CONNECTOR.AE 16 CONNECTOR.AE 17 DINING AROUND DINING AROUND Perched on Level 3 of DIFC, Al Mandaloun is a home-grown Lebanese restaurant that has been serving Dubai since 2004. Celebrating the warmth of Arabian hospitality, it captures the essence of Lebanon with its authentic flavours and generous spirit. The menu is a feast of classics, from endless hot and cold mezze to freshly baked breads, raw meat delicacies, and signature grills. Shawarma is a house favourite, seasoned with a distinctive spice blend, while traditional desserts, Arabic coffee, and fragrant herbal teas round out the experience. Guests can dine indoors amid stylish yet welcoming interiors, or head to the terrace lounge overlooking DIFC’s waterfalls and gardens for a serene escape. Open daily from 8am to midnight. www.al-mandaloun.com Set in the charming Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant offers an authentic taste of Emirati tradition. Lantern-lit courtyards, palm accents, and the aroma of fresh gahwa create a warm, nostalgic atmosphere. The menu features Emirati favourites like jesheed, bedouin lamb tikka, and other hearty meats and fresh seafood. Breakfast is a standout, perfect before or after exploring Old Dubai. With farm-fresh ingredients and generous portions, it’s a delicious way to step back in time. Open daily from 9am to midnight. www.alkhayma.com Al Mandaloun, DIFC Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant, Bur Dubai In a charming villa along Al Wasl Road, Jordanian television host and restaurateur Eva Halasa, together with her daughters Emilie and Lilian, brings a fresh take on Arabic cuisine. The menu features playful creations such as feta brûlée with date and walnut toast, and bone marrow served with sourdough and sauerkraut. Jordanian classics shine too, with the mansaf taking centre stage. Other favourites include the bold chilli charcoal labneh, the grilled shrimp platter, and the aromatic fattet chicken. Stylish yet welcoming, Three by Eva Halasa is a destination for both tradition lovers and culinary explorers. Open daily from noon to midnight and until 1am on Fridays. www.threebyeva.com Three By Eva Halasa, Jumeirah Nestled in Al Ras, Deira, AlBait AlQadeem, meaning ‘The Old House’, celebrates Emirati culinary heritage in a setting rich with history. Surrounded by traditional architecture and open courtyards, it’s a charming spot to savour time-honoured recipes. The menu champions local favourites such as Emirati chicken stew and mixed grill, but it’s the shawarma that steals the show. Pair it with a steaming cup of tea for the perfect pre or post-market treat in this cultural corner of the city. Open daily from 8am to 10pm. @albaitalqadeem_restaurant_uae Located in Club Vista Mare, Palm Jumeirah, Ibn Albahr brings authentic Lebanese seafood to the shore with a charming nautical theme featuring ropes, anchors, and a boat. The terrace offers stunning beach views, and for the ultimate experience, request a table right on the sand. Fresh fish is selected at the counter and prepared simply yet expertly, allowing natural flavours to shine through with a hint of aromatic herbs and spices. It’s a laid-back spot for fresh, flavourful Arabic-style seafood by the water. Open daily from 8.30am to 2am. www.ibnalbahr.me In the heart of Gate Village 4, DIFC, acclaimed Chef Izu Ani brings his signature flair to Alaya, a Middle Eastern dining experience with a refined edge. Set in a former art gallery, the sleek interiors frame an open kitchen where a giant rotisserie takes centre stage. The menu blends classic flavours with regional accents featuring melt-in-themouth lamb shank, indulgent seafoodmanti and a kunafa dessert worth saving room for. Open daily from 12.30pm to 11.30pm on weekdays and until 12.30am on weekends. www.alayarestaurants.com Set in a heritage building in Nad Al Sheba, Gerbou radiates Emirati hospitality from its camel leather chairs to its warmly welcoming team. The menu offers classic dishes like chicken machboos, mezze, salads, and sandwiches, perfect for sharing. For a unique treat, try the fwala tray, a traditional Emirati take on high tea. With its blend of authentic flavours, cultural charm, and relaxed setting, Gerbou is a true taste of the UAE’s culinary soul. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner served at select hours daily. www.gerbou.com AlBait AlQadeem Restaurant, Deira Ibn Albahr, Palm Jumeirah Alaya, DIFC Gerbou, Nad Al Sheba
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