Dining out is a favourite pastime in Dubai, and doing it al
fresco is something we should all make the most of before we hibernate for
summer. Yeah, we still can’t believe that’s a ‘thing’ either. With spectacular
views wherever you go, it’s a crime not to take advantage of some of these
restaurants with unbeatable outdoor ambience.

The Farm, Al Barari

The Farm at Al Barari is one of the most picturesque, and
decidedly ‘un-Dubai’ places in town. Located out in what feels like the middle
of nowhere, it’s full of snaking green walkways and lush plantations. In
amongst all this, is a beautiful restaurant, which serves up delicious sea bass
fillet (AED160) as their signature dish, however the honey-glazed trio of duck
(AED165) is also incredible.

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Boardwalk restaurant by Dubai Creek

This place still remains a bit of an undiscovered gem, given
its location away from the usual hustle and bustle down by Dubai Creek. It’s
far from rustic though, the slick nautical interior gives way to a stunning
decked terrace, which looks out of Dubai from a different part of town than
you’re used to. The lobster spaghetti is life changing here (AED155) and comes
served simply, with just garlic, cherry tomatoes and a secret mixed seafood
sauce. Genuinely, it is one of the tastiest things in the city.

Pierchic

Pierchic, part of Jumeirah’s Madinat development, needs
little introduction. It is perhaps one of the swankiest restaurants in town,
and yes, the prices do reflect that. However, it has to be on your UAE bucket
list. Where else would you sit on a stylish jetty and enjoy haute cuisine? We
highly recommend the roasted yellow tail (AED275) which comes with celery root,
green apple and black truffle sauce. And yes, when you’re spending that much on
dinner – you’re allowed to Instagram it. Just make sure you get some of the
scenery, too.

Bussola

If you’re in the mood for some posh pizza, then Bussola at
the Westin is your vibe. Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine such as the speck and
gorgonzola pizza (AED80), which is wood fired, crispy, and beyond delicious.
With a gentle sea breeze, stunning views of the palm and the ocean, as well as
the feeling like you’re in your own little tree house, an evening here really
could not get any better.

Bu Qtair Fish Shack

If you’ve not been to Bu Qtair just off Jumeirah Beach road
(most commonly known as the Fish Shack) then you really need to reassess your
life. What used to be a little room – hence the shack – serving mouthwatering
fresh catch has now moved over the road into a bigger premise with indoor
seating too, as customers used to just sit by the side of the road chowing
down. However, outside really is the best way to be here, even if it is on
fancier seats than the plastic stools we were used to. The menu is dependent on
what has been reeled in that day, but a portion of marinated and fried hammour
ranges from AED40-90 depending how many mouths you have to feed. This really is
the cheapest, and most delicious, way to spend a night under the stars in
Dubai.

Karma Cafe

For a fancy take on al fresco, head to the recently
refurbished Karma Kafe, which is situated on the first floor of Souk Al Bahar,
Downtown. Yes, the interiors are stylish and lovely, but their outdoor terrace
– which overlooks the always impressive Dubai fountains – is where you’ll
really have your breath taken away. We highly recommend ordering the black cod
(AED189) cooked in Yazu Saikyo misu and served with pickled bamboo shoot. Don’t
worry, you’ll work off the calories by jumping up to Snapchat the waterworks
every 30 minutes.