Dubai's Best Alfresco Restaurants Guide

Sun, a warm evening, stunning views and a plate full of flavour – that’s what outdoor dining in Dubai looks like. Below you’ll find a selection of terraces and garden venues where lunch and dinner al fresco come with city views and a sunset “wow” factor. It’s a pick for food lovers, from beach decks to luxury culinary experiences in Dubai’s fashionable financial district.

Planning a sightseeing day? Also see: Attractions in Dubai and choose your base: Apartments in Dubai. And if you’re after fine dining, check our guide: Michelin Restaurants in Dubai.

The best outdoor restaurants in Dubai

1) Pai Thai – Madinat Jumeirah

A boat ride through the canals, tables on wooden decks and magical views over the water. Thai cuisine: aromatic curries, lime-based salads, prawns and light bites. You’ll appreciate a romantic dinner here especially at sunset. A culinary gem and a perfect place for your first “dinner in Dubai”.

2) Shimmers – Jumeirah Al Naseem (beach)

White decor, sand and jaw-dropping views of Burj Al Arab. Greek–Mediterranean dishes based on local ingredients: grilled fish, mezze, fresh salads. Great food + waves = unforgettable experience.

3) 101 Dining Lounge – One&Only The Palm

An overwater deck with unique views of the city skyline. Excellent seafood and pasta in an elegant, resort-style restaurant. For those who want a “premium effect” without going over the top.

4) Fish Beach Taverna – Mina Seyahi

White tables in a garden, lanterns, wonderful views of the bay. Simple, tasty food: grilled fish, prawns, calamari, aubergine with yogurt. A unique atmosphere that’s worth revisiting every time you’re back in the city.

5) The Farm – Al Barari (garden)

Greenery, a quiet stream and an open-air restaurant in Al Barari’s “jungle”. The menu offers dishes from around the world: bowls, breakfasts, healthy meals on the terrace. Great for families and slow-travel lovers.

6) Boardwalk – Dubai Creek Golf Club

A stilted terrace over the Creek – beautiful views of the boats and the Deira skyline. Wood-fired pizza, fish, pasta: international Dubai cuisine in a laid-back version. Perfect “after exploring the old town”.

7) NOÉPE / Twiggy by La Cantine – Park Hyatt Dubai

Lagoon, palm trees and an amazing resort atmosphere close to the city centre. Light lunch (tartare, ceviche, sushi) or refined dishes in the evening. Luxury restaurants without having to “escape” to the Palm.

8) folly – Madinat (rooftop)

Rooftop restaurants in Dubai? This terrace is a must: views of Madinat’s canals and wind towers, and modern cuisine with a local twist. Few seats, lots of character.

9) 3Fils – Jumeirah Fishing Harbour

A waterfront deck, Asian-inspired flavours, and a menu built around small plates perfect for sharing. Less formal, more local flavour and fantastic fish. An excellent spot for foodies.

10) Zuma Terrace – DIFC

In the trendy financial district, Zuma’s terrace combines izakaya cuisine with a big-city vibe. Here you can enjoy outstanding food while watching DIFC pulse around you. Great for a business lunch outdoors.

Restaurants with a view of Dubai – quick matchmaking

• Burj Khalifa / Downtown: outdoor tables at Souk Al Bahar (fountains + skyline), Armani/Hotel has several outdoor spaces for a post-dinner drink.

• Burj Al Arab / beach: Shimmers, Pierchic (on the pier), The Beach Bar & Grill (Royal Mirage) – different levels of formality.

• Dubai Creek: Boardwalk (the best boat views).

• Palm Jumeirah: 101 Dining Lounge, Myrra / Tagomago on West Beach – postcard-perfect sunsets.

Also see: Best restaurants in Deira, Dubai.

Outdoor lunch and dinner – practical tips

• Season: October–April; in summer, only evenings are comfortable (with breeze/misting).

• Sunset: book 45–60 minutes in advance (front-row tables).

• Budget: from casual (3Fils, Boardwalk) to full-on luxury dining (101, Shimmers, Zuma).

• Cuisines to try: Mediterranean, Thai, Greek, Japanese, seafood – Dubai brings together some of the best restaurants in a mix of global flavours.

Romantic outdoor dining – quick scenarios

• “Water + lanterns”: Pai Thai → boat ride through the canals → drink with an incredible view of Burj Al Arab.

• “City from a distance”: 101 Dining Lounge on the Palm → unforgettable views of Downtown.

• “Beach chic”: Shimmers in the sand → walk along the shore → dessert in Madinat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Where can I eat outdoors in Dubai?

Choose Madinat Jumeirah (Pai Thai, folly), Palm Jumeirah (101, beach terraces), Park Hyatt on the Creek (NOÉPE/Twiggy), the waterfront at Jumeirah Fishing Harbour (3Fils), or Dubai’s trendy financial district (Zuma’s terrace).

• Are there outdoor restaurants with city views in Dubai?

Yes – Souk Al Bahar/Downtown (fountains and Burj Khalifa), terraces on the Palm with skyline views, and Boardwalk along the Creek.

• What are prices like in outdoor restaurants?

Casual places: mid-range; resort and iconic locations: higher (especially “front row” sunset tables). Always check the menu and any minimum spend for front-row seating.

• Which restaurants offer romantic outdoor dinners?

Pai Thai (boat + canals), Shimmers (beach + Burj Al Arab), 101 Dining Lounge (overwater deck), folly (rooftop). All of them offer a special atmosphere and unforgettable memories.