When it comes to knowing the best restaurants to dine at in Dubai, the emirate’s Crown Prince always knows best.
From sophisticated alfresco havens to all the authentic food choices, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is regularly seen dining out at some of the best F&B concepts Dubai has to offer.
No stranger to Dubai’s foodie scene, when it comes to dining at the city’s fine-dining spots, Fazza knows best. From alfresco havens to new speakeasies, Dubai’s Crown Prince has paid a visit to a myriad of restaurants, to ensure he’s always on top of the food game.
If you’re in need of some inspo on where to dine next, has curated a list of all the sophisticated restaurants that have received Sheikh Hamdan’s stamp of approval.
L’Amo Bistro del Mare
Sheikh Hamdan made a visit to L’Amo Bistro del Mare in May 2022, an Italian restaurant that opened its doors at Dubai Harbour this year. The waterfront restaurant welcomed His Highness for lunch on Saturday. The Dubai Crown Prince also posed for a photo with Chef Lorenzo Buccarini, Carlo Tinelli, General Manager of the restaurant and Piero Giglio, MD & Partner of MINE Lifestyle Managing. This upscale seafood restaurant is a partnership between Sunset Hospitality Group and Mine and Yours Group, making this yet another notable addition to the Dubai dining scene. From signature dishes such as red and violet prawns, delicate sea urchins, Margherita Pinsa and Italian oysters and scallops, the restaurant is sure to transport visitors to the rustic streets of Italy with every serving of each dish. With freshly caught seafood, the flavours are enhanced to capture the essence of the Mediterranean sea.Situated in the heart of the city at the Dubai Harbour Yacht Club, L’Amo Bistro Del Mare is open daily from 12pm to 3pm and 7pm to midnight.
Alaya
Spotted at Chef Izu’s latest venue, Alaya in DIFC this month, Sheikh Hamdan gave the restaurant his royal seal of approval.Masterminded by Chef Izu and one of Emirates Man’s former cover stars Evgeny Kuzin, the concept is nothing short of extraordinary, with a combination of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences. Inspired by their travels, each dish is prepared with the freshest ingredients. After only opening last month, the restaurant has gained quite a bit of traction as the duo has brought a new concept to DIFC. By taking each visitor on a culinary journey, the warm inviting space, ensures guests feel at home from the moment they enter.
La Maison Ani
On one of his most recent foodie outings, Sheikh Hamdan paid a visit to a brand new concept by Chef Izu Ani and Evgeny Kuzin. Fazza stopped by La Maison Ani at the end of May 2022 just weeks after it officially opened. The restaurant’s team described it as an “honour” to welcome the Crown Prince, sharing a photo from his visit. “It was a complete honour and privilege to host The Crown Prince @faz3 at La Maison Ani by Chef Izu,” they said. “The first of many visits we hope.”
SUSHISAMBA
This restaurant is already a household name in London and Las Vegas. Having arrived in Dubai late last year, SUSHISAMBA has already made its mark on the emirate. So much so, Sheikh Hamdan thought it fit to host one of his most famous friends at the restaurant on his recent visit to Dubai. The emirate’s Crown Prince was seen visiting the hotspot with famous footballer Cristiano Ronaldo. In late January, the pair enjoyed lunch together with some of their entourage. We’re definitely adding this new hotspot to our list of must-trys.
11 Woodfire
For one of the first outings in 2022, Sheikh Hamdan visited this new concept – the brainchild of chef Akmal Anuar and Ahmass Fakahany, CEO and Founder of Atelier House Hospitality – which opened later last year. Located in a villa on Jumeirah Beach Road, 11 Woodfire opened in November 2021. Sharing the news of the Crown Prince’s visit to 11 Woodfire with a photograph, the restaurant said it was an “honour” to host him.
Urla
This picturesque new restaurant brings a piece of Aegean paradise to the heart of Dubai. Situated at the Address Downtown Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan was spotted there in January 2022. This outdoor venue perfectly captures views of the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountains which were captured in Sheikh Hamdan’s story. From fresh seafood to a plethora of must-try dishes, these delectable mezes are sure to be savoured with your loved ones as Dubai’s Crown prince did.
Gohan
Gohan, the new Japanese speakeasy by the team at La Cantine du Faubourg is one of the latest hotspots to visit. The space is quite intimate being able to seat no more than 30 diners at a time and Fazza gave his stamp of approval in late 2021. While the restaurant may have been a well-kept secret previously, now that Fazza has paid a visit the word about Gohan is well and truly out.
The Arts Club
This sophisticated private members-only club is situated in the heart of DIFC. Having welcomed Sheikh Hamdan last year, this ultra-luxe venue was honoured to have him and even posted a picture on their feed. The Crown Prince enjoyed a hearty meal at Rōhen.
Mimi Kakushi
Known for their cosy interiors and ultra-luxe décor, this restaurant is a must-visit with all the Japanese classics under one roof. On the UAE’s 50th National Day, Sheikh Hamdan paid a visit and was so impressed by hospitality and service as he celebrated the country’s birthday.
Roka
Sheikh Hamdan’s a fan, and so are we. This contemporary Japanese restaurant opened back in 2020 and Sheikh Hamdan was one of the first to visit post-lockdown. Known for its contemporary Japanese robatayaki cuisine and sushi, this restaurant has become a firm favourite on the Dubai dining scene.
Twiggy by La Cantine
The Crown Prince of Dubai stopped by this incredible venue late last year and no doubt enjoyed the impeccable views that Twiggy has to offer. At the time, Sheikh Hamdan shared a series of images on his Instagram story of some of the exquisite cuisine he was enjoying. Twiggy by La Cantine opened at the beginning of 2021 and it’s safe to say it has been the go-to hotspot for Mediterranean dining in Dubai.
Ammos
Bringing the charm of Greek cuisine to Dubai, this restaurant provides an unforgettable experience with authentic Mediterranean hospitality offering culinary textures and aromas to your plate. Located in Rixos Premium Dubai, JBR, Fazza has previously been spotted dining there.
Sal at the Burj Al Arab
In mid-December 2020, the Crown Prince of Dubai was pictured at Sal at the Burj Al Arab. This restaurant opened its doors back in September 2020 and has been a popular destination for restaurant-goers ever since. It offers guests endless ocean views with seamless service and a sophisticated menu. Described as “barefoot luxury meets Southern European culinary excellence”, the restaurant also comes fully equipped with a 100-metre infinity pool to relax at after a delightful meal.
Caviar Kaspia
Fresh from the hustle and bustle of Paris, Caviar Kaspia opened its first venue outside the French capital in Dubai late last year. One of the first people to visit was the Crown Prince of Dubai. A photo of Fazza’s visit was posted to the restaurant’s Instagram page, where His Highness was seen posing with a Matryoshka Doll, which is a signature to the restaurant and is known to hold caviar.
The MAINE Land Brasserie
Sheikh Hamdan and his entourage visited this luxe steakhouse located in the ME by Melia Hotel in Business Bay at the beginning of 2021. It’s the third restaurant in Dubai by restauranteur Joey Ghazal and has become a firm favourite on the Dubai dining scene.
Avli by Tashas
Having opened just over three years ago in January 2019, Sheikh Hamdan is a frequent visitor to Avli by tashas in DIFC. The restaurant captures the essence of Greek cuisine combined with a chic and sophisticated space reminiscent of the Mediterranean.
Gaia
Loved by Sheikh Hamdan, Gaia is the brainchild of Chef Izu. The restaurant encompasses the Greek Goddess of Earth, the mother of the sun, the mountains and the sea and is the inspiration for each exquisite Mediterranean dish. In January 2019, the Crown Prince of Dubai and his father, the Ruler of Dubai, were spotted dining at the Grecian-inspired restaurant. But even before that, Sheikh Hamdan gave Gaia his seal of approval back just five days after it opened in October 2018. After his visit, Chef Izu posted a cheeky picture with the Dubai royal, as he sported a wide grin.
Il Borro
This high-class Tuscan Bistro welcomed the Crown Prince of Dubai along with his team, with authentic cuisine and dishes that are made with ingredients that are freshly imported for a bespoke Italian experience. In 2021, it was one of the first outings Sheikh Hamdan made following the announcement he has become a father to twins, Rashid and Sheikha.
Carine
While continuing to extend his support to several homegrown restaurants in the UAE, Sheikh Hamdan has been a long-time fan of Chef Izu, the brainchild behind two notable restaurants in the UAE. Seen posing in this snap with Chef Izu, Sheikh Hamdan paid a visit to Carine, located in Emirates Golf Club. At the time of his visit, the Dubai-based restauranteur said, “Always an honour and great pleasure to have HH Sheikh Hamdan with us at Carine.”
L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon
Adding another high-end eatery to his list of restaurants with his stamp of approval is L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon. His Highness paid a visit to the eatery to the authentic French restaurant in June 2021, with a photo being shared by the DIFC-based restaurant on their official Instagram page. This establishment is famed for its celebrity clientele alongside its Michelin star cuisine which offers guests dishes including a crispy poached egg with caviar, truffle pizza and Dover sole à la plancha, all prepared in front of the guests.
Gudee Pizza Café
Known for their Afghani specialities, this eatery pushes beyond the borders of authentic cuisine in the heart of Dubai, with some of the most creative pizza combinations offered under one roof in the highly comforting atmosphere with a modern interpretation of the aforementioned cuisine with innovative desserts. Located at Gate Avenue mall level in DIFC, the Crown Prince’s uncle, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum, also known as Uncle Saeed on Instagram, is a regular at Gudees.
BB Social Dining
The homegrown concept serving Eastern cuisine has a compact space offering various cuisine options. Located in Gate village 8 DIFC, the atmosphere is both sophisticated and elegant.
Alici
After having spotted Sheikh Hamdan at this stunning seafood restaurant, he posed for a picture with the head of operations and also seemed to enjoy the restaurant’s freshly baked bread with one of the lighthouse salads on his visit.
Somewhere
This Mediterranean-inspired travel-themed café is extremely Instagrammable and is known for its topographic design. Located in Dubai Mall’s Fashion Avenue extension, the theme of the restaurant has certainly caught everyone’s attention.
She Burger
Are there any burger fans here? Then you would be happy to know that Fazza is a fan of this edgy urban burger chain. Open in Dar Wasl Mall, the burger place caters to chicken and beef lovers alike, and if you are vegetarian, then you should try She Burger’s ‘Krazy Kale’ or ‘Avo Salad’ salads.
Taverna
Located in the popular tourist spot of Souk Madinat Jumeirah, the Crown Prince of Dubai has previously made a visit to this quaint Greek restaurant. Taverna is located on the waterfront of Souk Madinat Jumeirah and embodies the true rustic charm of Greece with exposed wood, white walls and neutral tones used throughout the venue.
Nammos
A Mykonos favourite, Nammos Dubai offers incredible views of the Arabian Seam, as well as incredible cuisine. the iconic Dubai Skyline – if you’re looking for a fun afternoon, this is the location. Sheikh Hamdan made a visit at this delicious eatery back in December 2019.
Masti
This popular spot first opened back in 2018 and one of the first to visit was Sheikh Hamdan. Located in the secluded area of La Mer, the Masti menu offers a reinterpretation of Indian cuisine, designed to share.
CZN Burak
This Turkish-Middle Eastern restaurant is the first Dubai-based establishment for Chef CZN Burak, who is hugely popular on social media with over 17 million followers and already has three popular restaurants in his home country of Turkey. In late 2020, he decided to crack the Dubai F&B space and within the first month of opening welcomed Sheikh Hamdan to his Downtown Dubai venue.
Opso
This uber-chic Mediterranean and Greek experience is inspired by modern and contemporary testes in a lively atmosphere. By bringing warm Emirati hospitality in a luxurious setting, the restaurant is definitely a hit amongst all its visitors. Fazza visited the restaurant in June 2019 and the team shared an image with the caption: “We are always blessed and honored to have HH Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum dine with us.”
