At times we lost hope that the summer heat was ever going to end, but thank goodness the weather has sizzled down…at least for now. So, like mammals waking from a season-long slumber, its time to get outside and enjoy the best part of the year. Grab your jacket and open Google Maps because here are five outdoor terraces you need to visit before the good season ends:
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Iris (above)
Fork out: Dhs400 for two people
Oberoi Hotel, Business Bay, Dubai
With more than its fair share of sky-tickling buildings, Dubai provides views that are almost unrivaled. The striking view among the urban canopy from the top of Downtown’s Oberoi Hotel is a real lure for both tourists and residents alike. With a vibe more akin to a beachside bar, this restaurant is perhaps best enjoyed for Friday brunch where there are live cooking stations, a sushi bar and a seriously cool cocktail bar. Advance booking is recommended as this place is extremely popular.
Details: Oberoihotels.com
Pier Chic
Fork out: Dhs600 for two
Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai
Who killed J.F.K.? What’s the meaning of life? More importantly, what is so romantic about piers? Perhaps it’s the beach setting, the endless flow of water or cliché of the sun dropping below the horizon. As you ponder life’s mysteries have a seat in arguably the most romantic hotspot of Dubai, with a loved one, of course (don’t be that guy). Overlooking the Burj Al Arab, it’s the failsafe method of getting your significant other to forgive your mishaps as she chows down a selection of Mediterranean seafood delights. The halibut and Gillardeau oysters are in fact, so delicious you might not spend enough time admiring the view.
Details: jumeirah.com
Hakkasan
Fork out: Dhs600 for two
Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai
It seems right that one of the most recognisable names in the UAE dining scene, is located at the foot of one of Dubai’s most iconic buildings, Emirates Towers. But don’t get us wrong: Hakkasan has a lofty reputation because it has earnt it. Despite being in heart of the city’s financial area, a table in it’s recently reopened outdoor terrace couldn’t feel further away. The stunning terrace is divided into four wooden pavilions made from oak latticing and can fit 112-seat people, who will order their weight’s worth of Chinese favourites, from wagyu beef and silver cod to soft-shell crab and Peking duck.
Details: hakkasan.com
Sass Cafe
Fork out: Dhs480 for two
Al Fattan Currency House, DIFC, Dubai
With a classy bar, live pianist and plush red velvet booths, there is no denying that the high-end party vibe of Sass’ original restaurant in Monte Carlo is very much alive and kicking in Dubai’s financial district. However, the opening of its outdoor terrace, gives Sass Cafe a different dimension. Surrounded by modern, masculine architecture the view from the terrace looks all the way across Downtown towards a gleaming Burj Khalifa — it’s enough to impress who ever it is you are trying to impress.
Details: sasscafe-dubai.ae
Royal China
Fork out: Dhs350 for two people
Precinct Building 4, DIFC, Dubai
With its own rooftop garden and illustrious Chinese menu, Royal China is one of Esquire’s regulars. We highly recommend a table on the terrace among the glowing lanterns and wicker lounge furniture comfortably, and ironically, tucked between the buildings of Dubai’s financial area. Although, it might be our safe space, you can’t meditate on an empty stomach, so luckily the kitchen’s dim sum is so good that it justifiably tops the country’s food lists.
Details: royalchinadubai.com
