FACT Review: Riviera by Jean Imbert combines high-end dining with high-life views

Can The Lana, Dorchester Collection become Dubai’s next dining destination? 

Chef Jean Imbert once said: “I like the feeling when no one expects you to score or win”. The French chef has brought his culinary creativity to the UAE and opened his first restaurant in Dubai. Located in The Lana, Dorchester Collection, Riviera is a Mediterranean restaurant that offers high-end dining with high-life views. 

The Lana, Dorchester Collection in Dubai is home to eight restaurants, and two of them are from Chef Jean. Alongside Riviera, he is behind the poolside lounge, High Society. If you’re looking to make it an exciting evening, we’d suggest starting (or ending) at the bar and admiring the amazing view. 

Located on the fourth floor, Riviera by Jean Imbert boasts a laidback luxurious vibe. If it wasn’t for the widescreen view of the Dubai skyline – with the Burj Khalifa taking centre stage – you’d think you were on its namesake, the French Riviera. The décor is bright and airy with neutral beige, brown and white tones, which are punctuated by green hues. Plus, framed photos, plants and vases sit on the shelves, and blue and white patterned oil bottles fill the tables.

If you’re after privacy, opt for the indoor seats partly sectioned by walls. If you’re after an Insta-moment, opt for the outdoor seats, which are lined Parisian-style with tables facing the view. Our only gripe: we wish that there were not so many trees obstructing the view. 

On our visit, Riviera’s guests ranged from business meetings to tourists. Even though it was on the quieter side, we appreciated that there was no loud music. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The dinner menu spans starters, mains, sharing, sides and desserts. Plus, the smart staff in white suits were knowledgeable about every single dish on the menu.

For starters, the Confit Capsicums and Burrata was a colourful concoction, and the Toasted Focaccia came lined with green beans sitting on top of the burrata. The signature Tune Tartare is mixed tableside and can be upgraded with a generous dollop of caviar. 

Sofia Corrao, General Manager at Riviera by Jean Imbert, explained, “Food is the common thread bringing people together.” If you agree, order a sharing plate, which includes Chef Jean’s Sea Bass in choron sauce and Sea Bream with confit lemon. 

The Carabineros Spaghetti could easily have been a heavy dish, but it had a hint of chilli and was delicately delicious. The Beef Tenderloin was the highlight, as it was cooked to perfection with a crispy pepper crust on the outside and oh-so-soft meat on the inside. 

The desserts range from Iced Tiramisu to a Lemon Tart, and there are options for one or two people. If you can, leave room for drinks rather than dessert. The drinks menu spans signature cocktails to an extensive wine list. Sommelier Kirill is a gift for the restaurant and enhanced our experience. Not only did he introduce us to wines we would not have originally considered, but he also shared stories about the bottles.  

Riviera bu Jean Imbert offers an elegant experience. From the warm welcome to the final glasses of wine, it’s the perfect place to linger in luxury. Chef Jean, you’ve won. 

GO: Visit www.dorchestercollection.com for more information.