The Cullinan — Restaurant in Dubai

Dubai’s dining scene has a new crown jewel: The Cullinan. Nestled in the opulent Marsa Al Arab, this newly opened restaurant promises an upscale gastronomic experience, and it certainly delivers.

Ambience & Design

From the moment you step inside, The Cullinan exudes sophistication. The interiors blend modern elegance with subtle nods to classic European grandeur—think marble finishes, plush seating, and dim lighting that creates an intimate yet lively atmosphere. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning waterfront views, making it an ideal spot for both romantic dinners and high-profile gatherings.

Service

The service is impeccable, as expected from a high-end establishment in Dubai. The staff is knowledgeable, attentive without being intrusive, and eager to recommend the perfect wine pairing or dish based on personal preferences.

Food & Drinks

The menu is a curated selection of contemporary European cuisine with a Middle Eastern twist. Highlights include:

Signature Wagyu Tartare – Finely chopped Wagyu beef, delicately seasoned, and served with truffle aioli and a quail egg. A luxurious take on a classic.

Lobster Ravioli – Fresh, handmade pasta enveloping succulent lobster meat, drizzled with saffron-infused butter sauce—rich, delicate, and unforgettable.

Josper-Grilled Tomahawk – Cooked to perfection, the smoky, tender meat melts in your mouth. Best enjoyed with their house-made peppercorn sauce.

Desserts – The Cullinan Gold Bar, a decadent chocolate mousse with edible gold flakes, is as indulgent as it is visually stunning.

The cocktail menu is equally impressive, with expertly crafted drinks like the Sapphire Negroni, which offers a floral, citrusy twist on the classic.

Overall Experience

The Cullinan sets a new standard for fine dining in Dubai. With its breathtaking location, world-class service, and an exquisite menu, it’s poised to become one of the city's most sought-after dining destinations. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in an unforgettable meal, this restaurant is worth every...

As a saffa, was disappointed by this South African inspired venue. Overall underwhelming. From the food to the service, our expectations were high for the self proclaimed “fine jewel of a steakhouse” that “attends to every detail and delight”.

Instead, we received average food, curt service, and a non-fine dining, unengaging experience all while seated by the terrace door which felt like we’re in the middle of a walkway.

Food: Steak was super under-seasoned (which is weird considering they state there’s “signature steak butters” - wasn’t present). However, it was tender and did taste well after a little salt. Scallops were not flavorful (and served lukewarm). Shrimp - nothing special. The appetizers felt very uninspired. We’re spoiled living in Dubai- there are much better options.

Service: Maybe they had an off day, but our server’s hospitality felt forced and curt. No one explained any of the dishes served (including the different butters). No one ever asked how the food or experience was until the end of the meal. Water wasn’t refilled. When we ordered the steak, we were asked “which side would you like” and “which sauce would you like” - implying it’s provided gratis (rather than “would you like to order a side…). I get that it’s not listed on the menu like that, but it’s not unheard of for steakhouses in Dubai to provide a side and sauce with the steak (not extra) so verbiage is important.

Cocktails were great tho - shout out to the bar team.

All in all, I don’t know if we’d return. The view was amazing, but the food is a miss and at the price we paid, there are so many other options. I get this review is nitpicky but if a venue is going to call itself a gem, and promote fine dining, the details...

On arrival, we were warmly welcomed by the staff, promptly seated with menus, and offered water. The venue itself is absolutely stunning, with breathtaking views. However, the service did not meet the standard expected of a 5-star restaurant.

We had to request a drinks menu from one waiter and then ask another for the wine list. Even after that, we had to follow up again to have our drinks and food orders taken—waiting approximately 30 minutes before anyone attended to us.

When the food arrived, it was delicious. However, I was shocked to find a large piece of paper in my potato dauphinois. Upon informing the waiter, he responded, “I will check with the chef.” Shortly after, what seemed to be a manager approached our table to ask how the meal was. When I mentioned the paper, he initially questioned whether it was simply a layer of the potato. I asked him to check for himself, and he confirmed that it was indeed paper. Despite this, the response felt dismissive rather than sincerely apologetic.

As compensation, we were offered two extra side dishes, which wasn’t particularly useful considering we had already eaten a substantial meal. To add to the disappointment, when the bill arrived, the dish containing the paper was still included, and I had to request for it to be removed.

To round off the evening, we then had to wait an additional 30 minutes for our car at the hotel valet.

Overall, the setting and food taste was exceptional, but the service lacked attentiveness and professionalism. For a restaurant of this caliber, I expected a far smoother and more refined...