The culinary scene in Downtown Dubai is nothing short of spectacular, with a smorgasbord of bistros, fine-dining establishments, and cafes, each offering a myriad of delectable international cuisines.
1. Thiptara
Consider Thiptara, an exceptional Thai restaurant nestled in the Palace Downtown on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashed Boulevard. This restaurant in Downtown Dubai brings a slice of Thailand to Dubai, complete with a breathtaking view of the Dubai Fountain from its picturesque alfresco terrace. Thiptara, translating to 'magic on the water,' serves up enchanting dining experiences.
The menu is an ode to Southern Thailand, with standout dishes like soft shell crab fried to perfection, served with onion, chili, and a punchy black pepper sauce. Equally impressive is the black cod adorned with a rich BBQ sauce and crispy onions, and the refreshing pomelo salad featuring tiger prawns and grilled chicken tossed with crispy coconut in a tangy tamarind sauce.
2. 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant Dubai
Over at the five-star Address Hotel, you'll find the 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant. This upscale sushi destination offers a gourmet dining experience enveloped in a classy ambience. With a menu primarily showcasing sushi and sashimi, you can anticipate creative delights such as lobster maki with sake, wakame seaweed, cucumber, and yuzu, as well as turbot flambe nigiri enhanced with coriander oil and Momiji oroshi. Their open kitchen offers a glimpse into the intricate art of sushi making. The outdoor terrace is the preferred seating area, offering lush greenery under grand arches.
3. URLA
URLA, a Mediterranean gem within the Address Downtown Hotel, transports guests straight to the Aegean coast of Turkey. Showcasing live cooking on charcoal, URLA adds a dramatic flair to the dining experience. Wine aficionados will appreciate the extensive cellar that houses an impressive range of premium and rare wines.
The menu segregates dishes into 'from the sea' and 'from the mountain' categories, featuring notable dishes like seabass ceviche with crispy sweet potato and tiger’s milk, a generous grilled seafood platter served with parsley sauce, and flame-grilled beef complemented by pitta, burned butter and yogurt. Furthermore, an array of mezze plates and Turkish-style pizzas known as pides also grace the menu.