In a city known for luxury and superlatives, standing out in Dubai’s competitive fine dining scene requires something truly exceptional. Row on 45 has not only risen to this challenge but soared above it, earning its place as one of the city’s four two-starred Michelin restaurants. No Row on 45 review would be complete without every aspect in detail, so read on to see our thoughts.
Our Row on 45 review
Sitting pretty on the 45th floor of the Grosvenor House in Dubai Marina, this culinary jewel has rapidly transformed from newcomer to gastronomic powerhouse. With two coveted Michelin stars, four Toques from Gault & Millau, and an impressive climb from No. 41 to No. 17 on MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants list, chef Jason Atherton’s latest revolutionary winter menu demonstrates exactly why Row on 45 deserves its place among Dubai’s gastronomic elite.
A theatrical dining journey in three acts
The experience at this Michelin star Dubai restaurant unfolds like a carefully orchestrated performance. I was immediately struck by the intimacy of the space as our evening began in the Champagne Lounge with elegant appetisers. The anticipation built as we moved to the main dining room, where I found myself among just 22 guests witnessing the culinary theatre from the show kitchen. By the time we reached the finale in the Chef’s Library, I was completely immersed in what felt like a sophisticated conclusion to a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
What makes Row on 45 exceptional is this thoughtful progression through different spaces, each transition building anticipation for the next remarkable course. It’s a concept that rewards those who appreciate dining as an art form rather than merely a meal.
Winter’s bounty on a plate
British chef Jason Atherton, along with his executive chef Daniel Birk, showcase a new seasonal menu which exhibits a masterful understanding of premium ingredients at their peak. The 17-course journey begins with a mind-bending otoro levitating on its glass dish before progressing to even more complex creations.
I was particularly captivated by the Nodoguro, a prized fish from Toyosu market that was dry-aged for four days and grilled over binchotan charcoal. The Red Deer from New Zealand left me equally impressed, paired with crapaudine beetroot and a rich sauce with bitter chocolate notes that lingered pleasantly. What struck me most was the team’s ability to combine global influences while maintaining extraordinary clarity of flavour in each bite.
Exclusive by design
With each table positioning diners to enjoy both culinary theatre and Dubai’s skyline, Row on 45 creates an atmosphere of refined exclusivity. Head sommelier Lorenzo Abussi’s thoughtful wine pairings complement the menu, with each glass enhancing rather than overwhelming the delicate flavours.
Service beyond expectation
What truly elevates the experience is the impeccable service that borders on clairvoyant. I noticed how staff seemed to pre-empt our every need, refolding napkins the moment we left the table and refilling water glasses before they were even half empty.
Each interaction was polished yet warm, striking that perfect balance between formality and genuine hospitality. A particularly thoughtful touch was receiving personalised chopsticks, creating a keepsake I’ll cherish for time to come. This level of attentive service demonstrates why Row on 45 continues to collect accolades beyond just its culinary achievements.
The restaurant’s name reflects its philosophy “Refinement of Work” evident in every precisely executed dish. The attention to detail extends beyond food to the sophisticated interiors by LW Design Group, creating a penthouse-inspired setting that feels both luxurious and intimate, along with a curated playlist of Brit-Pop and 90s indie anthems.
An investment in extraordinary dining
At AED 1,345 per person (with optional wine pairings at AED 1,045), Row on 45 represents a significant investment. Was it worth it? Absolutely. I found genuine value in experiencing culinary innovation that places Dubai firmly on the global gastronomic map. For those seeking exceptional dining experiences or celebrating special occasions, I can confidently say few restaurants in the region deliver such a consistently remarkable journey.
This Row on 45 review demonstrates why Dubai has become a serious destination for fine dining enthusiasts, offering an experience that rivals the world’s most celebrated restaurants.
