Restaurant FZN

The case for two (or three) stars at Atlantis the Palm?

Let’s face it: the launch of Restaurant FZN was the one we had all been waiting for in the Dubai food scene (circa 2024). Although I missed the preview dinner earlier in the year, I was delighted to accept an invitation. Also, being the forever punctual person I am, I made/forced Mr. Wright to arrive early. With the restaurant not quite open until 7 PM (damn you, Google Maps!), we go for (expensive) drinks at next door Studio Franzen. Reader, we shouldn’t have. My Cosmo and Hubs’ martini both left a lot to be desired.

With the clock finally turning 7 PM, we make our way (the few steps) next door to FZN, marked by a small branded entrance just next to Studio. Guests ring a bell, are greeted by friendly staff, and immediately move to the Living Room (one of two spaces where they’ll enjoy their meal). The walk to the living room is long, peppered with pickling jars (and, from my perspective), a lot of unused space (I’d love to see this more as a lounge with an actual bar and low lights —…