A perfect mix of chilled, picturesque views by day, and pumping party tunes by night…

Perched atop of FIVE Palm Jumeirah – which has quickly gained a reputation as one of the city’s top party hotels – The Penthouse. With a central indoor area, and a terrace that snakes around the outside, the 16th floor rooftop spot is split between two personas: chilled and party. The Jumeirah facing side of the lounge is given over to tan-topping crew during the day (the bar also features two glass-lined swimming pools), whereas the Marina view side plays host to the lively sundowner and party set.

And when it comes to views, you’ll do well to find better ones of the Marina than those served up from The Penthouse, especially at night, when the skyline’s lit up. Most evenings, you’ll find partygoers taking turns to snap pictures with the stunning horizon backdrop.

Music wise, expect a soundtrack of vocal house hits from the resident DJ inside, which is loud, but not unbearably so. There’s a mix of tall tables for two on the terrace plus a more restaurant-style seated area and comfy sofas lining the glass balcony wall, with big groups of guests occupying almost all of them.

The vast majority of them are here to try the cocktail menu, and its concise eight options (ranging from Dhs79 to Dhs85), but you’re missing a trick if you don’t make your way through the expansive food menu. The menu is split into snacks, small plates, large plates, flat breads and mezze, while a back page is dedicated to sushi, sashimi, raw dishes and desserts. Everything is for sharing, and arrives when it’s ready.

Order the scallop truffle carpaccio (Dhs125), deep fried baby squid (Dhs58) and beef sliders (Dhs84), and you won’t be disappointed. The squid is a generous portion, crunchy and perfectly dunkable into a rich pepper dip, while the sliders are easy to eat, thick beef patties served up in a brioche bun.

For something more substantial, try the braised beef short rib (Dhs185) – it’s a tender, flavourful beef rib that slides off the bone.

As the night progresses, the vocal house music moves into something a little deeper (and louder), and although the DJ plays inside, cleverly placed speakers outside mean that the atmosphere is just as buzzing on the terrace.

The Penthouse’s blend of urban day club vibes during the day and sophisticated, lively lounge experience by night means it’s a must-do addition for Dubai’s food and drink scene.

The Penthouse, FIVE Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, Sat to Weds 11am to 2am, Thurs and Fri 11am to 3am. Tel: (052) 900 4868. fivehotelsandresorts.com

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