When it comes to Valentine’s Day, some embrace it wholeheartedly, while others view it with a touch of skepticism. Yet, regardless of one’s personal view, there’s no denying that sharing a meal in a romantic setting becomes more than just a meal, but an experience to remember. Love is, after all, the secret ingredient to any delicious meal.
In a vibrant city like Dubai, there is certainly no shortage of romantic dining venues to choose from. Be it an anniversary, a first date, or a gathering with loved ones, these restaurants can make any day feel like a celebration of love.
Signor Sassi
Frequent visitors to London have most likely spent an evening at the renowned Signor Sassi, a restaurant that has become somewhat of an institution since it opened its doors in 1984. This storied restaurant, has now expanded its presence to a new stylish venue at St Regis Gardens in Dubai. Perched atop Nakheel Mall, the chic rooftop setting offers the perfect backdrop to indulge in authentic Italian dishes – reminiscent of those “Mama” used to make.
True to its heritage, the menu features classic Italian antipasti, time-honoured pasta recipes, meat specialties, and seafood dishes. • Standouts on the menu include tagliolini with lemon sauce and caviar, seared veal escalope, and of course, the famous spaghetti lobster – a dish that has become an all-time favourite among regulars.
The interiors take inspiration from the elegant villas of Lake Como along with Dubai’s contemporary style. Throughout the venue, guests will encounter hand painted vases, coloured marble and polished timber to mirror the yachts and boats that grace Como’s waters. The dining room is encapsulated by verdant greenery, including a sprouting olive tree imported from Puglia. It all comes together, giving the space a warm and welcoming feeling.
Eugène Eugêne
While there is an intrinsic calmness that comes with dining in na-ture, finding oneself surrounded by lush greenery can feel almost anomalous in a desert city such as Dubai. However, Eugène Eugène, upends this belief by inviting diners into verdant sanctuary hidden within the Kempinski Hotel.
This unique eatery draws its aesthetic from the quaint greenhouses and bustling market halls of France, mimicking the airy, light-filled ambiance of a luxurious conservatory. Surrounded by trees, plants, and comfortable wooden furnishings, the casual setting blurs the boundaries between the indoors and outdoors in a refined and elegant way.
The culinary experience is equally enchanting, with a menu meticulously put together by the award-winning Chef Gilles Bosquet and Chef Yannis Sgard. Diners can indulge in modern French-European classics, including a creamy burrata or the savory truffle pizzetta.
The menu also offers dishes that mix flavours and textures such as veal bone marrow served with a bun and tangy mustard sauce. A highlight on the menu is the delicious côte de boeuf or the salt baked fish, bar en croûte de sel, served with a selection of sauces. Adding to the allure is the rooftop terrace, where diners can take in breath-taking views of Dubai’s impressive skyline.
Mott 32
Mott 32 takes romantic sunset dinners to a whole new level – even for Dubai. Located on the 73rd floor of the Address Beach Resort in JBR, this high-end Chinese restaurant enchants with its panoramic views of Dubai’s captivating skyline and the Arabian Gulf.
The romantic ambiance extends to the dining room with design elements that combine edgy New York industrial style elements with Chinese inspired lanterns for a modern yet cosy ambiance.
With a menu that aims to redefine traditional Chinese dining, Mott 32 showcases the essence of Hong Kong’s rich culinary heritage with an innovative twist. Highlights on the menu include their signature 42 days apple wood smoked Peking duck served on the tableside with steamed pancakes, and the famous smoked black cod.
There is also an assortment of freshly handcrafted dim sum prepared daily. For dessert lovers, the offerings are equally as enticing. Recommended treats to try include the sesame chocolate tart served with tangy lime & sea salt or the decadent chocolate fondant sprinkled with matcha.
Josette
As far dining settings go, it doesn’t get more romantic than at Josette. Located in the heart of DIFC, this French restaurant transports you to the glittering world of 1920’s Paris. From the pow-der-pink panelled walls and crystal chandeliers to the whimsical décor and plush upholstery furniture, every detail of this restaurant brings back the glamour of this timeless era.
More than just a pretty face, Josette also impresses the palate with reimagined Parisian classics. To begin, guests can savour the heartiness of soupe à l’oignon, a luxurious onion soup accompanied by a delicate puff pastry. Or opt for the quintessential Parisian dish, tartare de boeuf, topped with a raw egg yolk and served alongside french fries.
For mains, try the tournedos rossini, a dish of grilled tenderloin crowned with foie gras and black truffle, or the dover sole meunière an ideal choice to share between two. For those seeking an extra dose of indulgence, a selection of oysters and caviar can also be found off the menu.
Yet, it is the lively entertainment that truly sets Josette apart. Guests can relax at dinner while enjoying live performances curated by Amira Fouad of Dubai Opera. From singers to burlesque shows, the evening lends a playful spirit to the intimate bistro setting.
Alongside the main restaurant, Josette is home to Petit Josette, which serves as an inviting neighbourhood hub, fusing the charm of a Parisian street café.
Ariana’s Persian Kitchen
Located within the prestigious Atlantis the Royal, Ariana’s Persian Kitchen is the perfect destination to bring your best girlfriends for an indulgent evening over divine Persian dishes.
Iranian-American celebrity chef Ariana Bundy has poured her passion and memories into this charming venue, inspired by the dusky-pink houses of her home city in Kashan, Iran. The interiors radiate positive feminine energy, adorned with soft pastel hues that are elegantly complemented by traditional plasterworks and stained glass imported from Kashan, Iran.
At Ariana’s Persian Kitchen, the dishes have the feel of homemade, family-style cooking. Chef Bundy breathes new life into traditional Persian dishes, rejuvenating them with a unique approach to texture, ingredients, and visual appeal. Patrons are invited to savour signature creations including the Caspian-style filet kabab, the fragrant rose-scented sea bass, and a vibrant selection of innovative mezze offerings. The culinary journey is rounded off with Bundy’s distinctive version of classic Persian ice cream, infused with the exotic flavours of saffron, pistachios, and rose water.
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