Midweek Eats That Go Beyond the Usual
Dinner doesn’t need to wait for the weekend, especially with the vibrant culinary scene in Dubai. From tantalizing new summer menus to exciting pop-ups and unique chef collaborations, this week offers plenty of reasons to skip home cooking. Here are five of the best restaurants in Dubai to savor from July 14 to 18.
GAIA
This DIFC hotspot features colorful dishes such as artichoke and zucchini pasta, grilled chicken with lemon confit, and a refreshing tomato salad, all expertly paired with refreshing cocktails and a selection of curated wines served by the glass. The atmosphere is light and elegant, making it perfect for leisurely lunches or early evening dining.
Location: GAIA, Podium Level, Gate Village 4, DIFC
Times: Seasonal menu available daily throughout July & August, 12 PM to 6:30 PM
Contact: (0)4 241 4242 | @gaia__dubai
W Dubai, The Palm
Dine across four distinguished venues: the Michelin Guide-honored Akira Back, the Mediterranean-inspired Olivino, the casual WET Deck, and the scenic rooftop eatery SoBe. Whether you fancy innovative cocktails, delectable sushi, or relaxed poolside fare, this dining experience promises a symphony of flavors and vibrant summer vibes.
Location: W Dubai – The Palm
Times: Available daily throughout July, August & September
Cost: Dhs220 per person
Contact: (0)4 245 5800 | @wdubaipalm
The Guild
Every Wednesday evening, indulge in their signature Beef Wellington—an exquisite twist on the classic dish encased in a flaky pastry, stuffed with mushroom duxelles and spinach pancake, and drizzled with bordelaise sauce. Accompanied by wood-fired carrots and creamy mashed potatoes, the experience is set against a backdrop of soothing live performances and elegant surroundings.
Location: The Guild, DIFC
Times: Available every Wednesday from 6 PM onwards
Cost: Dhs250 per person
Contact: (0)4 564 0401 | @theguilddubai
The Artisan
Image: Supplied
The Artisan is your go-to for an upscale midday retreat, offering a newly launched Italian Business Lunch. Served weekdays in the heart of DIFC for Dhs135, this three-course menu includes delightful options like salmon carpaccio complemented by green apple and mascarpone or fregola pasta adorned with seasonal prawns and artichokes. The combination of taste, elegance, and simplicity makes it a perfect choice for a workday reset or a relaxed client meeting.
Location: The Artisan, Waldorf Astoria DIFC
Times: Monday to Friday, 12 PM to 3 PM
Cost: Dhs135 per person
Contact: (0)4 338 8133 | @theartisandubai
AKABEKO
Image: Supplied
For a unique dining experience, head to Dubai’s pioneering premium Yakiniku venue, AKABEKO, where you can indulge in Wagyu & Wine Wednesdays. This extravagant seven-course meal features high-quality wagyu paired with off-menu wines. Savor bold flavors with dishes like wagyu carpaccio, curry arancini, kushiyaki skewers, perfectly cooked steak cuts, and exquisite Hōjicha desserts—all crafted by Head Chef Yosuke Matsuoka. The wine selections change month-to-month for a fresh pairing each time you visit.
Location: KABEKO, Voco Dubai The Palm, G01, West Beach, Palm Jumeirah
Times: Available every Wednesday from 6 PM onwards
Cost: Dhs450 per person (includes wine pairing)
Contact: (0)50 561 8288 | @akabeko_dubai