Eating out in DXB “the new normal”

Being a sociable foodie, lockdown was super tough on me. Although restaurants still offered a delivery service, I missed not being able to go out to eat with friends. When people ask what my hobbies are, food is genuinely one of them. So the social restrictions meant I needed to resort to cooking; something I can do and actually enjoy but I’ve just become too accustomed to the Dubai lifestyle of eating out or ordering in!

We now exist in this “new normal” environment and I’m blown away by how the UAE restaurants have handled it. As per usual I’m astounded by how quickly adaptations were made, and all eateries began offering the new social distance regulations, and without losing any of the high quality service along the way. I must say I think I actually prefer it! No longer are you sat in overcrowded places struggling to hear the person next to you. There is a sense of calm and I feel like staff are even more attentive of your needs now they are not being over worked with being at full capacity.

Here are my top 3 favourite post-quarantine restaurants

The Iranian Dream

Grand Abshar Restaurant

Located on Jumeirah 3 Street, driving up you will instantly witness how popular it is with a constant stream of cars entering the car park. The ambiance is superb and you really get the Middle Eastern feel as soon as you enter. The staff are very attentive and you can tell they really pride themselves in their food and service.

I opted for a chicken kebab with rice and I would definitely recommend it! Their bread is also heavenly!! Next time I definitely want to try their mixed grill!

Check them out at @grand.abshar and be sure to let me know your reviews if you go and experience eating out here.

California’s cool on Dubai’s coast

Stars N Bars

Located in the North side of La Mer, this bar serves some super tasty food. I’m yet to include this on my feed but I went last week and had the tastiest steak I’ve had since lockdown. I would also highly recommend the Mac n Cheese as well as the tacos! Another bonus is it is on The Entertainer, so you can enjoy 2-4-1 on all main courses!! There are loads of superb food deals on at the moment and the kids package is 20dhs; a main, ice cream and a drink!! One of the only licensed places at La Mer you can take full advantage of the daily happy hour (I don’t drink alcohol but I’m sure if you do you will be happy to hear this). You also have great views of La Mer beach... what more could you ask for?!

Check them out on Instagram @starsnbarslamer and don’t forget to tag me if you go along!!

Last Exit Treats

Hoop

Located at Last Exit Alkhawaneej ( as well branches located in Ajman and Fujairah), this is one dessert place I have been constantly craving. If you haven’t been to Last Exit yet, you really are missing out. It is food truck heaven and holds some of Dubai’s foodie gems! Hoop is a favourite of mine, serving delicious Cinnabon bites, which are so moreish I could eat them all day! I really want to try the Nutella bites next time I go.

Check them out on instagram @hoop.ae