While there are quite a few gastropubs in Dubai, few are as authentic as The Reform Social & Grill. This expansive bar and restaurant is nestled in The Lakes and boasts an impressive palm tree-filled terrace outside. Inside, meanwhile, you'll find cosy pub-style interiors, with plenty of leather banquettes, wood floors and British nicknacks. The space is well-suited to families, with plenty of room outside for kids to run around in, while adults can have a drink at the bar. The food menu is similarly versatile, with kid-friendly options alongside more grown-up flavours.
The garden-themed cocktails you'll likely start your meal with are inspired by the famous Kew Gardens in London. As such, each one has an elevated botanical twist. The garden crown, for example, is a fragrant mix of rum, Campari, juniper, orange and rosemary, while the house bloody Mary features all the trimmings and even bacon-infused vodka. The gin selection is similarly refined and each option is paired with the appropriate tonic. There is a small but thought-out selection of old-world wines, as well as fruity mocktails for those not drinking alcohol. As any pub should, this one also stocks a good selection of beers and ales on draft, plus a range of spirits to be enjoyed neat or with a mixer.
Hearty, British fare is the focus here, so expect a classic pub starter like Scotch eggs with mustard and piccalilli or mushroom soup with garlic bread. Slightly more elegant appetisers are also available, hailing primarily from France, such as steak tartare, white wine poached veal or foie gras terrine. From there, house favourites include a fish finger butty with hand-cut chips, chicken Kyiv or braised lamb shank with creamy mashed potatoes and mint gravy. Keeping with the theme of the restaurant, we recommend finishing with a sticky toffee pudding, although other options such as Eton mess or apple and rhubarb crumble are available too.