When it comes to gourmet dining, City Walk Dubai knows a thing or two about pleasing foodies. With a foodie bucket list ready to go and a licence to eat, we went in search of the trendiest hangouts in town. The best part? They’re all located in the same neighbourhood!
From authentic Lebanese breakfasts and caffeine kicks to cocoa-infused dishes and urban Peruvian vibes, you haven’t experienced the city’s real foodie scene until you’ve tried these restaurants.
1. Enab Beirut
We were lured into Enab Beirut by the heavenly smell of Manakish and quirky lampshades hanging from the ceiling. A bright and cosy space complete with mini pots of fresh mint on each table, we indulged in a traditional Lebanese breakfast and can honestly say, it was one of the best we’ve ever tried. Scrambled eggs, baked feta cheese and eggplant salad are just a few of the dishes that’ll keep us coming back.
Don’t leave without: sipping on a lavender latte and pink lemonade.
2. The Brass Coffee & Community
Via Facebook | @TheBrassDubai
In search of a serious caffeine kick, we came across this uber-trendy coffee hangout in the heart of City Walk Dubai. The Brass Coffee & Community is a homegrown concept with a contemporary and eclectic edge. Blue and gold accents give the space a somewhat magical feel along with amusing quotes about ‘procaffeinating’. We enjoyed a mouth-watering slice of Lotus cake and washed it down with a strawberry shake. Delicious!
Don’t leave without: snapping a selfie with the Arabic word Marhaba written in bright lights on the ceiling.
3. Zenobia Charcoal & Grill
When a restaurant’s head chef is also the owner, you just know this place is the real deal. We think Zenobia Charcoal & Grill is one of City Walk’s best-kept secrets, bursting with culture, history and authentic eats. Serving up Middle Eastern cuisine with a quirky twist, expect everything from smoky wings to whole chicken roasted over an open flame. Our meal even arrived on a plank of real cedar wood – now that’s what we call presentation.
Don’t leave without: sampling Zenobia’s Kunafa-flavoured Arabic ice cream.
4. Cocoa Kitchen
If Willy Wonka ever visits Dubai, we know exactly where he’s headed first. From sweet to savoury and everything in between, Cocoa Kitchen has experimented with its menu in ways you’d never expect. Resembling a playful old chocolate factory, the real star of the show would be “Dubai’s most explosive dessert” – a chocolate cigar with pistachio ice cream and milk chocolate mousse surrounded by a cloud of smoke. Wow!
Don’t leave without: trying the smoky Burrata and creamy Ravioli – all served with a hint of cocoa.
5. Demoiselle by Galvin
Contemporary and oh-so chic, Demoiselle by Galvin oozes Parisian charm. From the floral chairs to the eye-catching ceiling, this homely two-storey bistro is a French foodie’s paradise. We sampled a heavenly Burrata salad along with Seared Scottish Salmon and Beef Tenderloin – cooked with a gourmet touch. But the real highlight had to be the desserts: Galvin apple tarte Tatin with Normandy crème fraîche – bring your appetite!
Don’t leave without: tasting the caramelised apple tart baked upside down. It’s mind-blowing!
6. LIMA Dubai
Urban vibes, contemporary Peruvian eats and one-of-a-kind cocktails, LIMA Dubai is one of City Walk’s hidden nightlife spots. Kick back in one of the swinging Rattan hammocks or unwind with a refreshing drink at the bar. Starters from the food menu were served on stone slabs and creatively presented with plenty of colour – trust us, you won’t find a more Insta-worthy place to dine.
Don’t leave without: enjoying a cocktail upstairs at the bar – it’s a really trendy hangout for young couples.
7. Mitts & Trays
If you fancy a cosy, living room-style experience, Mitts & Trays is the place to go. Comfy armchairs and an open kitchen filled with the aroma of freshly-baked cakes, everything is made with gourmet ingredients (even the coffee beans have fruity zests in them). If the complimentary milk bread doesn’t tease your tastebuds, the Watermelon & Feta Salad certainly will. End your meal on a sweet note and check out the drool-worthy desserts on display.
Don’t leave without: experiencing the siphon coffee brewing demonstration at your table (it’s like a scene from Breaking Bad!).
Check out the City Walk website for more awesome dining experiences around town.
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