Despite being one of the gourmet capitals of the world with internationally renowned destination restaurants founded by all the top chefs in the world, Dubai is an homage to secret eateries – and my latest find is exactly that. 

I first frequented what was then known as Chicago Meatpackers a few months ago for brunch with some girlfriends. I was blown away by the menu, services and prices (bottomless drinks and all-you-can-eat a la carte menu from 11am – 3pm for just Dhs250!), that I knew I just had to go back and check out the dinner offerings.

The restaurant has since rebranded to CMP Bar & Grill (although I think the old name has a much cooler Downtown New York kinda’ vibe to it), and is located at The Pointe on Palm Jumeirah. It is, in my opinion, one of Dubai’s best-kept secrets. 

As the name would suggest, CMP’s heroes are their steak dishes, but make sure you arrive hungry so you can tuck in to the starters, namely the 250g of fresh Burrata topped with heirloom tomatoes, homemade queso nachos, and grilled octopus. 

When mains roll around, the staff are on hand to talk you through all the different cuts of meat, which are cooked to perfection: charred on the outside and velveteen, soft and succulent in the middle. 

By day, CMP is a family joint with prams and pushchairs aplenty, but by night the place transforms into a low-lit haunt, perfect for date night. The vibe is established-yet-easygoing, so outfit suggestions range from an LBD and heels to ‘jeans and a nice top’ (iykyk). 

www.cmprestaurants.com