This week said goodbye to modern Indian cuisine and hello to French heaven! I’ve discovered the cutest little spot in Dubai Marina (location being a diamond in itself for avoiding hours of traffic!), that brings a whole new meaning to French dining in Dubai. You’ll probably recognise the likes of La Serre, La Petite Maison and Traiteur as they are some of the most amazing (french) restaurants Dubai has to offer but, let’s be honest, they’re for special occasions and an indulgent treat.
Bistro Des Arts, which lands itself in a quirky and somehow secluded spot along Dubai Marina, is an absolute gem. I could smell the garlicky aroma before even reaching the steps to this 1970 Parisian bistro and boy, does that get me excited!
It’s authentic and encapsulates the charm of the cafes and restaurants I so fondly remember from minimoon. When I think French … I think quality ingredients, great cooking, and understated dishes. For the most part, that’s exactly what Bistro Des Arts delivers and I’m excited to have a fab new local.
For starters we had the fresh Salmon Tartare, Beef Carpaccio with burrata and finally, Escargots.
The tartare was exactly what it said on the tin, gorgeous fresh fish dressed up just the way it needed to be with simple chopped avocado and soured cream.
The burrata didn’t quite have that creaminess I love to see when you slice through the middle and with the beef being sliced a little thick and therefore a tad chewy for my personal liking, it meant I wasn’t as in love with the combination as I should have been.
The snails on the other hand – WOW! I had heard the Escargots were one of Bistro Des Arts’ signature dishes but I didn’t expect them to pack the same incredible flavour and taste as you would find in a michelin-starred French restaurant. Oozing with garlic and incredibly tender, they are an absolute must if you’re coming in for dinner here!
A few talks about my upcoming ski trip to The Chedi in Andermatt, and I was swiftly brought the menu for ‘Raclette night’ that has recently launched. I mean, show me an evening with unlimited Raclette, cold cuts and fondue-style plates and no need to say more! Wednesday nights, people … and at a very affordable, (very non-typical) Dubai price!
Mains were no other than the classic French, ‘Tartare de Boeuf’ with chips, and Duck breast with gratin dauphinoise and orange sauce.
The classic tartare was tasty and mixed to perfection; it took me straight back to my lunch on the Champs-Élysées.
If you have a soft spot for truffle, then like me, you probably had already eyed up the ‘truffled brie’ on the dessert section.
Served with warm, soft on the inside, crusty on the outside-french bread, it was an ideal way to end our Parisian feast. I personally love a little side of quince jelly or chutney with my cheese, but I praise the simple style and concentration on quality ingredients.
And who leaves a French restaurant without trying the pastry – the ‘Apple Thin Tart’ served with ice-cream was a heavenly treat!
Open right through from breakfast to late-night dinner, Bistro Des Arts is a very welcome addition to what I like to call casual fine-dining. A lively atmosphere and solid menu – it’s something different and a great way to spend the evening without the dear price tag attached to it like many of the other fine-dining French restaurants in Dubai. Glad to have you around Frenchie!
LLG x
Here’s their website if you want more details on the restaurant and number to book is 04 55 11 576! Leave me a message below if you have any questions or comments about Bistro Des Arts x
