Industrial meets chic at this trendy new cocktail bar…

Stepping into new cocktail lounge District feels like you’re entering a cool Manhattan, lofthouse style bar right here in Dubai, where industrial meets speakeasy glamour to create a cool underground vibe.

You’ll find it in Rixos Premium JBR, where it adopts the same space that used to be inhabited by nightclub, Inner City Zoo. That’s where the similarities end.

Now a cocktail, bistro bar and lounge, District is all exposed brick and dark woods with a slick central bar making it the perfect spot for either a post-work tipple or Thursday night go-to.

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The drinks menu is impressive – expertly crafted by knowledgable mixologists – and complete with all the usual suspects, along with a varied list of signature cocktails, sophisticated spritzers and delicate tonic mixes. Our favourite was the District Sunset spritzer (Dhs55), a stunning combination of an Italian aperitif, sparkling wine, grapefruit, blood orange and soda. Refreshing and fun.

Food is a la carte but sharing style with an ever-changing menu of weekly new specials to try. First out the kitchen, and an immediate favourite, is the homemade focaccia (Dhs25), heartwarming slices served with aioli, smoked butter and tomato jam. Other delicious plates include patatas bravas (Dhs30) and the cod brandade (Dhs45). Just be careful not to carb up too early on the nibbles if you want to go the distance.

Their gnocchi with duck leg ragout and mushroom (Dhs65) is an absolute must-try. It’s one of District’s bestsellers and we’re under no illusion as to why, with its pillowy potato dumplings, tender shredded meat and smoky mushrooms. Other highlights include a daily market fish (Dhs119), Canadian heritage striploin (Dhs169) and cornfed chicken breast (Dhs89).

District is a surprise hit, and a welcome addition to the Rixos line-up. We’re very pleased to see a bar put as much effort into its food menu as they do its drinks selection.

District, Rixos Premium JBR, Dubai, open 12pm to 1am Sunday to Thursday, 12pm to 1am Wednesday, 12pm to 3am Thursday and Friday. Tel: (04) 394 1832. districtdxb.com

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Images: Supplied