FABULOUS BARS

Because exploring Expo 2020 Dubai is thirsty work

1 The Local – Australia Pavilion

So far our favourite party spot at Expo, The Local at the Australia Pavilion (close to the Mobility parking entrance) whips up top Aussie tucker (order the chips with chicken salt, and the vegemite cheese toastie) and a huge drinks menu offering everything from Aussie wines and ales to ‘dark and stormy’ cocktails. The outdoor courtyard is cradled by the Australian Pavilion, offering welcome shade during the hotter hours, too.

Location: Near entrance of Mobility Parking @expo2020australia

2 BeHappy – Belgium Pavilion

Aside from the ridiculously good Belgian waffles and fries available on the ground level of the Belgian Pavilion (located in the Mobility District), you should also head to the rooftop and check out Be Lounge Rooftop Terrace and Brasserie for a range of Belgian classic bites (hello, cheesy croquettes and mussel pots), plus a range of cocktails and Belgian ales. Mondays are ladies’ night, which includes three drinks (based on a Dhs100 minimum spend) from 6pm.

Location: Inside Mobility District @belgianpavilion_expo2020dubai

3 Iris Lounge

Iris Lounge is a twostorey standalone bar close to the UAE Pavilion. The top floor balcony overlooks Al Forsan Park and if you’re lucky you’ll time it right to see a performance at the amphitheatre. Downstairs, meanwhile, is a family-friendly area serving a range of Mediterranean and Japanese bar bites, and there’s a large cocktail menu, too. @irisexpo

4 The Irish Village

Located in Jubilee Park, and naturally next to the Ireland Pavilion, The Irish Village brings a recreation of its iconic Garhoud branch, complete with live music and award-winning pub grub to Expo at this fully-outdoor space. Location: Jubilee Park, next to Ireland Pavilion @theirishvillage

5 Jiko and Bar Cane at Alkebulan Dining Hall

Alkebulan boldly claims to be the world’s first African food hall. And there is certainly a sense of uncharted waters here, as the impressive two-storey site at Expo 2020 houses 10 chef-led concepts and two additional bars. Both bars are located on the first floor flanking the food hall. The first is Jiko – a cocktail concept whipped up by the team from luxury Nairobi boutique hotel Tribe. The second is Bar Cane, curated by Chef Coco, which utilises African spices to make exclusive cocktails. Location: Jubilee Park @alkebulandininghall

6 Tiaki – New Zealand Pavilion

Tiaki has been one of the big names on everyone’s radar since the opening of Expo 2020, and for good reason. Much thought has gone into the food menu at the New Zealand Pavilion’s restaurant and bar, where you’ll find everything from sustainably sourced New Zealand hoki fillet and fries, New Zealand pastureraised venison, and Marlborough greenshell mussels. But the drinks, served in the restaurant and in the cosy bar/lounge area, are just as exciting, with a range of New Zealand white wines and ales on offer.

Location: Close to entrance of Sustainability Parking @tiakirestaurant