The Finest Thai Dining in the City at an Iconic Location – Downtown’s Thiptara is Hard to Beat

Mysterious and alluring, Thiptara has been on Dubai’s most wanted list forever, and now customers rejoice as it’s finally reopened after a stunning makeover

Nestled amid the romantic and impressive Palace Downtown Dubai, the perfect blend of ancient charm and superior luxury, is Thai favourite Thiptara. The entire hotel is a sight worth seeing and attracts guests and influencers from across the globe, particularly for pictures of the iconic entrance walkway through opulent aquamarine pools, with Burj Khalifa in the background. It’s also built on the Burj Lake, and the far side of the hotel overlooks the fountains, Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa, perfect for a night of candle lit romance or a friendly afternoon brunch. Palace Downtown is a coveted spot of prestige and glamour and packed full of notorious culinary hotspots, of which the jewel in the crown is undoubtedly Thiptara. 

This true gem of Asian dining has had a makeover in recent months and has been closed while this has taken place, but excitingly is has just reopened its doors to guests. With its prime location on the lake, it’s not surprising that it accurately represents this venue, as “Thiptara” literally means Spirit of Water in Thai, and every part of the décor inside pays tribute to the importance of water within Thai culture. With central seats inside and outside on their terrace to view the incredible Dubai fountain water and light show, the restaurant perfectly represents the themes of prosperity and pureness that water symbolises in Thailand. The new and improved location is rich with motifs and crafts from all over Thailand, ensuring a truly immersive experience.

Thailand is also famous for its floating markets, and this aesthetic and traditional culture can be viewed throughout, with tropical greenery, earthy décor, and a depth of colour and style, all perfectly offset by the glittering lights and sights of Downtown. We are as excited as you are to revisit this classic and much-loved venue, to embark on a magical journey reminiscent of archaic Thailand mixed with authentic Asian delights, delivered on your plate to tantalise your palate. Their kitchen maestros focus on locally sourced select ingredients to guarantee authentic flavours and truly incredible taste.

But let’s really get onto the food Thiptara has long been renowned as Dubai’s most delicious Asian restaurants, as noted by its numerous awards and accolades from Time Out and others. Their focus is on traditional Thai food, with seafood a particular specialty from their team of chefs and culinary stars. Contemporary and unique, but with a nod to the traditional styles, their food is a testament to true fine dining with delectable dishes, served to you in their awe-inspiring location. Food is tasty and can be oh-so-rich with coconut cream used in abundance. When we reviewed their brunch previously, we loved their tender lamb dishes, and their curries served with perfectly cooked al dente vegetables.

Other notable recommendations include the Waree (sharing style set menu) with Yum Som-O Goong with pomelo salad, tiger prawn and roasted coconut, or the luscious Satay Gai with marinated chicken and peanut sauce. There’s also Crab Cakes, Steamed Dimsum, Papaya Salad, Glass Noodle Salad, Crispy Fried Softshell Crab, Steamed Sea Bream, and even a Stir Fried Lobster with hot basil leaf. The menu is as varied as it is creative, with chicken, beef, curries, noodles, rice, and duck dishes also on the Mains, and an array of desserts from Homemade Ice Cream, to Ruam Mit Sorbet and Tempura Fried Banana with honey and coconut ice cream.

Thiptara is an excellent place to take your other half for a romantic dinner, or to impress Dubai newbies and guests alike. It’s also a beautiful walk through the hotel and some labyrinthine pathways by the lush pool against the powerful backdrop of the hotels castle-like heights, before you get to sit and sample delightful morsels of food. There’s even a photographer on site to capture your special moments; perfect if you’re planning a proposal, and it also makes taking your own Instagram pictures and poses perfectly welcome.

For reservations, please call: +971 (0) 4428 7961 or email: dineatpalacedowntown@palacehotels.com

Daily from 6pm-11.30pm (dining), 5pm-2am (The Lounge), 12:30pm-4pm (Saturday brunch).

Palace Downtown, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashed Boulevard Downtown Dubai, P.O. Box 9770, Dubai, UAE.