Thanks to the huge influx of overseas visitors to this Arabian haven of luxury, Dubai has developed a dizzying array of dining options that will suit even the most refined of tastes.  The city’s talented chefs and restaurateurs have managed to maintain an impressive balance between local Emirati cuisine and flavoursome international dishes; Arabian, French, Spanish, Greek, Italian, Japanese, Thai and Indian are just some of the cuisines that influence Dubai’s numerous top-quality oases of dining.  Lavish interiors, exotic drinks menus and typically warm Middle Eastern service mean that the only difficulty for guests is choosing which restaurant to indulge their culinary fantasies in. 
 
Armani/Amal
 
Guests will clearly expect high standards from a restaurant located in the world’s tallest building, and the levels of culinary excellence at this temple of Indian cuisine are easily a match for the architectural genius of its setting.  From the moment you enter a feast of opulence will engulf your senses and won’t let them go until the night is over.  The large clear glass windows that surround three sides of the restaurant provide fantastic views of the Dubai Fountain, whilst the unobstructed view into the kitchen allows guests to see exactly where the magic happens.  Attentive and friendly staff will guide you through the vast array of choices available on the menu, ranging from crab, guinea fowl, sea bass and salmon to the very best Indian dishes.  Fine wines and exotic teas accompany the food, making the Armani/Amal an appetising, all-encompassing experience for the taste buds.      
 
Rhodes Twenty 10
 
Those wanting a less spicy, more euro-centric culinary experience should try this fine-dining gem headed by highly acclaimed Michelin-starred chef Gary Rhodes.  Glistening chandeliers, chic décor and a hint of lilac provide the ideal setting for a luxury meal.  The personalised, welcoming service and attention to detail make this the perfect restaurant for a birthday or anniversary celebration, and the mouth-watering range of dishes mean nobody will struggle to find something to suit their tastes.  Foie Gras, seared scallop and Wagyu steak with red wine sauce are especially popular, and for desert the toffee pudding is a speciality dish.  The wine list is spectacular, and for those feeling a little more adventurous a refreshing mojito is well recommended.  Indulgent menus and attentive service has allowed Rhodes Twenty 10 to carve itself a well-deserved place amongst Dubai’s most popular fine-dining establishments.       
 
Awtar
 
Despite its shimmering international sheen, Dubai is deep down a traditional Arabic city.  To get to the heart, or rather the stomach, of the region’s impressive cultural heritage, there is no better way than sampling some of its impressive and diverse cuisine.  Awtar offers sumptuous Lebanese dishes set in a dramatic interior, designed to resemble a traditional Middle Eastern tent.  Authentic hot and cold mezze – a classic Arabic platter offering many small dishes for sharing and sampling – provide an insight into the colourful rainbow of flavours that sets Lebanese food apart, and the large portion sizes will comfortably satisfy even the most seasoned diner.  Waiters are happy to help guests select the meal that will best suit their tastes, and the floor show featuring traditional Arabic music and dance makes Awtar a rare cultural treat in the heart of one of the world’s most international city. 
 
Sukhothai
 
Quite literally meaning ‘dawn of happiness’, Sukhothai stands out from the numerous Thai restaurants dotted around Dubai thanks to its unique combination of traditional eastern service, dark rich décor and a candle-lit gold tinted atmosphere.  Being greeted by a polite bow from the restaurant staff sets the tone for the rest of your visit, and service is an integral part of the Sukhothai experience.  Cold towels are offered as a welcome counterpoint the Dubai heat and menus are displayed on modern tablet PC’s, providing an intriguing combination of traditional Thai service and modern day luxury.  Classic Thai dishes, including green curry, stir-fried chicken, steamed Jasmine rice and lobster are the specialities and crisp fresh cocktails make the perfect accompaniment.  Sukhothai is, evidently, an absorbing centre of understated glamour and luxurious, exotic dining. 
 
Bateaux Dubai
 
This floating restaurant is situated on a specially designed boat that glides smoothly and effortlessly through the waters of the Dubai Creek.  Bringing Viennese-style elegance to the heart of the city, Bateaux Dubai offers diners some of the finest cuisine around and stunning views of the city that are constantly changing.  A relaxing and graceful ambience is apparent as soon as you step aboard; a welcome drink and canapés are accompanied by the gentle sounds of live piano and violin music.  Between courses of freshly prepared international gourmet cuisine, take time to admire Dubai’s colourful cityscape from the boat’s outside decks.  With wide-ranging menus and a chef who can boast previous clientele including George Clooney, Michelle Obama and the Dutch Royal family, all appetites and tastes are catered for.  The boat is perfect for a romantic cruise and can also be chartered for private events, making it one of Dubai’s most luxurious and impressive fine-dining experiences. 

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