ENJOY BEACHFRONT DINING AT ROCKFISH

If you’re looking for an evening reminiscent of a fairy-tale romance, make your way to Rockfish at Jumeirah Al Naseem Hotel. The stunning views of the timelessly magnificent Burj Al Arab and the picturesque lighting of the beautiful Jumeirah Al Naseem hotel itself combine to create an idyllic, whimsical environment.

Cindy Bailey

Strolling through the exquisite grounds immediately sets the scene for your romantic dining experience. The winding path takes you past the beach and the enticing pool — surrounded by palm trees cloaked in fairy lights — up to Rockfish restaurant, where the views are equally impressive.

The final touches to the setting are in the restaurant itself, where contemporary decor and silver-finished timbers evoke a sense of enchantment. If the summer heat is too much, decadent glass walls allow you to sit in air-conditioned comfort, while the stunning terrace overlooks the pool if you’re intent on enjoying the last of the spring breeze. With your feet back on the ground, peruse the menu; carefully curated by chef Marco Aquaroli, the ocean-centric selection boasts a number of stand-out options along a Mediterranean theme fused with a coastal Tuscany influence.

Starters include ‘crudo’ (Italian sushi) – thinly sliced fresh catch of the day marinated in oil, lemon and seasoning, delicate tuna tartare and yellowfin tuna, while mains feature impressive dishes such as line-caught sea bass with artichoke and lemon emulsion and lobster risotto served with Acquerello rice. We loved the garlic prawns and the mussels and clams platter, but happily our non-pescatarians weren’t ignored; there’s also baby chicken, wild mushroom risotto with green asparagus or 36-hour slow-cooked baby goat, served with fresh tomato concasse and pomme puree, and a wide selection of sides including sautéed potatoes, Basmati rice pilaf, and richly buttered vegetables.

If you have space left — and we strongly recommend reserving at least a tiny corner — then the hazelnut parfait served with caramelised hazelnut and gianduja ganache is a must-try, along with the burrata cheese and ice cream with citrus coulis and candied orange. And we loved the resident mixologist with his juniper concoction trolley; whether as an aperitif, digestif or a complement to your meal, there’s a tailored-to-you recipe to suit.

Opened in 2016, Jumeirah Al Naseem is a subtly refined, elegant addition just near the Madinat Jumeirah complex. Extensive greenery and lush gardens edge the sandy beach, providing pockets of privacy and peacefulness, while interiors are inspired by sand dunes and the rich heritage of Dubai. Rockfish is a firm favourite among a host of popular restaurants at the complex, known for its extensive dining options.

Stylish, serene and simply spectacular, it’s no surprise Rockfish is considered one of Dubai’s most impressive culinary destinations. Beautiful waterside views, faultless fine-dining food and slick, superior service; it’s definitely one for your bucket list.

www.jumeirah.com