Nestled within the luxurious Jumeirah Al Qasr resort lies Pier Chic, a dining destination that seamlessly blends award winning Italian cuisine with seaside charm. On Friday last week, my friends and I had the pleasure of experiencing Pier Chic’s Business Lunch Menu, a delightful culinary journey that offered both affordability and gourmet excellence.

Discovering Pier Chic’s Unique Setting

Before reaching Pier Chic, we enjoyed a leisurely stroll through the scenic grounds of the Jumeirah Al Qasr Hotel. Lush greenery, palm trees and crystal green lagoons lined our path, leading us past the inviting pool area. As we walked, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of calm and excitement as we made our way towards the pier.

As we approached Pier Chic, we were struck by its stunning location. The wooden pier extended out into the peaceful waters of the Arabian Gulf, offering breath-taking views of the beach and the iconic Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Burj Al Arab in the distance. The atmosphere was serene, with a refreshing sea breeze adding to the tranquil ambiance.

Exploring the Business Lunch Menu

Once settled at our table, we eagerly examined the menus. Our group boasted diverse tastes and preferences; while most of us opted for the Business Lunch Menu, one friend chose to explore the à la carte options due to the limited vegetarian choices on the set menu.

The Business Lunch Menu, priced at only AED135 for 2 courses and AED160 for 3 courses, offered a thoughtfully curated selection of dishes, aiming to highlight Pier Chic’s culinary prowess. From vibrant salads bursting with flavour to hearty mains and indulgent desserts like creamy Tiramisu, there was something to tantalise every palate. Despite the smaller selection, each dish promised a dining experience befitting Pier Chic’s esteemed reputation.

There are also outdoor tables available on the pier but considering our midday visit in May, with temperatures soaring to around 36°C, we opted to sit indoors and enjoy the comfort of the air conditioning. As we departed at 3:30 pm, we noticed some patrons choosing to brave the outdoor seating despite the heat.

Savouring the Flavours

Our dining experience showcased our diverse tastes: one friend savoured the vibrant flavours of the Panzanella starter, while another enjoyed the generously sized Burrata. As for me, I opted for the Fegatini Di Pollo to start. 

For main, I had the Tagliatelli Alla Bolognese with most of the group followed suit with the Tagliatelli Alla Bolognese, while another friend relished the Penne All’ Arrabbiata.  Meanwhile, our friend who explored the à la carte menu treated themselves to the Branzino & Panzanella.

As we indulged in our chosen dishes, we were impressed by the exquisite flavours and elegant presentation. While the portion sizes were slightly smaller than usual, this was expected given the affordable price of the Business Lunch menu. It’s worth noting that we also received a bread basket upon ordering, though we had to request balsamic vinegar to accompany the olive oil already on the table.

Immersing Ourselves in the Ambiance

With laughter and lively conversation filling the air, our time at Pier Chic proved to be a delightful blend of delicious food and wonderful company. As we basked in the restaurant’s inviting ambiance, some of us opted to elevate the experience by uncorking a bottle of bubbly. With glasses raised, we toasted to the promise of more memorable moments ahead.

Pier Chic’s atmosphere was truly enchanting. The stylish decor, complemented by sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf and the iconic Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Burj Al Arab, fostered a relaxed setting ideal for savouring both delectable cuisine and cherished camaraderie.

The Champagne Bar

While the champagne bar that is situated half way down the pier, known for its spectacular views and extensive selection, remained closed during the day, we couldn’t help but imagine how magical it would be to enjoy a drink there as the sun sets over the horizon.

And while the views during the day were undeniably breath-taking, we couldn’t help but imagine how the ambiance would transform into something truly spectacular as night fell and the city lights twinkled in the distance.

On the return journey, you have the option to wait for a buggy to transport you back to the hotel. However we decided to stroll back, taking our time to fully appreciate the beauty of the hotel grounds.

From its stunning seaside setting to its exquisite cuisine, Pier Chic offers a dining experience that is as memorable as it is magical. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a leisurely business lunch with friends or a romantic evening under the stars, Pier Chic is sure to leave you in awe.