While most restaurants in Downtown get praise for their stunning Burj Khalifa views, there’s something more special about dining in the Burj Khalifa itself. Holder of numerous Guinness World Records, it is one of the most iconic buildings in the world. The dining experiences here also uphold the high standards and grandeur associated with the skyscraper. Below we highlight the best restaurants in Burj Khalifa that will set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.
5 of the Best Restaurants in Burj Khalifa
Armani/Ristorante
Offering guests a glamourous Italian dining affair in the tallest building in the world, the Armani/Ristorante should be on everyone’s list of top restaurants in the city. It is one of Dubai’s few Michelin-starred restaurants, and arguably the most celebrated restaurant in Burj Khalifa. ‘Understated’, ‘refined’ and ‘sleek’ are words that come to mind when taking in the double-height ceilings, marble floors, Narumi porcelain, muted gold seating and white linen tables. This elegant restaurant is in line with the style expected from Giorgio Armani’s flagship restaurant. At its heart is a large central glass kitchen where you can watch expert chefs create stunning Italian dishes. Helming the kitchen is head chef Giovanni Papi, who has created an exciting menu with first-class ingredients and beautifully presented dishes rich in colour, flavours and textures. The 8-course Exclusive Journey Menu is the one to try, with exquisite dishes that all serve a purpose and story. For example, the Green Planet Risotto with Sicilian Red Prawns showcases the chef's desire to reduce food waste, using all parts of the prawn for the dish. The Wagyu short ribs are braised for 48 hours, showcasing his philosophy that good things take time and are served with fresh green mash made with local potatoes. Other standout dishes include the butter-poached blue lobster with purple carrots, foie gras terrine with orange compote and the La Sfera, a sweet dome filled with seasonal treats.
Open daily from 6:30 pm to 11:30 pm
Reservations required
At.mosphere
Considered to be the signature restaurant of the Burj Khalifa and recognised as the highest restaurant in the world, At.mosphere invites guests for a fine dining affair amidst the clouds. With a 360-degree dining room and a separate lounge, the experience of At.mosphere is unlike any other. Located 441 metres above sea level, diners are treated to endless views of the surrounding skyline, stretching beyond the Arabian Sea and the surrounding desert. It goes without saying that reserving a window seat is a must, to take in the unrivalled views this spot has to offer. The food matches the opulence of the restaurant, with choices of caviar and fresh oysters shucked to order. The menu includes the finest quality of meats and seafood like wagyu beef, Scottish salmon, wild seabass and corn-fed chicken, all cooked to perfection. Desserts don’t disappoint either, with the crème brûlée and strawberry cheesecake both perfect to satisfy any sweet tooth. Reservations are a must, and the restaurant follows strict dress codes which do not allow casual or athletic clothing.
Open daily from 7 am to 2 am
Reservations required
Armani/Amal
Combining Italian style with the best of Indian cuisine, Armani/Amal is one of the best Indian fine dining restaurants in the city. As you walk in you are greeted with the restaurant’s beautiful setting, spacious and perfectly lit with the kitchen as the main centrepiece. Led by chef Rohit Sharma, the restaurant prides itself on serving guests fresh and innovative Indian cuisines from different regions of the country. Expect a fantastic presentation with exotic curries and other specialities prepared tableside, showcasing time-honoured traditional cooking methods. It is not just the presentation and exceptional setting, but the flavours that steal the show. Their Tandoori Kebab Sampler Platter is a must-try, offering a selection of grilled meats with just the right amount of char and smokiness. The signature Fish Moilee, a Kerala-style coconut-based curry, is another highlight as is their lamb biryani, a particular favourite among patrons. During the winter seasons, you can dine on their outdoor terrace which looks out over stunning views of the Dubai Fountain and Souq Al Bahar.
Open daily from 6:30 pm to 11:30 pm
Reservations required
The Burj Club, Rooftop
If you are looking for a swanky brunch on the weekend, it probably doesn’t get better than the Burj Club Rooftop. Located on the 3rd floor, their fantastic brunch experience pairs delicious food with a selection of refreshing and all-day pool access for guests. This is probably the only restaurant in the tower where you can also indulge in views of the Burj Khalifa itself, thanks to its large podium terrace. Enjoyed best with family or friends, this is one of Dubai’s most sought-after brunches, so making reservations is important. Guests will be spoilt for choice with a large variety of hot mezze and cold salads along with mains from cuisines around the world. There is everything from roast chicken to Chinese noodles, Middle Eastern grills and a live pasta station. The service and hospitality are at par with the level expected from Burj Khalifa. A live DJ sets the scene, creating a lively atmosphere, enhanced by the Burj Khalifa as the backdrop and views of the Dubai Fountain below.
Open daily from 10 am to 10 pm and until 12 am Sat-Sun
Reservations required
3BK
3BK is one of the very few independently managed restaurants inside Burj Khalifa, offering international cuisine with stunning views of the Dubai Fountain. Upon entering, guests are welcomed with dimly lit, moody interiors with metallic and gold accents, creating a sultry vibe. The menu includes dishes from various cuisines, like French, Japanese, and Mediterranean and offers vegetarian-friendly and vegan options. Guests can choose between 6-course and 8-course tasting menus or opt for the a la carte menu. The restaurant focuses on creating a theatrical presentation, which is reflected in dishes like ‘Scallop Stones’. The chilled scallops are covered in Greek yoghurt and squid ink to make them look like pebbles. They are then served in a bowl with real pebbles with crackling dry ice, used to create the sound of crashing waves. The menu also offers simple yet exquisite mains which include perfectly cooked steaks, a melt-in-the-mouth seabass, and miso-marinated black cod. Dessert is a high point of the menu, with the chef-recommended vanilla cheesecake one of the best in the city.
Open daily from 6 pm to 4 am
Reservations required
Final Take
Dining at the Burj Khalifa is as spectacular and glamorous as one might expect from a building of its calibre. There is an air of sophistication and intrigue associated with the restaurants here, through a combination of high-quality food, exceptional service, and breathtaking views. Though it has been 14 years since the Burj Khalifa was first formally unveiled, it is still a defining symbol of Dubai and also maintains its status as one of the city’s culinary icons.
