• Dive into fine dining restaurants in Dubai, offering unforgettable fine dining experiences that blend skyscrapers with gourmet delights.
• Explore the American South at CLAW BBQ, relish Michelin-star excellence at 11 Woodfire, enjoy upscale Japanese cuisine at Okku, and experience French patisserie elegance at La Maison Ani in Dubai Mall.
• From seafood feasts with stunning views to Michelin-star simplicity, Japanese culinary excellence, and French-Mediterranean delights, Dubai caters to food enthusiasts with unparalleled dining experiences.

Embark on a culinary odyssey in the dazzling city of Dubai, where gastronomy meets style. Dubai is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines and is not only a haven for skyscrapers and luxury but also a paradise for food enthusiasts. As you stroll through this desert gem, get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the finest offerings from around the world.

In a city where dining is elevated to an art form, the best fine dining restaurants promise not just meals, but unforgettable journeys for your palate. Prepare to indulge in a culinary spectacle as we unveil the top destinations we tried that make Dubai a true food-lovers paradise.

Michelin Star

11 Woodfire

Visiting Dubai without eating at a Michelin-star restaurant? Dine in at 11 Woodfire a 2 Michelin Star restaurant and experience culinary excellence.

Located in a cosy Jumeirah Beach Road villa, this chic yet laid-back spot revolves around convivial gatherings by a warming fire. Chef Akmal Anuar, with a culinary journey from his parents’ Singapore hawker stall to Dubai’s trendiest kitchens, focuses on celebrating simplicity and natural flavours.

The menu features signature dishes which we tried, including the truffle Wagyu Burger which some claim is one of the top 3 burgers in Dubai. Other signature dishes include Salmon Carpaccio,  Seabass with tamarind and hay-salted crust, and Australian T-bone steak, all prepared using diverse grill techniques and wood types.

The food is delicious and nothing you’ve ever eaten, a must-have while visiting Dubai. The Passion Ate mocktail was quite a dramatic drink that came with a bubble that you could burst with a straw to reveal a cloud of moisture.

The desserts were noteworthy including the Signature Burnt Cheesecake and the decadent Sheep’s Milk Creme Brulee.

Fine Dining Restaurants

Okku

Renowned for its Japanese cuisine and upscale dining experience, Okku is a multi-award-winning restaurant that stands out in the UAE as a premier destination, offering not only exceptional Japanese food but also exquisite ‘O’ style cocktails. Located in the Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Okku boasts a 20-meter sushi station and robata grill, where skilled chefs showcase their expertise.

The menu emphasizes the use of top-notch ingredients, including fresh fish and premium wagyu beef imported from Japan. Notable highlights feature the spicy tuna crispy rice starter and Okku’s unique rendition of the famed black cod. We had a gala time and found the grilled aubergine amongst the top runners. The Wagyu steak brought another unique experience, being cooked tableside on a hot Himalayan salt stone, it tasted exceptionally great too.

Stepping into Okku, you’ll go through a corridor adorned with traditional Japanese lanterns, setting the mood with colourful lighting. The lounge area, featuring a digital display resembling an aquatic tank with jellyfish, adds to the ambience.

They have a live DJ and a lady’s night every extremely popular week. We spent a leisurely 3 hours and enjoyed every minute of the gastronomic journey and exceptional service.

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La Maison Ani

Renowned Chef Izu’s La Maison Ani is bringing the fine dining experience to the Dubai Mall introducing a touch of French patisserie elegance. Located in Fashion Avenue, this chic establishment transcends the typical mall restaurant experience.

Welcoming patrons with charming pink archways, adorned with white-cloth tables and service akin to a five-star hotel. The menu is a breath of fresh air, featuring French-Mediterranean flavours that uplift the senses. Culinary highlights include delectable offerings like beef carpaccio, truffle tart, escargot, lobster linguine, and mushroom risotto.

We sampled delicacies from a set menu that had a delicious beef tartare served with a side of fries, a flavorful Caesar salad, and the Izu Burger which was the Wagyu beef burger.  From calamari to Margherita pizza, the menu covered everything perfect for a delicious meal.

BBQ Restaurant:

CLAW BBQ

We loved experiencing the essence of the American South at Pavilion’s waterside hotspot, CLAW BBQ, in a spacious setting with stunning Ain Dubai views.

Located in the Pavilion at the Beach, the outdoor seating is perfect for this time of the year. Lots of seafood choices, a great buzz with live music and a rocking bar.

With its vibrant ambience, including high ceilings adorned with decorative nets and neon lights, this two-story gem offers a seafood feast featuring crab, mussels, and daily fresh catches. The grill menu boasts UAE’s first authentic BBQ wood-chip smoker, crafting mouth-watering selections like beef brisket and smoked chicken. The beef brisket was a favourite.

The chips and Guacamole were excellent and freshly made for every order.

Guests can also enjoy entertainment with pool or pinball in the arcade or take on the mechanical bull – all before savouring a delightful dinner.

Would you like to add other restaurants in Dubai to the list? Let us know in the comments below.

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