The best places for destination dining across the UAE this week.
It’s the middle of September and with the weather finally beggining to turn, it’s time to head outside for some fun in the sun. With that in mind, these are the FACT team’s top picks for destination dining, poolside lounging and weekend revelry over the coming days.
Monday 16 September
Dig into bkry’s new menu
If you love the smell of freshly baked bread, then head to bkry. Located in Alserkal Avenue, the popular bakery boasts queue-worthy pastries. Now, it has launched a new menu with artisanal pastries, crafted coffee drinks and non-alcoholic beverages. The breakfast menu ranges from Berries on Toast to Wild Mushroom on Toast, and pastries range from Matcha Cruffin to PB&J Cruffin. Plus, the new savoury additions include Beef Sando, Chicken Teriyaki Sandwich, Strozzapreti Moussaka and Gnocchi alla Sorrentina.
GO: Follow @bkry.space on Instagram for more information.
Tuesday 17 September
Enjoy a night under the stars
Galaxy Bar in DIFC will host Himkok Bar from Oslo, Norway, for its “Eyes on the Stars” series. Currently ranked #10 in the World’s 50 Best Bars, Himkok Bar, a venue whose name means “moonshine” in Norwegian, is celebrated for its in-house craftsmanship and meticulously crafted cocktails and spirits, all of which are produced in-house using a fully operational distillery. In honour of their Norwegian guests, Galaxy Bar will transform its space to create an experience reminiscent of a scientific lab. Available on 17 September from 8:30pm.
GO: Visit www.galaxy-bar.com for reservations and more information.
Wednesday 18 September
Get back to business
Take a break from the office for a business lunch at Chef Izu Ani’s Alaya. Known for destination dining in DIFC, begin your meal with a choice of tempting starters such as Cheese Borek, Fried Calamari, Grape Leaves Dolma, Kale Tabbouleh, Shish Kofte or Spiced Carrot Salad. For the main course, indulge in options like Mediterranean Pasta, Shish Chicken or Wagyu Tenderloin. End on a sweet note with a delightful dessert selection, including Apricot Tart, Mochikan Chocolate Cake or Pistachio Ice Cream. Available Monday to Friday, from 12:30pm to 4pm. AED 148 (three-course menu) or AED 168 (four-course menu).
GO: Visit alayarestaurants.com for reservations and more information.
Thursday 19 September
Taste the tropics
Tahitian Village, Trader Vic’s tropical poolside retreat at Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, offers a new poolside experience this month. You can expect a laid-back island vibe, perfect for unwinding with friends, lively tunes, destination dining and refreshing beverages (including the signature frozen Tiki Puka Pukas), ensuring every night feels like a tropical getaway. Available daily from 7pm to 11pm. AED 150 per person, including pool access, fully redeemable on food and beverages.
GO: Call 04 230 0073 for reservations and more information.
Friday 20 September
Check out Abu Dhabi’s new beach club
The newly opened Ilios Beach Club on Hudayriyat Island merges the tranquil allure of the Greek Islands with the vibrant spirit of the Mediterranean. Spread across two levels, the venue features the Euphoria Lounge and Bar on the upper floor, offering a balcony view of the world’s largest artificial waves at Surf Abu Dhabi. On the ground floor, you can explore Meraki Dining & Terrace for elegant indoor dining, while the outdoor area boasts stylish cabanas, loungers, and the Apollo Bar. Each area draws inspiration from Greek culture, providing distinct experiences from poolside lounging to gourmet dining.
GO: Visit www.surfabudhabi.com for reservations and more information.
Saturday 21 September
Try the new brunch at Roberto’s
Experience the vibrant flavours and lively atmosphere of Southern Italy with Roberto’s new Sorrento Brunch. The restaurant transforms into a Mediterranean oasis each weekend, offering a dynamic setting complete with a DJ, drummer and dancers dressed in colourful, Italy-inspired costumes. Tuck into a selection of delightful dishes, including Buffalo Mozzarella with Melon, Gratinated Mediterranean Mussels, Calamarata Pasta with Clams and Saffron, and fresh Oysters. Dessert lovers will be delighted by a tempting array of sweets and refreshing summer fruits. Available on Saturdays from 12:30pm to 4pm. AED 375 (soft beverages), AED 485 (house beverages), AED 595 (sparkling) and AED 745 (Champagne).
GO: Visit www.robertosrestaurants.com for reservations and more information.
Sunday 22 September
Dine trackside at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island
Get a head start on the F1 action at Yas Marina Circuit with W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island’s ‘Taste The Race’ promotion. Head to the FACT award-winning Garage restaurant and enjoy destination dining inspired by famous racetracks. Nikkei House honours Japan’s Suzuka Circuit with Salmon Teriyaki Donburi, while the Mezze Bar showcases Emirati classics. The Meat Vault serves up bold BBQ inspired by the Circuit of The Americas, and the Steam Table offers Nyonya cuisine reminiscent of Singapore’s Marina Bay Circuit. Finish your journey with Italian delights from the Monza Circuit at the venue’s tart van. Available Sunday to Friday, from 12:30pm to 10:30pm. AED 99 (three-course tasting menu) or AED 125 (five-course tasting menu).
GO: Call 02 656 0000 for reservations and more information.
