4 Spots for Contemporary Iftars in Dubai
We've been enjoying the local and regional fine-dining cuisine this Ramadan, but sometimes our tastebuds feel like something a little bit different. We've checked out the Dubai scene to see where are the best places to indulge in some contemporary cuisine for Iftar and Suhoor, and here's four places that really won't disappoint! From Chinese dim sum and authentic Indian Achaari paneer tikka to organic dishes and delicious European plates, we think you'll like the selection. And if you're after more inspiration, then check out our other top Iftars in Dubai, our fine-dining fast breakers, and the best Ramadan tents in the UAE. Happy dining!
Cocktail Kitchen
This chic and unfussy establishment at the Armada Bluebay Hotel in Jumeirah Towers is mixing it up with a three course set menu for Iftar! Cocktail Kitchen's unique European interpretation is well known on Dubai's fine-dining scene, made relatively famous thanks to the flavorsome mixture of Spanish, Italian, French and Portuguese cuisine options. Their Iftar set menu includes a curated list of classic dishes, such as a delicious smoked duck salad with a honey mustard dressing, watermelon soup, four cheese lasagna and several other great options. Main plates include a number of options, including our favorite lamb scallopini with roasted vegetables and a sea bass roulade with an olive crust and a caponata and sweet tomato sauce.
Cocktail Kitchen's a la carte menu is also available, giving you some serious options for Iftar. We're passionate about their humorously named ‘Nibble before you dribble’ starters, including the Juniper Cured Salmon and the Fig & Blue Cheese Bruschetta. There's a range of seafood, pasta and meats available for their mains - we get pretty excited about the Josper Seafood Platter and Arrosticini D’Abruzzo, both of which are very tasty! Cocktail Kitchen's Iftar set menu is available from 7pm to 8.30pm daily, and is priced at AED145++ per person.
Make a reservation at Cocktail Kitchen
TR!BECA Kitchen + Bar
We really dig this place! TR!BECA combines an edgy New York City eatery atmosphere where a range of local and international artists regularly perform, with a wholesome and organic food and beverage menu. The decor pays tribute to New York's celebrated neighbourhood of the same name, with a loft-style industrial feel that features unique creative elements and artwork. For Ramadan they're offering up their full a la carte menu and added in as many visits to their delicious salad bar and dessert cart as you can fit in, as well as unlimited top ups for your soft drink of choice!
Social consciousness and global sustainability are the big themes on the menu, with almost everything consisting of locally sourced (when possible) and organic ingredients. TR!BECA Kitchen + Bar's Iftar offering is available from 7.30pm to 9.30pm daily, and consists of full a la carte menu, unlimited salad bar, unlimited desserts and bottomless sort drinks, priced at AED199++ per person.
Make a reservation at TR!BECA Kitchen + Bar
Mint Leaf of London
Our favorite Indian restaurant, located 15 floors up at the DIFC, is offering up its signature mix of authentic and contemporary Indian cuisine with an Iftar spin this Ramadan. The ambiance is upmarket, the views of the Dubai are superb, the service outstanding and the atmosphere buzzing.
Their Iftar begins with mint and lemon juices, a selection of cold appetizers, nuts, dates and salads to break the fast. The fine-dining really begins when the starter platters arrive; a large plate divided into six section, with each containing a different entrée. Cardamon and cream cheese prawns, roasted fennel seed and garlic hamour, Lahori tandoori chicken, Australian lamb kebabs, Achaari paneer tikka, and a few other options make for some seriously delicious eating! But it doesn't end there. The main course consists of a range of Indian dishes, including Saag Gosht, Chicken Tikka Korma, Subz Makhni and Yellow Dal, accompanied by freshly-baked breads and rice. Save some room for dessert, otherwise you won't have space for the combination platter of Valrhona chocolate mousse, Gulab Jamun and a fruit salad. Mint Leaf of London's Iftar set menu is available from sunset onwards and is priced at AED135++ per person.
Make a reservation at Mint Leaf of London
Hakkasan
The award-winning combination of exquisite contemporary Chinese food and signature design that's been responsible for making Hakkasan one of Dubai's top restaurants is also offering up a unique set menu for Iftar! You can choose to sit at one of the private VIP areas, the Ling-Ling lounge or the zen-like outdoor dining patio, giving plenty of options to enjoy the Michelin level eating. The outdoor terrace is our favorite spot, featuring rustic wooden pavilions, lush exotic greenery and Hakkasan’s signature oak latticing.
Hakkasan's usual menu sizzles with creative twists on traditional Chinese delicacies, and their Ramadan offering continues in this theme. Their signature Hakka steamed dim sum platter and crispy salad kicks things off, and is followed by a gastronomic combination of stir-fried ribeye steak with foie gras, four vegetables stir-fried in Szechuan sauce and a spicy prawn dish that are sublime. The dessert box is ticked with an interesting coconut semi-freddo that completes what could be one of the best Iftar set menus in the Emirate this Ramadan! Hakkasan's Iftar set menu is available daily from 7pm onwards and is priced at AED298++ per person.