Dubai – AURA Skypool
From skyline-view dinners to chic seaside lounges, explore the best restaurants and beach clubs that capture Dubai’s bold, luxurious spirit in our ultimate guide
Dubai is renowned for its elevated dining scene, with countless celebrity and local chefs working their culinary magic beachside, poolside and across the city. In recent years, Dubai’s ever-sprawling culinary landscape has catapulted the city into the ranks of the world’s top gastronomic destinations, offering locals and travellers more options than ever before.
It begs the question, though, which restaurants are a must-visit in 2025? From beach clubs to internationally acclaimed dining destinations, this is the ultimate guide to the best foodie experiences making waves in Dubai’s dynamic culinary circuit.
Dinner by Heston Blumental
Perfect for: Serious gourmands and wine connoisseurs
Location: Atlantis the Royal, Palm Jumeirah
As far as culinary concepts go, this British-inspired fine-dining establishment is as unique as they come. From the moment the gastronomic journey begins, it’s evident that they do things a little differently. Here, history blends into the present and ingredients are not what they seem at first glance. Each dish is a love letter to Britain’s historical past, some of which date back to 1390 – like ‘Rice and Flesh’, whose original recipe was found on a manuscript made from cow’s skin. Head Chef Tom Adam, who has worked with Heston for 17 years, mines flavours that have to be experienced to be believed – particularly the brown bread-flavoured ice cream that somehow tastes both delicious and yet exactly like the simple food its name represents.
While Heston’s menu is anything but standard, there are still a few crowd favourites, such as the wagyu beef fillet – sourced from Western Australia – and the truffle mash potato, both of which I choose for my main. For dessert, consider signature dish: spiced tipsy cake with spit-roasted pineapple, or the unexpected olive oil perfume – which tastes far better than it sounds. Boasting one of the largest selections of wine in the UAE, the restaurant also houses an onsite wine cellar complete with classical music that, I’m told, brings “calmness to the wine and enhances its flavour”. Amongst all the options, one bottle stands out: Screaming Eagle’s Cabernet Sauvignon – one of the world’s most sought-after collectible wines from Napa Valley. My sommelier shares that the wait list to secure a bottle is up to 20 years long and requires deep pockets to gain access.
Tip: Dinner starts later in Dubai so for the best ambience book from 8pm onwards – when offered three cards to guide your experience choose The Maverick for the most rewarding journey
atlantis.com/dubai/dining/dinner-by-heston
Gigi Rigolatto
Perfect for: An indulgent long lunch
Location: J1 Beach, Jumeirah
Positioned on the shores of J1 Beach with its array of brand-new beach clubs, sits Gigi’s, a posh Italian beach house restaurant hailing from St Tropez and Paris. Helmed by Paris Society, a premium French hospitality group behind some 70 venues, Gigi’s marks the brand’s second venture since its 2021 debut – and it’s already a hit. The sense of exclusivity is immediate upon arriving, with an elevated crowd soaking up the atmosphere as a roaming guitarist performs nostalgic acoustic tunes. There’s both indoor and outdoor seating to choose from, and a stylish beach club peppered with beige-fringed umbrellas and sunbeds overlooking a pristine pool. At the nearby Bellini bar, it’s cocktails all ‘round and plenty of front-row seats to take in the sunset.
I’m seated outdoors on a lounge adorned with a scattering of beige cushions, underneath a canopy of soft yellow drapes. Freshly baked bread and grissini with a side of olive oil arrive at the table, where traditional Italian crockery on a crisp white tablecloth set the tone. I leave my entrée choice at the hands of my waiter, who swears by the vitello tonnato, their signature dish featuring thinly sliced veal with tuna sauce, fried capers and celery salad. It turns out to be such an unexpected highlight, I contemplate ordering another serving. For mains, Gigi’s has an extensive menu of dishes from land and sea, including the tonno scottato, a seared bluefin tuna steak dish with olive dressing, sour onion, and balsamic vinegar. It’s tempting to choose this – but I’m here for the gnocchi al tartufo – rich pillowy pasta tossed with sage and seasonal truffles, and it doesn’t disappoint. Gigi’s is la dolce vita epitomised.
Tip: Gigi’s is the place to be on the weekend, so be sure to book ahead. Parts of the restaurant are surrounded by sand, so wedges or flat shoes are best. If heels are a dealbreaker, request an indoor table or the sheltered outside deck.
Nobu by the Beach
Perfect for: A casual lunch or elevated poolside dining
Location: Atlantis the Royal, Palm Jumeirah
Dining poolside is a rite of passage in Dubai – and Nobu by the Beach satisfies this demand with its seamless blend of bar, restaurant and beach club dining. I’m here for lunch on a Wednesday, and the vibe is relaxed yet vibrant. Unlike other beach clubs around the world, Nobu exudes a non-pretentious and laid-back charm, where Japanese-Peruvian cuisine and craft take centre stage. The signature cocktail dubbed the ‘Thai Martini’ hails from Thailand and features a tropical blend of passionfruit lychee, Thai lime, and vanilla syrup. As expected, the savoury dishes don’t disappoint, arriving as a parade of bite-sized cold and hot snacks.
The wagyu beef short rib tacos with aji Amarillo (a Peruvian yellow chilli pepper) bring the wow factor, as do the Nobu-style sandwiches, particularly the wagyu beef slider with shaved truffle. It’s not all about the beef, though. The seafood selections of sushi, sashimi and ceviche shine just as brightly. The toro nigiri, I’m told, comes from the most prized (and fattiest) section of Bluefin tuna – a true indulgence in both texture and spend. For those who like a show-stopping spread, Nobu by the Beach serves its platters on ice, featuring premium delicacies like French Oscietra caviar, Japanese sea bream with mizuna sauce (a Japanese mustard green) and Yellowtail kingfish with jalapeno. It doesn’t stop there. French Guillardeau oysters arrive with jalapeño salsa, while the scallop tiradito – a Peruvian-inspired raw dish – adds the final touch to an indulgent lunch.
Tip: The beach club is relaxed with a casual dress code – ideal for a lazy afternoon with DJ tunes, sushi and cocktails – by night, the restaurant calls for something a little more elegant
Aura Skypool
Perfect for: A casual poolside experience with remarkable views and good quality food
Location: Nakheel Tower (entry through the St Regis Hotel, Palm Jumeirah)
This is no ordinary poolside dining experience. A world-first, Aura Skypool breaks the record globally for the highest infinity pool, sitting 200 metres high atop the Nakheel Palm Tower. Carefully positioned for unbeatable 360-degree vantage points overlooking the Palm Jumeirah, Marina and Ain Dubai, Burj Al Arab and the city skyline, this swim-up oasis is a must-visit, especially for first-time visitors to Dubai. It’s my first time here, and I’m impressed. It’s just busy enough to create a buzz, and I observe how the guests all seem to be relishing the unique setting. I perch myself on a floating bed with a marina view and prepare to dine in style.
I’m here for the afternoon session, but there are also sunrise, morning, evening and full-day experiences. As for the lounge options, guests can choose between cabanas, lounge chairs and floating beds, each boasting an expansive view. The menu choices for lunch are surprisingly vast with a delicious selection of Asian-fusion inspired dishes, and I opt for the three course menu that allows me to choose two entrées and a main.
First up, the Baliness satay chicken with peanut sauce and the spicy tuna maki with cucumber, sriracha, tobiko and sesame oil sound like the perfect choices to kick off. My main course is a close call between the kung pao chicken with Sichuan peppercorn and Chinese soy, and the chilli garlic beef with garlic rice, sambal and fried egg. I decide to go with the latter, and as I tuck in, I can’t help but notice the floating trays in the pool topped with champagne and rosé, allowing guests to indulge without leaving the water. There is quite the wine and cocktail list, but I decide to enjoy the non-alcoholic beverages on the menu including a fresh coconut and, to finish, an organic chamomile cooler tea, which set the mood for a little snooze on my floating bed.
Tip: Book dinner on a Thursday or Friday night at 9pm, then head to the Samba Room and kick up your heels at the lively Casa De Samba from 10:30pm
Milos
Perfect for: A splurge-worthy Greek feast or special occasion
Location: Atlantis the Royal, Palm Jumeirah
Renowned for importing fresh seafood daily from the Mediterranean, fine-dining Greek institution Estiatorio Milos was founded in 1979 by Costas Spiliadis, a restaurateur from the vibrant port city of Patras. The first restaurant opened in Montreal, setting the foundation for a global culinary brand celebrated for its commitment to quality and authenticity. Following its early success, Milos expanded to key cities around the world, and more than four decades later, in 2023, the brand arrived in Dubai, opening beside Atlantis The Royal and joining an international portfolio that spans Toronto, Miami, Athens, Las Vegas and Singapore.
It feels like I’ve stepped into the business class of restaurants as I accept the lemongrass-scented hand towel offered as a refreshing welcome at the Dubai outpost. Authentic, fresh ingredients are, as indicated by the daily seafood flights, taken seriously – my waiter casually shares that their signature dish and the main course I’ve chosen – a whole salt-baked sea bass – was delivered just four hours ago from Corfu and is now en route to my table. A handful of starters soon follow, including grilled octopus sourced from Limnos, located in the Northern Aegean Sea. The fava dip that is paired with it hails from Santorini. The tomato salad has tomatoes from Crete and olives from Kalamata. In a matter of minutes, I’ve travelled around Greece without leaving my table, which happens to have front-row seats to the Atlantis Royal fountain show – a true delight.
While this is all quite glamorous, the restaurant’s family ties ground the dining experience. Homegrown touches like the Milos olive oil, sourced exclusively from Costa’s sister’s olive trees in Peloponnesus, add a personal touch and help to tell a local story through food.
Tip: Ask for an outdoor table to enjoy front-row seats to one of Dubai’s beautiful fountain shows, which feature acoustics and colourful aquatic theatrics
Gitano
Perfect for: Elevated Mexican dining and a girls’ night out
Location: J1 Beach, Jumeirah
A bedazzling beach club and restaurant rising from the bohemian shores of Tulum, Gitano knows how to make an entrance. Dubbed a space for human connection, creative expression and memorable Mexican dining, this global hospitality group led by serial entrepreneur James Gardner is quickly making waves among Dubai’s free-spirited locals and visitors. I’m here to see what all the fuss is about.
It’s a sunny Friday afternoon, and I’m ready to be swept into Gitano’s jungle-meets-disco dreamscape. By day, it’s a laidback beachfront oasis; by the weekend, the nights turn into full fiesta mode. Their iconic disco ball gleams above the central dining space mirrored by another hanging on a tribal wooden beam along the boardwalk by the beach club. The two-storey venue sits on the trendy strip of J1 Beach, Dubai’s newest Riviera-style destination.
I’m told the Tequila and Mescal bar is home to over 65 labels of agave-based spirits, fuelling some of the most tropical cocktails I’ve ever seen. I order the ‘Jungle Fever’, a bold and on-brand mezcal concoction of Verde Amaras, coriander, lime and jalapeno. There are two menus: one for the restaurant and another for the beach and pool club, which offers brunch, light bites and snacks. I opt for the full dining experiencenat the restaurant ajd start with one of their small plates – the king crab tostada, topped with avocado pea mash, radish and serrano chilli – a punchy Mexican alternative to jalapeño. Next up: tacos. The menu features a range of elevated tacos but the standout is 12-hour slow roasted short rib birria with chile ancho and chile de arbol. For my main, I go for the tumbada rice, a traditional Mexican dish reimagined Gitano-style featuring prawns and squid paired with lobster bisque, guajillo adobo and green pea chalaca. Simply delicious.
Tip: Book a table at 9pm on a Friday night, have dinner, and then go upstairs for a dancefloor and stunning views of the glistening skyscrapers from a distance
Ling Ling
Perfect for: A glamorous night out on the weekend, especially for singles
Location: Atlantis the Royal, Palm Jumeirah
If you want to experience an effortlessly cool restaurant in Dubai, Ling Ling is my pick of the bunch. The entrance sets the tone: a neon-domed archway guarded by a host, leading to private lifts that whisk you up to the 23rd and 24th floors of Atlantis the Royal. Doors open to reveal a multi-level Asian fusion restaurant blending Izakaya-style Japanese dishes with Cantonese flair. Come late on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday, and the venue morphs into a party courtesy of the onsite Ultra Lounge, with rotating DJs, bottle service and a genre-hopping playlist including Latino reggae, Afro house and hip hop. I’m here on a Wednesday evening, so it’s a little more low-key but still buzzing with energy. My waiter seats me by the window with stunning views overlooking the Palm and Marina. I’m told that this seat has a “minimum cost” and is reserved for special guests, so I immediately feel like a VIP.
Head Chef Steven Nguyen brings his global culinary experience from Toronto and Hong Kong to Ling Ling. The menu is somewhat overwhelming, with myriad small and large dishes including dim sum, sushi rolls, salads, sashimi, noodles, rice… the list goes on. To start, I dig into the Szechuan chicken dumplings and A5 Wagyu robata skewers, which are described as the highest grade of Wagyu beef. The ssamjang glaze, a spicy Korean sauce, adds a flavour punch as it sizzles atop the stonepot and candle underneath. I take my waiter’s advice and try the restaurant’s signature dish from the cold plates section – the Hamachi Crudo, which has Thai coriander and lech de tigre, a citrus-based marinade hailing from Peru. It’s tasty, but what I really want to try is the Boston Lobster Pad Thai, complete with egg, bean sprouts and spiced cashews – the perfect excuse to return.
Tip: The Ultra Lounge does not accept walk-ins; bookings are required – for a more low-key dining experience, visit during the day for lunch on weeknights or arrange an early dinner booking on the weekend
Cloud 22
Perfect for: A luxury poolside experience with a partner or small group of friends
Location: Atlantis the Royal, Palm Jumeirah
If the assignment for the team behind Club 22 was to create the most glamorous venue in Dubai with a panoramic view of Palm Island, they have well and truly succeeded. Located 96 metres above the Palm atop the Atlantis the Royal, this glittering poolside destination is made for the discerning traveller seeking exclusivity and luxury. Dressed in my finest beach attire, I’m ready to see if it lives up to the hype.
I settle into one of the Dolce & Gabbana x Ounass navy and white-embellished daybeds before gliding to the edge of the iconic infinity pool. I ‘get it’ immediately – the view is remarkable. After a dip in all three pools, I’ve worked up an appetite and make my way to the bar to explore the Italian-inspired menu. As expected, indulgent offerings like Oscietra and Royal Beluga caviar feature, but so do more relaxed bites, including Wagyu beef sliders, crispy calamari and ox cheek arancini. As for larger plates, baked sea bass and grilled octopus are popular choices – but I’m drawn to the snacks section, specifically the scampi steamed buns and caviar toast.
To my right, two guests are tucking into the Cloud 22 signature seafood tower – an extravagant showpiece made for those chasing Instagram-worthy bragging rights. Feeling satisfied after my light lunch, I return to my daybed as relaxing tunes float through the air. A live DJ is on the decks and roaming waiters are always within reach, whether you’re craving a cocktail or, as in my case, just need help collapsing my umbrella so I can tan – an activity not for the faint-hearted due to the intense Arabian heat.
Tip: If you’re coming as a small group, book a cabana for privacy and comfort, especially during the warmer months – book the infinity pool floating beds if you’re visiting as a couple or with a friend
atlantis.com/dubai/dining/cloud22
Sushi Samba
Perfect for: The best views of The Palm and tantalising flavours
Location: St Regis Hotel, Palm Jumeirah
It’s fun, it’s vibrant and at a whopping 230 metres high, it holds the title of the highest restaurant on Palm Jumeirah. Positioned on the 51st floor of the St Regis Hotel, Sushi Samba’s 360-degree views are just the beginning – this restaurant has fast become an institution, joining six other venues across the globe. Originally born in late-90s New York, this distinctive dining destination fuses Brazilian, Peruvian and Japanese cuisine wrapped in an immersive jungle-inspired interior. Its appeal lies within its lively atmosphere, a sign of its popularity, even on weekdays. By day, family lunches and business meetings are taking place. By night, the party starts with Brazilian samba dancers on Friday nights.
The restaurant has an open kitchen layout with a sushi counter, robata grill and a sleek bar under the creative direction of Japanese Mastermind and Head Chef Kyung Soo Moo. I opt for their weekday lunch special, which includes a starter and main course. I begin with their signature Chilean sea bass anticuchos, a Peruvian street food classic elevated with white miso and chives. Next up, the black cod with white miso, hajikami and shichimi and does not disappoint. I’m told that their salmon tiradito is a best seller, which is confirmed when I see multiple plates being delivered to the table next to me. Perhaps my fellow diners are drawn to the citrus flavours from the orange ponzu or the kizami wasabi. There’s only one way to find out…
Tip: Book a window seat for sunset to enjoy panoramic views of Palm Jumeirah while dining on exquisite Japanese-Peruvian-Brazilian fusion cuisine
sushisamba.com/locations/dubai
Gal Restaurant
Perfect for: A romantic dinner for two
Location: Address Downtown
This Turkish and Mediterranean-inspired establishment is more than its iconic views of the Burj Khalifa, it’s a staple in Dubai’s culinary scene. Residing in luxury hotel Address Downtown, hugged by some of the city’s most famous landmarks – including the Dubai Mall and fountain – Gal is the go-to for elevated dining. It’s a Sunday evening, and I’m seated in the open-air outdoor terrace. My eyes are set on the Burj Khalifa as it towers above with its striking presence. This famous restaurant is known for its theatrics, where fellow diners throw their napkins amidst a vibrant setting. Tonight is a little more low-key, but that doesn’t mean entertainment isn’t on the roster. A talented musician stands atop a pillar with his trumpet in tow, echoing smooth rhythmic melodies that aim to set the mood. It works.
As I peer over the menu, I spot Turkish staples and a handful of other culinary influences, including dishes from Italy, France, Greece and Russia. Not surprisingly, Australia’s Wagyu features, too. I decide on an authentic Turkish dish called manti – delicate, perfectly-folded handmade dumplings filled with ground beef, onions and herbs. The menu is abundant, with options for pizza, handmade pasta and meat-centric dishes from land and sea. I’m undecided, but the saslik – tender, marinated beef fillet paired with sweet onion rings and lavash, catches my eye. Instead, I try the prawns fra diavola oven-baked in melted butter, garlic, chilli, and lemon, served with parmesan risotto. How could I say no? As the night continues, I finish with a dessert I’ve never seen before: an orange pie with filo pastry, creamy homemade ice cream, sweet orange compote and dash of pecan nuts. Yum!
Tip: The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating – request a table in the outdoor terrace for front row views to the Burf Khalifa
Latest Articles
Don't miss the latest from Luxury Travel