Tàn Chá, JW Marriott Marquis, Business Bay, Dubai

BACKGROUND Fusing Hong Kong’s urban energy with authentic Chinese cuisine, Alberto Barbieri’s brainchild Tàn Chá is a feast for all of the senses. An immersive portal entrance leads to five uniquely di erent rooms, each with a Chinese name, spread across two floors.

HOURS Monday – Thursday and Sunday: 6pm - 2am Friday and Saturday: 6pm - 3am

LOCATION Tàn Chá, JW Marriott Marquis, Business Bay

CONTACT Tel: +971 (0)56 681 8881; @tanchadubai; tanchadubai.com

WHAT’S IT LIKE? Located in the vast lobby of the JW Marriott Marquis, the restaurant boasts an electrifying character, ideal for long leisurely evenings. Lavishly embossed wallpapers depicting Chinese culture, personalised chopsticks, in-house internationally renowned DJs, bespoke digital artwork, and clever lighting ensure Tàn Chá brings a contemporary twist to Chinese eateries in the city. A first-floor terrace overlooks the canal with exceptional views of Downtown Dubai, while the clever use of partitions can make the spaces more intimate for private events.

THE FOOD The extensive menu o ers an elevated take on traditional fare. Epicureans will appreciate how a simple spicy Cucumber Salad comes alive rolled in black fungus and served in a Szechuan dressing and garnished with balsamic pearls. The menu features clever combinations like foie gras sauce served with the restaurants signature, succulent Peking Duck. Menu highlights also included the Har Gau (shrimp dim sum), triple-cooked Honey Nut Crispy Beef and the Tru le Fried Rice. Plant-based eaters will be delighted by the extensive number of vegan dishes crafted with plant-based Omni. Of special note is the cocktail menu where each spirit is matched with a Chinese mythological creature and created into a fable.

A great place to host a private dinner with a touch of theatrics

THE SERVICE The service at Tàn Chá is refreshingly energetic and driven by a passion to o er guests the full experience. The menu is explained in detail, recommendations are tailored to taste preferences and the buzz of the venue is reflected in their friendly and knowledgeable manner.

THE WORKSPACE A great place to host a private dinner with a touch of theatrics – the private dining room features a Chinese birdcage used as a window into the kitchen and dim sum pass and theatrical tea service point. Equally great for some after-work drinks where the digital artwork embedded into the bar’s ceiling is sure to be a conversation starter.

VERDICT This is an iconic venue where the gastronomic journey is heightened by the music, art and service, all at an accessible price point. Sonia Sultan