Mena's 50 Best Restaurants 2025: Orfali Bros tops list for third time, Dubai leads with 18 spots
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Time Out Abu Dhabi
a day ago
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
Will Disney Abu Dhabi be indoors? Here's what we know
We've got three words for you: Disney. Abu. Dhabi. The happiest place on Earth is making its Middle East debut and while our inner child is spinning in teacups with joy, one (very valid) grown-up question remains: will the Disney theme park be outdoors or indoors? Because, let's face it – as much as we love Mickey-shaped ice creams and singing Let It Go under the sun, Abu Dhabi's summer doesn't mess around. With temps soaring past 50°C, even Olaf might reconsider his eternal love for summer. So… what's the plan? Will Disney Abu Dhabi be indoors or outdoors? It's (sort of) outdoors – but also indoors. Basically, it's magic. The answer, like any good Disney plot twist, isn't so straightforward. According to Disney Parks boss Josh D'Amaro, the new Yas Island mega-project will be a hybrid, combining the best of indoor comfort with outdoor charm. They're being very ambitious, architecture, tech and water are all coming into play – which sounds like there might be a splash of Moana inspiration involved. Here's the kicker: the park is being built right up against the water. Think cool breezes, waterfront vistas and, who knows – maybe even an indoor-outdoor castle that literally lets the sea into the storyline. Miral Group CEO Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi added that, like other Yas Island hits (hi, Warner Bros. World), Disney will be indoors, but he also called it the most advanced park in the Disney portfolio. So expect something completely new – and 100 percent air-conditioned. So, when can we go? Not tomorrow, unfortunately. With a timeline of up to two years for design and another four to six for construction, we're looking at a 2030 to 2032 opening. But we've waited 100 years for Disney to come to the UAE – what's a few more? Until then, we'll keep dreaming of those castle selfies, futuristic rides and Emirati-inspired storylines (yes, those are happening too). One thing's for sure – whether indoors, outdoors, or somewhere in between – Disney Abu Dhabi will be cooler than cool. Literally. All about Disney Abu Dhabi 7 things we know about the new Disney theme park in Abu Dhabi It's going to be magical – and massive This is when Disney Abu Dhabi is likely to open A Disney official has shared a rough timeline Three key ways the new Disney theme park will change Abu Dhabi A whole new world indeed
What's On
a day ago
- What's On
Restaurant Review: La Petite Maison Abu Dhabi
La Petite Maison at The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, is a love letter to French flair. From buttery snails to dreamy desserts, this fine dining favourite delivers on flavour, charm and style. Here's our review of this Abu Dhabi fine dining favourite. The Spot La Petite Maison sits inside The Galleria on Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi. The Michelin-starred restaurant began as a charming restaurant in the old town of Nice in the 1980s. It was founded by Nicole Rubi, a French woman of Italian descent who believed in simple, honest food made exceptionally well. Her philosophy travelled and now there are restaurants in London, Dubai, Hong Kong, Riyadh, Doha, Miami, Limassol, and Abu Dhabi. The Vibe Crisp white tablecloths glow against the bright coloured art on the walls. Every fork, every glass, every fold of napkin is precise. In the middle of the room, the staff gather like they're backstage at a play. Sleeves are rolled, aprons are tied. There's a hum in the air, not from guests but from the team getting into position. French music plays in the background as the barman mixes pink mocktails with the care of someone mixing perfume. Then, without warning, the staff let out a shout. It's part war cry, part theatre. A signal. And with that, the doors open and service begins. Food and Drinks LPM's food is French Mediterranean with a whisper of Italian. It's what happens when comfort food gets dressed up for a night out. Think simple ingredients, treated with the kind of reverence usually reserved for royalty. It's the kind of food you'd expect from the South of France if your grandmother and a French chef teamed up in the kitchen. It's elegant without being stuffy and rich without being heavy. Everything feels considered yet effortless. The Burrata with black truffle is the kind of starter that makes you close your eyes on the first bite. Creamy, earthy and too good to share. The showstopper is the beef tartare with smoked bone marrow mayonnaise – a dish so decadent, it should come with a warning label. You could fall in love over that dish. You haven't been to LPM if you haven't had the Burgundy snails with garlic butter and parsley. It's the real hero of the starters, they are a rite of passage. Sides like the dauphinois gratin and broccolini keep things balanced and satisfying. The grilled Wagyu sirloin was rich and indulgent, a dish for when you're feeling celebratory. The Vivienne lamb cutlets were sublime and packed with flavour and finished with just enough finesse to make you fall in love. Perfectly pink, dressed with olive, eggplant caviar and pine nuts, they'll haunt your dreams for a long time. But not everything landed perfectly. The lobster linguine, looked the part but fell short on the flavour. The pasta was tasty, but the lobster itself should have stayed in Canada. It wasn't bad, but it didn't sing. Blame the snails for stealing the spotlight. The homemade rigatoni arrabbiata is a safe, solid choice for the meat-free crowd. Dessert is where the magic returns. The vanilla cheesecake lives up to its reputation as the best in the UAE. Light, creamy, perfectly paired with a berry compote. The hot chocolate mousse is smooth and indulgent, like something written straight from the heart of the kitchen. Both desserts tasted like they were made for the king of France. Drinks are thoughtful and beautifully made. Whether you're going alcohol-free or diving into cocktails, the flavours are clean, bright and refreshing. The Service There's a quiet choreography to the way the staff move. They glide, rather than walk, anticipating what you need before you realise you need it. Waiters know the menu intimately. Their recommendations are honest, thoughtful and spot on. The sommelier, with a palate as sharp as his suit, made pairings that elevated each bite. What's On the Bill Expect to spend around Dhs500 per person. If you're adding Wagyu, caviar or multiple courses, the total climbs fast. But the experience, from food to service, makes it worth it. The Final Say La Petite Maison is an experience that's about more than just exquisite food. You're transported from Abu Dhabi's desert heat to the breezy coastline of the French Riviera. It does this through flavours and feeling. The entire night feels like something to remember. Come hungry, leave smitten. What's On Verdict Sublime service, dreamy desserts and enough French flair to make you forget you're in a mall. Go for the snails, stay for the dessert, and leave planning your next visit. Location: La Petite Maison, The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi Times: Mon to Sun, noon to 3:30pm, 6pm to 11:30pm Contact: (02) 692 9600 Reservations: Highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends Images: supplied
What's On
a day ago
- What's On
12 romantic restaurants in Dubai for date night
Looking to impress your date? From first sparks to forever moments, these romantic restaurants in Dubai serve up sky-high views, beachfront charm, and candlelit ambience that turns every dinner into something special. Swipe through the gallery CÉ LA VI Dubai 3 of 12 Elevated in every sense, this rooftop restaurant, sky bar, and club lounge delivers a dose of Southeast Asian flair with breathtaking Burj Khalifa views. Born in Asia and rooted in celebration, CÉ LA VI lives up to its name 'This is the life', with dramatic décor, refined menus, and a seductive rooftop ambiance made for romantic nights under the stars. Location: Level 54, Tower 2, Address Sky View Hotel, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Dubai Times: Daily, 12pm to 3am Contact: 04 582 6111 @celavidubai Above Eleven A rooftop romance with a Nikkei twist. Perched 14 floors above the iconic Palm Jumeirah, Above Eleven blends Japanese precision with Peruvian soul, offering a date night experience that's both elevated and electric. Sip on signature Pisco cocktails, share inventive fusion plates, and soak up panoramic views of Dubai Marina, Burj Al Arab, and beyond. From golden hour sunsets to vibrant late-night energy, this is where the evening begins and maybe never ends. Location: Above Eleven, Marriott Resort, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Times: Sun to Thurs: 4pm to 1am, Fri: 4pm to 2am, Sat: 1pm to 2am Contact: 04 666 1420 @aboveelevendubai TATEL Dubai A lively love letter to Spain in the heart of Downtown, this is one of the most romantic restaurants in Dubai. It blends bold flavours, timeless recipes, and a cosmopolitan edge for a date night that dances between tradition and modern luxury. Expect fine Spanish cuisine, a dash of global flair, and live entertainment that turns dinner into a full-on sensory celebration. Location: TATEL Dubai, Hotel Boulevard, Autograph Collection, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai Times: Daily, 5pm to 2am Contact: 04 215 2121 @ Dubai A date night quite literally above the clouds. Nestled on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa, is the world's highest restaurant from ground level and easily one of the most romantic. With candlelit tables, floor-to-ceiling views over Downtown Dubai, and a refined menu to match the setting, this is where unforgettable evenings unfold. Ideal for a special celebration or an elevated night out, it's sky-high romance at its finest. Location: Grill & Lounge, Burj Khalifa, 122nd floor, Downtown Dubai Times: Daily, 7am to 12am Contact: 04 888 3828 @atmospheredubai Atrangi by Ritu Dalmia Intimate, vibrant, and full of soul, Atrangi reimagines Indian fine dining with a modern touch. Tucked inside the palatial Jumeirah Al Qasr, it's the perfect spot for a cosy yet flavour-forward date night. This season's 'A Taste of Summer in India' menu brings fresh ingredients like mango, yoghurt, and coconut into the spotlight, making each bite feel like a journey home, with a twist. Location: Atrangi by Ritu Dalmia, Jumeirah Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah Times: Daily, 6:30pm to 11:30pm Contact: 800 323232 @ La Petite Maison (LPM) Nestled in the heart of DIFC's Gate Village, La Petite Maison (LPM) Dubai offers an intimate escape with its French-Mediterranean cuisine and elegant setting. The restaurant's airy interiors, adorned with whitewashed walls and contemporary art, create a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a romantic evening. Dishes like the roasted lamb with aubergine caviar and yellowtail carpaccio are designed for sharing, encouraging a convivial dining experience. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a quiet dinner, LPM provides a sophisticated backdrop for cherished moments Location: Gate Village 08, DIFC, Dubai Times: Daily, 12pm to 3:30pm & 6pm to 1am Contact: 0 4 439 0505 @lpmdubai Mimi Kakushi A love letter to 1920s Osaka, wrapped in moody lighting, velvet textures, and soft jazz. Mimi Kakushi is effortlessly romantic, intimate enough for whispered conversations, yet stylish enough to impress. Tucked inside the Four Seasons in Jumeirah, it's a hidden gem where Japanese classics meet timeless elegance. Ideal for couples who appreciate good taste, sultry ambience, and a little mystery with their evening. Location: Mimi Kakushi, Four Seasons, Jumeirah 2, Dubai Times: Daily, 12pm to 2am Contact: 04 379 4811 @mimikakushi Salvaje Dubai For couples who crave something wild, bold, and a little theatrical, Salvaje is a date night with flair. From its dramatic interiors to show-stopping Japanese fusion dishes, this Downtown hotspot turns dinner into a spectacle. Located in the heart of the Opera District, it's where jungle luxe meets skyline views, making it perfect for a night of romance, rhythm, and just the right amount of drama. Location: The Address Opera Residences, Opera District, Downtown Dubai Times: Sun to Thurs: 12pm to 1am, Fri & Sat: 12pm to 3am Contact: 04 570 3653 @ TOTÓ An ode to old-world Italy with a touch of modern elegance, TOTÓ brings the soul of Italian-Mediterranean cuisine to the heart of Downtown Dubai. The atmosphere is cosy yet refined, think soft lighting, timeless interiors, and the charm of live music on weekends. Perfect for slow dinners, shared plates, and moments that feel like they're straight out of a classic film. Location: TOTÓ, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai Times: Daily, 12pm to 1am Contact: 04 215 2121 @totorestaurantdubai RARE Brasserie & Bar Old-school romance meets modern edge at this award-winning brasserie in City Walk. With its sultry Art Deco interiors, low lighting, and a menu that's both indulgent and inventive, RARE is tailor-made for date nights. Think oysters, succulent skewers, and perfectly seared steaks, served in a setting that channels vintage New York with Parisian soul. Sophisticated, stylish, and just the right amount of bold. Location: City Walk Dubai, C2 Licensed District Times: Sunday to Thursday: 12pm to 1am, Friday & Saturday: 12pm to 2am Contact: 04 287 4604 @theraredxb INA Dubai Set on the shores of J1 Beach, INA is one of the most romantic restaurants in Dubai, where fire-cooking is reimagined through an African lens. With an open-flame grill at its heart, handcrafted wood, soft lighting, and ocean air all around, this is a date night that sparks all the senses. Helmed by acclaimed chef Glen Ballis, INA brings the freshest seasonal ingredients, fish, meats, grains, and more – flame-kissed to perfection. Add in an open-air retractable roof and beachfront views, and you've got a setting built for romance, from sunset dinners to starlit celebrations. Location: INA, J1 Beach, Dubai Times: 6:30pm to 1am Contact: 04 570 4766 @ Amelia Restaurant & Lounge Where steampunk romance meets Art Deco glamour high above Downtown Dubai. Amelia's moody, aviation-inspired interiors create an intimate escape, think vintage propellers, textured leather booths, and a mezzanine dining space that feels like a secret hideaway. Perfect for couples seeking a dramatic yet cosy date night filled with immersive storytelling and timeless elegance. Location: Amelia Restaurant & Lounge, Address Sky View, Downtown Dubai Times: Daily, 7pm to 3am Contact: 04 328 2805 @ Images: Archive
