For diners in Dubai who are craving a taste of Paris, the city offers plenty of spots to settle in for buttery pastries, classic French dishes, elegant interiors and plenty of joie de vivre. French restaurants in Dubai are a top-notch option for a romantic dinner, a leisurely brunch, or for those days when visitors fancy something a little more chic.
French food in Dubai also goes well beyond the expected fine-dining format. There are polished restaurants serving modern takes on French classics as well as more relaxed spots where the focus is on bistro-style plates and good coffee.
There’s plenty of variety in what to order, too. Think steak frites, seafood, duck, French onion soup, crepes, and beautifully made desserts, with some restaurants putting their own contemporary spin on the dishes. Here are the French restaurants in Dubai to consider when the mood strikes.
Top French Restaurants in Dubai
La Petite Maison (LPM) Dubai
LPM Dubai is somewhat of a dining institution for French cuisine. It is a strong choice for those looking for French food with a Mediterranean influence and a lively atmosphere. Located in DIFC, the restaurant is known for its sharing-style approach.
The menu is inspired by the French Riviera and features poulet, les escargots, autre Tomatini, and signature crafted beverages at the bar. The venue works particularly well for a long lunch or dinner with friends, when diners can order several plates for the table and settle in for the evening.
- Location: Gate Village No 8, DIFC, Dubai
L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon
For something more refined, L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon brings the chef’s signature French cooking to DIFC. The restaurant has a more intimate, contemporary feel, and the dishes are presented with plenty of attention to detail. The concept is centred around an open kitchen and counter-style dining.
Guests can watch refined plates being prepared, such as black cod, potato purée, meat cuts, and seasonal specials. This is the kind of place to keep in mind for a special occasion or when dinner is meant to be the main event, such as an anniversary, a date night, or a birthday celebration.
- Location: DIFC Gate Village, Podium Level, Building 3, 11 Al Boursa Street, Zaa’beel Second, DIFC, Dubai
Josette
Josette combines French cuisine with a glamorous setting and a lively dining experience. The menu takes inspiration from classic French cooking while keeping things modern. This makes Josette a good pick for a stylish dinner or an evening when the restaurant should itself be part of the experience.
The menu offers delicate escargots, grilled tender Australian lamb, charcoal-roasted jumbo tiger prawns, and some indulgent breakfast-style options as well.
- Location: ICD Brookfield Place, Zaa’beel Second, DIFC, Dubai
Couqley Downtown Dubai
For diners who prefer their French food relaxed rather than formal, Couqley is an easy choice. The French brasserie has a laid-back atmosphere, and a menu built around comforting classics.
It is suitable for a casual meal and a meetup with friends. Popular dishes here include steak frites, moules frites, cheese and wine, foie gras, crab cakes and duck confit, among many other items.
- Location: Pullman Dubai Downtown, Marasi Dr, Business Bay, Dubai
Le Relais de l’Entrecôte
French cuisine doesn’t always need a long or fancy menu. Sometimes, just steak, fries and a very good sauce are enough for a memorable meal. Le Relais de l’Entrecôte deliberately keeps things focused, with its signature steak-and-fries combination at the centre of the dining experience.
It’s a great option for those who are after straightforward French comfort food rather than an elaborate tasting menu. A highlight is the restaurant’s tender sirloin steak, accompanied by a secret sauce and a walnut salad with crispy French fries.
- Location: ME Hotel, The Opus by Omniyat, ground floor, Business Bay, Dubai
La Serre
Located in City Walk, La Serre brings together a French restaurant, a bakery and brasserie-style dining under one roof. Its central location and polished setting make it versatile enough for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
The French-inspired menu offers plenty to choose from depending on the occasion. Freshly baked croissants, pains au chocolat and breakfast classics are best enjoyed during the day in the quaint cafe ambience.
Evenings are more suited to slow dinners, with dishes such as Soupe À L’oignon, Caviar d’aubergines, salads, an array of seafood dishes, and the restaurant’s burger with beef and caramelised onions.
- Location: C2 Licensed District, City Walk 2, Dubai
Bistro Des Arts
For a more relaxed take on French dining, Bistro Des Arts is a favourite with a distinctly bistro-like character. The waterfront location at Dubai Marina adds to its appeal, while the menu leans into familiar dishes and classic ‘Terroir’ French home-style food.
The restaurant has a rustic French decor and a garden vibe terrace. Guests can choose from a curated list of grape beverages, a raw seafood bar and freshly baked bread and pastries. This is a good option for those in the mood for French food without the formality of a fine dining restaurant.
- Location: Marina Mall, Marina Promenade, Dubai
It doesn’t really matter if the restaurant of choice is a sophisticated dining room or a cafe with a distinctly Parisian feel. Dubai makes it surprisingly easy to get your French food fix. The cuisine works equally well for a simple meal or a celebratory dinner.
These restaurants are a good starting point for discovering the different sides of French cuisine in Dubai. Pick a spot based on your budget, mood and style, bring your appetite and make a meal of it.
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