Dubai is adding to its list of unusual dining experiences. The Pods Dubai, on Bluewaters Island, is a pan-Asian restaurant that is preparing to open in May.
The outlet, which is accepting reservations, will offer a private dining experience in the shape of a pod for diners who are looking for a relaxed and secluded meal. There will be 22 pods of varying sizes to seat parties both big and small.
Up to 168 guests can be accommodated in the air-conditioned glass domes, which will be filled with lush foliage and have plush seating. Images on Instagram show sleek black domes with plants on the outside, while the inside features bright green decor with floral accessories.
Other images of the restaurant, which was originally called Botanic, also reveal an indoor seating area for 30, with a botanical theme against the backdrop of a swanky black-dominated interior.
The menu, we are told, will “reimagine Asian classics … and offer a delectable fusion with a modern touch”. In addition to the dim sum, gyoza, maki, nigiri, sashimi that make up Chinese and Japanese appetisers, Pods Dubai will also serve Korean chicken bao, Burmese khow suey, Thai green curry, pad Thai noodles, Malaysian laksa, lobster with truffle, Sichuan beef and miso ramen.
In keeping with its luxe vibe, the restaurant will also dedicate serving staff to each pod, to ensure guests are attended to at all times. The Pods are open for reservations from Sunday, May 1, via OpenTable, with bookings available for dinner only, from 6.30pm until midnight.
It was announced that Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel, will be closed for the summer months. The attraction is also on Bluewaters Island and stands at more than 250 metres — about twice the height of the London Eye.
Dubai's best family-friendly tourist attractions - in pictures:
-
The Museum of the Future, with its remarkable architecture, has quickly become a highlight for visitors to Dubai. Photo: DTCM -
The Wild Wadi Waterpark in Jumeirah is one of the attractions that make Dubai a family-friendly destination. Photo: Wild Wadi -
The shops, cafes, bars and restaurants along Jumeirah Beach Residence in Dubai are popular among tourists. Photo: Reuters -
A jump at Skydive Dubai has become a must-do for daredevil visitors. Photo: Skydive Dubai -
Admirers will say that the Burj Khalifa, the tallest tower in the world at about 830 metres, is Dubai's most famous tourist attraction. Photo: Dar Al Arkan -
Visitors can enjoy an almost immersive experience of water and light at the Dubai Fountain. Photo: Alamy -
A visit to Dubai often involves a trip to Al Fahidi Fort, with its dhow installation to celebrate the Gulf's maritime history. Photo: Alamy -
The ski lift at Ski Dubai inside the Mall of the Emirates. With its 22,500 square metres of skiiing, the centre is arguably one of the Gulf region's most eye-catching and unexpected attractions. Photo: AP -
Bluewaters Island, where the Ain Dubai wheel is located. Photo: Reuters -
One of the pods on the Ain Dubai that offer visitors sweeping views of the city and Arabian Gulf waters. Chris Whiteoak / The National -
The Ain Dubai lights up. Chris Whiteoak / The National -
The Lost Chambers Aquarium at Atlantis, The Palm. Photo: Atlantis, The Palm
