APPETISERS: UAE DI NI NG NEWS

FRENCH IN DUBAI MARINA

We’re intrigued by the details of Atelier M, a new opening at Pier 7 in the Marina. A three- level restaurant, lounge and bar, it’s run by chef Mohammad Islam — formerly of the Jean- Georges Vongerichten- run Mercer Kitchen in New York. On the menu: yellowfin tuna with jicama, coriander, ponzu, chilli and crispy shallots; in- season white asparagus, poached hen’s egg, herb salad and sour cherry compote; lobster bococcini and Alaskan king crab. It opens on Thursday; call 04- 4507766.

NEW OUTLET AT MOE

St Tropez Bistro is now open at the Mall of The Emirates, a cosy Al Barsha version of the Century Village favourite, serving classics such as bouillabaisse, duck confit, moules mariniere, chocolate and hazelnut tarte and orange creme brulee. The licenced restaurant has a dedicated valet parking stand and escalator next to the Kempinski Hotel entrance. Call to book on 04- 3413415.

BEST NEW COFFEE SHOP NAME: BEAN MACHINE

And the offerings aren’t bad, either. The new husband- and- wife- run operation in Business Bay’s Executive Towers serves coffee and other hot and cold drinks as well as baked goods cooked in- house throughout the day. If you’re a mum in the neighbourhood, head down on Mondays and Wednesdays for the Mums and Tots coffee mornings and afternoons, where a coffee and a slice of cake is Dh28. It’s open 8am- 10pm, seven days a week; call 04- 3645535,

A NEW BRUNCH STORY

Story Rooftop Lounge in Media City has launched an anti- bling Friday brunch, from 1- 4pm on the rooftop lounge area with platters of Peruvian food, classic drinks and views of the Arabian Gulf. Dh299 per person, it includes dishes such as snapper ceviche, beef tenderloin spring rolls and quinoa salad. Call 04- 3659911.

BA’S LADIES’ NIGHT

The new Chinese restaurant at Fairmont The Palm is serving free cocktails from 8- 10pm on Tuesdays for ladies, and most interestingly for us foodies, “Chinese tapas” are passed around from 9- 10pm. Call 04- 4573338.