Reminder: Due to Covid-19, some restaurants have altered their offerings and may be temporarily closed.
Before dining at any restaurant in Dubai, here are some general rules to take note of:
Make a reservation (Duh!) | Gents, no shorts, flip flops, tank tops and the likes (always best to call and confirm before going) | Confirm that the offer/special you are looking to redeem is still available or applicable on your day of preference.
Below are my favorite Seafood restaurants in the city (that I’ve personally tried):
PIERCHIC ($$$) – Madinat Jumeirah (Al Qasr Hotel)
Vibe: Chic/Romantic
In terms of ambiance, it gets no better than this waterfront restaurant on a private pier set perfectly in the middle of the Arabian sea. Sample some of your favorite Italian & seashore dishes with endless views of the sea. This is definitely one of Dubai’s most romantic nights out.
Specials:
- Chic Brunch: Food + House Beverages | 595 AED | Fridays
- Chic By Day: 3 course lunch or sunset of fresh seafood | 350 AED | Saturdays -Thursdays, 12-3PM
- Ocean Vibes Brunch: Food + Beverages | 575 AED | Saturdays
SEAFU ($$-$$$) – Jumeirah (Four Seasons Hotel Jumeirah)
Vibe: Chic/Trendy
Asian-inspired fresh seafood served in a trendy beach front atmosphere.
Specials:
- Happy Hour: 5-7PM, Daily
- Omakasa Brunch: Saturdays – call for details
AL MAHARA ($$$$) – Burj Al Arab
Vibe: High-end/Romantic
Intimate fine dining in a unique atmosphere – gold oyster-shaped entrance way that leads to a massive aquarium style seating. The vibe alone is worth the price tag. Also, go for the cod – delicious!
Specials:
- Various tasting menus available.
OSSIANO ($$$$) – Palm Jumeirah (Atlantis Hotel)
Vibe: High-end/Romantic
Holding the title for Dubai’s most romantic restaurant for several reasons. Consider this immersive experience: Imagine dining as stingrays, sharks and fish swim right past your table… a table spread with caviar and avant-garde creations from acclaimed chef Gregoire Berger. If it’s a date and your partner is worth the splurge, you can have divers appear in the aquarium with a special message.
Specials:
- Gregoire’s Kitchen by Ossiano: Tasting Menu | Starting at 650 AED
NOÉPE ($$-$$$) – Dubai Creek (Park Hyatt Dubai Creek)
Vibe: Chic
Escape the bustling heart of the city to spend an afternoon at Dubai’s Cape Cod inspired restaurant, NOÉPE. It’s a charming and relaxed space and the perfect setting for pre (or post) dinner drinks. The menu, although tasty, is quite limited. The slow cooked pork belly, truffle ceviche and the wasabi honey ice cream are a must try.
Specials:
- Happy Hour: Select drinks at 30 AED | Saturdays – Thursdays, 4-7PM
BU QTAIR ($-$$) – Jumeirah
Vibe: Casual
No fancy outfits required at this mom & pop restaurant. Bu Qtair is a local’s favorite set on Jumeirah’s waterfront. Place your order for your favorite fresh seafood and dig-in. Cheap & delicious food with a local touch.
CAST ($$) – Jumeirah
Vibe: Casual
Stylish entrance, minimalist decor and tasty seafood. At Cast, expect a modestly sized menu packed with only the essentials: lobster rolls, lobster mac ‘n’ cheese, mussels, an assortment of fresh fish/shellfish and a host of additional smaller and larger plates.
C RESTAURANT ($$) – Sheikh Zayed Road
Vibe: Trendy
Santorini vibes quietly placed alongside Dubai’s busiest motorway, C Restaurant is serving flavors of the sea along with Mediterranean cuisines. Some dishes even requires you to go “fishing”. The detailed interior is on point (if you’re fond of the Victorian era)!
Specials:
- Unlimited Sushi: 99AED | Saturdays, 2-7PM