The 44 — Restaurant in Dubai

My friends and I wanted to go bowling. We found out about The 44 on a WHAT’S ON article about the 7 best places for bowling in Dubai. In the article the only thing mentioned with regards to prices is that “it comes with a minimum spend of AED300 per group on food and drink.” With the article being a bit ambiguous, I decided to call to clear things up. The main question I asked was “How does everything work with regards to the bowling?” To this the answer I received was “it is first come first serve.” Using this information, and the information gathered from the article, it appeared that they were advertising it as a package where you pay for the food and drinks and get to play if the bowling alley is available.

We arrive at the place, and the first thing I mention is that we want to play bowling. The hostess takes us to the bowling area, asks us how many are playing and is ready to set everything up; still no mention of any additional charges to play. We were still waiting for 2 other people so we decided to wait and eat first, to rack up to the minimum spend of AED300 so that we could play. After eating and having played some pool and foosball, for which we were notified of the AED10 per pool game and AED5 per foosball game; we then go down to the bowling alley. Right before we are about to play, the waiter then says that it will be AED35 per person per game. Obviously we were a bit shocked about this, seeing as we had already spent AED300 on food because we thought that’s what we needed to spend to be able to play. I mentioned our disappointment to the waiter and asked for clarification. He expressed no apology, and said that it was our fault for not understanding...taking no blame even though the restaurant never mentioned any separate prices for the bowling.

The most disappointing aspect of all of this, was then the behaviour of the manager towards us. He approached me in the most arrogant and superior-like way asking what the problem was. I explained everything to him once again, and like the other employees… he said that it is our fault for not understanding, even though there was no mention whatsoever ANYWHERE of a separate price for bowling. I asked him to show me a single paper or menu where the price of AED35 per person per game was mentioned and he couldn’t show me ANYTHING. He started shouting and getting agitated at me and my friends, taking the stance that they had done nothing wrong and that he wouldn’t change anything about the way they advertise their restaurant or the way they’re treating us. I ask him to please change his tone, telling him that this is no way to treat customers; and he ignores this blatantly, continuing with the same tone and the same arrogance. He boasts about his experience and training, and so I bring up the slogan used by many businesses to ensure customer satisfaction; “the customer is always right.” To this he responds, “the customer is NEVER right.” He repeated this multiple times, as he continued to talk to us in an extremely rude manner.

To end things, I express my dissatisfaction once again and tell him I am not happy to pay for the worst customer service and treatment I’ve EVER received. To this he responds by threatening to call the police. We had other plans and were in a hurry to leave, after having been held up by the manager for over 30 minutes; so we just ask for the bill, pay and leave.

No compromise was reached and no apology was given. We left the restaurant having paid for average tasting food, in a non pleasing empty environment where we were the only customers after having been treated like no customer should ever be treated. Definitely will not be returning again, and I’m surprised the manager is still working there if this is how he treats all...

The Timeout award for "Worst Brunch IN Dubai 2021" goes to The 44!

Congratulations, well earned guys!

Where to start?

[First Impression] Although The 44 sits atop of the Hilton hotel in the middle of Dubai, the whole floor as well as the venue itself were visibly unkempt - dusty surfaces and overall unclean.

[The Service] Severely understaffed, with one waiter running everywhere unable to service even the couple of tables at its peak occupancy. Super slow and unresponsive. Never approached for drinks orders, most of the clients ended up going to the bar to get a drink. The female bartender was decent, the other guy looked (and acted) like he just woke up and we were annoying him by being there. Kept eyeing one of the ladies in the group in a super creepy way.

[The Music] Ever been to a place where the Playlist music is actually better than the really human DJ? No? Welcome to The 44. He was blasting music from the 90s as if it just came out, with no taste nor skills. The music was super loud that you couldn't hear (or talk) to the person literally sitting next to you. Ended up shouting all the time. The speaker above us was faulty with so much distortion. When I asked the DJ if he could lower the volume, he LIED to me saying the "bar controls the music". When I went to the bar and was told the DJ controls is, he actually followed me to "hear the speaker" then said "will have engineering look at it later". So flat out asked him to lower the volume just a bit, and he looked at me sideways and just walked away 🤣

[The Food] Was there with a group of about 30 people celebrating a birthday. All had the brunch package except one person who had it "a La carte". When that person had ONE PIECE OF FRIES, the waiter who was otherwise invisible to take orders, suddenly manifested himself to warn her that "she can't share" with the group 😂 A set menu of appetizers that is designed to be catered to a group of 4-5 people, was served to a table of 10. When a second round was requested from the male bartender(because goodluck finding the waiter) the answer was "need to check if the kitchen can do that" 👍 The brunch ends at 4 ; main food was served at 3 and again, fit for 4 people. Requested another round, arrived at 4:50! When the manager was called over, he said "you are welcome to stay after 4!" but can't order of course. The actual food was decent, but the quantities super small. 👎

[The Drinks] Watered down right in front of your eyes. Even when you ask for no ice, they put half ice just to avoid pouring you a proper drink. Red wine, white wine, vodka, tequila and whiskey available. No cocktails. Only the base quality brands served.

[Closing Remarks] The place has so much potential. The staff need ALOT of training, and the manager definitely needs to be replaced for this place to have any real chance.

The 44 lacks any real personality or theme. Was designed as a "gentlemans bar" but ended up a sports bar? No clue.

2 out 10, never...

"The 44" is a bustling hub for weekend fun with friends, offering an array of entertaining games such as snooker, bowling, and darts. Located in the heart of the city, it's easily accessible for those seeking a lively atmosphere and a memorable experience. As patrons step into this vibrant establishment, they are greeted by a welcoming ambiance and a captivating view that sets the stage for an enjoyable outing.

One of the highlights of The 44 is its diverse selection of food combos, designed to tantalize taste buds and satisfy cravings. Somehow o didn’t find the food to be as good as the ambience and the environment of the place.

The 44 boasts a picturesque ambience that enhances the dining and gaming experience. The sleek and modern interior design, coupled with strategically placed lighting, creates an inviting atmosphere that encourages relaxation and enjoyment. Whether patrons are gathered around the gaming tables or lounging in the seating area, they are enveloped in an ambiance that exudes warmth and sophistication.

Furthermore, The 44's prime location in the heart of the city provides added convenience for visitors seeking entertainment options. Its central position makes it easily accessible from various parts of the city, attracting a diverse clientele eager to unwind and socialize. Whether it's a spontaneous night out with friends or a planned gathering, The 44 offers the perfect setting for memorable moments and shared experiences.

Despite its many virtues, it's important to note that The 44's service can sometimes be a bit slow. While the staff is friendly and accommodating, there may be instances where patrons experience delays in receiving their orders or assistance. This aspect of the establishment, though minor, is worth considering for those seeking prompt service during their visit.

In conclusion, The 44 emerges as a good destination for weekend fun with friends, thanks to its enticing combination of entertaining games, food combos, inviting ambiance, and prime location. While its service may occasionally falter, the overall experience is sure to leave a lasting impression on patrons seeking a lively and enjoyable outing in the heart of the city. Whether it's a casual get-together or a celebratory occasion, The 44 promises an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, good food, and...