 (Dhs150 redeemable on F&B and access to all facilities), Dhs50 (kids aged six to 12, fully redeemable on F&B), free (for two kids under six); Friday: Dhs250 (Dhs100 redeemable on F&B and access to all facilities), Dhs100 (kids aged six to 12,Dhs50 redeemable on F&B), free (for two kids under six); Saturday: Dhs250 (100 redeemable on F&B and access to all facilities) only adults above the age of 21 years are allowed; Sunday: Dhs250 (Dhs100 redeemable on F&B and access to all facilities), Dhs100 (kids aged six to 12, Dhs50 redeemable on F&B), free (for two kids under six). Sun-Fri 10am-8.30pm; Sat 10am-9.30pm. Al Maya Island & Resort (02 667 7777). Al Raha Beach Hotel While there are more and more beachside hotels with fancy pools, Al Raha is still a favourite for many in Abu Dhabi – partly for its kids' waterpark and pool, and a laidback atmosphere. It's definitely a pool-day destination for families. Laze by the infinity one, enjoy the private beach and work will feel miles away. Dhs125 (adults), Dhs90 (kids aged two to 15) daily including public holidays. Open daily 8am-8pm. Channel Street, Near Al Raha Mall Al Raha Creek (02 508 0555). Al Waryah Pool & Beach Credit: Al Waryah Pool & Beach Book yourself into a beach day bed at Al Waryah Pool and Beach at Erth, the sustainably focused, Emirati-style luxury resort and development that opened last year. The hotel is home to a private 350 metre-long Blue Flag-certified beach, two oasis-shaped swimming pools and plenty of interesting food options. Also available are paddleboarding and kayaking, for those that don't want to lie down on a sunlounger all day. Book in for a day and want to stay for a week. When it comes to pool day passes in Abu Dhabi, you're going to be spoiled here. Weekdays: Dhs151 indoor pool from 6am-11pm, Dhs199 outdoor pool 8am-7pm (Dhs100 redeemable); weekends: Dhs249 outdoor pool (100 redeemable). Open daily 6am-11pm (indoor pool), 8am-7pm (outdoor pool); weekends 8am-7pm (outdoor pool). Al Waryah Pool & Beach, Erth, Khor Al Maqta, (02 441 5900). Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa Credit: Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa Surround yourself with desert majesty and traditional Emirati architecture and artwork at Al Wathba Desert Resort & Spa. Laze by a gorgeous pool, find shade under a sleek pavilion and keep yourself refreshed with the swim-up bar and delicious juices from poolside eatery Panache. Dhs200 (adults) Dhs100 (kids aged six-11), free (kids under six). Daily 9am-sunset. Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Al Wathba South, (02 204 4444). Café Del Mar This popular beach club at Yas Bay Waterfront underwent a refurbishment during summer last year and emerged bigger and better than ever. For starters, the infinity pool is now one of the biggest in the UAE. It's also temperature-controlled, so you can cool off in the midday sun or enjoy an evening dip. The view? Pure Arabian Gulf magic. Now, for those who like their lounging with a touch of luxury, there are seven new cabanas, each with its own private Jacuzzi (yes, really). And if that's not indulgent enough, there are also three private villas for those seeking extra exclusivity. In case you're wondering about space, there are more cabanas spread out across the venue, so there will be no fighting for a spot to kick back. In total, there will be seven cabanas with Jacuzzis and six cabanas without. Free (ladies, Mon-Thu), Dhs100 (gents, Mon-Thu), Dhs100, Dhs100 (ladies, Fri-Sun), Dhs200 (gents, Fri-Sun). Open 10am onwards. Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, (050 402 2283). Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers Credit: Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers For those in the middle of the city, you don't need to go far to fling a towel down on a sun lounger. Over on West Corniche, the Conrad makes it super simple to relax. Choose from three gorgeous pools or the private beach to top up your tan. French-inspired Lillet bar offers a great respite from the sun and it's a great place to watch the sunset. Weekdays: Dhs250 single (Dhs150 redeemable on F&B), Dhs500 couple (Dhs300 redeemable on F&B), Dhs75 kids (Dhs50 redeemable on F&B); Weekends: Dhs350 single (Dhs200 redeemable on F&B), Dhs700 couple (Dhs400 redeemable on F&B), Dhs75 kids (Dhs50 redeemable on F&B). Open daily 7am-7pm (pool), 9am-sunset (beach). Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, Corniche Road West, (02 811 5555). Courtyard by Marriott, World Trade Center Credit: Courtyard by Marriott, World Trade Center For the last few years, the pool pass at the Courtyard by Marriott, World Trade Center has been a much-loved secret. If you're looking for a city centre, not overly fussy day of pool time and sunbathing, amongst the skyscrapers, this is it. There's never been a better time to dive into pool day passes across the city. Dhs50 (Mon-Fri), Dhs75 (Sat-Sun). Daily, 7am-8pm. (02 698 2222). Crowne Plaza Yas Island Overlooking the Yas Links Golf Course, Crowne Plaza Yas Island is a fab family option for a pool day that's close enough to other activities and plenty of restaurants for the evening. Keep hydrated with drinks from Sundowners or upgrade yourself with a treatment from the Senses Massage Centre. Dhs85 (adult), Dhs115 (couple), Dhs55 (kids 2 years old and above) Mon-Fri; Dhs110 (adult), Dhs160 (couple), Dhs55 (kids 2 years old and above). Open 7am-8pm. Yas Plaza, Yas Island, (02 656 3000). Emirate's Palace Beach Club If you really want your breath taken away, head to the mainland to Emirates Palace Beach Club for the ultimate spot of luxury. Head to the hotel first to awe at the stunning architecture before taking a buggy ride down to its 1.3km private sandy beach where you'll have access to two pools and plenty of water sports options like windsurfing, wakeboarding and water skiing. Mon-Fri, Dhs400 (Dhs200 redeemable on F&B); kids 4-15 Dhs200 (Dhs100 redeemable on F&B); Sat-Sun Dhs450, kids Dhs 250. Open daily (7am-9pm). Emirates Palace, Al Ras Al Akhdar. (02 690 7311). Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Credit: Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Fairmont Bab Al Bahr's an oldie but a goodie. With one of the best views in Abu Dhabi, taking in the Abu Dhabi Creek and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque as well as one of the biggest pools, an Olympic-sized beauty no less (for those that actually want to swim not just sunbathe), it's up there on our list of the best luxury pool days in the city. Team it with a meal at Café Sushi or Marco Pierre White Steakhouse for a total treat. Dhs149 (weekdays, Dhs100 redeemable on F&B), Dhs100 (pool and beach access only), Dhs199 (weekends, Dhs100 redeemable on F&B), Dhs100 (pool and beach access only). Open daily 8am-sunset. Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Khor, Al Maqta, (02 654 3333). Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl Credit: Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl Seriously, pool days don't get much better than this in Abu Dhabi. The Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl is a beauty, hosting a 50-metre-long infinity pool, private beach and kids pool. Stay refreshed at its gorgeous poolside bar where you can sip on house drinks or fruity drinks and kick back. Dhs120 per person (Mon-Fri), Dhs160 per person (Sat-Sun). Daily 7am-8pm (pool), 7am-sunset (beach). Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl, Corniche Road West, (02 510 1234). Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island Credit: Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island If some of your party want to take on Yas Island's many theme parks and water parks, but you just want a lie-down and lazy dip, Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island is the perfect compromise. Gorgeous pool, laid-back beachside restaurant and upgrade yourself with a spa treatment from the spa. Dhs100 (adults), Dhs50 (kids) Mon-Fri, Dhs150 (adults), Dhs75 (kids) Sat-Sun. Daily 7am-sunset. Yas Bay Waterfront, (02 208 6888). ILIOS Located on Hudayriyat Island (as part of Surf Abu Dhabi), by day, ILIOS is not your typical beach club. This is the place to go if you fancy a trip to Mykonos without the plane hassle. Expect modern Greek-Mediterranean food, Greek mythology-inspired mixed drinks and DJ sets à la Scorpios. Did someone say permanent euro summer? Dhs200 per person (fully redeemable); children 0-5 enter free. Daily, from 12pm until sunset. Ilios, Surf Abu Dhabi, Hudayriyat Island, Abu Dhabi. @_iliosbeachclub, Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort Credit: Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort The best pool days in the city span from the West Corniche to Saadiyat Island, and over at Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort you won't be disappointed. Choose from three pools, the private beach and you won't go hungry with the pool bar serving up easy classics and delicious mocktails. Mon-Thu: Dhs300 (sunbeds), Dhs700 (round beds for up to two guests), Dhs1,200 (for up to three guests, Dhs400 per additional guest); Fri-Sun: Dhs400 (sunbeds), Dhs900 (round beds for up to two guests), Dhs1,600 (for up to three guests, Dhs400 per additional guest). Open daily 9am-7pm (pool), 9am-sunset (beach). Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort, Saadiyat Island, (02 811 4444). Nation Riviera Beach Club Credit: Nation Riviera Beach Club There are pool days and there are serious pool days. Nation Riviera Beach Club at St. Regis Abu Dhabi feels like a dose of old-school glamour complete with fancy cabanas, a jacuzzi and a temperature-controlled pool. Keep things light with an under-300-calorie lunch option or indulge in a classic house drink. Up the ante with a private cabana for two, six bottles of craft hops and a fruit/ice cream plate for Dhs630 (non-members). Weekdays: Dhs345 (single non-members), Dhs625 (couple non-members), Dhs95 (additional child non-members, aged four to 16); weekends: Dhs415 single non-members), Dhs685 (couple non-members), Dhs95 (additional child non-members, aged four to 16). Open daily 8am-sunset (beach), 8am-8pm (pool). The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, Nation Towers, Corniche West, (02 694 4780). Rosewood Abu Dhabi Credit: Rosewood Abu Dhabi In the heart of the city, Rosewood Abu Dhabi is home to a gorgeous 25-metre pool with views over Al Maryah. The luxury hotel is definitely the place to spend an adults-only pool day, soaking in the sunshine before heading out for a night on the town. Glo, its poolside bar keeps things upmarket too with a range of house drinks, making it perfect for a day-to-night chilled pool day experience. Dhs180 (Dhs100 redeemable as F&B) weekdays, Dhs300 (Dhs100 redeemable as F&B) weekends. Daily 6am-10pm. Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island, (02 813 5550). Saadiyat Beach Club Saadiyat Beach Club The clue's in the name, but Saadiyat Beach Club doesn't mess around when hosting those who want to swim, sunbathe and chill out in the sunshine. Over the water cabanas take in the infinity pool and ocean, and rouse yourself to enjoy the boho beach bar on the sand, for refreshing mocktails and Med-inspired light bites. Weekdays: Dhs225 (ladies), Dhs285 (gents), Dhs399 (couple), Dhs100 (kids aged six-12); weekends: Dhs325 (ladies), Dhs475 (gents), Dhs500 (couple) Dhs150 (kids aged six-12). Open daily 8am-7pm. Saadiyat Island, (02 656 3500). SAL Saadiyat Island Located inside Jumeirah Saadiyat Island, SAL opened in 2024 and it's since become one of the most exclusive beach clubs in Abu Dhabi. Perfect for a day of relaxation, you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the infinity pool overlooking Saadiyat beach, delicious Mediterranean bites and luxurious sun loungers. Mon-Thu: Dhs300 (sunbeds), Dhs700 (round beds for up to two guests), Dhs1,200 (cabanas for up to three guests, Dhs400 additional per guest); Fri-Sun: Dhs400 (sunbeds), Dhs000 (round beds for up to two guests), Dhs1,600 (cabanas for up to three guests, Dhs400 additional per guest). Open daily 9am-7pm (pool), 9am-sunset (beach). SAL, Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi. Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri Credit: Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri One of Abu Dhabi's most sumptuous hotels has an equally incredible pool and private beach, and it makes the perfect backdrop for a pampering pool day. It's also a romantic option if you're looking for a pretty day escape overlooking the Khor Al Maqta creek. You'll be spoilt for choice from the pool bar with some of the fanciest poolside snacks going. Dhs250 (daily, redeemable). Open daily 9am-8pm. Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Khor Al Maqta, (02 509 8888). Sheraton Abu Dhabi Another great option in the Corniche area is the Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort. The private pool area opens onto the beach for easy access to turquoise waters on the Corniche waterfront. Dhs150 (Sun-Thu); Dhs250 (Fri-Sat), Dhs150 redeemable on F&B 50% off for kids 6-12 every day. kids under 6 go free. Open daily 10am-8pm. Sheraton Abu Dhabi, Corniche (054 791 9022). West Bay Abu Dhabi Credit: West Bay Abu Dhabi If you want serious choice on your Abu Dhabi pool day, then head to West Bay Abu Dhabi beach club, which has not one but four temperature-controlled outdoor swimming pools, including a dedicated child-friendly pool and an adult-only pool. Located at Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort, Abu Dhabi Corniche, West Bay's beach club gives you instant holiday vibes, especially with a gorgeous tropical, barefoot dining option just yards from your sunlounger at West Bay Lounge. Come for a day and you'll want to stay all week. Weekdays: Dhs200 (Dhs100 F&B voucher), Dhs90 (kids aged five to 15); weekends: Dhs300 (Dhs100 F&B voucher), Dhs90 (kids aged five to 15). Open daily 8am-8pm. Corniche Road, (02 692 4205). Wet Deck, The W Credit: Wet Deck, The W The W's super stylish Wet Deck is definitely a pool to be seen round, overlooking the Yas Marina Circuit on Yas Island. While it's not beachside, this rooftop pool is super cool. Kick back here to enjoy a lazy afternoon, with a soundtrack provided by a DJ. Dhs250 (weekdays, fully redeemable on F&B), Dhs350 (weekends, fully redeemable on F&B). Open daily noon-7pm. W Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, (02 656 0000). Yas Acres Credit: Supplied Head over to the Yas Acres Golf & Country Club for a refined, quieter pool day, lounging around the adults-only main pool. For the little ones, there is a separate (supervised) kids' pool. Of course, it's a top place for those wanting to be on the golf course, but it's also on our list to get some lengths in. Splash by the pool or just sit and sip on a drink and relax. Dhs100 (Dhs75 redeemable on F&B), Dhs30 (kids over six years, fully redeemable on F&B), free (kids under six). Daily 9am-7pm. Yas Acres Golf & Country Club, Yas Island, (050 757 4808). Yas Beach Credit: Yas Beach Yas Beach's pool is right next to the sand, meaning you can hop between the sea and the pool, on a double sunlounger with delicious light bites and mixed drinks on hand from the terraced restaurant. Dhs80 (Mon-Thu, Dhs50 redeemable on F&B), Dhs150 (Fri-Sun and public holidays, Dhs50 redeemable on F&B), free ( kids under 12s). Open daily 10am-7pm (Sat and Wed only 21+ is allowed). Yas Island, @yasbeach (056 242 0435) More things to do in Abu Dhabi Everything happening in Abu Dhabi in 2025 From new openings to big events, this is shaping up to be quite a year It's official: Abu Dhabi Comedy Season is returning for a second edition with some huge names Wow, look at this line-up Abu Dhabi's best restaurants: Everywhere you should eat at least once Your dinner inspo is sorted
What's On
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
Vida Dubai Mall's The Vibe Collective is the kind of vibe we love
Sponsored: Unlimited beverages? Yes please. If you haven't visited Vida Dubai Mall yet, then you're missing out. This elegant yet sophisticated hotel is the latest addition to the Vida family when it opened in February of this year. It's nestled in the heart of downtown, and from the name you can guess exactly where. It's located on Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard and gives guests direct access to the incredibleDubai Mall, through the up-and-coming district of Chinatown. It also has incredible Burj Khalifa views and two distinctive dining destinations. One being Origins that hosts an incredible deal at the weekends, The Vibe Collective. Firstly, there's a live band, so the vibes are instantly good. Then there's unlimited drinks from the weekly cocktail list, plus wine if you fancy it. Also, wait until you see the huge tapas board that arrives to the table, perfection. Full of bread, cheese, hummus, and so much more for you to munch on. All of this for Dhs225 per person and you get a whole three hours of it. If you'd like shisha, it will cost you Dhs299, which is also a steal in our opinion. The Vibe Collective is on every Thursday to Saturday from 7pm to 10pm, so you can choose what day suits you best. Whether it's after work drinks with some colleagues, or it's a date night over the weekend, the choice is yours to make. You can see more info here or call +9714 428 6888. > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
What's On
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
Review: Sirene by Gaia
It's been six years since Gaia made its smash hit debut on the DIFC dining scene. The star pairing of hospitality heavyweights Fundamental (then Bulldozer Group) – led by Evgeny Kuzin; and chef Izu Ani, formerly at the helm of foodie favourites like LPM and La Serre, put upscale Greek dining on the DIFC culinary map, paving the way for a slew of successful homegrown restaurants. Fast forward to 2025, and the two have unveiled Sirene by Gaia, a seaside iteration of the beloved Greek-Mediterranean restaurant, one of a dozen new additions to J1 Beach. And how does Sirene look to stand out in a sea of new beach clubs? Firstly, by being the world's largest – the sprawling space is part-restaurant, part-beach club, and the two are linked by whitewashed bars, a sparkling swimming pool, and a lounge arranged around a DJ booth where guests dine with their toes in the sand – it's all big, bold and beautiful. The neutral shades and endless white stone are laced with pops of colourful bougainvillaea in shades of cerise and orange – the whole aesthetic reminiscent of the oh-so-chic Cyclades. There's plenty of nods to the original Gaia in DIFC – a fresh fish display, lovely neutral uniforms worn by the team, and plenty of big tables covered in crisp white tablecloths that ensure the air of sophistication remains, even at the beachfront. There's a more chilled vibe at the pool and beach, where plump loungers all gaze down towards the water; so if you're here for the party, be sure to book the restaurant. Under the cover of the indoor space, there are more tables for two and four, while the ones down towards the DJ booth are designed for bigger groups, but the indoor-outdoor spaces seamlessly blend, and all command striking views of the sea. The menu isn't extensive, but there's lots we like the look of – starting with the bread, which arrives freshly baked and with a side of tangy tomato dip that's refreshing and light. We stick in familiar territory with the seabream carpaccio (Dhs225), and the fish is fresh and cut into slivers, served with a trio of dressings of fragrant truffle, zesty mandarin, and sour lemon, and each offers a complementary flavour. The Greek salad (Dhs135) is a generous glass bowl of neatly cut onion, cucumber and tomatoes, tossed in a traditional dressing and topped with a slab of barrel-aged feta that balances everything perfectly. From the mains, we opt for the king prawns and a sea bass (market price) cooked to order from the fresh fish display – the simple seasoning of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon lets the high-quality ingredients sing, and when paired with a bowl of crispy fries (Dhs50) and baked vegetables (Dhs50). We make a late afternoon reservation, and even mid-week as we're ordering dessert (go for the fried Greek donuts (Dhs75), drizzled in a sweet honey), the music is turning up and magnums of chilled rosé begin to pour at tables around us. Guests start to migrate to the bars, lingering for sunset drinks as day turns to night. Verdict: Go for the food, stay for the vibes. Sirene by Gaia, J1 Beach, daily 10am to 1am. Tel: (0) 4 570 4766 . @sirene_dxb > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
