A meaty new eatery, lunch inspired by an Italian grandmother’s cooking, and Chinese food with a side of karaoke…

From wallet-friendly dinner deals perfect for pairs, to unique dining experiences you wouldn’t get anywhere else, we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to dining out in Dubai.

And if you’re looking for somewhere fresh to head to this weekend, we’ve rounded up three spots we reckon you won’t want to miss out on.

ALSO READ: Have we found Dubai’s most Instagrammable cafe?

The new eatery: SMK

SMK, which stands for Smoked Meat Kitchen, has opened its doors at La Mer. The beachside spot specialises in slow-cooked meat smoked over English oak and topped off with homemade rubs to season the cuts. It’s a simple menu, with prices starting from Dhs35 for BBQ glazed smoked chicken wings with blue cheese dip, and Dhs90 for a smoked beef rib with celery coleslaw. One signature dish to try is the Brisket Bun, served in a specially baked bun with pickled red chili.

SMK, La Mer, Jumeirah 1, daily noon to midnight. Reservations not required. More info on Facebook.

The new lunch: Nonna’s lunch at Ravioli & Co

Authentic trattoria Ravioli & Co in DIFC has launched a new Friday lunch where food is inspired by an Italian grandmother’s cooking. Running from 12pm to 4pm, a selection of classic dishes like gourmet bruschetta, gnocchi romano and tiramisu will be brought to the table so you can eat at your leisure. Limited edition dishes from different regions will also be served each week.

Ravioli & Co, Burj Daman, DIFC, Fridays 12pm to 4pm. Dhs240 with soft drinks, Dhs380 with house beverages. Tel: (04) 241 1616. More info on website.

The new menu (and new karaoke room): Maiden Shanghai

 Chinese bistro Maiden Shanghai in the FIVE Palm Jumeirah has a new menu featuring creative re-imaginings of Chinese classics (think kung pao lobster). There’s also a new Dhs99 three-course lunch deal, which is available seven days a week from midday to 3.30pm and includes dishes like sweet corn soup and shredded duck with homemade pancakes. But that’s not even the best bit – the restaurant also has a brand new karaoke room, where up to 15 diners can unleash their inner pop star. 

Maiden Shanghai, FIVE Palm Jumeirah, lunch 12pm to 3.30pm, dinner 7pm to 11.30pm (until 12.30am weekends). Tel: (04) 455 9989. More info on website.

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