Dubai-based restauranteur Joey Ghazal has emerged as the homegrown hero of the last 12 months. Not only did he open The Maine Land Brasserie – strewn with chandeliers and chicest of all the outposts – at ME by Meliá at The Opus by Zaha Hadid during a global pandemic but he’s also about to take The Maine concept global with the first international location at 20 Hanover Square in London in September. Until then, discerning Dubai diners can – and should – enjoy The Maine Land Brasserie’s signature tuna tartare, and wagyu beef tataki, prawns a la plancha and crispy fish tacos to start, followed by the 48-hour short rib or angry lobster pasta, all served by the most charming, dashing and knowledgeable staff in town. And with the sides as inventive as the Main(e) events, make sure you order the Truffle mac ‘n’ cheese and the charred brussel sprouts. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!

Find The Maine Land Brasserie at Ground Floor, ME by Meliá Hotel, Opus by Zaha Hadid, Business Bay, Dubai, U.A.E. Call +971 (0)4 577 6680 for reservations or visit themaine.ae