13 Aug 2024
Photo: Meg Aghamyan
Once in a while it is great to have a social beverage, discussing the topical gossip with your friends. But where to go to make sure you will have a good time worth your money? Here is our Editorial Selection.
Also, this author is more about a chit-chat by the counter with good music in the background. Because what's more annoying than loud pop music when you’re not in the mood? Here is our go-to for a good night chat accompanied by a great drink.
Soul Kitchen
Soul Kitchen, a new addition to Business Bay, is a trendy spot that originated in Beirut. This venue, brought to life by The Factory People (known for AMH), is about good music andthe right people at its core.
Inside, you'll find quality live performances, funk-inspired art, innovative cocktails, and a menu blending flavours from the Levant and Latin America.
Location: Marasi Drive (ask around, it is near the construction)
ERNST
A Hofbrauhaus in Dubai, Ernst is a perfect spot for a good wheat drink. German interiors, authentic Hofbrauhaus menu with sausages, pretzels, and fermented cabbage, this is a good escape to Europe for an evening.
Located inside the 25H Hotel, it is as if you are a transporter to another reality within a staircase. Proper beverages selection and great atmosphere — ideal for a big gathering without too much fuzz.
Location: 25H Hotel, 2d floor
The Fridge
Situated in Alserkal Avenue, The Fridge offers live music accompanied by a selection of NA drinks. Vibrant atmosphere, expert mixology, and simply, fun. Great evening without the next day's headache.
Location: Alserkal Avenue, Warehouse 5 (close to Nostalgia and after Jaipur rugs, on your left)
Honeycomb Hi-Fi
Honeycomb Hi-Fi is known as the city's music-first place. It resembles a hidden record store tailored for audiophiles, featuring a High-Fidelity sound system (therefore, “Hi-Fi”). Minimalist decor, dim lighting and good noodles with a proper drink — what else do you need?
Located on the second floor of the Pullman Hotel Downtown, it showcases a curated selection of vinyl records by the Flip Side Record team from Alserkal Avenue, available for browsing and purchase.
In addition to the main room, guests can explore "The Garden," an industrial-style terrace, which is cool even during the summertime (!!).
The bar features a diverse lineup of DJs and music curators, offering a wide range of genres from electronic to jazz, soul, and world music.
Location: Pullman Dubai Downtown, Level 2
Electric pawn shop
Electric Pawn Shop is a unique venue that sends you back to the 70s Chinatown of New York. Located inside the H Dubai Hotel, this venue blends together a diverse music lineup and an Asia-inspired selection of drinks.
Watch out for their happy hours and enjoy inventive cocktails for a good price!
Location: The H Dubai Hotel
Galaxy Bar
Galaxy Bar has earned a reputation as one of Dubai’s most prestigious drinking spots. Despite its international acclaim, it maintains a cosy and intimate atmosphere in the heart of DIFC.
The interiors are true to their name. The bar features a twinkling ceiling and a sleek black marble counter, creating a celestial ambience. Open late, Galaxy Bar is perfect for a late-night visit.
Location: Unit C01, Ground Floor, Gate Village, Building 9 DIFC
Salmon Guru
Coming straight from Spanish Madrid, the iconic Salmon Guru has its brunch in Business Bay. Featuring not only signature world-known cocktails but also happy hours, during which you can have a price-friendly sip, this spot is great for an evening to hang out with your friends.
When you’re there, just tell a bartender which flavours you love and they will make a perfect beverage for your mood and taste. Watch out for the “What The F#@%k” selection — these are just like Harry Potter’s weird taste candies — no one wants to get the earwax one.
Location: Al Amal St, Business Bay
NOLA
Good food, terrace vibe (even during the summer) and proper beverages. That is NOLA.
Inspired by 19th-century New Orleans (NO comes from here, I guess), the venues offer a jazzy atmosphere where you can surely have a great time with your crew.
Both the City Walk and the JLT Branches are cosy and cute, so you’ll feel comfortable no matter the place. Pro-tip — ask them for sours.
Location:
— C2, City Walk
— Cluster P, JLT
Jass Lounge
This one is a bonus for the times when you feel like hanging out but don’t really feel like talking, Jass lounge features a private, night bar atmosphere and good jazz. If you are into bip-bop (aka bebop), blues, or ska — come to spend your evening here, and you won’t regret it.
Their wonderful bartenders will be at your service to enhance the experience with ideal drinks for every new song.
Location: Gate 2, DIFC District
Canary Club
A trip to 70’s California (ok yeah, this writer loves vintage vibes, so sue me). Malibu, Palm Springs, Cabo, and Acapulco were definitely sources of inspiration when looking at Canary Club’s interiors.
The menu is a crazy Japanese-Mexican fusion that caters to everyone’s needs, as you can find both — the sushi and the tacos, sometimes even in one plate.. But we promise, it goes well together.
Tiki-inspired cocktails come in fun glasses with fun flavours. Come here especially after a tough day, as their range of "Big Kahunas" drinks that come in large punch bowls, will definitely make you giggle after a while.
Location: Banyan Tree Residences, Hillside, JLT