What’s it like: If you’re looking for a relaxed evening out with good quality, wholesome food – without the frills of a fine dining restaurant, Rhodes W1 is a great place to head. With this outlet, Gary Rhodes really does a fantastic job of creating a casual space without sacrificing on style and design. The interior is fresh with pops of yellow and lime touches throughout, and the occasional, cheeky grass covered wall. It reminds me of a beautiful (very rare) summer day in the UK. My dining partner and I are here to check out the restaurant’s recently launched new menu, which was inspired by Gary’s worldly travels – so think British favourites with an international twist. Menu options include the likes of rich carrot risotto with Moroccan spice, and grilled Welsh lamb cutlets – and the chefs really deliver when it comes to retaining the classic charm, while mixing in an extra kick of flavour. At dinner we enjoyed dishes of pan-fried seabass with shrimps, tomatoes and lentils (the fish cooked to melt-in-your-mouth perfection), and braised lamb skank with tomato and tarragon gravy – served with delicious creamed parsnips. If you have a sweet tooth, the dessert menu doesn’t disappoint and is full of traditional favourites (the type Nan used to make) – when met with a selection including warm apple crumble, rhubarb and custard, you know there’s going to be room for dessert! All in all, it was a lovely, relaxed evening with humble, satisfying food!

If you want to go: Around Dhs300 per person for threecourses, excluding beverages. Call 04-3176000.