One of London’s Most Luxe Lands in Dubai
Mr Chow has made a name for itself by blending a distinctive London snobbery with the extravagant flair of Dubai, creating a dining experience that exudes sophistication and indulgence. Established in 1968 by the multi-talented Michael Chow, this celebrated Chinese restaurant began its journey on Valentine’s Day in London, quickly capturing the hearts and palates of celebrity diners. With locations spanning from Beverly Hills to New York, and now a stunning site in Dubai, Mr Chow brings a slice of London snobbery meets Dubai bling to an eager audience.
The Story
The foundational philosophy of Mr Chow is embedded in the communal dining culture that characterizes Chinese cuisine. Each meal is crafted to be a shared experience, encouraging diners to exchange plates and flavors as they enjoy their food. Traditionally, orders are placed by a single individual, usually the host, further enhancing the sense of community. While Chinese gastronomy is vast, Mr Chow specializes in the refined art of Beijing cuisine, a style that has served the elite for centuries across three dynasties.
The Space
Creating a lavish atmosphere is an art, and Mr Chow excels with high ceilings and ambient low lighting. Although the restaurant occupies a relatively compact space in DIFC, it compensates with breathtaking skyline views from its floor-to-ceiling windows. The decor features a palette of rich, dark tones complemented by crisp white tablecloths and polished accents, all meticulously orchestrated to reflect the moody elegance of Dubai’s nightlife. The servers, dressed in starched white tuxedos, add a layer of formality that impresses without being overbearing.
The Food
The menu at Mr Chow features a delightful assortment of sharing-style dishes that blend authentic Beijing recipes with signature inventions unique to the restaurant. Highlights include glazed prawns with walnuts (Dhs164), renowned for their sweet and nutty flavor profile, and the classic Mr Chow noodles (Dhs154), a recipe dating back to 1968, showcasing handmade noodles drenched in a rich, flavorful sauce. Also worth trying are the chicken satay (Dhs92 each) and crispy beef (Dhs253); the satay is a delectable blend of sweet and savory with a creamy accompaniment, while the beef offers a delightful chewiness and a hint of citrus zest.
The Beijing duck (Dhs516 per person) takes center stage, presented tableside with flair befitting Mr Chow’s reputation. Accompanied by soft wraps and a sweet, savory duck sauce, along with fresh vegetables, this dish is a must-try. Each slice is tender and juicy, defying the common pitfalls of dryness often found in roasted duck—making this classic an essential part of the dining experience.
We wrap up our meal with a refreshing mango parfait and a luscious mix of berries served in an icy bowl, both desserts light and fruity, providing a perfect conclusion to the luxurious dining adventure at Mr Chow.
Verdict
For anyone seeking an experience that marries heritage with modern grandeur, Mr Chow is a destination worth visiting.
Location: Mr Chow, Precinct Building 3, Gate District, DIFC, Dubai, daily, 12pm to 12am, @mrchowdifc