I’ve eaten at a lot of “view” restaurants. As a Dubai expert, I know that most places sell you the view, but the food is just okay.
Then, there is Al Muntaha.
The name means “The Ultimate” or “The Top” in Arabic. It is located 200 meters (660 ft) above the sea, on the 27th floor of the Burj Al Arab. You get there by riding a glass elevator that shows you the Arabian Gulf rushing away below.
But is it just another “view” restaurant? Or is the food worth the high price? I went to find out.
The Atmosphere: Floating in the Sky
You walk out of the elevator and the first thing that hits you is the view. The entire restaurant is wrapped in floor-to-ceiling windows.
During the day, you see the Palm Jumeirah and the World Islands. At night, you are floating in a sea of city lights.
My tip: Book your table for 30 minutes before sunset. You get to see all three views: day, sunset, and night. It’s pure magic.
The vibe is “smart elegant.” It’s quiet, it’s romantic, and it feels incredibly exclusive. This is not a loud, trendy spot; it’s classic, refined luxury.
The Food: Modern French & Italian
The menu, led by Chef Saverio Sbaragli (who has Michelin-star experience), is described as modern French and Italian.
I opted for the 6-course “Tasting Menu.” This is the best way to understand what the chef can do.
- The Scallops: The meal started with a seared scallop that was cooked perfectly. It was buttery and melted in my mouth.
- The Foie Gras: A controversial dish, but the quality was undeniable. It was rich and smooth, paired perfectly with a sweet fig jam.
- The Blue Lobster: This was the star. The lobster was tender and served with a rich, bisque-like sauce.
- The Wagyu Beef: A small but perfect portion of A5 Wagyu beef. It was so tender you could cut it with your fork.
The food is not “experimental.” It is classic, fine-dining executed at the highest level. They take the best ingredients in the world and treat them with respect.
The Price: What to Expect in 2025
Let’s get to the point. This is an expensive meal.
- 6-Course Tasting Menu: Expect to pay around AED 1,100 – 1,300 ($300 – $350 USD) per person.
- À La Carte: Appetizers start around $70, and main courses (like the Wagyu) can be $150+.
- Wine Pairing: If you add the wine pairing, your bill will double. A single glass of good wine starts at $40.
My advice: Plan on spending $350 – $500 per person for a full dinner experience.
The Service (The 7-Star Touch)
This is what sets Al Muntaha apart. The service is flawless.
Your water glass is never empty. Your napkin is folded the moment you stand up. The staff are ghosts—they are there when you need them and invisible when you don’t.
They explain every dish with passion. They are not just waiters; they are part of the performance. When you are booking a private jet service for your trip, you expect a certain level of service. Al Muntaha delivers that same feeling.
Is Al Muntaha Worth It?
Yes. But it’s important to know why you are going.
- Go if: You are celebrating a major anniversary, a proposal, or a big life event.
- Go if: You are a “foodie” who appreciates classic, perfectly-executed fine dining.
- Go if: You want to experience that “top of the world” feeling that only the Burj Al Arab can offer.
Don’t go if: You are looking for a casual, quick, or “trendy” meal. This is a 3-hour experience.
For many people, a dinner at Al Muntaha is the perfect way to experience the Burj Al Arab without paying $4,000 for a room. A restaurant reservation gets you past the security gate and lets you see the incredible atrium.
Of course, if you are a guest, this is a “must-do.” It’s one of the main perks of staying at the hotel. You can learn more about room rates in our full Burj Al Arab Jumeirah suite price and booking guide.
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah suite price and booking guide
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the dress code for Al Muntaha?
The dress code is “Smart Elegant.” For men, this means a collared shirt, long trousers (no jeans), and closed shoes. A jacket is preferred. For ladies, a dress, skirt, or elegant trousers. No trainers, t-shirts, or casual beachwear. They are strict about this. - Can I go to Al Muntaha just for a drink?
No. Al Muntaha is a dining restaurant. If you want drinks with a view, you should book a spot at Gilt, the hotel’s cocktail bar. - Do I need a reservation for Al Muntaha? Yes, absolutely.
You must have a reservation. You cannot walk in. You should book at least 2-3 weeks in advance, especially if you want a window table at sunset.
