La Cantine Beach Club
To be fair, I have an understated relationship with La Cantine (the OG). Whenever I visit the Emirates Towers location (home of my first job in Dubai, circa 2007), it’s always pleasing and professional, but the venue/menu feels like it’s lacking something. However, none of that ‘meh’ feeling is present at the sexy sister property on Bluewaters (found at the Banyan Tree). Instead, it’s a chilled, sophisticated, and private slice of the city. While my sister and I bypass the family pool and small padel court, the sunny interior awaits us — perfect for an al fresco lunch in February. We focus on smaller bites, and the kitchen also sends through a Panzanella salad that we “can’t miss.” (Spoiler alert, they’re right). A glass of rose goes down a treat, and the team — in true Rikas style — are professional/vibey in their delivery. The playlist stands out in the best possible way, and I would be happy to order everything we tried again (yes, go for the side fries).
Would …
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