Rave Dines: Discovering the Culinary Delights at Bar des Prés, DIFC
French Finesse Meets Japanese Soul
by Khadija Husain
25 Jan 2025

It’s not every day that you walk into a restaurant perched on the 51st floor, only to feel instantly transported to a world where Parisian elegance flirts with East Asian vibrance. But that’s exactly what happens at Bar des Prés by Cyril Lignac. This isn’t just dining; it’s an experience—a feast for both the eyes and the palate, all while the city of Dubai sprawls beneath you.
The first thing you notice when you enter is the impressive high ceilings that give the space an expansive, airy feel. The entire restaurant feels both grand and intimate at the same time, thanks to its thoughtful design. The deep blues, copper accents, and textured bamboo and rattan details create a unique blend of Parisian chic and East Asian minimalism.
Designed by the talented Lázaro Rosa-Violán, the interiors strike a balance between elegance and warmth. The ambiance invites you to relax, but there’s also an unmistakable sense of sophistication that underscores everything. The Sushi Counter, seating just 10 guests, offers a rare chance to witness culinary artistry up close. Even though I wasn’t seated there, the views from my table—paired with the restaurant's vibrant energy and the Dubai skyline—more than made up for it.

The menu, like the space, is bold but balanced—French technique infused with Japanese flair. We began with the Miso caramelised green asparagus, a dish that transforms a humble vegetable into something extraordinary. The miso brought deep umami, the hazelnuts added crunch, and the sesame vinaigrette offered a nutty, tangy finish.
Next came the Breaded ‘volaille des Landes’ chicken, crisp on the outside with an irresistibly juicy center, paired with a zesty sriracha mayonnaise that provided just the right amount of heat. Indulgent yet refined, this dish could easily become a guilty pleasure.

But the star of the evening? The Charred A4 Japanese Wagyu entrecote, a true showstopper. Cooked to perfection, the meat was buttery and rich, with just the right amount of char that gave it depth without overpowering the natural flavour. The barbecue sauce added a smoky sweetness that paired beautifully with the marbling of the wagyu. If you're going to indulge, this is where you do it.
The Grilled Australian beef fillet was lighter in comparison, but the smoked Kerala pepper brought its distinct heat and complexity to the dish. And while I’m normally not one to rave about side dishes, the Vanilla mashed potatoes deserve their mention. Who knew vanilla and potatoes could get along so well? It was unexpected but worked—creamy, comforting, with a touch of sweetness that just made sense.
Dessert is where Cyril Lignac’s background as a pastry chef shines. The Guanaja chocolate biscuit—decadent, gooey, with a molten hazelnut centre—was like a warm hug for chocolate lovers. Paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it was the kind of dessert that made you want to scrape the plate clean.
But the Raspberry pavlova was the refreshing counterpart. Light, airy, with the perfect mix of tart raspberries, sweet mango, and the zing of passion fruit. It felt like the meal had come full circle, from indulgence to lightness, leaving you satisfied but not overwhelmed.

Final Thoughts
Bar des Prés isn’t just about food—it’s about the entire experience. The high ceilings, the intricate design, the sweeping views of Dubai, and the DJ’s curated beats all work together to make it feel like you’re in a world of your own. The impeccable service and attention to detail add to the sense of sophistication that lingers long after your meal ends.
If I had to describe the experience in one word? Effortless. Everything flowed smoothly, yet behind it all, there’s a team of experts ensuring every detail is just right.
Whether you’re here for a business lunch, a romantic dinner, or simply to unwind with friends, Bar des Prés effortlessly adapts to your mood, elevating it. For a dining experience that leaves a lasting impression, this is a place worth returning to, again and again.
Bar des Prés
Lunch Price: 155 AED per person
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday
Restaurant: Lunch 12–3 PM | Business Lunch 12-3PM I Dinner 7 PM–12 AM | Lounge: Lunch 12pm-3pm I Dinner 7pm-1am
Website: https://www.bardespres.com/dubai-restaurant/
Number: +971 4 498 1616
Email: reservations@bardespres.ae
Image courtesy of Bar des Prés