A guide to 8 Restaurants: from dining in an aquarium at Burj Al Arab to the bohemian beach at Madinat Jumeirah
Dine on the 27th floor with a breathtaking view of nighttime Dubai, find yourself surrounded by a giant aquarium, feel the warm sand beneath your feet on a private beach, or retreat to a pier stretching out into the open sea— the area around Burj Al Arab offers dozens of scenarios for the perfect evening. Forget about simply choosing a restaurant. This article is your personal concierge of experiences, helping you discover not only the ideal menu but also that very atmosphere and view for which people fly to Dubai.
At the heart of the "sail": an exclusive experience at Burj Al Arab
To enter Dubai's most famous hotel, simply buying a ticket isn't enough. Booking a table at one of its restaurants is your pass into a world of unparalleled luxury and exclusive service, available only to hotel guests and patrons of its dining establishments.
Al Mahara: dinner amidst an underwater world
Imagine dining at the bottom of the ocean. That’s exactly the feeling created by Al Mahara, built around a giant aquarium. While stingrays and schools of tropical fish glide silently past behind the glass, seafood masterpieces from Chef Andrea Miliacchio appear on your table. This is a place where the atmosphere is as captivating as the taste of the dishes.
- Cuisine: Seafood, fine dining
- Budget: $$$$$ (from 850 AED/person)
- Highlight: Dinner "underwater" with a view of the giant aquarium
- Atmosphere: Exquisite, tranquil, perfect for romance
Who is this place for?: This is a true theater of experiences, designed for the most important occasion—whether it's a marriage proposal or celebrating a special date. Here, you pay not so much for gastronomic discoveries, but for a unique, mesmerizing atmosphere that you won't find anywhere else.
Al Muntaha: french chic at 200 meters above
Ascending to the 27th floor of the hotel, you'll find yourself at Al Muntaha, which translates to "The Highest." And this name lives up to its promise in every way: from the high-end French-Italian cuisine awarded by the Michelin Guide to the breathtaking panoramic views. During the day, the restaurant is bathed in light, while in the evening it transforms into a captain’s bridge hovering above a scattering of city lights, offering a view over the entire Dubai.
- Cuisine: French/Italian, fine dining
- Budget: $$$$$ (from 880 AED/person)
- Highlight: Panoramic view of Dubai from a height of 200 meters
- Atmosphere: Ultra-luxury, prestigious, bright
Who is this place for?: Impeccable service, haute cuisine, and an exhilarating panorama make Al Muntaha the perfect choice for formal events or business dinners where making a lasting impression is crucial. It’s the epitome of the 'dinner with a view' genre at its finest.
Skyview Bar: cocktails at the top of the world
Located next to Al Muntaha, Skyview Bar is an iconic spot for watching the sunset. Here, behind the bar, true cocktail alchemy takes place, where rare ingredients give birth to new, unexpected flavors, and the view of the fading sun sinking into the Persian Gulf becomes the perfect complement to the evening. This place is imbued with an atmosphere of glamour and exclusivity.
- Cuisine: Bar, light snacks, afternoon tea
- Budget: $$$$ (minimum order from 350 AED/person)
- Highlight: Signature cocktails and one of the best sunset views in town
- Atmosphere: Glamorous, stylish, energetic
Who is this place for?: A must-visit spot for cocktail culture enthusiasts and panoramic view lovers. Perfect for an aperitif before dinner or a romantic evening on your own. To guarantee a sunset view, book a table by the window in advance.
Treasures of the "Arab Venice": Madinat Jumeirah restaurants with views of the "Sail"
It is from the grounds of Madinat Jumeirah, with its picturesque canals, bridges, and lush greenery, that you get the most iconic, "postcard-perfect" views of the sail-shaped hotel. The restaurants here offer an equally exquisite experience, but with a more relaxed and diverse atmosphere.
Pierchic: the most romantic dinner in Dubai
If you're looking for a spot for your most special evening, Pierchic is the place to be. This restaurant, situated on a private pier far from the shore, is considered one of the most romantic in the world. The sound of waves, a gentle breeze, and an unobstructed, direct view of the glowing Burj Al Arab create a truly magical setting.
- Cuisine: Italian, seafood
- Budget: $$$$ (from 600 AED/person)
- Highlight: Secluded location on a pier right above the water
- Atmosphere: Ultra-romantic, private, breathtaking
Who is this place for?: A quintessential restaurant for a special occasion. The perfect spot for a proposal or anniversary celebration. The value of this place lies in its unique combination of view, atmosphere, and cuisine, turning dinner into an unforgettable experience.
Shimmers: greek beach chic with a postcard view
This restaurant is located right on a private beach, and every table offers a flawless view of the "Sail." The atmosphere of a Greek island, authentic Mediterranean cuisine, and your feet in warm sand—what could be better for a relaxed lunch or dinner?
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
- Budget: $$$ (from 350 AED/person)
- Highlight: Perfect beachfront location with a direct view of Burj Al Arab
- Atmosphere: Beachy, relaxed, trendy, photogenic
For that very photo—head here!: If you need that iconic Dubai postcard photo that will gather all the likes, start booking a table at Shimmers right now. This place is the epitome of Dubai relaxation, where everything is perfect: the view, the food, and the atmosphere.
Summersalt: an exclusive beach club for the fashionable crowd
Summersalt is more than just a restaurant. It's an exclusive beach club where you can spend an entire day enjoying the pool, the beach, and first-class service. The cuisine here matches the atmosphere—creative fusion inspired by Japanese and Peruvian flavors. The venue attracts a fashionable crowd who value privacy, style, and great music.
- Cuisine: Fusion (Japanese, Peruvian)
- Budget: $$$$ (from 400 AED/person for dinner; club access is paid separately)
- Highlight: Beach club with a swimming pool and original fusion cuisine
- Atmosphere: Trendy, exclusive, energetic
Who is this place for?: A choice for those seeking a full-fledged daytime retreat in an atmosphere of luxury. The high cost is offset by impeccable service, privacy, and unique gastronomy. Perfect for a special day at the beach or a trendy party.
The Meat Co: where to find the perfect steak in the "Arabian Venice"?
Located right in the heart of the colorful Souk Madinat Jumeirah market, The Meat Co is the main meat restaurant of the entire complex, a kind of embassy for connoisseurs of perfect doneness. This world-renowned steakhouse offers premium cuts from around the globe, cooked to perfection. Reserve a table on the spacious terrace to enjoy not only a juicy steak but also picturesque views of the canals and the sail-shaped hotel.
- Cuisine: Steakhouse, international
- Budget: $$$$ (from 350 AED/person)
- Highlight: Premium steaks and a terrace with views of the canals
- Atmosphere: Solid, stylish, energetic
Who is this place for?: A reliable and trusted choice for connoisseurs of quality meat. Thanks to its lively atmosphere and beautiful view, the restaurant is perfect for dinner with friends or celebrating events with a large group.
The Noodle House: asian flavors at an affordable price
The Noodle House brilliantly dispels the myth that views of the "Sail" are available only to a select few. This popular restaurant offers hits of Asian cuisine—from noodles and dim sum to curries—in a lively and informal setting. It’s one of the most affordable establishments in Souk Madinat Jumeirah, featuring a terrace with a stunning view.
- Cuisine: Asian, fast-casual
- Budget: $$ (from 120 AED/person)
- Highlight: Delicious and affordable Asian cuisine with quick service
- Atmosphere: Casual, youthful, bustling
Who is this place for?: The perfect option for a quick, tasty, and inexpensive lunch or dinner. A wonderful opportunity to enjoy the atmosphere and views of Souk Madinat without exceeding a reasonable budget. Thanks to its clear menu and fast service, it’s perfect for a family dinner.
Which restaurant should you choose? Comparing options
| Restaurant | Ideal for... | Price range | Main highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Al Mahara | Marriage proposals, unique experiences | $$$$$ | Dinner "underwater" in an aquarium |
| Al Muntaha | Formal events, business dinners | $$$$$ | Panoramic view from the 27th floor |
| Skyview Bar | Sunset aperitifs, cocktails with a view | $$$$ | Signature cocktails and panoramic views |
| Pierchic | An ultra-romantic evening, anniversaries | $$$$ | Secluded pier over the water |
| Shimmers | Perfect photos, relaxed beachside relaxation | $$$ | Direct view of "The Sail" from the beach |
| Summersalt | A trendy party, a full day by the pool | $$$$ | Exclusive beach club |
| The Meat Co | Dinner with friends, meat lovers | $$$$ | Premium steaks and views of the canals |
| The Noodle House | A quick dinner, budget-friendly option with a view | $$ | Affordable Asian cuisine |
Planning your visit: What you need to know before booking
- Booking is key. For all popular restaurants, especially those inside Burj Al Arab and on the beach, you need to book a table in advance—sometimes several weeks ahead. This can be done online through restaurant websites or by phone.
- Dress code matters. Strict Smart Elegant dress code applies at establishments inside Burj Al Arab (Al Mahara, Al Muntaha, Skyview Bar). At Madinat Jumeirah restaurants and on the beach, the dress code is more relaxed—Smart Casual or Beach Chic.
Check for updated information!: Prices, menus, and even chef names in Dubai can change. Be sure to verify the details on the restaurant's official website before your visit.
Parking tip: All Jumeirah hotels offer complimentary Valet Parking service for restaurant guests. Simply drive up to the entrance, and the valet will take care of your car.
Choosing the view means choosing the story
Ultimately, all these restaurants—from the luxurious halls of "The Sail" to the lively terraces of "Arab Venice"—offer much more than just dinner. They provide a backdrop for your own personal stories. When you choose between dining in an aquarium or enjoying a glass of wine on the pier, you're actually selecting the memory you'll take home with you from Dubai. And whatever your choice—steak, seafood, or simply a cocktail at sunset—it's the majestic silhouette of "The Sail" in the background that will transform this evening from merely good into truly unforgettable.
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