Atelier M

A new French restaurant in Dubai has a lot of competition, including Le Petit Maison. But Atelier M, located in Pier 7, a new development by the Marina, has a lot going for it: the chef, born in the Middle East and trained in some of the world's finest French kitchens, wants to blend his training with the traditions of the region, and so far the reviews are great. The restaurant has a lovely lounge, too, so you could have a sip and a nibble and a view, instead of committing to a full-course meal.