In a vibrant city like Dubai, choosing the perfect bar can feel overwhelming. With a continuous influx of innovative venues, bartenders have a unique perspective on where to unwind when they aren’t mixing cocktails. The pros’ picks: where Dubai’s bartenders go when they’re off-duty showcases the personal favorites of some of the city’s finest mixologists, offering insider insights into the best nightlife spots. From lively Irish pubs to upscale lounges, these narratives reveal the essence of Dubai’s bar scene as experienced by the experts themselves.
Reliable Favorites Among the Pros
As one of the most dynamic cities in the world, Dubai boasts a diverse selection of bars. Zuka Khuntsaria, Head Bartender at Mayabay, shares his top pick: “There are plenty of great bars in Dubai, but my ultimate favorite has to be Fibber Magee’s. It’s affordable and unpretentious, with brilliant live music and genuinely good food. It probably pours the best Guinness in town.” Khuntsaria appreciates the nostalgic vibe, emphasizing how it allows friends to gather and enjoy one another’s company without pretension. “You almost forget you’re in Dubai,” he reflects.
Distinct Flavors and Comfortable Atmospheres
Claudiu Mnerau, Head Bartender at Baoli, favors La Petite Maison (LPM) as his go-to bar, praising its superb drinks and inviting ambiance. “Hands down, it serves some of the best drinks in the city. The team behind the bar is fantastic,” he notes. Mnerau emphasizes the quality of drinks, such as the Tomatini and La Piscine, which he recommends based on the mood. “Either way, you’re in safe hands; the drinks are consistently excellent,” he affirms.
Personal Touches and Unique Experiences
Jenna Ba, World Class UAE Lead at Diageo, expresses a fondness for a variety of spots depending on the occasion. “I love having a super-cold 5:1 Tanqueray No.10 Gin Martini at Avli by tashas; they always give me extra olives, and they’re the best in town,” she shares. Her appreciation for quality extends to Zuma’s Rika Tonic, emphasizing her preference for dependable choices. However, she holds a soft spot for the intimate Jass Lounge, stating, “It’s such a special spot. I’m almost reluctant to say it because it’s so small and it’s just so good.”
Trendy Vibes and Creative Cocktails
Zahra Erfanian, a mixologist at Carbone, admires La Petite Maison for its “effortless vibe.” She values the ability to hold a conversation amid carefully curated music and consistent quality in drinks. Additionally, she recommends LITT at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab for its vibrant atmosphere and talented bartenders, alongside Nobu by the Beach, which offers a lively experience with inventive cocktails that complement sushi. “It’s a fun one too with a cool atmosphere, a great DJ, and some genuinely creative cocktails,” she notes.
Lastly, Sharfin Akter Auni, Head Bartender at Nobu Dubai, echoes the sentiments regarding La Petite Maison. “I love the team – great drinks, consistently, and delicious food,” he says. Auni, a fan of the Tomatini, can’t help but recommend it, saying, “You simply can’t not.” These pros’ picks not only highlight their professional preferences but also reveal the communal spirit of camaraderie and fun integral to Dubai’s nightlife.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these insights from the city’s bartenders provide a valuable guide to experiencing the vibrant bar scene, showing where Dubai’s bartenders go when they’re off-duty and ensuring a memorable night out.