There are few working in DIFC that haven’t been acquainted with the lounge and restaurant, Dusty’s Dubai. The outdoor and indoor options make for a trendy and comfortable after-work spot with unique and delicious drinks.

Where: Dusty’s Dubai, Al Fattan Currency House, DIFC

How much:  AED 400 for 2 [Approx.]

Cuisine: European/Bar

Recommended: Signature cocktails 

Food

Going by bars/lounges in the UAE and their standards for bar food, Dusty’s satisfies as a restaurant even if you aren’t liquored up.

For appetizers, get the Burratta, serene in its simplicity, the chef has made an effort to take nothing away and add only a hint of sautéed peppers. While they’re known for their sliders, the rock shrimp tempura misses the mark without the chili mayo – it can be a bit overbearing.

The quinoa salad, while brimming with healthy ingredients, calls for a dressing to bring the multitude of flavors together.

The black cod was delicately cooked and came with a clever pairing of green chili and mango salsa – a winner, while for vegetarians, the menu boasts a wild mushroom fettuccine that satisfies.

Drinks

With a variety of creative cocktails and mocktails, it’s no wonder ladies’ night at Dusty’s is a full house [FYI: It was].

Our favorite was the Tubble & Bubble – just the right amount of fizz and wine for the ladies [and the men]. The wine list is endless, so it’s an ideal after-work bar.

Dessert

Their most popular dessert ‘Candy Station’ is a treat to the eyes. With bite-sized treats placed around a pot of chocolate fondue at your table, including marshmallows, macaroons, strawberries and more, make sure you don’t fill up on mains.

Don’t get over-excited. Dip lightly, friends, as each element can be quite sweet on its own.  

Don’t miss: 10 Lavish Iftars in UAE 2016 to Put on Your Radar

Ambience & Service

Outdoors, plenty of green, a tranquil water feature, a live DJ and comfortable seating make for a contemporary space to have long, winding conversations after a hard day in the office.

Despite being in a business hub, the light music and vibe make it feel far removed – like being at a café in an upscale Singapore district, surrounded by glass buildings.

If you’re bringing a date, make sure you can sit diagonally across from them or opt for bar seating, since the tables are quite large [great for large gatherings].

Indoors, the space is cosy, dimly lit, artsy and great for conversation.  The servers are polite, attentive and always available – a big thumbs up for service.

Verdict

If you’re looking for a convenient place to drink after work, gather the team for a work lunch, or a cosy corner to bring a date, Dusty’s is quite appealing.

Go for the drinks and stay for the drinks and the ambience.

If you’re interested, take note:

• As far as bars in Dubai go, this one is conveniently located. However, the parking can prove to be a problem, with valet available for 2 hours only [even if you get your stub stamped at the restaurant]. It’s AED 30 per hour after [Designated drivers, park on the main road and walk it].
• Make sure you reserve a table, because the venue can book up quick [We visited on a Tuesday and every table was reserved].
  

No review is complete without your opinion. Have you been to Dusty’s? Tell us your verdict in the comments below.

Read next: Nooks & Corners: Doner Deli Review