Your complete guide to the trendiest rooftop restaurant in the heart of Dubai's business district: what to try, how to book the best table, and what you should know in advance. The buzz of vibrant Dubai mingles with the rhythmic set of the DJ, while a giant cloud made of thousands of Japanese toys hovers above guests in the center of the hall. This is the first thing you feel when you step into CLAP Dubai—a landmark spot in the prestigious International Financial Centre (DIFC), where modern Japanese cuisine meets a trendy atmosphere and one of the best panoramic views in the entire city. Here, dinner is always a spectacle, starting the moment you step out of the elevator onto the rooftop. This guide is your backstage pass to CLAP. We’ll tell you which dishes you can’t miss, how to snag a table with the most Instagrammable view, and what dress code nuances will make your evening in Dubai flawless.
360° Impressions: Atmosphere, Views, and Flavors at CLAP
Modern Tokyo Above Dubai: Atmosphere, Design, and Views
From Business Lunch to Pre-Party
CLAP operates on two distinct rhythms. During the day, bathed in sunlight streaming through panoramic windows, it’s an elegant and understated space for business lunches and relaxed meetings. But as soon as the city lights up, CLAP sheds its business attire: DJ sets grow louder, the lighting becomes more intimate, and the air begins to sparkle with the energy of a trendy party, attracting Dubai's most glamorous crowd.
What makes CLAP special?: CLAP is a 'destination venue.' People come here not just to eat, but to enjoy a full spectrum of experiences: panoramic views, original music, and a sense of being part of a fashionable event. You’re paying for a carefully crafted evening scenario, not just for the food.
A Toy Cloud and the Soul of Design
The design, created by a renowned Japanese studio led by Noriyoshi Muramatsu, blends minimalism with futuristic elements. Natural wood and stone coexist with industrial details, creating an eclectic yet harmonious space. At the heart of the restaurant—and its most Instagrammable art piece—is a massive chandelier assembled from 2,100 genuine Japanese toys. This vibrant and ironic element perfectly captures the playful and modern spirit of the establishment.
The main stage: a terrace with a panoramic view of Burj Khalifa
But CLAP’s main asset, without a doubt, is its spacious terrace. It’s considered one of the largest in DIFC and during cooler months becomes the primary attraction. From here, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking 180-degree view of the glittering downtown skyscrapers, with the Burj Khalifa standing in all its majestic glory. This view isn’t just a backdrop for dinner—it’s an integral part of the experience, drawing guests back again and again.
Taste at its best: what to order at CLAP Dubai
Menu hits you can’t miss
The cuisine at CLAP isn’t strict classicism; it’s modern Japanese fusion with European influences. Chef Renald Epie focuses on impeccable ingredient quality, creativity, and striking presentation. To make your introduction to CLAP’s gastronomy as vivid as possible, be sure to try these signature dishes:
- Black Cod in Miso: This dish is the chef’s calling card and a true benchmark of the genre. Imagine perfectly cooked fish that breaks apart into silky flakes at the slightest touch of a fork, while the sweet-and-salty miso glaze, caramelized to a crisp, creates that perfect flavor balance everyone comes back for.
- Volcano Roll: A real hit for lovers of bold flavors. The generous topping of spicy sauce and seafood delivers a confident yet not overwhelming heat—pleasantly tickling your taste buds without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Shrimp Tempura Maki: One of the most popular items on the menu, and for good reason. The airy, perfectly crispy tempura crust hides a juicy, springy shrimp, and a high-quality sauce completes this simple yet flawlessly executed combination.
Budget: what are you paying for at CLAP?
Let's be honest: prices at CLAP are above average even by the standards of the prestigious DIFC district. However, the bill here is essentially a ticket to that very performance we talked about earlier. You're not just paying for the food, but for the entire ensemble of experiences: the mesmerizing view, the perfectly curated soundtrack, and the feeling of being part of the city's trendiest event.
Drinks budget: what you should know: Be prepared for the fact that the cost of drinks, especially alcoholic cocktails and wine, can significantly increase the final bill. Our advice: check the bar menu online so your evening goes without any financial surprises.
CLAP vs Zuma and Mimi Kakushi: How to Choose Your Ideal Japanese Restaurant
Dubai boasts numerous exquisite premium Japanese restaurants, each with its own unique "highlight." To help you make the right choice, we've compared CLAP with its main competitors.
Guide to the best japanese restaurants in Dubai
| Restaurant | Main Highlight | Price Level and Atmosphere | Perfect For... |
|---|---|---|---|
| CLAP Dubai | Panoramic views and pre-party atmosphere | High. Pre-party atmosphere, trendy, lively. | To impress on a date, have a fun evening with friends, and rack up hundreds of likes on Instagram. |
| Zuma Dubai | Impeccable cuisine and a business atmosphere | Very high. Business atmosphere, more conservative. | For a flawless business dinner where everything must be top-notch, or for connoisseurs of Japanese classics who demand nothing less than perfection. |
| Mimi Kakushi | Retro chic of 1920s Japan | High. Unique thematic ambiance. | For a date that will surely be memorable, or when you want not just to dine, but to take a journey through time. |
CLAP regularly receives critical acclaim: the restaurant is recommended by the Michelin Guide and awarded three 'caps' by the prestigious Gault&Millau rating, confirming its high standards of cuisine and service.
Your Visit to CLAP: A Complete Planning Guide
Reservations and key conditions: how to get the best table
To ensure your evening goes smoothly, remember a few key rules for booking at CLAP:
- Book in advance. A table at CLAP, especially for dinner on weekends (Thursday through Saturday), is in short supply. We recommend making your reservation 5–14 days before your visit.
- Be prepared for a deposit. If you're dining with a group of six or more people, you'll be asked to pay a deposit of 250 AED per guest to confirm your reservation.
- Plan your evening with children in mind. Young guests are welcome at CLAP until 8:00 PM. After that time, the restaurant transitions to an "adults-only" format.
- Keep smoking regulations in mind. Smoking is permitted only in designated areas on the outdoor terrace.
The best spots for photos and romance are the tables right at the edge of the terrace. Be sure to mention this preference when booking!
Smart elegant dress code: what to wear to feel confident
CLAP has a strict dress code designed to maintain a special atmosphere.
- For men: Leave shorts and flip-flops for the beach. Your choice should be stylish trousers or jeans, a polo shirt or a classic shirt, and closed-toe shoes are mandatory.
- For women: An elegant dress, a stylish pantsuit, or a skirt with a blouse will be the perfect choice.
How to get here and where to park
The restaurant is located in Gate Village 11 building in DIFC.
- Metro: The nearest station is "Emirates Towers" (red line), about a 10-12 minute walk away.
- Taxi: Taxis and ride-sharing services are always available at the building entrance.
- Parking:
| Option | Cost | Conditions | Our Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-Parking | Free | Upon validation of the restaurant receipt | Convenient, but finding a spot may take some time. |
| Valet (Parking Attendant) | 50 AED | Available upon request at the building entrance | The best choice for an evening visit without extra hassle. |
| Public RTA | 10 AED/hour | Zone 332A, payment via parking meter | It can be challenging to find a spot during peak hours. |
Best time to visit and other tips
- For sunset photos: Arrive around 6:00 PM to catch the "golden hour" and see the city lights come on.
- For a more relaxed atmosphere: choose weekdays (Monday through Wednesday), when the restaurant has fewer guests.
Our verdict: Is CLAP worth your evening in Dubai?
So, is CLAP worth your evening in Dubai? The answer depends on what you're looking for. This establishment is first and foremost a vibrant event, a complete experience woven from food, music, a breathtaking view, and the energy of the people around you.
You'll definitely enjoy it if you:
- Are looking for a restaurant with the best view of downtown Dubai.
- Love trendy, energetic spots with DJs.
- Appreciate creative Japanese cuisine and are willing to pay for it.
You might want to look elsewhere if you:
- Prefer quiet and intimate dinners.
- Are traveling on a tight budget.
- Are seeking purely authentic Japanese cuisine.
If you want to take home from Dubai not just photos of skyscrapers, but the feeling of soaring above the city—book a table at CLAP. After all, it's evenings like these that become the best souvenirs from your travels.
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