There are many things that spring to mind when you think of Dubai – the rolling dessert hills, the impressive high-rises, luxury shopping… One thing that you might not expect to find in the Golden City is a cosy gastropub hiding in the Jumeirah Beach area. Well, your preconceptions are shattered in the existence of JB's Gastropub, which is found inside the Amwaj Rotana Hotel & Resort.
The dining room is a warm mix of exposed brick walls, plushily upholstered chairs and parquet flooring. All these rich brown details create a homely atmosphere while the semi-open kitchen adds a touch of theatre. A unique feature of the dining room is that it holds two large glass cases on one wall, which display some of the produce the kitchen cook with. This nod to high-level ingredients is reflected in the menu of comfort food classics made using the freshest produce.
Start with burrata and heirloom tomatoes with salsa verde or plump for fresh seafood in the form of grilled octopus, messy prawns with chorizo or a lobster cocktail. Mains throw up popular serves like fish and chips, bangers and mash or beef and Guinness pies, as well as a whole list of steaks, burgers and sandwiches. This kind of food is ideal for tucking into with friends while watching some of your favourite sports stars do their thing. The bar here understands that synergy and happily screens all major matches and competitions on the televisions around the room.
If you’re just popping in for a couple of drinks, you’ll find that the team here are able to rustle up just about anything you can name. With an extensive range of beers, wines, spirits and cocktails (as well we softs and mocktails for those abstaining), there really is something for everyone. If you’re planning on joining with the kids in tow, please note that after 9pm it’s over 21s only.