Review : The Cullinan, Timeless and Iconic: A Luxurious Design Journey into High-End Meat-Centered Dining?

The Cullinan is named after The Cullinan Diamond, the largest gem-quality rough diamond ever found.

The Cullinan Dubai is also a gem, located in Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, which itself is designed to resemble a large ship, The Cullinan follows suit and offers a dining experience that goes beyond exquisite food—it’s a voyage in itself. The restaurant’s design is nothing short of stunning, harmoniously blending elements of maritime luxury with contemporary sophistication. From the moment you step inside, it’s clear that no detail has been overlooked. The entire space evokes the feeling of being aboard a luxury yacht, with every element thoughtfully curated to transport guests into a world of opulence on the open seas.  

Soon as you enter The Cullinan it stretches out like a ships deck.

In true yacht-like fashion, The Cullinan is completely open-plan, offering immediate visibility in every direction. Straight ahead, the restaurant stretches impressively into the distance, on your left a large open-plan kitchen, on your right the Arabian Gulf, and at the end the deck corners to the left providing more secluded seating, perfect for those seeking a private dining experience. At the far end, additional tables overlook the opposite side of the restaurant, creating a sense of exploration, compelling guests to walk the full deck space just as they would aboard a yacht. The waiting staff all sport a uniform which is elegant and Titanic-style elevating the dining experience even further and strongly reminiscent of 70s luxury restaurants another wonderful aspect of The Cullinan

Reaching the end and walking back, the perspective shifts, revealing an equally mesmerizing view in reverse. The bar, a central feature, extends all the way around, drawing attention to its vertically rotating champagne and wine chiller—an elegant showpiece that immediately captures our admiration. As you enter the main area, the full body of the restaurant comes into view, seamlessly blending with an outdoor terrace that caters to all occasions. Whether an intimate dinner, a celebratory gathering, or a casual evening soaking in the ambiance, The Cullinan makes it clear—this is a place where you simply want to be.  

The outside area has a variety of seating.

Beyond the restaurant, the setting is just as impressive. The Cullinan overlooks the extravagant green landscaped gardens of Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, with the Arabian Gulf’s waves crashing onto the beach in the distance. Of course, the iconic Burj Al Arab stands proudly nearby, a testament to timeless design—a striking reminder that it has now stood for 25 years at the time of writing.  

A Menu of Uncompromising Excellence  

While the design and atmosphere captivate, it’s the culinary mastery at The Cullinan that truly completes the experience. The menu is a celebration of refined flavors, each dish crafted with meticulous precision.  

The scallops and foie gras dish for starter is precise, featuring delicately seared scallops with foie gras placed on top. The scallops’ natural sweetness balances beautifully against the rich, buttery foie gras for a truly decadent start to the meal. 

For the main course, the steak is the undisputed star.Although the truffle pasta deserves itts own review. The steak however cooked to perfection for us was medium, it arrived tender, juicy, and intensely flavorful. The precision of the grill is evident in every bite, while the accompanying sides complement the dish without distraction, allowing the quality of the meat to shine.  

However, while The Cullinan is officially listed as a steak restaurant, it is far more than just a destination for fine steak dining. The menu is carefully curated to cater to international palates, ensuring that all diners feel welcome, whether they are visiting for expertly cooked meats or exploring the wide variety of globally inspired dishes. This thoughtful balance makes The Cullinan an experience-driven venue, not just a place for exceptional food.  

The versatility of The Cullinan extends beyond the dining table. It’s an ideal spot for after-work drinks at the bar, enjoy a extensive cocktail menu and set the tone for an elegant evening. The outdoor terrace provides the perfect setting for sundowners with one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks—the Burj Al Arab—as your backdrop. The attention to detail extends beyond the kitchen, creating a space that is as much about the ambiance and experience as it is about the food.  

A Destination Unlike Any Other  

From its yacht-inspired architecture to its excellent cuisine, The Cullinan is more than just a restaurant—it is a statement of elegance, luxury, and craftsmanship. Whether you come for the breathtaking setting, the impeccable service, or the unparalleled attention to detail, one thing is certain—this is a destination that demands to be experienced.  

Call The Cullinan to reserve on +971 04 570 4551 or email reservations@thecullinandubai.com