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Time of India

Meals with royalty: 20 must-visit Dubai restaurants where crown prince Sheikh Hamdan dines

His Highness Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan, pictured at La Maison Ani by Chef Izu (left) with Chef Izu Ani, and at Bungalo34 (right)./Image: Instagram Dubai is no stranger to high-end dining, but few endorsements speak louder than those from royalty. Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, widely known as Fazza, is renowned not just for his athletic pursuits and adventurous spirit, but also for his love of gastronomy. Over the years, he has been spotted at a variety of restaurants across the emirate, spanning cuisines from Japanese to Greek, French to Indian, and Modern Middle Eastern. Here is your insider's guide to 20 restaurants Sheikh Hamdan has visited, each one a showcase of Dubai's diverse, world-class dining scene. These are places where you can not only indulge in top-tier cuisine but perhaps even share a room with royalty. 1. La Maison Ani by Chef Izu Location: Fashion Avenue, Dubai Mall Cuisine: French Brasserie La Maison Ani is a refined French brasserie conceptualized by the celebrated Chef Izu Ani. Designed with a conservatory-style interior filled with botanical charm and natural light, the space is ideal for casual lunches and elegant dinners. The menu highlights artisanal breads and classic French techniques. Just a day ago, In a memorable moment that captured public attention, Sheikh Hamdan, accompanied by Sheikh Khaled, surprised guests at La Maison Ani by paying the full restaurant bill, which reportedly totaled between Dh25,000 to Dh30,000. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like They Were So Beautiful Before; Now Look At Them; Number 10 Will Shock You Reportingly Undo This act of generosity was widely shared on social media, further cementing the restaurant's prestige. 2. Gigi at J1 Beach Location: J1 Beach, La Mer Cuisine: Mediterranean This upscale beachfront spot combines laid-back elegance with Mediterranean flavors and sea views of the Arabian Gulf. Operated by Rikas Hospitality, the team described Sheikh Hamdan's visit as 'a privilege,' praising his appreciation for both atmosphere and cuisine. The location is perfect for diners seeking a relaxed yet refined seaside experience. 3. Kaspia Dubai Location: Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah Beach Cuisine: French (Caviar Specialist) An extension of the legendary Caviar Kaspia Paris, Kaspia Dubai draws royalty and A-listers alike. Known for its sophisticated ambience and premium caviar, the restaurant saw a visit from Sheikh Hamdan within its first week of opening. Intimate, elegant, and upscale, Kaspia is a standout destination for luxurious French dining. 4. Ammos Greek Restaurant Location: Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah Beach Cuisine: Greek Mediterranean Ammos brings authentic Greek flavors to Dubai's coastline with traditional dishes and fresh seafood served against a stunning beachfront backdrop. The team expressed their honour at hosting the Crown Prince, reflecting their dedication to hospitality and culinary authenticity. 5. Gohan Japanese Speakeasy Location: DIFC Cuisine: Japanese Hidden behind a discreet entrance, Gohan is an intimate speakeasy by the creators of La Cantine du Faubourg. The restaurant combines traditional Japanese craftsmanship with a sleek, modern design. It's an exclusive, high-end dining experience, ideal for those who value privacy and subtle luxury. 6. Bungalo34 Location: Pearl Jumeira Island, Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Cuisine: International Bungalo34 is a newly opened restaurant that captures the essence of island life with a sophisticated twist. Set within Nikki Beach Resort & Spa, the venue blends tropical inspiration with international culinary influences, offering a menu tailored to its relaxed yet upscale beachfront environment. 7. Alaya Restaurant Location: DIFC Cuisine: Modern Middle Eastern Alaya celebrates the region's culinary heritage through a modern lens. The décor is richly detailed, and the menu reinterprets traditional Middle Eastern flavors using contemporary techniques. The restaurant stands out for its attention to detail in both presentation and hospitality. 8. Gaia Restaurant Location: DIFC Cuisine: Contemporary Greek Another culinary gem by Chef Izu Ani, Gaia elevates traditional Greek dishes using high-quality ingredients and meticulous technique. The space is modern and stylish, and its reputation for consistent excellence makes it one of Sheikh Hamdan's favored dining spots. 9. Kai Enzo Location: Multiple locations Cuisine: Japanese Kai Enzo is all about authenticity and precision. With a minimalist aesthetic and a menu offering sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese classics, the restaurant crafts an immersive experience for diners seeking simplicity and depth in their meal. 10. Scalini Italian Restaurant Location: Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah Beach Cuisine: Italian Scalini offers an elegant and homely take on traditional Italian cuisine. With handmade pastas and classic antipasti, it brings the essence of Italy to Dubai. Its beachfront location and commitment to authenticity have made it a go-to for fine Italian dining. 11. Nusr-Et Steakhouse Location: Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah Beach Cuisine: Turkish Steakhouse Famous globally for its founder Salt Bae (Nusret Gökçe), this steakhouse offers a theatrical experience with premium cuts and showmanship. The combination of high-quality meat and luxurious décor has made it a magnet for celebrities and dignitaries, including Sheikh Hamdan. 12. Amazonico Dubai Location: DIFC Cuisine: Latin American Amazonico offers a vibrant Latin American dining experience amid a lush, rainforest-inspired interior. The diverse menu spans Brazilian, Peruvian, and Colombian influences, crafted with modern techniques. Its immersive décor and upbeat energy make it a uniquely dynamic dining spot. 13. Eauzone Location: One&Only Royal Mirage Cuisine: Asian Fusion Set beside the beach, Eauzone features a tranquil ambiance with views of the sea and innovative Asian-inspired cuisine. The romantic, open-air design and creative use of fresh seafood and spices make it ideal for intimate dinners. 14. Pierchic Location: Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah Cuisine: Seafood An iconic overwater restaurant, Pierchic offers panoramic ocean views and a seafood-centric fine dining experience. The secluded, serene setting and commitment to premium ingredients make it perfect for private celebrations and exclusive occasions. 15. Folly by Nick & Scott Location: Madinat Jumeirah Cuisine: British Contemporary Chefs Nick Alvis and Scott Price bring modern British cuisine to life with Middle Eastern influences. Known for seasonal ingredients and inventive preparations, Folly combines creativity with an upscale yet approachable atmosphere. 16. Tomo Japanese Restaurant Location: Raffles Dubai Cuisine: Japanese Tomo is celebrated for its commitment to traditional Japanese techniques and premium ingredients. Its refined, tranquil environment and attentive service have earned it a loyal clientele among those seeking an authentic Japanese dining experience. 17. Roberto's Dubai Location: DIFC Cuisine: Italian Roberto's is all about traditional Italian excellence. From handmade pasta to wood-fired meats, the restaurant's culinary philosophy revolves around authenticity and familial warmth. Its upscale atmosphere is balanced by genuine hospitality. 18. Indego by Vineet Location: Grosvenor House Dubai Cuisine: Modern Indian Helmed by Michelin-starred chef Vineet Bhatia, Indego reimagines Indian dishes with bold flavors and artistic flair. The menu is innovative yet rooted in tradition, offering complex spice profiles in a luxurious dining setting. 19. Zuma Dubai Location: DIFC Cuisine: Contemporary Japanese Zuma is an internationally acclaimed restaurant that brings sophisticated izakaya-style dining to Dubai. Featuring a live robata grill and sushi counter, Zuma pairs premium ingredients with sleek design, making it a consistent choice for special occasions and high-profile guests. 20. Cecconi's Dubai Location: Souk Madinat Jumeirah Cuisine: Italian Offering traditional Italian cuisine in a beautiful waterfront setting, Cecconi's emphasizes simple, high-quality ingredients and timeless recipes. The romantic canal-side ambiance and warm service make it ideal for leisurely meals. Whether you're chasing a royal sighting or simply indulging in Dubai's finest fare, these 20 restaurants represent the city's top-tier culinary talent and experiences. Each has earned the Crown Prince's stamp of approval through excellence in service, quality, and ambiance. Tips for visiting these spots: Reserve early: These restaurants are in extremely high demand, especially on weekends and during special occasions. Booking your table ahead of time is crucial to avoid disappointment. Dress well: Most venues enforce a smart-casual to elegant dress code, reflecting the upscale nature of the dining experience and ensuring you feel comfortable alongside other well-dressed guests. Expect exceptional service: The staff in these establishments are trained to provide attentive, discreet, and highly professional service, often going the extra mile to enhance your experience. Be discreet: If you are lucky enough to spot a royal guest or celebrity, maintaining privacy and discretion is essential out of respect for their comfort and the atmosphere of the restaurant.