Discover the best summer menus in Dubai, featuring diverse culinary experiences from Japanese-Mediterranean to Central American delights.
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Jul 21, 2026 ALN: If there’s one thing Dubai’s restaurant scene never takes a break from, it’s giving us something new to try. This summer, expect everything from Japanese-Mediterranean lunches and Central American set menus to Italian-style aperitivo, seasonal desserts, and summer specials. Here’s what’s caught our eye.
Long lunches come with a view at CÉ LA VI Dubai this summer. Available Sunday to Friday until 5pm, the restaurant’s three-course Summer Lunch Menu is priced at Dhs125 and features signature dishes including the Black Truffle ‘Sushi Rice’ Risotto and Mango Basil Tart. The restaurant is situated on the rooftop of the Address Sky View, offering a stunning panoramic view of the city’s skyline, including the iconic Burj Khalifa. This setting makes it a popular choice for both locals and tourists looking to enjoy a leisurely meal while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Dubai.
Where: CÉ LA VI Dubai, Address Sky View
When: Sunday to Friday, 12pm to 5pm. Children aged 12 and under dine complimentary on Sundays.
Cost: Dhs125 for a three-course Summer Lunch Menu
KIRA is bringing a taste of Japan and the Mediterranean to weekday lunches with its new Hirugami Lunch Menu. Available Monday to Friday from 12pm to 5pm, the Dhs255 menu includes miso soup, two starters, and a main, with dishes such as Hamachi Carpaccio, Ginger Salmon Teriyaki Skewers, and Truffle Wagyu Gyozas, followed by a choice of mains including Fish of the Day, Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe, Woodfire Roasted Lobster, or Wagyu Tenderloin. If you’ve got room for dessert, favourites including the Kokuto Crème Caramel and Hazelnut Coulant can be added for Dhs40. KIRA's culinary approach emphasizes fresh ingredients and innovative flavor combinations, making it a standout in Dubai's competitive dining scene.
Where: KIRA, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab
When: Monday to Friday, 12pm to 5pm.
Cost: Dhs255 for one soup, two starters, and one main. Desserts from Dhs40.
Aperitivo season has arrived at Jou Jou Brasserie. New for the summer, Jou Jou Social brings the Italian pre-dinner ritual to Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, with Mediterranean sharing plates, classic cocktails, and wines served daily from 3pm to 7pm. Think focaccia caprese, arancini, fried calamari, and gambas al ajillo, best enjoyed with an Aperol Spritz or Negroni. This initiative aligns with the growing trend in Dubai towards social dining experiences, where the focus is on sharing and enjoying food in a relaxed setting. The Four Seasons brand is known for its luxury offerings, and Jou Jou Brasserie continues this tradition with its elegant atmosphere and high-quality service.
Where: Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach
When: Jou Jou Social, daily, 3pm to 7pm. UAE Residents Privilege, every Thursday.
Cost: 35% off the à la carte food and beverage menu for UAE residents every Thursday (excluding the Jou Jou Social menu).
Gerbou is giving its menu a seasonal refresh with a selection of summer drinks and desserts inspired by local flavours. Created by Chef Ninad Salvi, the new additions include the Lychee Rose Iced Tea, a floral and refreshing cooler for hot afternoons, alongside Awar Qalb, a nostalgic fruit cocktail blending mango, strawberry, and vanilla. On the dessert front, there’s a summery Mango Falooda layered with fresh mango, Ghaf honey, and vanilla ice cream, plus Booza Ashta, a traditional Middle Eastern ice cream topped with crushed pistachios. Gerbou's commitment to using locally sourced ingredients not only enhances the flavors but also supports local agriculture, reflecting a growing trend in the culinary world towards sustainability.
Where: Gerbou, Nad Al Sheba
When: Monday to Friday, 7am to 11pm. Saturday and Sunday, 8am to 11pm
Cost: Summer menu available à la carte
Girl & the Goose is bringing the flavours of Central America to the table this summer with two limited-time set menus, available throughout July and August. The two-course lunch menu (Dhs119) features dishes such as Gigi’s Guacamole, Guatemalan Lychee Seabass, Duck Pappardelle Pasta, and Grilled Prawn Tacos, with desserts including Horchata Tres Leches and Caribbean Coconut Flan. If you’re visiting in the evening, the three-course dinner menu (Dhs249) includes favourites such as Tuna Akami Tartare, Hokkaido Scallop, Sweet Chili Prawns, Gigi’s Steak & Frites, and Chicken Baleada, finished with desserts like Hojuelas Mille-Feuille or Sweet Yoltamal with Tarragon Ice Cream. This culinary exploration not only highlights the vibrant flavors of Central America but also reflects the diversity of Dubai’s dining scene, which is known for its multicultural offerings.
Where: Girl & the Goose, Anantara Downtown Dubai
When: Available daily throughout July and August.
Cost: Lunch menu, Dhs119 for two courses. Dinner menu, Dhs249 for three courses.
Carine is making the most of summer evenings with the launch of Golden Hour, a new daily offering of French-Mediterranean bar bites paired with its seasonal Summer Highballs. Running from 4pm to 8pm, the menu includes dishes such as truffle tart, salmon tartare, seafood croquettes, and crispy calamari, alongside five refreshing cocktails inspired by the flavours of summer. This initiative is an excellent way for diners to unwind after a long day, offering a relaxed atmosphere complemented by the lush surroundings of the Emirates Golf Club. Carine’s focus on seasonal ingredients and innovative cocktail pairings exemplifies the creativity that is prevalent in Dubai's restaurant landscape.
Where: Carine, Emirates Golf Club
When: Golden Hour, daily, 4pm to 8pm. Summer Highballs available all day.
Cost: From Dhs128 for one Summer Highball and one bar bite
Images: Provided
As Dubai continues to grow as a global culinary destination, these summer menus not only showcase the creativity and diversity of the local dining scene but also highlight the city's ability to cater to a wide range of palates and preferences. With a blend of international cuisines and local influences, restaurants in Dubai are setting the stage for memorable dining experiences that reflect the city's vibrant culture and cosmopolitan lifestyle.
Moreover, the emphasis on seasonal ingredients and unique flavor combinations is indicative of a broader trend in the food industry, where sustainability and locality are becoming increasingly important. Diners are becoming more conscious of the origins of their food and the impact of their dining choices, leading to a greater appreciation for restaurants that prioritize fresh, local ingredients.
This summer, whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Dubai’s restaurant scene offers an exciting array of options that promise to tantalize your taste buds and provide a delightful escape from the heat. So gather your friends and family, and embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the best of what this vibrant city has to offer.
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