If you looked up sophistication or luxury on Google Images, you’re sure to find a picture of Dubai Marina. Set on a two-mile stretch of golden sand facing the gorgeous Arabian Gulf, Dubai Marina is one of Dubai’s most exclusive neighbourhoods, filled with palm-lined promenades, glamorous superyachts and towering skyscrapers.
After a day exploring all of what Dubai Marina has to offer, from shopping at the Dubai Marina Mall, to water sports that take you out into the Gulf, or even camel rides along the beach, you’re sure to have worked up an appetite. Fortunately, the Marina has food pretty well covered too - there are spots to suit all tastes and situations along the waterside, from exclusive fine-dining experiences to simple grab-and-go bistros.
With such a huge number of restaurants to choose from, the Marina spoils visitors for choice with its range of cuisines, venues and atmospheres. You have simpler, more relaxed dining options or restaurants that take full advantage of the long sandy stretch of beach and the inviting, crystal-clear sea. Meanwhile, the views from the skyscrapers in Dubai Marina are completely out-of-this-world. Some of the best rooftop bars in Dubai are around the Marina - book a table at one of these restaurants for a view of the city like no other.
If you’re not a fan of heights, waterside dining may be more your thing. Whatever your pick, any spot in Dubai Marina is sure to have either views of the turquoise sea or a table from which you can admire the yachts bobbing in the bay.
Scroll through our handy guide on cuisine, cost, and atmosphere to find the perfect place to dine. With selections from among the best restaurants in Dubai, you’re certainly in for a real treat.
Toro Toro
What: One of Dubai's best South American restaurants, Toro Toro will leave you tasting pure Brazilian excellence. With sharing at the heart of their concept, enjoy small plates and signature dishes while watching boats arrive at the Marina's entrance. Indulge in a delicious dessert or post-dinner drink and revel in Toro Toro's lively atmosphere, with a soundtrack of funky South American tunes.
Where: Grosvenor House Dubai
Book now: Toro Toro
Siddharta Lounge by Buddha-Bar
What: Using the Marina's unbeatable views as its backdrop, the Siddharta Lounge promises a vibrant night of music and dancing. With tapas plates, sushi, larger main courses and an extensive list of creative, signature cocktails; the terrace lounge offers a familiar level of sophistication that Buddha-Bar is loved for. Drink, dine and dance away with poolside seating and marina views.
Where: Grosvenor House Hotel
Book now: Siddharta Lounge by Buddha-Bar
Zengo
What: Giving diners the option of inside or al fresco dining, Zengo is the perfect spot for any occasion. Experience stylish interiors alongside plates of freshly-prepared sushi and tempura battered dishes. Signature cocktails are the perfect accompaniment to the wok-fried mains; all available on the terrace with music from the resident DJ and overlooking views of the Marina.
Where: Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa
Book now: Zengo
La Carnita
What: La Carnita is a fun, stylish Mexican restaurant with interiors designed by Dubai's best street artists. On the same level as the Marina's promenade, the vibrant music and scent of delicious tacos are certain to draw you in. With churros and an extensive cocktail list available, including a happy hour, La Carnita hits the sweet spot for trendy, waterside dining.
Where: Intercontinental Hotel Dubai Marina
Book now: La Carnita
Bussola
What: If you opt for a trip to Bussola, you don't just get one, but three award-winning concepts in one venue. Signature dining, an upper-deck pizzeria and a beachfront bar offers a traditional, but exciting, Italian menu. Fresh pasta selections and Italian wines are the perfect accompaniment to watching the sunset over the Arabian Gulf.
Where: The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina
Book now: Bussola
Marina Social
What: Marina Social is up there on our list of Dubai's truly great restaurants. Jason Atherton's British-Mediterranean menu features comforting, but creative dishes, and serves them in a vibrant dining room where the focus is on the social experience. The open kitchen and tempting dessert bar are not the only impressive views with windows facing out over the picturesque Marina.
Where: InterContinental Dubai Marina
Book now: Marina Social
Tamoka
What: You'll struggle to find another restaurant with al fresco dining quite like this. Beachfront sofa's and relaxed outdoor seating provide the ultimate location to feast on Tamoka's Latin American offerings of traditional pork dishes, ceviche and dry-aged meats with an exciting, contemporary twist. Enjoy a sundowner cocktail with the restaurants live music and laid-back beach vibes.
Where: Al Mamsha Street
Book now: Tamoka
Accents Restaurant & Terrace
What: Not sure what cuisine you fancy? Accents has something for everyone with a menu of international favourites, from Arabic soup, to Shrimp fried rice, an Angus beef burger and classic Italian pasta plates. And all of that without compromising on flavours or the view, thanks to the stunning picture window and terrace seating above the Marina.
Where: InterContinental Hotel Dubai Marina
Book now: Accents Restaurant & Terrace
Observatory Bar and Grill
What: A Grill and BBQ spot like no-other. That is all that can be said about Observatory Bar and Grill. With 360 panoramic views of Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah from the 52nd floor of the Marriott Harbour Hotel, the experience is breathtaking. The dining room is not the only thing to leave you breathless, with gorgeous wood-smoked grilled meats and signature dishes that will leave you wanting to return very soon.
Where: Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites
Book now: Observatory Bar & Grill
Massimo's
What: Massimo's Italian provides a family-friendly option for authentic, luxurious Italian dining at breakfast, lunch and dinner. Right in the heart of Dubai Marina, you can dine on the waterfront terrace, soaking up the sun and views while tucking into homemade pasta and inventive pizzas. Don't miss out on the Nutella pizza, classic tiramisu or Massimo's incredible gelato.
Where: Park Island
Book now: Massimo's
Asia Asia
What: Asia Asia: double the name, double the experience. An award-winning restaurant and lounge inspired by the ancient spice routes that linked the east with the west. The menu will take you on a gastronomic journey across Asia all without leaving the stunning panoramic views of the Marina. While the glitzy interiors do not disappoint, the al fresco terrace is a must-visit spot for small plates and drinks.
Where: 6th Floor, Dubai Marina Mall
Book now: Asia Asia
Sure, there are some brilliant restaurants around Dubai Marina, but sometimes going out is a bit too much effort. Check out our list of the best food deliveries in Dubai if you're feeling lazy, and experience all that Dubai has to offer without leaving the comfort of your own home. Eating sushi, pizza or dessert on your sofa sounds like the perfect evening to us.