Anise — Restaurant in Dubai

An Enchanting International Buffet at Anise Restaurant Recently, I had the pleasure of dining at Anise Restaurant with my colleagues, and I must say that the international buffet dinner we experienced was nothing short of perfection. Anise Restaurant truly took us on a gastronomic journey worldwide, showcasing an impressive variety of cuisines from around the world. The fusion of flavours, the attention to detail, and the exceptional service made it an evening to remember.

Ambience: As we entered Anise Restaurant, we were captivated by the charming ambience. The modern yet cosy decor, soothing lighting, and comfortable seating created an inviting atmosphere. The spacious dining area ensured that even during peak hours, we could enjoy our meal relaxed and unhurriedly. The restaurant exuded an inviting and elegant ambience, we never felt crowded or overwhelmed.

Variety and Quality of Food: The buffet spread was a true feast for the senses, offering a remarkable array of international cuisines and flavours. Every dish was a work of art, from fresh seafood to succulent meats, vibrant salads to delectable desserts. The attention to detail and commitment to using high-quality ingredients was evident in every bite. Whether you preferred Italian delicacies, Asian specialities, or classic comfort foods, there was something to please every palate.

Standout Dishes:

Exquisite Sushi Selection: The sushi station showcased an impressive assortment of freshly prepared sushi rolls. The vibrant colours and impeccable presentation were a testament to the skill of the sushi chefs. Each piece was a burst of umami goodness, and our group couldn't resist returning for seconds. The chef even made sure he prepared several trays of sushi platters for our table of 14 people.

Decadent Dessert Bar: The dessert selection was a sight to behold. From dainty pastries to creamy cheesecakes, velvety mousses to luscious chocolate creations, it was a paradise for those with a sweet tooth.

Service: The restaurant staff provided exceptional service throughout the evening. They were attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable, ensuring our glasses were never empty and promptly clearing our plates. They were always ready with a smile and went above and beyond to accommodate any special requests or dietary restrictions. Naseeb was amazing in and out and always returned to ensure we were well cared for. The manager, Mr. Akshat Bahal, went high and above to ensure the booking process was smooth and easy.

Overall Experience: Our buffet dinner at this restaurant was an evening of pure gastronomic bliss. The food's outstanding variety and quality, with the elegant ambience and exceptional service, made it an unforgettable dining experience. It was the perfect setting to bond with colleagues, indulge in culinary delights, and create lasting memories. I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for an extraordinary buffet dining experience. Anise Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone seeking an enchanting gastronomic journey...

Nestled in the heart of Dubai Festival City, Anise at the InterContinental stands out as one of the city’s premier five-star hotel restaurants. From the moment you step inside, the atmosphere radiates a refined balance of elegance and warmth. The restaurant’s modern interiors, flooded with natural light and accented by subtle Middle Eastern touches, set the perfect stage for either an intimate meal, a family gathering, or even a business lunch. For those who enjoy dining with a view, the outdoor terrace overlooking Dubai Creek is a memorable setting that adds an extra layer of charm.

One of Anise’s greatest strengths lies in its culinary diversity. Designed around eight live-cooking stations, the buffet transports diners across continents in a single sitting. Whether you crave sushi freshly rolled before your eyes, aromatic curries from India, chargrilled meats from the Middle East, or flavorful Western classics, the variety is impressive without ever compromising quality. Seafood lovers in particular will appreciate the range—from prawns and calamari to whole baked fish prepared with finesse. On themed nights such as Mediterranean evenings or the ever-popular Saturday Family Brunch, the spread becomes even more indulgent, offering something new to discover with each visit.

Desserts are no afterthought at Anise. Traditional Middle Eastern favorites like umm ali and baklava sit comfortably beside delicate pastries, cakes, and international sweets. The balance between authentic regional specialties and globally loved treats ensures every palate is satisfied.

While the food itself is excellent, what truly sets Anise apart is its service, which consistently receives praise from diners. Among the dedicated staff, one name deserves special mention: Ajay. His presence transforms a great dining experience into an unforgettable one. Ajay greets guests with what can only be described as the warmest and most sincere smile—genuine, welcoming, and instantly putting you at ease. Throughout the meal, his attentiveness is seamless yet unobtrusive. He seems to anticipate needs before you even ask, whether it’s a drink refill, a thoughtful recommendation, or simply checking in to ensure you’re comfortable. What stands out most about Ajay is that his hospitality never feels rehearsed; it feels heartfelt, as if he truly enjoys making every guest feel at home.

This human touch complements the restaurant’s already strong reputation. Many guests recall little personalized gestures from the staff—remembering a coffee preference after just one visit, offering extra desserts, or making children feel included at the table. With Ajay, these gestures feel natural and sincere, elevating the sense of connection between...

My husband and I recently visited Anise for lunch to celebrate a special day our wedding anniversary and my birthday. We booked the buffet online a day prior, and our reservation was confirmed via email.

Excited for our celebration, we arrived around 1130am little early, only to face an unexpected and uncomfortable experience.

When we arrived at the reception, an Indian lady wearing black glasses greeted us, but her demeanor lacked warmth or professionalism. She immediately questioned our reservation timing and informed us that the hotel had over 300 guests that day. Without a single apology, she told us they wouldn’t be able to accommodate us. We were taken aback, especially since we’d received a confirmed booking.

We politely explained that we had a confirmed reservation, even showing her the email, but she continued to insist there was no way to accommodate us. It felt embarrassing, especially as other staff members stood nearby watching. When we asked why we hadn’t received a cancellation notice, she had no answer. There were no alternatives, apologies, or solutions offered ,just a blunt refusal.

At this point, a Filipino lady named Glida approached. With kindness and professionalism, she suggested they could find a place for us after all. She resolved the issue quickly, though the initial staff member still seemed irritated and dismissive. Another staff member, an Egyptian man, also acted unprofessionally, making faces and whispering with the Indian lady in a way that felt inappropriate.

We ended up waiting in the lobby until 12:30, feeling uncomfortable and unwelcome. Once we were finally seated, however, the experience improved. Glida checked on us, apologized sincerely, and explained she’d been too busy to assist us initially. She truly went above and beyond to make up for the poor treatment we’d experienced earlier. Her thoughtful gestures including a complimentary anniversary cake and her warmth turned a disappointing start into a more enjoyable occasion.

Despite her efforts, we couldn’t ignore the earlier lack of courtesy and professionalism, which was particularly surprising from a five star establishment. In my experience, even smaller establishments treat guests with more respect and courtesy than what we encountered initially. My husband and I both work in the airline industry, so we understand the importance of customer service and how essential it is to make guests feel valued.

We appreciate Glida’s effort to salvage our experience, but I urge management to train all staff on professionalism and customer care. At a five star hotel, guests deserve to feel welcomed, respected, and appreciated something we felt only after...