Winter is synonymous with powdery snow, roaring fireplaces and layers galore. That is, if you don't live in the UAE. For us lucky folks, winter means dining al fresco, enjoying the great outdoors before summer makes its scorching return. Here, MOJEH rounds up the restaurants and terraces to have on your radar this winter.
Fi'lia
25-year-old Palestinian-Jordanian chef Sara Aqel cooks up homestyle Italian cuisine on the 70th floor of the SLS Dubai in Business Bay. The first female-led restaurant in the region features recipes passed down through generations which you can savour while oohing and aahing over spectacular 360-degree views. Bellissima. Book Now
Amazonico
Following an interior overhaul, Latin eatery Amazonico has celebrated the reopening of its Copacabana rooftop terrace. A jungle in the heart of the city - and one for the party animals - unwind after work with mouth-watering canapés, Latin beats and bespoke cocktails, brought to you by four cocktail stations and a five-metre-long bar overlooking the glittering Dubai skyline. The restaurant itself has indoor-outdoor seating, too. Book Now
Ula
Missed your island getaway this year? Never fear, Ula is here. Nestled on The Palm, Ula serves up Mediterranean cuisine in a dreamy beachfront setting that'll thrill both residents and out-of-towners. Reminiscent of a treehouse, the sprawling space comprises a bar and restaurant, spilling onto the beach for those that would like to take advantage of a day pass. Book Now
Roka
Roka has become the restaurant to know in Business Bay, made all the more exciting by its skyline views and brand-new terrace overlooking the glittering Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai. Marvel at the view while tucking into contemporary Japanese cuisine including favourites from its award-winning London flagship and exciting regional additions. Book Now
Cé La Vi
You won't find a must-visit list without Cé La Vi thanks to its vibrant atmosphere and reputation for being one of the most Instagrammable spots in the city. Overlook Downtown Dubai while you sample Asian cuisine, all washed down with expertly mixed beverages. Pro tip: visit the infinity pool for a photo op. Book Now
Koko Bay
Koko Bay brings Bali to Dubai in more ways than one; Asian cuisine, rattan accents everywhere and a holiday atmosphere, all on the sandy shores of The Palm Jumeirah. Whether you're after a sun-drenched weekend or an after-work tipple, Koko Bay is a must during the glorious winter months. Book Now
Twiggy by La Cantine
Glamorous beach club by day, wanderlust-inducing restaurant by night, this Mediterranean hotspot has the style set swooning. Spend the day poolside before dining on South of France-inspired cuisine as the sun dips into the ocean. Think creamy burrata, lobster ravioli and zingy Otoro tartare. Book Now
Hutong
Dishing up authentic Northern Chinese cuisine in DIFC, Hutong has revamped its terrace for the winter season. Tuck into signature dishes or pop down for after-work drinks overlooking Emirates Towers and The Museum of the Future. Visit on a Wednesday to indulge in the Red Lantern Evening which includes an eight-course menu bursting with best-sellers and the Red Lantern itself: a fiery dish comprising soft-shell crab atop sizzling Sichuan red peppers. Of course, the evening is topped off with free-flowing beverages. Book Now
Bussola
An established eatery that consistently wins hearts (and stomachs), Bussola serves up authentic Italian fare in a gorgeous setting. Opt for date night at the fine dining establishment or head upstairs to the family-friendly pizzeria for a low-key evening. Just popping by after work? Live la dolce vita with Bussola's resident-approved aperitivo session. Book Now
Clap Dubai
Clap is the first rooftop terrace, restaurant and bar in the heart of DIFC and you'll feel far removed from the work world below once you settle in with a well-deserved drink. Hailing from Beirut, Clap holds its own and then some in a neighbourhood bursting with Dubai's best restaurants. Indulge in Japanese cuisine with a twist, tucking into crowd-pleasers like shrimp gyoza, stone bowl Wagyu beef and more sushi than you can shake a (chop)stick at. Book Now
La Cantine Du Faubourg
An oldie but a goodie, the recently revamped restaurant continues to impress and its terrace is no different. Sleek, sophisticated and surrounded by DIFC's twinkling lights, La Cantine Du Faubourg ticks all the boxes. If you're searching for something a little different, why not partake in the Chalet 105 experience for an evening in your very own winter wonderland. Book Now
