Background
Pullman Dubai Downtown received a fresh lease of life last year after undergoing a thorough renovation. There are several F&B spaces at the hotel including Couqley French Brasserie, Honeycomb Hi-Fi and Brothaus Bistro and Bakery. However, it is Lolita Pool Bar and Lounge, the hotel’s own F&B concept, where we found ourselves recently as the cooler weather allowed us to explore outdoor venues.
The venue
Located alongside the pool of the property, there’s a calming vibe that encourages you to kick back as you enter this space. There are colourful bright seating options dressed in pink, blue, and orange. It comprises a mix of high-table seating areas, couches, tables and bar stools. Thoughtfully, the seats here are covered with quick-drying fabric which is essential when you consider that some might enjoy a swim at the pool before heading here. The space is dominated by commanding views of the Burj Khalifa. The music playing at the venue alternates between lounge and more relaxed numbers. There is an alfresco and partially covered dining space too. One level down from the main restaurant zone, and accessible via a flight of stairs, is the podium level which can double up as a great private events space.
Food and drink
The licenced venue has a full range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and also serves shisha from 3pm onwards. We began with the breezy views mocktail which was a combination of watermelon, lychee, basil and 7Up – fizz, tang and herbs all brought together harmoniously. The menu card is a single spread – mainly light bites and salads and bowls during the day, and heavier main course options at night. We visited the restaurant in the afternoon and began with the nachos which were served with creamy guacamole alongside it and a delicious smoked cheese sauce. From the ‘South ’N’ East’ section of the menu, we called for the delicious shrimp volcano maki with mango aioli. For lunch, the mains include options of salads, pizzas, burgers and bowls. We ordered the chicken katsu bowl with a base of rice. The portions here are large and are comfortable for sharing. Other options in this section of the menu include an Acai bowl, kale Caesars salad, and a wagyu smashed burger. From 5pm-11pm, the selection of mains expands to include the likes of grilled seabass, lamb racks, wok-fried noodles, and steaks. For dessert, we were mighty happy with our choice to go with the matcha tres leches served with diplomat cream, and also fluffy churros that were presented with a brilliant three-chocolate sauce.
Service
The staff are happy to let you be alone and enjoy your privacy. They aren’t in a hurry to rush you through your courses and realise that the relaxed atmosphere of the space must be reflected in the manner in which they attend to guests as well. When you need them though, drawing their attention is never a difficult task.
Verdict
Great views of the Burj Khalifa, a good reason to plunge into the pool before and after your meal, an enviable location within Downtown Dubai and a well-rounded food and beverage menu are all compelling reasons to visit this restaurant.
Hours: Daily 9am–2am
Location: Pullman Dubai Downtown, Marasi Drive, Dubai
Contact: +9714 369 0000; pullmandubaidowntown.com
