The Meat Co. Restaurant: A Steakhouse with African Roots in Dubai

How to get the best table by the fountains, what to order, and how much it costs. Your detailed plan for the perfect dinner.

First, you hear music—not the kind blasting from the speakers of the Dubai Fountains, but deep, warm rhythms of an African lounge. Then you sense the aroma—a tantalizing blend of smoke from an open fire and spicy seasonings. Only then do you realize that the noise and glitz of futuristic Dubai have remained somewhere behind that heavy wooden door. Welcome to The Meat Co.—a place where two elements collide: primal passion for meat and the refined luxury of the planet's leading metropolis. This guide is your script for the perfect evening at The Meat Co. We'll walk you through every step, from choosing between the two locations and booking that coveted waterside table to a detailed breakdown of the menu and understanding exactly what makes up the final bill. After reading this, you won't have any questions left—only anticipation.

An African soul at the heart of Dubai: Concept and atmosphere

What sets The Meat Co. apart from dozens of other steakhouses in Dubai? The answer lies in its philosophy. This isn't just a place where meat is grilled; it's a meticulously crafted concept rooted in the soul of South Africa.

African roots in a modern metropolis

The restaurant's main "highlight" is the harmonious fusion of a premium steakhouse and authentic South African culture. This concept isn't reflected in superficial styling but in specific, thoughtful details. On the menu, you’ll find direct references to South African cuisine: traditional farmer’s sausage Boerewors, dried meat Biltong, or the famous sauces Peri-Peri and Chakalaka. Some dishes are prepared in the Braai style—the traditional African barbecue—giving them a distinctive, smoky aroma.

Interior and atmosphere: A journey into modern Africa

Forget the cold sheen of Dubai’s high-tech style. The Meat Co.’s interior envelops you in the warmth of the African savanna: terracotta-colored walls, deep browns, and ochre tones. Here, you’ll want to touch everything—the rough texture of dark wood, the soft leather of the armchairs, the cool metal of the light fixtures. And the subdued, layered lighting creates dozens of cozy, intimate nooks where it’s easy to forget you’re in the heart of one of the world’s busiest malls.

The atmosphere is shaped by signature details: authentic African masks on the walls, ethnic patterns, and elegant animal sculptures.

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The atmosphere in the restaurant changes throughout the day. During the day, the atmosphere here is more relaxed and business-oriented, perfect for lunch. In the evening, especially on Thursdays and Fridays, the space comes alive with live music—saxophone or jazz vocals—transforming it into a vibrant and cosmopolitan spot.

Two locations—two different perspectives on Dubai

The choice of location for The Meat Co. significantly influences your dining experience. Each restaurant offers its own unique, yet equally captivating view of Dubai's iconic landmarks.

Souk Al Bahar: Dinner at the foot of Burj Khalifa with the fountain show

Choosing a table on the terrace at Souk Al Bahar means you're buying a front-row ticket to Dubai's main spectacle. Every half hour, tons of water soar into the sky right in front of you, accompanied by world-famous hits, while Burj Khalifa's giant media facade shimmers with thousands of lights. This isn't just background music; it's the deafening soundtrack to your dinner. The atmosphere here is charged with the excitement of tourists and the pulse of the metropolis. It's the perfect choice if you want to be right at the heart of the action and experience that quintessential "Dubai wow" effect in its fullest form.

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Souk Madinat Jumeirah: romance in the Arabian Venice with a view of the sail

The restaurant in the Madinat Jumeirah complex offers a completely different vibe. Here, in the "Arab Venice," a calmer and more serene atmosphere prevails. From the terrace, you can enjoy a fairytale view of picturesque water channels, along which traditional abra boats glide leisurely, while on the horizon looms the legendary sail-shaped Burj Al Arab hotel. This place is perfect for a romantic dinner or a peaceful evening away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The ambiance here is resort-like, relaxed, and incredibly photogenic.

What to order at The Meat Co.? A detailed menu breakdown

The Meat Co. fully lives up to its name: premium-quality meat is at the heart of the menu. However, as in any restaurant, there are certain must-try hits and dishes that require a bit of thought when ordering.

Must-order: the Meat Co.'s hits

Of course, the main reason people come here is for the steaks. You can rest assured—they know how to handle meat here, and your ribeye or filet mignon will arrive at your table exactly to the level of doneness you requested. But if you want to taste a true specialty that keeps people coming back again and again, order the short ribs. This is pure gastronomic magic: meat that has spent so many hours in the oven it has forgotten its own existence, now effortlessly sliding off the bone at the slightest touch of a fork, drowning in a rich, spicy sauce. Among the appetizers, be sure to try the classic, perfectly balanced beef tartare and the refreshing burrata salad. And for dessert, to balance out the hearty meat dishes, a light, almost weightless raspberry cheesecake is an ideal choice.

A controversial choice: what might not meet expectations

Some dishes elicit polarized opinions from guests. For example, the burgers: they’re served on unconventional buns (such as charcoal or quinoa), which appeals to lovers of gastronomic experiments but may disappoint those expecting the classics. It’s also worth noting that the vegetarian options on the menu are quite limited, something important to keep in mind when planning your visit.

The price tag: what makes up your bill

Let’s be honest: dining at The Meat Co. is an investment. And your bill will reflect not only the impeccable quality of the meat. You’re paying for the entire experience: for the attentive service of waitstaff who anticipate your every need, for renting space in one of the most expensive locations on the planet, and, of course, for that million-dollar view that will become the highlight of your evening. Be prepared for the fact that drink prices, especially wine, might seem inflated. Please note: prices are subject to change, so we recommend checking the current menu on the restaurant's official website before your visit.

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How to plan the perfect evening at The Meat Co.

To ensure your visit goes smoothly, it’s important to keep a few practical details in mind.

• Reservations: This is a must, especially if you’re planning dinner on weekends (Friday or Saturday) or would like a table on the terrace with a view. We recommend booking at least a few days in advance, and for popular dates, even a week or more ahead. When making your reservation, be sure to specify your seating preferences and let us know if you have a special occasion (such as a birthday).
• Dress code: The restaurant has a Smart Casual dress code. What does this mean in practice? Save beachwear and sportswear for other occasions. Elegant shorts (for men) may be appropriate during the day, but for dinner, it’s best to opt for trousers and closed-toe shoes. The goal is to look smart yet avoid excessive formality, while feeling comfortable in an elegant setting.
• Best time to visit: For the ultimate experience, book your table around 30 minutes before sunset or the start of the fountain show (for the Souk Al Bahar location). This way, you can enjoy both the daytime and evening views.
• Children and other considerations: The restaurant welcomes guests with children; high chairs are available for little ones. However, please keep in mind that the atmosphere becomes quite lively and "adult-oriented" in the evening. Smoking is permitted only on the outdoor terraces. The establishments are fully equipped for guests with disabilities.

The Meat Co.'s place on Dubai's gastronomic map

Interestingly, The Meat Co. does not appear in prestigious guides such as Michelin or Gault&Millau. It is not a high-end, signature-cuisine restaurant aiming for critical acclaim. Instead, it has become a true "people's favorite," boasting top ratings on TripAdvisor and Google Maps. This indicates that the establishment perfectly fulfills its main goal—to provide guests with bright and positive experiences. Here's how The Meat Co. stands out against other well-known steakhouses in Dubai:

Verdict: Who should visit The Meat Co. and why?

The Meat Co. is first and foremost an "experience restaurant." People come here not just to eat, but to have an unforgettable experience where delicious food combines with breathtaking views and a unique atmosphere.

Who will definitely enjoy it:

• First-time tourists in Dubai who want to get "everything at once": dinner, a fountain show, and views of the Burj Khalifa.
• Couples looking for a romantic dinner spot with a wow factor (especially in Madinat Jumeirah).
• Those who want to celebrate a special occasion—a birthday, anniversary, or successful deal.
• Connoisseurs of high-quality steaks, for whom the stunning view will be a pleasant bonus.

Who should look for another option:

• Budget-conscious travelers, as prices here are above average.
• Those seeking quiet and privacy for an intimate conversation—during peak hours it can get noisy.
• For vegetarians and vegans, due to the limited selection of meat-free dishes.

Ultimately, The Meat Co. is a perfectly calibrated Dubai attraction. It taps into a basic human instinct—the love for fire and great meat—and sets it against the backdrop of a futuristic fairy tale. Visiting solely for the food might not be worth it—Dubai has steakhouses with even more refined cuisine. But if you're looking for a place where dinner becomes the highlight of your day, where every steak comes accompanied by dancing fountains and a glittering skyscraper, then you've come to the right spot. This is one of those rare occasions when the memories you take away will be worth every dirham spent.