Couqley French Brasserie in the Pullman Hotel in Downtown Dubai is the second member of the Couqley family to open in the capital (the first was at the Mövenpick Hotel in Jumeirah Lakes Towers). Offering a premium-casual French dining experience, this charming brassiere aims to bring a small slice of Parisian culture to Dubai. Expect a menu of classic French dishes, a reasonably priced wine list and warm and friendly hospitality.
In contrast to its cousin over in JLT, this Downtown site has been redesigned by renowned artist Ana D’Castro specifically for its trendy location. Exactly the sort of place you’d expect to see on your Instagram feed, this gorgeous dining room features a large golden rooster sculpture perched above the central bar, French garden-inspired booth seating, dining tables under olive trees, lights hanging down from triple-height ceilings and a stunning alfresco terrace.
Stylish interiors aside, the warm and rustic heart of Couqley remains unchanged. Feast on a menu of traditional French dishes, from a classic French onion soup with cheesy baguette toasts to escargot in a garlic and herb butter. Elsewhere on the menu, diners can tuck into meaty classics such as steak frites, steak tartare and wagyu entrecote, as well as a selection of gourmet burgers. There’s also a raw bar where you can order luxurious delicacies like fresh oysters and tuna tartare. While plat principals include duck confit with sauteed potatoes, caramelised onions and mushrooms, and pan-seared sea bream with a shrimp bisque sauce and wild rice. To finish, expect classic options like chocolate mousse, crème brulee and pain perdu. There is also a kids’ menu if you have little ones in tow, while a weekday business lunch menu makes it a great choice for casual client entertaining.
Don’t miss the fairly priced wine list which includes a selection of bottles from around the globe, and are available by the glass, carafe or bottle.