Dubai is the very definition of the cliche saying ‘a city that never sleeps’ and whilst we can't speak for every city that holds that title, it’s certainly true here. But Dubai doesn’t just stay awake, it carries the same glamour and energy well into the night. The skyline hums, the Burj Khalifa glows, and the city feels like it’s in on a secret. Urla isn’t new to the scene, but somehow it still feels like one of Dubai’s best-kept secrets. Set on the podium level overlooking the Burj Khalifa and the fountain show, it delivers one of the most cinematic views in the city without feeling too try-hard. On a late-night visit (10:30pm, to be exact), every table was taken and the atmosphere was that perfect kind of lively, the one that makes you forget what time it is.

Music pulsed through the space, just a touch louder than ideal for conversation, but good enough that you almost don’t care. The playlist, the lighting, the energy, all in perfect sync. It’s the kind of venue that gets the balance right, upscale without being uptight, with staff that actually know how to look after you. Service here deserves a mention, genuinely some of the best we’ve had in Dubai. The team know how to read the table, how to plate, how to serve (something that’s become oddly rare in a city that does “luxury dining” better than almost anywhere else) and give you the perfect balance between care and space.

We started with espresso martinis, perfectly balanced, not overly sweet, and the ideal pre-dinner pick-me-up when dining at this time. The margaritas that followed were spot-on, crisp, fresh, and properly made (which, frankly, is rarer than it should be).

We ordered sharing starters for the table, the Tuna Tartare, which, quite honestly, is reason enough to come back. Fresh, beautifully balanced, with that perfect salty lift. The Peach Salad was another standout, goat cheese, hazelnut, mint, and slices of ripe peach, a combination that somehow feels both summery and comforting. It’s not something you’d find everywhere, and it's a very pleasant combination. The Urla Meze Platter rounded out the first course, generous and well-presented, a small feast of colour and texture that speaks to the restaurant’s Mediterranean roots.

For mains, the Prawn Manti hit that rare mark of being indulgent yet light, crispy coated prawns, garlic yoghurt, chilli butter, layered but not heavy. The Lamb Chops, paired with tahini yoghurt and padron peppers, were cooked beautifully, tender and rich, with just the right amount of smokiness. Every dish was perfectly cooked which is a testament to the kitchen during a busy service with each element well thought through, from the plating to the balance of flavours. We skipped dessert because, quite frankly, who needs it when you have margaritas.

Urla has all the hallmarks of a Dubai “it” restaurant, a breathtaking view, great crowd, and a lively ambience, but what makes it stand out is the substance behind the style. The food is exceptional, the service polished, and the atmosphere energetic without feeling chaotic.

If you’re looking for somewhere to take visitors and impress them without it feeling forced, or if you simply want a night that reminds you why you love living in this city, Urla is it.

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