If – like many of us – you’re looking for bars in Dubai where you can actually have a conversation or a spot that isn’t frequented by the cliché Dubai glitterati, we have curated the perfect list for you. Bottoms up!
One Life Kitchen & Bar
Our favourite café for a fabulous all-day breakfast has recently become licensed and now offers a great after-work and weekend option for those looking for a new bar hangout. Chef Kelvin has even created a new bite-sized menu that pairs perfectly with a much-earned post-work cocktail. The best part? There’s a happy hour every day from 5pm to 8pm.
One Life Kitchen, Building 5, Dubai Design District (d3), 04 513 4727, open daily 8am-10pm
WAWA Dining
So it’s not technically a bar, but WAWA Dining does serve cocktails and sake, making this literal hole-in-the-wall a must-visit bar. Word to the wise: head there before the rest of Dubai discovers it and be sure to get a side of warm sake with your ramen. You make miso happy!
WAWA Dining, Golden Tulip Hotel Al Barsha 1, 050 114 2580, open daily 12pm-3pm & 6pm-12am
Storyteller by BABA
Introducing the smallest bar inDubai – perfect for any introvert! Thisspeakeasy bar at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina seats only 25 guests at a time and we challenge you to find the hidden door that uncovers its 1950s décor. Sit back, enjoy the cocktails, and take smug pride in the fact that you found it.
Storyteller by BABA,The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Al Sufouh, Dubai Marina, 04 511 7373, open daily from 6pm-12am
Mimi Kakushi
We’re obsessed with this newly opened Japanese restaurant with Western influence. The food is perfection, the bar and drinks are spot on, and the 1920’s décor is top notch. If you’re looking for a bar and restaurant in Dubai to end the week or enjoy a boozy catch-up with the girls, this is one to book ASAP. You can thank us later!
Mini Kakushi, Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah Beach Road, 04 379 4811, open daily 6pm-2am
Luna Bar
Feel like you’re on top of the world (quite literally) at Luna Bar, which has spectacular views of Downtown Dubai and hostshappy hour on weekdays from 5pm to 8pm. Sip on a signature cocktail as you people-watch, catch up with old friends, or make new ones. Bonus: If you feel a little peckish, its pan-Asian menu is rife with delicious options.
Luna Bar, Four Seasons Hotel 8th floor, Gate 9, DIFC, 04 506 0300, open daily 5pm-3am
Ginter
Calling all gin aficionados! We’ve found the definitive Dubai bar that will help keep your gin up. Ginter – with its impressive gin collection and signature cocktails paired with stunning Dubai Marina views – is the perfect spot to enjoy a cocktail. Oh, and there’s no loud blaring music, making it perfect for a quiet midweek drink.
Ginter, InterContinental, Dubai Marina, open daily 3pm-1am