A slew of increasingly sophisticated Indian restaurants have conquered the City of Gold’s gastronomic imagination. The presence of nearly 170 nationalities can only mean one thing: you’re never spoiled for choice when it comes to food. Dubai’s food cravings run the gamut: from cheap, street-side stalls where meat is skewered and whipped into perfect parcels of the Lebanese shawarma to diamond-encrusted, Michelin-starred affairs where getting a table might just involve bartering an organ or two. In this hotpot of nationalities, flavors and aromas, Indian food is an enduring favorite whose appeal has only deepened thanks to a chic influx of fine-dining gems.
Rang Mahal
A common denominator to the recent slew of Indian fine eateries in Dubai is that they’re all associated under the halo of a celebrity chef. Rang Mahal is no different, with Indian-born, UK-based Atul Kochhar bringing his award-winning acumen to the dining table. This standout culinary draw of the towering JW Marriott Marquis is part style, part seduction, part sensuality, culminating in an explosion of deep reds and oranges laying credence to the restaurant’s “Palace of Colors” moniker. As the hostess guides you through the narrow corridor into the plush bar area peopled with cushioned spaces and Dubai’s hedonistic set, you know you’re in for some drama. The main dining space delivers, prospering into a larger-than-life medley of Indian art and carved wooden columns. Kochhar delivers with élan too: for vegetarians, the saffron-infused spinach and cottage cheese confluence of the Saag Paneer Kofta is a delicate delight, as is his signature Meen Moilley: pan-seared sea bass swimming in a sublime turmeric and coconut curry, all of which goes just about perfectly with the lemon, ginger and curry leaf connivance of the Mumbai Martini. Cheers.
Nina
There’s something about true elegance that lingers. Safely cocooned within the tastefully sculpted horizons of One&Only Royal Mirage, Nina has been around for a while and only appears to have gotten better with age. You’re by the beach, descending a staircase, and voila, Nina’s allure takes over. She’s adorned with flickering candles, absorbing nooks and exotic tunes. There’s aroma, seduction and spice at play—and despite the air of intrigue, she welcomes you with warmth and vibrancy.
Nina does few dishes, but does them exceptionally well. Expertly spiced curries are yours in small and large portions, while the Sharing Experience offers a fine selection of Indian breads, Salmon Tandoori and Black Dal. Or you could spread your palate and try the Spiced Duck Breast swimming in cinnamon polenta and caramelized apple puree or the Butter-Poached Half Lobster, which is divine in its impossibly fragrant coconut tamarind sauce reverie. One Reduced Milk Saffron Ice Cream later, all you’re left with is those proximate waves, memories of a great meal, and Nina’s persistent charms.
Mint Leaf
Rousingly popular with the expatriate Indian, British, European, and American crowd, Mint Leaf delivers the holy trifecta: a bar, restaurant and lounge experience oozing with style. That it’s located on the 15th level of the iconic Emirates Towers certainly helps, as the address brings with it floor-to-ceiling windows, sparkling views of the city beneath, and many of its towering treasures therein. Its sexy moodiness is presided over by Head Chef Vivek Kashiwale.
