A creek-side based institution in Dubai for many years now, the luxury local liner that is the Bateaux Dubai has recently had its menu revamped, offering an extra level of gourmet dining to already refined affair.Even though the vessel technically can be filed under the dhow category, an ordinary slow-boat this most certainly is not. Full air conditioning throughout, rich wood furnishings and an entire glass bottom make this cruise not only the prime way in which to take in the waterways of Dubai Creek, but also one of the few ‘outside’ options in the city patrons can enjoy all year round.
As mentioned, the menu is a typically Dubai-chic offering, not wholly original per-say, but executed very well nonetheless. Picture delicately prepared goat’s cheese, king crab and scallops from the starters, with a supporting cast in the comprised of staple choices such as lamb shoulder in lemon-thyme sauce, oven roasted duck breast and Black Angus tenderloin. We’ll go out on a limb by saying – from a culinary perspective – the best is saved till last. While you can’t go far wrong with any one of the eight fantastic options on the desert menu, the chocolate fondant (featuring orange chocolate brownie, chocolate macaroon and peanut butter ice cream, if you really need the specifics) is currently the best we’ve had on the city’s restaurant scene, floating or stationary.
The whole evening is also ferried along nicely (…sorry) by free flowing beverages, either alcoholic or soft, depending on your predilection or perhaps, the faith you have in your sea legs. And the live music, famously a minefield in the restaurant and bar scene, comes in the form of a talented crooner on the grand piano, serenading the assembled diners nicely, at a frequency and volume that’s appreciated and never overly-intrusive.
They say we ignore the old ways at our peril sometimes, and though it is getting on in years, Bateaux Dubai fits nicely into this categorisation. So whether you’re a newcomer, tourist, or seasoned vet to the region, it offers a chance to see an often forgotten part of the city in the most elegant fashion.
From Dhs395, Boarding starts at 7.45 pm – 11pm
Bateaux Dubai cruise, Banyas Road, Dubai Creek, jaresortshotels.comBateauxDubai