The UAE royal family have been spotted at these restaurants in London.
Known for regularly supporting Emirati-owned spots when travelling, the UAE royal family are no strangers to those in London. The Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai is regularly spotted in the city’s restaurants. So, if you want to eat like His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in London, here are the restaurants that have been given the royal seal of approval.
Saddle London
Well-known UAE brand Saddle Café expanded to London in 2023 and can be found in Knightsbridge near the department store Harrods. The venue draws inspiration from Arabian equestrian heritage and the love of good coffee. The team prides itself on sourcing the finest beans from across the world. The menu includes speciality coffees available in hot and cold brews, and signature serves range from Saddle La Brioche to Saddle Acai Smoothie. Plus, the dishes include acai bowls, crepes and breakfast items.
Where: Saddle London, 7 Montpelier Street, London, SW7 1EX
When: Daily from 8am to 9pm
Contact: @saddlelondon
Shanghai Me London
Situated in the heart of Mayfair, the first Shanghai Me location outside the Middle East opened in the London Hilton, Park Lane, in July this year. Renowned and loved in Dubai for its East Asian cuisine, it only made sense for the successful brand to travel from East to West. Influenced by centuries-old recipes, the menu puts a playful twist on traditional dishes such as Braised Beef Short Rib Shanghai Style, Sesame Prawns on Toast, and Tiger Prawns in Chilli Sauce. Fusing ancient cooking techniques with indulgent flavours, dishes include: Cantonese-style Roast Duck with Foie Gras and Caviar, Spicy Bluefin Tuna Oshizushi and Yellowtail Carpaccio with Black Truffle. Sheikh Mohammed and the UAE royals visited the restaurant during a recent trip to London, where he was greeted by Chef Izu Ani.
Where: Shanghai Me London, Hilton Park Lane, 22 Park Lane, London, W1K 1BE
When: Daily from 12.30pm to 11pm
Contact: https://shanghaime-london.com
Somewhere Café Harrods
Originating in the Middle East, with outposts in Abu Dhabi, AlUla, Dubai and Riyadh, Somewhere in Harrods debuted in London in December 2024. The menu honours the Middle East region, elevating classic dishes with creative twists. Such dishes include Beetroot Hummus, Short Rib Kebba and Shrimp rolled in crunchy kunafa. Designed for sharing, portions are more than abundant, reflecting the generosity of Arab hospitality. UAE royals are fans of the spot in London. Last year, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum was spotted dining at the Dubai Mall branch and shared a photo of himself in front of the brand’s tagline: “Let me take you somewhere”.
Where: Somewhere, Harrods, 87-135 Brompton Rd, London, SW1X 7XL
When: Daily from 12pm to 9pm
Contact: www.harrods.com