Dining at Armani Ristorante, located within the Burj Khalifa, promises an experience of sleek sophistication, but does it deliver on taste? We had high hopes for this Michelin-starred restaurant, but ultimately, the experience left us more impressed by the ambiance and service than the food itself.
Walking into Armani Ristorante feels like stepping onto a high-fashion runway—clean lines, elegant lighting, and a minimalist aesthetic that exudes luxury. The setting is undeniably stunning, but the atmosphere? Surprisingly quiet. Almost too quiet. With little buzz or energy, it lacked the lively ambiance you’d expect from a top-tier fine dining venue.
We visited in July, when Dubai’s heat is no joke. Our taxi driver informed us that the closest drop-off point was the Dubai Mall, leaving us to make a sweltering trek to the restaurant. By the time we arrived, my dress was soaked through, setting the tone for an evening that never quite recovered.
We opted for the main set menu, an elaborate eight-course experience. Every dish was immaculately presented, down to the Armani ‘A’ engraved on the sugar—a testament to the meticulous branding. But while the food was undeniably creative, I honestly couldn’t tell you what I actually ate. Beautiful? Yes. Memorable in flavor? Not at all.
My prince decided against the full tasting menu and instead ordered a soup followed by chicken, which he actually enjoyed. Perhaps he made the better choice.
The highlight? The chocolates at the end. Not only were they exquisite, but the restaurant kindly gave us a takeaway box with extra—one of the few moments that truly stood out.
If there’s one thing that deserves full marks, it’s the service. The staff were attentive, knowledgeable, and effortlessly polished, embodying the level of hospitality you’d expect from a restaurant of this caliber. Their attention to detail was impeccable, ensuring we felt well taken care of throughout the evening.
We had a stunning view of the fountains, which added a touch of magic to the evening, and thankfully, our return journey to Atlantis The Palm was far smoother—our ride was waiting right outside the Burj Khalifa this time.
But would we return? No.
For a bill totaling around $1,500, including wine, the experience simply wasn’t worth the price. 6/10—purely for the exceptional service. If you’re looking for a luxurious setting with impeccable hospitality, Armani Ristorante delivers. But if you want a truly unforgettable meal? There are better options in Dubai.
Stay saucy, Saucy Meal Queen
