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What's On
27-05-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
Review: The Cullinan, Dubai's sleek new steakhouse
Does Dubai have a really great high-end steakhouse? It's something I think to myself as I pull up at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. The hotel – and its near dozen restaurants – are only six weeks into operation when we find ourselves heading to The Cullinan. But word has spread fast, and even though we're here for an early reservation, the dining room fills up quickly. Sure, in part, it can be credited to this being one of the newest tables in town. But I also suspect others also welcome the arrival of a glamourous steakhouse to Dubai's well-populated dining scene. The interiors are deliciously Art Deco. Think smooth white and grey marble, a monochrome tiled terrace, mirrored ceilings, and plenty of gold accents. If there was any doubt beforehand that this restaurant was a steakhouse, it melts away upon arrival, where grand meat display refrigerators, stocked with premium cuts, welcome guests. The dining room is expansive, but cleverly designed so it's still got soul. An open kitchen runs down one side, chefs bustling away at stations, while the other side opens out onto a long alfresco terrace that perfectly frames the Burj Al Arab for instant wow-factor. The Cullinan has a big focus on meat, but there's also seafood options across the starters, a page of salads, and a selection of mains that aren't steak for those not here to sample the premium cuts. The two pages of steaks might be overwhelming, but our friendly server is on hand to make expert recommendations and answer all our questions with a knowledge and passion that impresses. To start, we're told we have to try the steak tartare mille-feuille (Dhs118, pictured above), and we're very glad we do. It arrives as a beautifully plated ring of diced beef tenderloin topped with truffle caviar, cucumber pearls and gold leaf (this is Dubai, after all), with a creamy demi-glace poured into the middle. The flavours are powerful but balanced, and it's exceptionally good. The wood-fired prawns (Dhs95) are meaty but a little dry, despite the plate being dotted with a basil cream and yellow capsicum gel. Our steaks arrive, and the 300-day grain-fed Black Market ribeye I order (Dhs380) is near perfection. Each bite melts in the mouth, it's cooked just as I like it, and when dipped in a side of chimichurri (Dhs30), it creates the perfect pairing. You'll need to order sides too, and the garlic butter spinach (Dhs45) is one we'd order over and over again. For dessert, we like the look of almost all of them, but the white chocolate soufflé (Dhs85) is the ideally indulgent end to a meal that hits almost all the high notes. With a great soundtrack, sophisticated ambience, and a buzzy vibe that makes you want to keep the evening going at the bar after dinner, The Cullinan makes a solid case for one of Dubai's best new restaurants. Verdict: This is a sleek date night spot worth splashing out on. The Cullinan, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, daily 12pm to 2am. Tel: (0)4 570 4551. @ > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
What's On
25-04-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
Sheikh Hamdan visits this restaurant in Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab - What's On
Sheikh Hamdan has good taste in restaurants… HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai is regularly spotted out and about around the city showing his support for local businesses. He recently visited fine-dining steakhouse The Cullinan in the newest luxury hotel in Dubai, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. The restaurant posted on their Instagram saying 'The Cullinan was honoured to host His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum @faz3. It was a true privilege to serve him, and we warmly welcome him to return at any time.' Sheikh Hamdan has been spotted at lots of restaurants around the emirate. He is active on his instagram, posting updates on his life, his family and also updating his followers on various initiatives happening in the emirate. Set against a refined, nautical-inspired interior, The Cullinan combines gourmet steaks, seafood, and seasonal produce, served with the expertise of a wine and meat sommelier. Oh, and you'll have those fine marina views, too. > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
FACT
09-04-2025
- FACT
The Cullinan Review: Steakhouse sophistication at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab
A meat sommelier and Burj Al Arab views are just some of the draws at this slick new spot. The name Cullinan carries a legacy of rarity, refinement, and luxury. A fitting moniker, then, for a new restaurant that resides within the glamorous confines of Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. The Cullinan takes its name from the Cullinan Diamond, the largest gem-quality rough diamond ever discovered. Unearthed in South Africa in 1905, this extraordinary stone weighed an astonishing 3,106 carats in its raw form. It was later cut into several stones, the most famous of which—Cullinan I and II—were set into the British Crown Jewels and the Sovereign's Sceptre, respectively. In modern times, the name Cullinan has found a new home in ultra-luxury automobiles. The Rolls-Royce Cullinan, named in honour of the legendary diamond, is the marque's first SUV. This shared nomenclature is more than a coincidence. The Cullinan restaurant offers a similarly elevated experience—one that's defined by precision, exclusivity, and the finest ingredients the world has to offer. The approach to The Cullinan is nothing short of cinematic. Located in Dubai's newest ultra-luxury resort, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab—a property inspired by the sleek curves of a superyacht—the restaurant is discreetly tucked away on the first floor close to the spa. The interiors are modern and sophisticated: think sculptural lighting, and a moody monochromatic palette of inky blacks and brilliant whites. The atmosphere is sultry yet refined, designed for long evenings of whispered conversations and gastronomic theatre. Tables are generously spaced, allowing for intimacy, while the huge open kitchen injects a burst of kinesis into the room. The terrace offers spectacular skyline views, framed by the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab on one side and the world's tallest building – Burj Khalifa – on the other. With the Marina skyline glistening on the horizon and the light show of Ain Dubai reflected in the ocean, The Cullinan sets the stage for a memorable meal. The menu at The Cullinan takes steakhouse classics and reinvents them with an elegant edge. Our meal began with the Scallop Crudo (AED 96) where delicate, translucent slices of scallop are infused with butterfly pea, instilling then dish with an ethereal blue tone, the subtle marine sweetness enhanced by a parmesan nut dressing that brings a savoury umami hit. A citrus skin salad adds brightness, dashi pearls and caviar provide bursts of saline depth, while crispy scallop crackers that shatter with a satisfying crunch. From sea to land, the Steak Tartare Mille-Feuille (AED 118) is playful and precise. Tenderloin, hand-chopped to preserve its integrity, is layered with impossibly thin mille-feuille potato sheets, adding texture. Truffle mayo and truffle caviar double down on the opulence, while gold leaf and cucumber pearls lend the plate a jewelled finish. It's luxurious, but grounded by the rich, almost nostalgic notes of the creamy demi-glace and the sharpness of pickled onion. Then came the Oxtail & Bone Marrow Croquettes (AED 96). Golden and crisp on the outside, the interior reveals a moreish mix of slow-cooked oxtail and unctuous bone marrow. Black truffle aioli and caramelised onion purée lend earthy sweetness, while smoked paprika dust and a fermented chilli gel offer a gentle, warming kick. It's a dish designed for sharing, though you'll be reluctant to part with even one. The Short Rib Dumplings (AED 87) were perhaps the evening's most comforting course, if a touch on the dry side. Inside pillowy dumpling wrappers lies juicy wagyu short rib, deeply flavoured with a demi-glace reduction. Black garlic cream, parsnip purée, and yellow pepper add complexity and sweetness, while a lacy tuile brings texture. It's a soulful plate that showcases the chef's understanding of balance and layering. Being a steakhouse, The Cullinan's menu reads like a curated list of the world's finest bovine terroirs. Opting to work with local suppliers rather than big brands, a meat sommelier is on hand to curate a selection of cuts. We opted for the Bass Strait Fillet (AED 320) from Tasmania and the Silver Fern Farms Fillet (AED 290) from New Zealand, both grass-fed. The former, raised on rye grass and clover in the pristine environments of 39°S, arrived perfectly charred and unadorned, showcasing its rich, clean flavour thanks to the 'Natural State Hanging Method.' The latter, a certified Net Carbon Zero cut, was buttery in texture. Neither cut required a sauce or seasoning embellishment. Dessert lands like a final act of edible theatre. The Lemon & Yuzu Crispy Spheres (AED 75) are a marvel of technique and whimsy. A sugar-coated orb that resembles a freshly picked lemon complete with texture skin and a lone leaf cracks open to reveal a tangy yuzu ganache and silken lemon curd, anchored by a vanilla sable and topped with torched meringue. It's a dish that dances between playful and precise, much like the restaurant itself. Service at The Cullinan is discreet and perfectly paced. Staff move with the kind of confidence that comes from deep knowledge and rigorous training, yet there's none of the stuffiness that can sometimes accompany high-end dining. It's to be expected as the restaurant comes from Food Fund International, the same group behind the likes of Clay, Ristorante Loren and SĀN Beach Club. The newly opened Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is a hotel packed with surprises, but away from the Burj Al Arab views and super-yacht-inspired facade, the dining destinations are the real draw. The Cullinan asserts itself as a crowning jewel in the property's culinary diadem. Much like the diamond it's named after, the restaurant sparkles with distinction and a sense of occasion. GO: Visit for reservations and more information.
What's On
05-03-2025
- Business
- What's On
Steakhouse The Cullinan is set to open in Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab
The Cullinan is more than a restaurant; it's an experience… At long last, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is finally opening its doors, and with the new resort comes an impressive collection of 10 restaurants and bars, all of which have been designed by globally renowned restaurant designers, including The Cullinan. 3 of 12 The Cullinan is set to be a luxury steakhouse, opening its doors on March 14, 20205. It will offer a wonderful dining experience with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and the Burj Al Arab. Set against a refined, nautical-inspired interior, The Cullinan combines gourmet steaks, seafood, and seasonal produce, served with the expertise of a wine and meat sommelier. The restaurant is part of FoodFund International's continued expansion, with the steakhouse being the group's latest venture into Dubai's fine dining landscape. Here's what we know View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Cullinan Dubai (@ Every detail, from its interiors to the ambiance and service, has had plenty of thought put into it to cultivate an atmosphere of effortless sophistication. It has been designed by award-winning architect Tristan du Plessis and reflects his signature aesthetic—one that seamlessly blends bold contemporary design with timeless elegance. Every corner of the restaurant reflects his design philosophy. As for the menu, the steakhouse will pay homage to the finest meats, seafood, and seasonal produce. As with the ambiance, careful thought has been put together to craft its menu. Expect a quality selection of cuts thanks to the The Cullinan's meat sommelier. And your dining experience gets even better, thanks to the restaurant's wine sommelier offering a great pairing to elevate every dish. Beyond the table, The Cullinan experience extends to its bar and lounge. It is set to be an intimate retreat for both quiet indulgence and celebratory gatherings. About Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is one of the most exciting new hotel openings in the UAE. Completing the oceanic-inspired trilogy on the Jumeirah beachfront alongside Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Burj Al Arab, the new resort is now accepting reservations from March 14, 2025. Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab will house 386 rooms and suites, four penthouses, and 83 luxury hotel apartment suites, alongside state-of-the-art amenities. Read more about this stunning hotel here. Images: Supplied
FACT
17-02-2025
- Business
- FACT
Fine dining steakhouse The Cullinan will open in Dubai
Dubai is home to world-class restaurants, from MICHELIN-starred venues to homegrown concepts. In March, The Cullinan will be opening at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, and it will offer a fine dining steakhouse experience. The Cullinan name refers to the Cullinan Diamond, which is one of the largest diamonds in the world. The sophisticated Steakhouse will boast beautiful views of the coastline and the iconic Burj Al Arab. Designed by the award-winning Tristan du Plessis, the venue aims to blend together contemporary design with timeless elegance. The space includes a restaurant, bar and lounge, which each ooze sophistication. The restaurant space includes white tablecloths, which are punctuated by green seats and potted plants. The Cullinan's menu is a tribute to the fine dining across meat, seafood, and seasonal produce. At the heart of the experience is the meat sommelier, who curates a selection of cuts. Plus, the wine sommelier is on hand to offer pairings that enhance each dish. Johnny Tomazos, CEO of Food Fund International, explained: 'With The Cullinan, we are redefining luxury dining, blending craftsmanship and culinary excellence to create an unmatched experience in Dubai. Every element of this concept has been carefully curated to offer an extraordinary journey – one where design, service, and cuisine come together in perfect harmony.' Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is home to a range of restaurants. Illiana is a beachfront destination that draws inspiration from Greece. Rialto Restaurant and Bar brings to life a Venetian charm. The Fore offers breakfast, and The Bombay Club offers Indian cuisine. Check in with FACT for the best things to do in Dubai. GO: Visit for more information.
