These are the best dishes to sink your teeth into this month.
Restaurants come and go in the GCC, but FACT’s unwavering passion for dining remains unchanged. The team can be found across the region, sampling the good, the bad and the exceptional. We eat at every kind of restaurant and experience every type of meal, from flash-in-the-pan novelties to iconic institutions. To spare you the guesswork, here are the best dishes in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Riyadh this month.
September 2024
Cheese & Onion Crisp at Row on 45 in Dubai
Row on 45, the newly crowned two-Michelin-starred restaurant from British Chef Jason Atherton, recently launched a new menu crafted for just 22 discerning guests per seating. The 17-course haute cuisine menu features Noirmoutier potato with caviar, 10-day-aged Barbary duck and a fantastic Cheese & Onion Crisp that will evoke nostalgia for British diners. The dainty and delicate sandwich boasts the flavours of a cheese toastie, presented in an elevated form, resulting in one of the best new dishes in Dubai this month – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Chicken Katsu Sando at Cafe James in Abu Dhabi
If there’s one dish you should try on your next trip to Abu Dhabi, it’s Cafe James Chicken Katsu Sando. This FACT-nominated restaurant, packed on a Sunday morning, features an array of dishes, and the Chicken Katsu Sando promises a memorable meal. Toasted and crunchy pieces of bread with a tender chicken filling and red onions make this dish simple, yet one that’s sure to tempt your taste buds. So, if you’re looking for something that’s not too crazy without compromising on flavour, this is the one to consume. — Shaheera Anwar, Staff Writer
Leña Caesar Salad at Leña Dubai
When you think of a Caesar Salad, it sounds like a takeaway dish for lunchtime. At Leña Dubai, which specialises in steak, no less, it’s one of the main attractions. So much so, that when I dined at the restaurant, I took my chef friend, who said: “You have to order this - it's the best Caesar Salad in Dubai.” The salad is prepared tableside, perfect for your Insta shots. The result is a creamy, crispy concoction that raises the standard for the humble salad. And, the only takeaway here is that you’ll want to come back for one of the best dishes in Dubai this month. – Kohinoor Sahota, Deputy Editor.
Saroma Wagyu Beef at Sagetsu by Tetsuya Wakuda in Dubai
Located on the 24th floor of The Link, Sagetsu by Tetsuya Wakuda marks the acclaimed chef's dining debut in Dubai. The restaurant's name is inspired by astronomy, as sagetsu refers to the sand and the moon in Japanese. This refined dining destination features a dynamic menu that emphasises seasonal ingredients, complemented by a selection of signature sakes. The highlight is the Saroma Wagyu Beef, layered over sushi rice like a soft blanket before being lightly torched. The result: a dainty dish that showcases premium produce while offering a rich, buttery texture that contrasts beautifully with the fiery yuzu kosho condiment. When it comes to the best dishes in Dubai right now, look no further. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Spaghetti Limone at Jon & Vinny’s in Riyadh
On a recent trip to Riyadh, all my colleagues and I wanted to do was revisit Jon & Vinny’s, where the generous servings of pasta once again enamoured us. The spicy fusilli with basil or the rigatoni with six-hour beef bolognese are worthy choices but don’t sleep on the stunning spaghetti limone with parmigiano reggiano and breadcrumbs. It’s as perfect a plate of twirled pasta as you’re likely to find and is easily one of Jon & Vinny’s best dishes. In fact, a pizza version of this dish was introduced for Saudi National Day, and we hope it will stay on the menu.– David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Tuna Pizza at Akira Back Riyadh
After seeing success in Dubai, London, Paris, Seoul, Singapore, and Toronto, celebrity chef Akira Back has brought his self-named concept to Riyadh's Diplomatic Quarter. I had the pleasure of dining with Chef Akira ahead of the opening, and no matter how many times I try the Tuna Pizza, it remains a firm FACT favourite. The dish presents a crisp base covered in thin slices of tuna that camouflage the umami aioli and white truffle oil hidden secretively beneath. It's genuinely revelatory stuff and a textural delight, making it easy to see how this fusion of East and West has become Chef Akira's signature dish.– David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
August 2024
Fatet Lahme at Bait Maryam in Dubai
Bait Maryam is a Dubai gem, and it's no surprise it’s earned a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand for its Levantine cuisine. One dish that truly wowed me was the Fatet Lahme with Rice. Though it's designed to be shared, I could easily devour it solo. The lamb, tender and juicy, melts in your mouth, sitting atop a bed of rice that’s cooked in stock and seasoned with just the right blend of herbs and spices. Topped with toasted almonds for a perfect crunch, it offers a great combination of flavours that makes it a must-try. — Shaheera Anwar, Staff Writer
Leela's Lobster Neeruli in Jamavar Dubai
Michelin-starred Jamavar has made its way from London to Dubai, serving dishes from the royal kitchens in a chic setting. Although several Dubai exclusives have been added to the menu (paneer kulcha with Beluga caviar, anyone?), I'd recommend Leela's Lobster Neeruli. This silky-smooth subtle dish is concocted with southern spiced coconut milk, pearl onions, and kal dosa, coating the delicate lobster pieces without overpowering. Come for the regal ambience and stay for one of the best dishes in Dubai. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Malai Lobster at Trèsind Dubai
Growing up with Indian and Pakistani food (and no, they’re not the same), I never imagined that a combination of malai (cream) and lobster would work together. But that's exactly why Trèsind stands tall as one of the UAE’s finest Indian restaurants — and it’s got a MICHELIN star to back it up. The Malai Lobster is a revelation with tender lobster pieces drenched in a creamy, perfectly spiced curry that somehow manages to be both rich and light. Paired with a hot, flaky Malabar parota, it’s the dish to try when you visit Trèsind Dubai. — Shaheera Anwar, Staff Writer
Seabream Carpaccia at GAIA in Dubai
Created by two of the most prominent hospitality entrepreneurs in the GCC, Evgeny Kuzin and Chef Izu Ani, GAIA is recognised and respected for its blend of beauty and simplicity. The Seabream Carpaccio has long been a FACT-favourite dish in which the delicate fish has been dissected so that the flesh resembles scales. Served with a choice of lemon oil, orange and bergamot, and truffle dressing, it's an Insta-worthy dish of clean, delicate flavours with a meaty texture and a hint of sweetness. It's easily one of best dishes in Dubai – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Warm Chocolate Mousse at La Maison Ani in Dubai
The chic homegrown La Maison Ani serves relaxed French-Mediterranean cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner in an effortlessly elegant setting. The brainchild of Chef Izu Ani, the restaurant's menu highlights include the escargot, burrata and grilled langoustine. However, the warm chocolate mousse (you can thank me later) has the editor-in-chief returning time and again. Whether dining in Dubai or London, this sweet treat is served with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream, is superb for sharing and will delight chocoholics with its gooey centre and soft exterior. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
July 2024
Burrata Pizza at Antonia Chic in Abu Dhabi
If I order pizza, I rarely look at the menu. Antonia Chic made me rethink my reflex action. So, if you’re one of the five billion people each year who eat pizza, it is mandatory for you to visit this new restaurant in Abu Dhabi. The queue-worthy pizzas are served by the slice, and one of the most popular is the Burrata. It boasts a bubbly base, soft cheese and fresh basil. The secret: a family recipe that is more than 50 years old, and dough fermented for 72 hours. – Kohinoor Sahota, Deputy Editor
Garlic Knots at Pitfire Pizza in Dubai
If there’s one thing you should order from Pitfire Pizza in Dubai — apart from pizzas — it’s their garlic knots. The aroma is enough to make you want to take a bite, even if you’re full. These bread bites are a meal in themselves. Best consumed when piping hot, they’re packed with garlicky goodness. With a side of marinara, this is the thing to have if you’re looking to truly indulge. This is the third time the FACT Award-winning restaurant has been featured in our best dishes in Dubai this year. — Shaheera Anwar, Staff Writer
Grilled Aubergine at La Petite Maison Dubai
La Petite Maison is brimming with some of the best dishes in Dubai. Come on, how many menus have a romantic backstory? Cotelettes D’Agneau Vivienne, which translates to Vivienne’s Lamb Chops, is dedicated to the owner’s late wife. For us, the Grilled Aubergine with Mozzarella and Prawns was love at first bite. While many restaurants have their take on the vegetable – Eggplant Parmigiana, anyone? – this combines comfort (creamy cheese) and class (pretty prawns). – Kohinoor Sahota, Deputy Editor
Unagi Maki at ROKA Jeddah
Now when it comes to sushi, my go-tos are the California or Salmon Maki Rolls. I decided to take a leap of faith and tried the Unagi Maki at ROKA Jeddah. In the first bite, I knew that there was going to be no sharing. The Unagi Maki, featuring teriyaki eel, was a delightful first for me. The eel, combined with avocado and the usual sushi fixings, was packed with flavour and just the right amount of mouthfullness — if that’s a word. With a little wasabi for the perfect kick, it’s definitely one to try at the restaurant. — Shaheera Anwar, Staff Writer
June 2024
Black Pepper Beef at XU Dubai
XU, located on the second floor of the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, showcases Chef Min Wei Lai’s penchant for Asian flavours. The sultry space effortlessly fills the gap left behind by the closure of the FACT favourite Indochine, providing a venue that successfully bridges dining, drinking and dancing. The restaurant may be known for its Cherry Wood Peking Duck, but the Black Pepper Beef is another must-try dish. Perfectly seasoned and bursting with flavour, the meat is tender, juicy, and not too chewy — resulting in one of the best dishes in Dubai in current memory.. – Shaheera Anwar, Staff Writer.
Burrata & Tequila Infused Peaches at Soul Kitchen Dubai
True to its name, Soul Kitchen Dubai has been designed as a social space to feed the soul. This restaurant-bar concept is anchored by a food and drinks menu that fuses Levantine and Latin American flavours while enhancing the storytelling around displacement. While I’ve become obsessed with the restaurant’s Caribbean Red Snapper, the local Burrata (AED 80) served with Altos Tequila-infused peaches, basil, and toasted almonds is a luscious and sweet treat that perfectly balances textures and bold flavours. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Costilla de Ternera at TATEL Dubai
Cristiano Ronaldo and Rafael Nadal’s TATEL has fast become the talk of the town. It is a lively restaurant that draws inspiration from America’s prohibition era in the 1920s while offering an all-night party vibe in a sleek and sophisticated space designed for revelry. The marvellous Mediterranean menu includes stunning choices such as Arroz de langosta and the world-famous TATEL cheesecake. However, the beautifully lacquered Costilla de ternera (AED 225) captured my attention. Presenting superb, slow-cooked glazed short rib that melts at the mere fumble of a fork. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Crushed Milk Chocolate Cookies at NAC Dubai
Anyone who knows me will tell you I don’t have much of a sweet tooth. I’d much prefer a cheese plate or even another appetiser rather than a decadent dessert. However, a recent visit to NAC in Al Wasl introduced me to the Crushed Milk Chocolate Cookies (AED 83). These moreish morsels are gloriously gooey, served warm so that the chocolate chips have begun to melt and topped with a fantastic Frosties soft serve ice cream. It’s a dessert that takes the childhood nostalgia of cookies and a glass of milk and turns it on its head. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Fried Chicken with Caviar at CÉ LA VI Dubai
CÉ LA VI Dubai is a FACT favourite and not just because of its skyline swimming pool, superb shisha and Burj Khalifa views. Following a recent video shoot, Chef Howard Ko introduced me to a new menu item: gloriously golden fried chicken with a generous dollop of caviar. The crisp chicken is superbly seasoned with a sprightly spice that is elevated by the slight saltiness from the caviar. Look out for this mix of casual and refined fare when it hits the menu later this summer. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Spicy Duck and Sriracha Pizza at Osteria Funkcoolio in Dubai
If you haven’t heard of Chef Akmal Anuar, surely, you know his concepts. He was behind the acclaimed 3Fils, which ranked at number one in the Middle East & North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2022. He is currently behind 11Woodfire, which holds one MICHELIN Star and also Goldfish Sushi & Yakitori. His latest passion project is Osteria Funkcoolio, an Itameshi restaurant offering a funky fusion of Italian cuisine with Japanese influences in a pretty waterfront spot at Port de La Mer. Fusion often leads to confusion, but Osteria Funkcoolio’s Spicy Duck and Sriracha Pizza (AED 78) is a fiery treat. Baked and blistered to achieve the perfect char, resulting in a crisp crust and fluffy interior, this pizza may be wholeheartedly Italian, but topped with distinctly Asian ingredients, each slice is a moreish morsel (spoiler alert: we ordered a second to take home). – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Torta Di Rose at Leña Dubai
Things are heating up on the Dubai dining scene with the arrival of Spanish chef Dani García’s acclaimed concept Leña at St. Regis Gardens. Leña means “wood” in Spanish and is a fitting name for the superb steakhouse which showcases the power of cooking over charcoal. The menu spans starters, robatakayaki, jewels from the sea, and fire-grilled steaks. Yet, the limited edition Torta Di Rose (AED 99) should not be missed. Designed for sharing, the dessert is shaped like a flower and is served in a basket of black roses. It tops a sugary, almost marshmallow-like dough with a generous dollop of brown butter ice cream. When it comes to the best dishes in Dubai right now, look no further. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
May 2024
Carabinero at Jara by Martín Berasategui in Dubai
Perched on the 18th floor of The Lana – Dorchester Collection, Jara by Martín Berasategui pioneers the introduction of Basque gastronomy in Dubai. Renowned for its jumbo size and striking bright red colour, it’s easy to see why the Carabinero (AED 295 per piece) has been blowing up our Instagram feeds. With a robust flavour that is more pronounced than other shrimp and langoustine varieties, Jara’s Carabinero is adorned with a buttery Hollandaise sauce containing a hint of lemon. For Dubai decadence, a generous dollop of caviar can be added. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Caribbean Red Snapper at Soul Kitchen Dubai
True to its name, Soul Kitchen Dubai has been designed as a social space to feed the soul. This restaurant-bar concept is anchored in a food and drinks menu that fuses Levantine and Latin American flavours, accenting the culinary offerings with elements of alternative culture, art, and talent from the region. The Caribbean Red Snapper (AED 150) stole this Editor-in-Chief’s heart. Served upon a bed of sweet plantain pineapple purée alongside tomato and coconut sofrito, and fresh coconut pico de gallo, it’s a dish of competing sweet flavours that never overpower the delicate fish. It may have taken me eight months to visit, but it’s easy to see why Soul Kitchen is currently the talk of the town. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Escargot De Bourgogne at L’Ami Dave Riyadh
L’ami Dave has added some chic to Saudi Arabia. The French fine-dining restaurant pays homage to 19th-century Paris. The setting oozes old-school charm – we’re talking Art Deco touches, white tablecloths, and vintage pieces. Oh, and waiters in white dinner jackets. While the menu presents plenty of French finesse, don’t miss the Escargot De Bourgogne (SAR 125). Served with garlic butter, parsley, and lemon. Releasing the tasty gastropods from their shells can be a little tricky, but it’s oh-so worth it. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Fried Soft Shell Crab at Mott 32 Dubai
Perched on the 73rd floor of Address Beach Resort, Mott 32 stands out with its sky-high location and sultry east-meets-west atmosphere. Boasting stunning views, the must-try dishes here include the Signature Crispy Sugar-Coated Charcoal Lamb Buns, Fried Soft Shell Crab and the Mott 32 Signature Apple Wood Roasted Peking Duck, carved tableside. The Fried Soft Shell Crabm, which also makes an appearance on their brunch menu, is bursting with flavour. The fresh seafood, combined with top-quality ingredients and spices, takes this dish to the next level. There’s a reason this superb spot secured ‘Best Chinese Restaurant’ at the FACT Dining Awards Dubai 2023. – Shaheera Anwar, Staff Writer.
King Crab & Homemade Trenette Pasta at SAL Saadiyat
SAL Saadiyat is a sophisticated spot that draws inspiration from Capri, Mykonos, and Saint-Tropez. Bringing laidback luxury from Burj Al Arab to Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi. Diners can soak up the uninterrupted water views and dig into a Mediterranean-inspired menu. While the pool and beach are unrivalled, do not leave SAL Saadiyat without ordering the King Crab and Homemade Trenette Pasta. The dish utilises pesto made with cashews rather than pine nuts to coat the pasta strands. It’s a stunning plate topped with sweet, tender crab meat, tomatoes, and espelette chilli. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Pizzeta with Tuna Carpaccio at TOTÓ Abu Dhabi
Sport and food might not sound like a catchy combination, but it appears to have worked for footballer Cristiano Ronaldo and tennis superstar Rafael Nadal. The pair are behind the capital’s latest culinary concept, TOTÓ Abu Dhabi. The Italian menu combines traditional and creative dishes, so expect plenty of pasta, pizza, and meat and fish prepared in the wood-fired oven. The caviar-topped Pizzeta with Tuna Carpaccio (AED 160) presents an interplay of textures, with the crispy crust contrasting with the smooth and naturally sweet tuna. The generous dollops of caviar provide a touch of decadence that is not just for show, as the saltiness of the roe adds an additional flavour profile to the nuanced dish. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Wagyu A5 at Smoked Room Dubai
The culinary maestros behind Smoked Room Dubai and the FACT award-winning Ossiano recently collaborated on a spectacular Four Hands dinner. Chef Dani García and Chef Grégoire Berger merged their culinary prowess to create a menu that celebrated the natural elements of fire and water and highlighted signature dishes from both venues. While it wasn’t my first time trying the dish, the Wagyu A5 from Saroma is Smoked Room’s pièce de résistance. Beautifully grilled to ensure the fat in the meat offers a tempting texture, the delightfully tender cube of premium beef is embellished with 34-year-old soy sauce and fresh wasabi. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
April 2024
Hamachl Usuzukuri Tiradito at White Robata Riyadh
Recognised by MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants, White Robata has seen acclaim in Kuwait before expanding to Laysen Valley in Riyadh. The new restaurant boasts an open kitchen, so you can watch the chefs as you work through the sharing-style menu of the best dishes featuring raw, robata, kushiyaki and buns. The Hamachl Usuzukuri had the FACT team reaching for the chopsticks thanks to an alluring combination of thinly sliced yellowtail served in a sweet passion fruit ponzu with a fiery jalapeno relish. If you’re looking to savour the flavours of Japan, then this is it. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Hand Dived Scallop at La Dame de Pic Dubai
Having enjoyed a memorable meal at La Dame de Pic London last summer, I practically knocked down the restaurant’s door ahead of its Dubai opening, and wow, did it impress. Elegance and sophistication reign supreme across Chef Anne-Sophie Pic’s experience menu, yet it’s the Hand Dive Scallops that deserve all the applause. The molluscs are plump and presented carpaccio style alongside sake gel, crunchy kohlrabi, and geranium ice cream. It’s a plate that takes time to appreciate, with a subtle textural interplay harmonising with floral notes without ever overpowering the delicate scallops. Thanks to its salinity, Caviar brings the flavours together, resulting in a triumphant fusion of French expertise and nuanced Asian influences. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Heirloom Carrots at Jun’s Dubai
I had guests in town this month, so we decided to visit Jun’s for dinner. Chef Kelvin has recently introduced a tasting menu featuring his handpicked favourites. While the Pani Puri and Potstickers certainly impress, it’s the Heirloom Carrots that remain a firm FACT favourite and one of the restaurants best dishes. The pretty plate features a row of smoked heirloom carrots, lacquered with soy honey butter and placed over a pert mound of smoked labneh and topped with candied walnuts. It’s third-culture cooking taken to the next level. It's easily one of the best dishes in Dubai this month. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Michele’s Apple Pie at Pitfire Pizza in Dubai
I’m not usually a fan of apple pie. It reminds me of school dinners and something Granny Smith would make for you as a child. However, at the newly opened Pitfire Pizza in Dubai Hills, I tasted Michele’s Apple Pie. Named after the restaurant creator, Michele Johnson, it’s a charming crumbly concoction. Thanks to its mixture of apples, cinnamon and nutmeg, it made me the desert’s devotee. The fusion of flavours tastes like Christmas morning – and that’s worth looking forward to. – Kohinoor Sahota, Deputy Editor.
Taco De Pulpo at StreetXo Dubai
From drinks served in glassware resembling human hearts to staff dressed in straight jackets, StreetXo from acclaimed chef Dabiz Muñoz is an immersive experience. But away from the fun and theatrics, simple yet delicious Taco De Pulpo is the restaurant’s unsung hero. The dish features robata-grilled octopus plated upon a butter yellow morita mole, tree tomato gazpacho, and Parmesan. It’s a flavour-packed meaty morsel, but one we would definitely return for. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Watermelon Salad at Arrazuna in Dubai
It’s not hard to find a watermelon salad on Dubai’s menus, but it is hard to find a unique one. At the newly opened Arrazura in One&Only One Za’abeel, it showcases Turkish cuisine. Chef Mehmet Gurs has drawn from his Turkish roots, and created eight interactive kitchens. While the choice can be overwhelming, we are here to help. Order the Watermelon and Cheese, which is superbly seasoned and spicy. The dish combines ezine cheese, spiced pine nuts, zaatar and small slices of watermelon. Fresh and flavourful, it is the ultimate version of this starter. – Kohinoor Sahota, Deputy Editor.
Wagyu A Lo Pobre at Kuuru Riyadh
Having set Jeddah alight with its funky fusion cuisine, Kuuru has now made its way to KAFD in the Saudi capital. The restaurant brings Nikkei cuisine to the Saudi table with a sharing-style menu designed to bring people together. Don’t be distracted by the stunning interiors that blend Japanese minimalism with a Peruvian jungle vibe because the food is top-notch. The Nikkei Style Nigiri saw the FACT team fighting over the last piece of wagyu striploin layered over sushi rice with smoked tare, Nippon chimichurri and a dainty quail egg. As one of Kuuru’s best dishes, this nigiri is lightly torched before being eaten. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
March 2024
Come With Me To Aleppo at Orfali Bros in Dubai
I had the pleasure of sitting down for lunch with Mohammad Orfali the day after Orfali Bros claimed the number one spot on the MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants list. The small restaurant offers several stunning dishes, from the Caviar Bun and Corn Bomb to the exceptional Umami Éclair. However, it’s the playfully named Come With Me To Aleppo that keeps me returning to this homegrown hotspot in Wasl51. A tender wagyu beef kebab served with sour cherry, pine nuts, and cinnamon is a textural marvel, a sweet and savoury sensation and easily one of the best dishes I ate this month. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Honey Nut Crispy Beef at Tàn Chá in Dubai
It’s been a minute since I last dined at Tàn Chá, but a recent lunch meeting brought me back to the multi-faceted Chinese restaurant. With food served in bird cages and dim sum shaped like bumblebees, Chef David Pang’s menu takes diners on an exploration of the new and forgotten. The best dish remains the honey nut crispy beef, a display of culinary finesse that sees beef cubes triple-cooked to achieve an admirable tenderness before being tossed in a sweet and sticky honey dressing and rolled in peanuts. It’s a moreish marvel. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Japanese Wagyu Kawarayaki at Netsu in Dubai
Netsu is a Japanese Steakhouse that showcases the traditional Japanese cooking technique of Warayaki. This straw-fire cooking technique sees plenty of the restaurant’s main courses prepared in the open flame. However, a series of new dishes bring dinner theatre to the tabletop. The Japanese Wagyu Kawarayaki sees three pieces of beef cooked on a tableside BBQ, letting the premium product shine through. Indulge in thin strips of tri-tip, tender cubes of ribeye or slender slices of striploin prepared with an undeniable smokey char and delicious dipping sauces. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Pepperoni Primo at Pitfire Pizza in Dubai
Only one restaurant makes me break my don’t-order-in dietary restriction: FACT Dining Award Dubai winner, Pitfire Pizza. Whenever someone new moves to Dubai, I recommend where to live, shop and eat – and this pizzeria comes out on top. The ten-inch Pepperoni Primo is the best pizza I have eaten in Dubai. There is so much to love, from the bubbly base to the thin crust. Every order arrives piping hot, and the familiar flavours never disappoint. It’s not even a guilty pleasure; it’s pure pleasure. Speaking of which, excuse me while I order one. – Kohinoor Sahota, Deputy Editor.
Rosemary & Olive Oil Cake at Chi Spacca in Riyadh
When I spotted Rosemary and Olive Oil cake on the menu at Chi Spacca in Via Riyadh, I decided to throw caution to the wind and give it a whirl. Surprisingly — and delightfully — it turned out to be a fantastic decision. Served on a hand-painted plate featuring charismatic animal designs, the sweet treat exceeded my expectations. This light, moist sponge contained just a hint of rosemary and was topped with a surprising scoop of olive oil ice cream, offering a memorable ending to a marvellous meal. – Shaheera Anwar, Staff Writer.
Smoked Eel Nitro Tomato at Smoked Room in Dubai
Dani García’s Smoked Room Fire Omakase was easily the best meal I had this month. With only 14 seats, the exclusive and personalised dining experience sees each dish touch the flame or embers at the restaurant’s heart. Although each of the 15 courses was exceptional, the Smoked Eel Nitro Tomato impressed me the most. A smoked eel mousse is shaped like a tomato and dipped in liquid nitrogen to retain the form. Served with a sweet bell pepper caramel and almond soup, it’s a plate that plays with perceptions. It's easily one of the best dishes in Dubai right now. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
The Fat Kid Cookie at Butcher & Still in Abu Dhabi
Going to a steakhouse for dessert might sound like a strange suggestion. The team’s desire for excellence extends from its cuts of meat to its delightful desserts. The Fat Kid Cookie – yes, it’s actually called that – is impressively indulgent. Inspired by the Prohibition era’s restriction of entertainment, desserts were a source of fun – and this a hoot. The chunky pieces of cookie dough, topped with ice cream and sauce combined together to create classy comfort food. There’s a reason this spot at Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island has claimed the title of Best Steakhouse in the capital multiple times at the FACT Dining Award Abu Dhabi. – Kohinoor Sahota, Deputy Editor.
February 2024
Beef Brisket at BIGTBBQ in Dubai
Living in East London, I spent a lot of time devouring more BBQ than I’d care to admit. Bodeans, SMOKESTAK and Red Dog Saloon became the dining destinations of my youth. So, when a friend introduced me to a BBQ spot that might just be the best in the country, I was in awe. With a rough and ready approach, BIGTBBQ offers brisket, burgers, burnt ends and ribs inside a converted chocolate warehouse in Al Quoz. Come early, as dishes sell out quickly, but make sure you order the fatty slabs of beef brisket (AED 80) that are oh-so-tender and imparted with a stunning smoked flavour. – David Tapley, Editor-in-chief.
Chargrilled Japanese Wagyu Beef with Uni at Zenon in Dubai
With its Hermes tableware and AI-driven concept, there’s a lot to like at the newly opened Zenon in Kempinski Central Avenue Dubai. The culinary offering at this avant-garde restaurant is solid, though pricey, with signatures ranging from Carabineros Scarlet Prawn to Rigatoni With Cream Reduction and Caviar. With decadence on full display across the culinary offering, I was drawn to the Chargrilled Japanese Wagyu Beef with Uni and Salmon Roe (AED 295), which fuses flavours with gusto. The sweet and buttery uni offers a contrast to the char on the pretty pink cubes of Wagyu, which is harmonised by salty pops from the salmon roe. It’s a dish worth risking the Downtown traffic for. – David Tapley, Editor-in-chief.
Japanese Doughnuts Adagi at SUSHISAMBA Dubai
Doughnuts in a fine-dining Japanese restaurant sound wrong, but at SUSHISAMBA Dubai, they are oh-so-right. When I visited the Rio Brunch, it was love at first bite. The Japanese Doughnuts Adagi are pockets of perfection. There are no Insta-gimmicks, just an elevated take on the humble dessert. The doughnut is soft and sugary on the outside and filled with Dolce ganache on the inside. Not only did we order them three times, but if we could pack them in our purses, we would. – Kohinoor Sahota, Deputy Editor.
Mac Ferdi’s Cheeseburger at Ferdi in Riyadh
Parisian hotspot Ferdi has introduced its sophisticated ambience to Via Riyadh in Saudi Arabia. Most guests come purely for the Mac Ferdi’s Cheeseburger (SAR 98), which is available in limited quantities each day. The burger is generously filled with a beef patty, confit fried and raw onions, Ferdi’s special sauce, mustard and pickles. Beautifully juicy thanks to the flavoursome patty, the burger provides a hint of saltiness and a more than generous slathering of cheese. Sandwiched between a fluffy bun, it’s a surefire contender for the title of Riyadh’s best burger, and given its international notoriety, it’s easy to see why. The result is messy but delightfully delicious. – David Tapley, Editor-in-chief.
Spicy Rigatoni at Carbone Riyadh
Few restaurants in the world have been name-checked by rappers. Carbone made its way into Drake’s 2022 track Spin Bout U, where he rhymes, “You know how it goes when they can’t get a reservation up in Carbone”. People flock to the Italian American restaurant purely for the signature Spicy Rigatoni (SAR 190). This simple yet seductive pasta plate deserves all the acclaim bestowed upon it. The seductive sauce is creamy but belies its spicy nature, with the heat coming to the fore with each mouthful. It’s comfort food executed to perfection and a dish that has spawned a thousand copycat recipes. – David Tapley, Editor-in-chief.
The Foie That Wanted To Be An Apple at Leña Dubai
Spanish chef Dani Garcia has opened Leña in Dubai, which showcases the power of cooking over charcoal. The menu spans starters, robatakayaki, jewels from the sea, and fire-grilled steaks. However, The Foie That Wanted To Be An Apple (AED 85) left this editor-in-chief floored. Similar to Dinner By Heston Blumenthal’s Meat Fruit, this dish plays culinary tricks on you. It is shaped like a green apple, but when you cut into it, a foie gras micuit is revealed. Served with green apple salad, caramelised walnuts and toasted bread, it’s a rich, luscious treat. It's easily one of the best dishes in Dubai right now. – David Tapley, Editor-in-chief.
Wagyu Boeuf Tartare at Chez Wam in Dubai
The FACT Award-winning Chez Wam is now open for lunch, so it was only fitting that I made a return visit this month. Chef Hadrien Villedieu’s Wagyu Boeuf Tartare (AED 100) remains one of the most innovative takes on the classic French dish we’ve ever tried. Not only does it combine an addictive Yakiniku herbs dressing with a crispy texture from the wasabi crackers, but the dish is engulfed in a smoky finish. The East meets West theme is prominent throughout the menu, but this (and the ever-popular Foie Gras Burger) remain the restaurant’s most desirable dishes and one of the best dishes in Dubai right now. – David Tapley, Editor-in-chief.
