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In Dubai’s every adapting food scene, there are more varieties of cuisine than ever before. Here is an Esquire-approved pick of places worth a visit, if you haven’t already done so…
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Peyote
Yes, there are plenty of upscale South American restaurants in Dubai but what about Central America? Maya and possibly Tortuga aside, not so many. Peyote originated in Mayfair and this is the first to launch outside London, in DIFC, though two more will follow in Notting Hill and Ibiza.
This success has been largely due to chef Eduardo Garcia of Maximo Bistrot fame (one of Latin America’s top 50 restaurants). Alexander Stumpf has been tasked with building on that legacy and, with seven years at Zuma DIFC, has a proven track record.
Expect a sharing menu, based around the main themes of Ensaladas, Crudos, Ceviche, Moles and Maza. They’re largely gluten and dairy free, which should make you feel less bad about diving into the tequila and mezcal menus.
peyoterestaurant.com
Ting Irie
It’s a family vibe at Ting Irie, and you are welcomed with open arms as soon as you walk through the door. Fun, modern ideas keep the menu interesting while maintaining the utmost respect for traditional island dishes. Many of the Caribbean ingredients and spices are imported straight from Jamaica, including Scotch bonnet peppers and pimento seeds, and Jamaica’s prized Blue Mountain coffee. Exec chef Craig Wong cooks with soul, incorporating his Jamaican heritage along with the techniques and discipline he acquired from years working in Michelin-starred restaurants.
Try the infamous rotisserie jerk chicken, Jamaican oxtail, or our favourite, the OG (Original Gangster, yes really!) which is fried chicken that’s crispy and crunchy and comes with spicy sweet and sour sauce.
tingirie.com
Al Mayass
Founded by the Alexandrian family in an old villa in Beirut in 1996, the Lebanese-Armenian dining experience has launched here, boasting traditional food, but with a modern twist. The ‘Kabab Bi Karaz’ dish – beef kebabs with an addictive sour cherry sauce – is a soon-to-be favourite.
Al Mayass
Miss Lily’s
A laid-back, fun-time vibe, with cool reggae-soul blasting from the bar as you enter. Fun, kitsch Caribbean interiors and friendly staff bring the beach shack vibe to life, while patrons are a young mix of entrepreneurs, artists and couples. And of course, the food, has led to Miss Lilies being arguably the hottest restaurant in town. Most dishes come with the usual Caribbean explosion of flavour. The chilli King Crab with hot pepper sauce, fried buns and peanuts is out of this world, but also try the intriguing oxtail stew or curried goat for a real taste of Jamaica. Of course, rice and peas and arguably the best plantain around must be on the table. This is not up for discussion.
misslilys.com
3 Fils
Developed by a Singaporean chef and two Emiratis, 3 Fils is named after the low-denomination of UAE currency, which signifies affordability, along with a modest and humble approach.
Located at the Jumeirah One Fishing Harbour, with just 30 seats, the menu is comprised of modern Asian cuisine with a Japanese influence, using seasonal ingredients from all over the world. If you’re looking for something home-grown and quirky then this is one to try.
3fils.com
