Top Bars in Dubai – Most Viewed (2025)

Situated on the first floor of the Mall of the Emirates, right above the iconic indoor Ski Dubai slopes, Après channels the charm of a European ski-lodge into the heart of Dubai. The interior is cozy and rustic—dark wood, stone accents, plush seating, ambient lighting—creating a warm escape from the desert outside . The menu offers comforting European fare: stone‑fired pizzas, traditional Swiss cheese fondue (a favorite), fig‑and‑cheese salads, and dough balls—ideal to share after a day of snow-inspired fun. The bar is well‑stocked and celebrated for its signature cocktails—each crafted to complement the Alpine vibe while surprising the palate . Musically, Après keeps the atmosphere lively yet relaxed, blending lounge tracks with upbeat tunes that match its chalet chic décor. It’s praised for its “awesome music” and snug ambiance. Open from afternoon through evening, Après suits both casual ski-slope spectators and those seeking a late-night lodge vibe. It regularly hosts happy hours—e.g., 50% off selected drinks daily from 6 PM to midnight—making it a sociable spot for a cozy drink. In essence, Après delivers a playful Alpine escape within a luxe Dubai setting—ideal for families, couples, or friends craving Alpine-style food, drinks, and ambiance without leaving the city.

Located in the bustling Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Zuma Dubai is a premier destination for contemporary Japanese dining and sophisticated nightlife. Since its inception in 2008, Zuma has garnered international acclaim, securing spots on the World's 50 Best Bars list and earning accolades such as the Best Bar in the Middle East and Africa. The venue spans two floors, featuring a main dining area, sushi and robata counters, a dynamic bar, a chic lounge, an outdoor terrace, and private dining rooms. The interior design combines warm-hued wood with modern steel accents, creating an ambiance that is both elegant and inviting. Zuma's culinary offerings are rooted in the izakaya style of informal Japanese dining, emphasizing shared dishes and bold flavors. Signature items include miso-marinated black cod wrapped in hoba leaf, prawn and black cod gyoza, and chu toro tartare with oscietra caviar. The sushi and robata counters showcase the chefs' expertise, delivering dishes prepared with the freshest ingredients. The bar at Zuma is renowned for its handcrafted cocktails, extensive sake selection, and curated wine list. The lounge area comes alive in the evenings with live DJ sets and musicians, providing a vibrant backdrop for socializing and relaxation. The outdoor terrace offers a serene setting for al fresco dining, while the private dining rooms cater to exclusive gatherings and events. Zuma also hosts a popular Saturday brunch, featuring an array of dishes from its diverse menu, making it a sought-after weekend destination. With its commitment to quality, innovation, and exceptional service, Zuma Dubai continues to set the standard for upscale dining and nightlife in the region.

Located in Dubai's vibrant DIFC district, Galaxy Bar offers an intimate and vibrant lounge experience inspired by the allure of the Aegean Sea and the dazzling night sky. The bar's deep blue interiors, complemented by a glittering canopy of stars, create an ambiance that transports guests to a celestial realm. ​ Since its inception in early 2019, Galaxy Bar has garnered international acclaim. It was honored with the Campari One to Watch Award in The World's 50 Best Bars 2020 and has consistently ranked among the top bars globally, achieving the No. 50 spot in 2023. ​ The cocktail menu at Galaxy Bar is a contemporary play on reimagined classics, with many featuring the Greek spirit Metaxa. Signature drinks, such as the 'Scorpius'—a Negroni-inspired cocktail with earthy beetroot notes—reflect the bar's innovative approach to mixology. ​ The bar's design is a sophisticated take on Athenian culture, with nods to the Parthenon, gilded accents, and a constellation of stars outlining Athens's night sky across the ceiling. This creates an enveloping interior that is both luxurious and inviting.

Perched on the 6th floor of the 25hours Hotel One Central in Dubai, Monkey Bar offers a vibrant rooftop experience with stunning views of the Museum of The Future and Zabeel Park. Guests can enjoy a diverse menu featuring tiki-inspired cocktails and Latin American-influenced dishes, all within a lush, jungle-themed ambiance. The bar operates from 5 PM to 2 AM on weekdays and extends until 3 AM on weekends. Happy hour is available Sunday through Thursday from 5 PM to 8 PM. The dress code is smart casual, with shorts and flip-flops discouraged for men. For reservations or private events accommodating up to 120 people, contact the team via their website

Nestled within the Pullman Dubai Downtown, Honeycomb Hi-Fi stands as a cultural oasis for audiophiles and food enthusiasts alike. The venue draws inspiration from traditional Japanese listening bars, placing a strong emphasis on high-quality sound and music appreciation. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a vinyl record and book shop, leading into a space adorned with rotating art exhibitions, creating a multifaceted cultural experience. ​ The heart of Honeycomb Hi-Fi lies in its bespoke Ojas sound system, delivering unparalleled audio quality that enhances the eclectic global sounds curated by resident and guest DJs. The venue hosts weekly DJ sets and listening sessions, making it a haven for music lovers seeking an intimate and immersive auditory experience. ​ Culinary offerings at Honeycomb Hi-Fi are crafted by Chef Matt Abergel, featuring classic Izakaya dishes and signature creations that cater to diverse palates. The menu includes items such as Pak Choy Gomae, Seaweed Sunomono, Wagyu Monaka Sando, and Garlic Prawn Udon, blending traditional Japanese flavors with contemporary twists.

Moonshine is Dubai’s answer to the modern speakeasy: a secret lounge tucked behind a sandwich shop entrance in DIFC’s Gate District, accessible through a baby-blue fridge panel that conceals a mirrored corridor and a futuristic transition into the bar proper. Upon entering, you’re met with a compact, moody interior. The ceiling sits low, lighting is dim and red-tinged, and metallic lines curve over the bar counter. Walls seem to lean in, emphasizing the intimate, clandestine feel. The design fuses the past and future: nods to Prohibition-era secrecy, with modern, sleek finishes. The cocktail menu is inventive and bold. Signature drinks push boundaries: expect ingredients like caviar, truffle, exotic fruits, botanicals. One review describes a “kojikaze” (vodka, pear, palo santo, yuzu) and a Blue Hawaii riff (rum, blood orange, elderflower soda, frankincense, pineapple espuma) as standout items. The menu also features tapas-style bites — wagyu tataki, scallop ceviche, and more — crafted to complement the drinks. As night deepens, the bar picks up energy. A DJ eventually takes over, lighting intensifies, and the bar leans more into lounge / nightlife mode. Despite its size, Moonshine aims for theatrical effect: the limited space and the element of discovery heighten the experience. Moonshine has quickly earned recognition in Dubai — it won Time Out Dubai’s “Best Speakeasy Bar 2024”. It’s become part of the city’s nightlife map for those seeking something hidden, stylish, and boundary-pushing.

Himitsu (meaning “secret” in Japanese) is positioned as a discreet speakeasy tucked behind Alba Restaurant at Dubai Opera Plaza, near the Dubai Opera and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard. Entrance is theatrical: guests pass through a large white door concealed by a red velvet curtain, then descend a dim corridor into the intimate bar. The interior is low-lit, with red and floral touches; walls often feature murals and Japanese art influences like stylized flora and ocean waves. Himitsu specializes in custom cocktail experiences. They use a mechanical “cocktail system” (sometimes described as a cryptex or puzzle device) to let guests explore many flavor combinations — reportedly up to 1,200 permutations. The mixology is experimental, often incorporating Asian flavors: seaweed, mushroom, genmaicha, and more. On the culinary side, Himitsu offers a Japanese-inspired omakase experience. Signature dishes include langoustine chawanmushi, wagyu tartare, beef tataki, and occasionally playful desserts like miso-inflected twists on classics. In some coverage, the omakase is delivered over 8 courses, with paired cocktails or mocktail flights. Because of its exclusivity, Himitsu seats very few guests — around 12 people in total. The vibe is meant to evoke a clandestine, sultry energy — a “secret haven” for those who dare to find it. It is open Thursday to Sunday, from 7:00 PM until late, and goes by reservation only (via WhatsApp or Instagram).

Located within the Four Seasons Resort Dubai – Jumeirah, Mimi Kakushi is more than a modern Japanese restaurant — it’s a sensorial fusion of culinary theatre, cocktail innovation, and artful ambiance. The concept leans heavily into the aesthetic of Roaring-Twenties Japan (think 1920s Osaka) blended with Western jazz, colonial touches, and neo-Art Deco sensibilities. From interior details (hand-painted screens, sliding lattice woodwork, stained glass, intricate lighting, layered textures) to the layout (intimate nooks, open sushi counter, polished bar, theatrical service) — everything is curated to transport patrons across time and place. The cocktail program is a major draw. Mimi Kakushi was ranked No. 40 in the World’s 50 Best Bars (2024) and is also known as Best Bar in the Middle East & Africa 2023. Cocktails are presented via “records” you flick through to pair drink + music, and one showpiece is the Shadrach: a dry martini frozen inside a block of ice, which guests chip out themselves. The “Kiyo Mizu” is another signature: clarified, elegant, and tied to a musical pairing. Food-wise, Mimi Kakushi offers a wide menu of hot & cold sharing plates (sashimi, sushi, tempura, gyoza), plus more ambitious dishes like black cod and Kagoshima Wagyu. The cuisine itself leans contemporary Japanese with bold twists and theatrical plating. The restaurant also hosts a well-known brunch on weekends, where the piano bar and cocktail experience extend. The atmosphere fluctuates: early evening is elegant dining with ambient jazz; later in the night it flows more into lounge mode. Intimate lighting, hidden corners, live jazz (especially on select nights) amplify the mood. It’s not a loud nightclub — the draw is more immersive style, theatrical service, and craft. Overall, Mimi Kakushi feels like stepping into a film set: your cocktail is part of the scene, your food part of the story, and the surroundings part of the transport.

Vault is one of Dubai’s most elevated lounge-bars — literally. Located on levels 71 and 72 of the JW Marriott Marquis in Business Bay, it blends dramatic skyline views with high design and a refined nightlife energy. As you ascend, you’re welcomed through impressive vault doors, walking into a space where gold, black, white, onyx, and opulent touches set a tone of exclusive elegance. Intimate lounge pockets are arranged around windows so you can soak in views of downtown Dubai and beyond, while a central bar anchors the room. The beverage program at Vault plays to both trend and tradition. There are signature cocktails, premium spirits, wines, and a well-curated cigar selection for those who want something more than drinks. The menu includes small bites / bar snacks, such as calamari, nachos, and more elevated finger food made to match the luxe environment. Sundowner specials and happy hour-type offerings happen, giving guests a chance to experience the views at more accessible rates early evening. Vault is busy in the evenings — perfect for sunsets transitioning into night, social nights out, after-work or date occasions, or anyone wanting to experience Dubai from the heights with style. The dress code is smart casual. Entry is age-restricted (21+ in many listings). The vibe is upscale and polished, but not overly formal — good conversation, good music, luxury with a relaxed edge.

Located in Dubai’s art-and-finance heart (Gate Village, DIFC), La Petite Maison (LPM) Dubai transports you to the French Riviera without leaving the desert. From its bougainvillea-lined terrace to its airy interiors and olive-tree accents, the vibe is light, elegant, and vivacious. The bar is not an afterthought — it occupies much of one interior wall and acts as a magnet. Signature cocktails blend Mediterranean sensibility and playful modernity: think spritzes, citrus-forward blends, and creative twists. Food at LPM leans French-Mediterranean: small sharable plates, fresh seafood, vegetables, artisanal pastas, escargot, seafood crudos, Côte de veau, and classics done with finesse. The dishes are often built around lightness — letting produce, olive oil, herbs, and simple good technique shine. Service and ambiance aim to be both polished and inviting. The dress code is smart casual (shorts and sportswear aren’t allowed). On busy nights the restaurant is a destination for diners, but the bar side has its own energy and draw. Reviewers frequently mention the bar as worth visiting even if you're not seated for dinner. Evening lighting softens the space; the terrace adds indoor-outdoor overlap. For those seeking both food and well-crafted drinks in an elegant but not stuffy space, LPM is often recommended.

Nestled on the 44th floor of Grosvenor House in Dubai Marina, 7 Tales transports guests to the dynamic ambiance of 1960s Tokyo nightlife. This Japanese-inspired speakeasy bar offers exhilarating views of Dubai's skyline, providing a unique backdrop for an unforgettable evening. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a glowing lacquered orange bar carved from solid oak panels, setting the stage for a nostalgic and mesmerizing experience. The interior is adorned with captivating canvases depicting Japan's Golden Age movement, with customized graffiti titled 'Relight My Fire. My Heart's Desire' hand-applied by artist Gary Yong. This fusion of traditional Japanese art with modern street art elements creates a dark, moody, yet playful atmosphere. ​ The bar takes a playful and innovative approach to mixed drinks, offering a menu of specialty cocktails crafted by expert mixologists. A central feature is the Negroni gaming table, where guests can engage in a unique dice game that determines their drink of the night, adding an element of chance and excitement to the experience. ​ Resident DJs electrify the night with trending tunes, enhancing the vibrant atmosphere. Seating options range from cozy lounge areas to spots at the bar, accommodating both intimate gatherings and lively celebrations. ​ Whether you're seeking a sophisticated night out or an immersive cultural experience, 7 Tales offers a captivating journey into the heart of Tokyo's nightlife, right in the midst of Dubai Marina.

Flashback Speakeasy Bar & Lounge is a retro-jazz hideaway located within Paramount Hotel Dubai in Business Bay. Understated from the outside, it leans hard into Prohibition-era styling once you’re inside: vintage chesterfield seating, dim lighting, brick walls, nostalgic décor, and a soundtrack of jazz, tribute nights, Motown, and acoustic sets. The venue often stages immersive experiences — for example, “Femme Fatale”, a noir-inspired musical / mystery dinner show combining performance, dining, and cocktails. On Thursday nights, the bar hosts Murder Mystery evenings where guests become part of the drama. Cocktails are classic and inventive: the bar promises a “large selection of classic cocktails, craft beverages, botanist gins, and smooth whiskeys,” often served with vintage touches, even tea cups in some cases. Food is available via bar bites / appetizers. The setting encourages lingering — patrons sink into couches, sip slowly, and enjoy the theatrical ambiance. Many reviews highlight strong cocktails, warm service, and the immersive feel. In short: Flashback is less a bar and more a time capsule — a speakeasy theatre where nights are curated, not casual.

Hidden beneath the chic Levantine restaurant Alaya in DIFC (Gate Village 4), LY-LA is an underground lounge that merges Middle Eastern nostalgia with nightlife flair. Its name, entrance ritual, and immersive design amplify its mystique: you pass through a disguised door to step into a rich world of color, texture, and sound. The décor embraces luxe and tradition simultaneously: plush drapery, warm lighting, tent-like fabrics, Middle Eastern motifs, and opulent detailing create a space that feels both secret and ceremonious. Music is core to the experience — LY-LA’s musical identity spans Afro, organic & melodic house, and at times blends in Middle Eastern instrumentation to complement the regional mood. Cocktails at LY-LA lean bold and expressive. Some signature drinks fuse local flavors (e.g. dates, regional spices) with global spirits. GreatList, which covers the venue as “Underground Bar LY-LA,” notes bartenders are unafraid of unusual combinations (e.g. lemongrass + watermelon) in their cocktail program. They also support a cigar service alongside their whiskey and cocktail offerings in the lounge’s refined setting. The vibe shifts as night deepens: early hours offer lounge intimacy; later, DJs step in to drive a more energetic tempo. Being underground and boutique, LY-LA is designed for those in the know — its exclusivity, design, and mood all play into a sense of discovery and occasion.

Nestled on South Great George’s Street, The Long Hall has welcomed patrons since 1766, making it one of Dublin’s most beloved and enduring pubs. Its stunning Victorian interior, redesigned in 1881, remains virtually unchanged, featuring exquisite mahogany woodwork, gold-leaf detailing, beveled and stained glass, ornate mirrors, and warm, nostalgic lighting that evokes gas-lit charm. The name "The Long Hall" is a nod to a long, narrow hallway snug that once ran parallel to the bar, now a part of pub lore. Over the decades, this storied establishment served as a meeting place for Fenians plotting the 1867 Rising—history echoes in its walls. Adding to its legacy, figures like Brendan Behan, U2, Phil Lynott (who filmed part of his “Old Town” video here), Bruce Springsteen, Rihanna, and others have graced its bar. But it isn’t just a relic—it’s an active, vibrant pub renowned for its attentive staff, perfectly poured Guinness, and welcoming atmosphere that balances history with hospitality. Whether you're there for a quiet weekday pint or weekend buzz, you're in for an authentic and atmospheric Dublin experience that feels timeless and genuine.

Nestled within the swanky COYA Restaurant at the Four Seasons Resort Jumeirah Beach, COYA Pisco Bar stands out as a tropical-infused oasis of Latin American flair. Drawing inspiration from Lima’s oldest bars, it offers a lively, colour-drenched playground for cocktail lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike. The setting is rich and immersive—the interiors breathe warmth, with carved wooden accents, lush backlit materials, and a sweeping bar lined with illuminated bottles reflecting shadows and mood. It’s an upscale yet undeniably vibrant atmosphere where every evening feels like a fiesta. Mixologists here are masters of the Pisco and Latin-inspired cocktail craft, boasting one of Dubai’s most extensive Pisco libraries and inventive infusions including specialty tequilas and rare rums. Expect everything from the classic Pisco Sour to creative concoctions highlighting Andean botanicals and tropical fruit notes. The experience goes beyond drinks—COYA pulses with energy thanks to curated DJ sets and COYA Music, turning the bar into a nightlife hotspot with seductive rhythms and flair. In short, COYA Pisco Bar is where Peruvian heritage meets Dubai chic—bold cocktails, rich textures, lively beats, and unmistakable style.

Blind Tiger at Jumeirah Al Naseem is a modern take on the Prohibition-style “blind tiger” bars of old—designed to feel like a lush, decadent secret den in Dubai’s beachfront resort grounds. Concealed among the Turtle Lagoon and gardens of Jumeirah Al Naseem, the entrance is subtle—deliberately hidden—demanding that guests seek it out. Once inside, the décor channels a lush jungle-jazz aesthetic: chinoiserie wallpapers, deep blue wood paneling, gold accents, mirrored ceilings, velvet upholstery, and motifs of wild life and tigers in gilt frames. The cocktail menu is imaginative, with “vintage circus” and “remastered classics” themes. Drinks use interesting ingredients: a few examples include the BT Boulevard (shiitake mushroom + chocolate vermouth) and Ghosted (gin + berries + citrus) among others. There are also non-alcoholic options. Food is light and crafted for pairing: sliders, bao buns, Korean cauliflower, lobster roll, shrimp spring rolls, and charcuterie are among the selections. The bar also features a terrace overlooking Turtle Lagoon, giving guests a semi-outdoor escape within the hidden space. Atmosphere evolves through the night. In earlier evening hours it’s more subdued and loungey; later, the energy picks up, live jazz (on some nights) gives way to DJ sets and ambient movement. The service is polished, and many reviews praise the staff’s knowledge and attention.

Located on the vibrant Bluewaters Island off Dubai Marina, Brass Monkey delivers a high-energy fusion of bar culture, gaming and social hang-out. With 12 bowling lanes, VR racing simulators, retro arcade games and a full-service bar surrounded by neon-flooded décor, it’s more than a place to drink — it’s a destination. The food menu swings from American comfort fare — tacos, sliders, pizza — to indulgent desserts, all in a setting designed for large groups, celebrations or nights out. Reviewers praise the lively atmosphere, friendly staff and the split between “game time” and “drink time”. Opening later in the day (typically from afternoon into the night) and staying open into the early hours, Brass Monkey is ideal for post-dinner drinks, weekend groups or those looking to mix fun with socialising. Pro tip: reserve if you’re bringing a big group, and arrive early for the best seating near the action.