Secret Gardens

Getting out of the city isn’t always an option, but there are plenty of places in Dubai that feel like green oases.

01 TOKO

In a nutshell: A downtown izakaya with all-you-can-eat dim sum

An izakaya-style restaurant that’s luxe yet laid back, just like the Vida Hotel that it calls home. A hidden green oasis in Downtown Dubai, the natural tones, pale wooden furniture and pastel paper parasols will make you feel like you’re in a Japanese garden, although it’s actually an Australian import. To make the most of the menu, check out the newly launched all-you-can-eat dim sum nights on Tuesdays, when you get unlimited dim sum plus three bottles of beer or three mocktails for Dhs195 from 7pm to 10pm.

Vida Downtown, Sheikh Mohamed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, Sun to Tue noon to 1am, Wed and Thur noon to 2am, Fri 7.30am to 2am, Sat 7.30am to 1am. Tel: [phone]. Metro: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall. downtowntoko.com

02 INN THE PARK

In a nutshell: A picnic in the park that’s powered by the sun

We don’t tend to think of Dubai when we think of the world’s most ecofriendly cities, but one restaurant is on a mission to change that. Inn The Park, which you’ll find in Al Khazzan Park, is a café that uses solar power to minimise its carbon footprint. They also work with local farms, choosing organic produce whenever possible on their menu, which includes simple, picnic-friendly salads and sandwiches. It’s a perfect spot for a family weekend too, with its own play area for kids.

Al Khazzan Solar Park, Safa Street, Jumeirah 2, Dubai, daily 9am to 7pm. Tel: [phone]. Taxi: Al Khazzan Park Safa Street, opposite City Walk. facebook. com/innthepark

03 Vii

In a nutshell: A glam party spot for sushi lovers