Amazonico Restaurant in DIFC: Latin American Cuisine and a Jungle Atmosphere

A complete guide to Latin American cuisine, signature cocktails, and the jungle atmosphere at DIFC's trendiest restaurant. Amidst the glass giants and pristine asphalt of Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), there’s a portal. One step inside, and the hum of the metropolis gives way to pulsating ethnic rhythms, while the scent of scorching concrete yields to the aromas of living plants and noble wood. You’re at Amazonico. And it’s less a restaurant than a gateway to another world, where every sound, aroma, and glimmer of light works toward one goal—to make you forget the reality beyond the walls. It’s a place where you lose track of being in the heart of the desert and begin to believe you’ve found yourself in luxurious, mysterious jungles. In this guide, we’ll explore all three levels of this tropical paradise, sample iconic dishes and cocktails, decode the dress code, and provide all the practical tips for planning your perfect evening.

Immersing yourself in the tropics: Design and atmosphere that have captivated Dubai

The key to Amazonico’s phenomenon is its incredible ambiance. Here, the interior isn’t just a backdrop—it’s the main character, creating a unique experience that keeps guests coming back again and again.

Three levels, three worlds

The restaurant’s space is a three-level theater, with its own unfolding drama on each floor.

• First Level (Main Hall): This is the gastronomic heart of the jungle. Here, surrounded by lush greenery and accompanied by the sizzling sounds of an open kitchen, the main culinary action unfolds. It’s the perfect spot for a full-fledged dinner and immersion into the flavors of Latin America.
• Second Level (Lounge Bar): The epicenter of Amazonico’s social life. This is where people gather for an aperitif, meet friends, and lose themselves in the hypnotic rhythms spun by resident DJs. Soft sofas and high tables practically invite casual conversations and new acquaintances.
• Third Level (Rooftop "Paraíso"): A true “heaven on the roof.” This terrace, offering postcard-perfect views of the glowing DIFC skyscrapers, is the heart of Amazonico’s nightlife. As DJ sets gain momentum, it’s here that the most electrifying parties take place under Dubai’s starry sky.

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Magic in the details: An interior in "tropical chic" style

The stunning design is the work of the renowned Spanish studio Lázaro Rosa-Violán. The interior harmoniously blends natural materials—dark wood, marble, brass—with textiles in deep, rich shades of emerald, amber, and gold. Every detail contributes to creating an immersive experience: from hanging butterfly sculptures to art pieces styled after Amazonian fauna.

Need we say that Amazonico was practically made for Instagram? If you leave here without snapping at least ten stunning photos, consider you never even visited. Get your cameras ready ahead of time: the prime photo spots include the lush, green entrance staircase, the rugged bar counter, and, of course, those iconic "green walls," against which any portrait instantly looks like it belongs on the cover of a fashion magazine.

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Jungle soundtrack: how music and lighting set the mood

The atmosphere at Amazonico isn't static—it evolves throughout the evening. During the day, it’s a tranquil lounge, and thanks to the panoramic windows, the space is filled with natural light. As dusk falls, the lighting becomes softer and more mysterious, while the music grows louder and more energetic. Resident DJs start their sets after 8:00 PM, filling the air with rhythms of electro-tropical and afro-house, and by late evening, the restaurant transforms into a lively pre-party hotspot.

The taste of Latin America: What to order at Amazonico

Although Amazonico is primarily visited for its atmosphere, the cuisine here plays a crucial role, offering a bold fusion inspired by the culinary traditions of Brazil, Peru, and Mexico.

Menu highlights: open fire and ocean freshness

The menu revolves around dishes cooked over an open flame and the freshest seafood. Here are a few items that have become signature dishes of the restaurant:

• Meat lovers should definitely try the juicy Picanha steak. This premium Brazilian cut is prepared here over an open flame, achieving a crispy crust on the fat layer and an incredibly tender, almost melt-in-your-mouth center. The vibrant meaty flavor is enhanced only by coarse salt and a hint of smokiness—nothing more is needed.
• Start your evening with the appetizer Arepas con carne—miniature corn tortillas fried to a crisp, filled with tender, slow-cooked meat. The sweetness of the corn, the rich meaty taste, and the subtle spiciness of the sauce create that perfect balance that captivates from the very first bite.
• If you prefer seafood, be sure to check out the signature sushi and nigiri. A standout in this section is the Ginshake nigiri: a slice of the most delicate gin-marinated salmon served on a bed of perfectly cooked rice. The delicate juniper aroma gives this classic nigiri a completely new, fresh, and daring twist.

It’s worth noting that, according to many guests, the portions here are more elegant than large, and vegetarians should carefully examine the menu, as the selection of meat- and fish-free dishes is limited.

Art in a glass: signature cocktails as a show in their own right

The Amazonico bar menu is a spectacle in itself, worth visiting even just for the drinks. Forget standard glasses—every cocktail here is an Instagram star. Special attention is paid to presentation: each drink arrives in a unique glass shaped like tropical animals or fruits, adorned with exotic flowers and often accompanied by dry ice effects. This turns every order into a mini-performance and guarantees stunning photos.

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The price of impressions: budget and value

Amazonico falls into the premium price segment. The average bill for dinner for two, including drinks, will be approximately 900–1200 AED. It’s important to understand: you’re not just paying for food, but for a ticket to a full-fledged show—the atmosphere, music, impeccable design, and those very impressions that will stay with you for a long time.

Your visit to Amazonico: A practical guide

To ensure your evening goes perfectly, it's worth considering a few important details.

Table reservations: how to guarantee yourself a spot

You need to book a table in advance, especially if you're planning a visit on Friday or Saturday evenings. Be prepared that when booking, you'll be required to provide bank card details or make a deposit. Also, keep in mind that during peak hours there's a time limit for how long you can stay at the table—usually it's 2 hours.

Dress code and visiting rules

The restaurant has a strict smart casual dress code. This means:

• For men: trousers and closed-toe shoes are mandatory.
• For women: elegant dresses, skirts, or pantsuits.

Sports attire, beachwear, and open footwear are not permitted for men. It's also worth remembering the age restrictions: guests with children under 10 are not allowed in the restaurant after 7:00 PM.

Getting there and the best time to visit

Amazonico is located in the Pavilion building in the DIFC area and is easy to find on any navigation map.

• For a relaxed dinner and beautiful photos, it’s best to come in the early evening, between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM.
• For those looking for a party atmosphere, the ideal time is after 9:00 PM, when the DJs start their sets.

Service: professionalism and efficiency

The service at Amazonico can be described in one word: "flawlessly efficient." The staff operates like a well-oiled Swiss mechanism—polite, quick, and highly knowledgeable. However, don’t expect long, heartfelt conversations or much flexibility. This is a service designed for high throughput and strict adherence to rules, including a rigid time limit per table. You’ll receive top-notch service, but exactly within your allotted two hours.

Amazonico or competitors? Choosing for your evening

Dubai offers several iconic Latin American cuisine restaurants. To help you decide, let’s compare Amazonico with its main competitors.

• Choose Amazonico if: you’re looking for a vibrant, lively, and energetic atmosphere, want to combine dinner with a pre-party, and appreciate total immersion in the concept. It’s perfect for celebrating a birthday or having an exciting get-together with friends.
• Choose COYA if: you prefer a more elegant and sophisticated setting with an emphasis on fine art and classic Peruvian cuisine. It’s ideal for a prestigious dinner or a more formal romantic date.
• Choose Sucre if: you prioritize creative cuisine and gastronomic experiments with open-fire cooking in a stylish yet more restrained and tranquil atmosphere.

The quality of Amazonico’s cuisine has been recognized in the Michelin Guide (currently without a star, but with a recommendation), though let’s be honest: the restaurant’s true strength lies in its unique, electrically charged ambiance.

Verdict: Is Amazonico worth your evening in Dubai?

Absolutely yes, provided you know exactly what you’re looking for.

The bottom line: The key to understanding Amazonico is simple: it’s a theater of experiences, where food is an important—but not the only—act in a grand spectacle.

• Definitely a yes for: Those seeking vibrant emotions, wanting to celebrate a special occasion, throw a pre-party with friends, or simply spend the most memorable evening in Dubai. It’s the perfect choice for visitors to the city who want to maximize their impressions in just one visit.
• Consider carefully if: you’re looking for a spot for a quiet romantic dinner, an important business meeting, or planning an evening with young children. For these purposes, there are more suitable options available in Dubai.