Life

Welcome to Elaia, a unique Mediterranean bistro nestled in the vibrant backdrop of Pier 7 at Dubai Marina. Brought to life by the esteemed hospitality group Infini Concepts, Elaia combines the warm ambiance of a Greek island home with the energetic pulse of Dubai, offering a refreshing oasis in a city often characterized by extravagance.
A Space Designed for Comfort and Conversation
Walking into Elaia feels like stepping into a cozy refuge. The interiors are adorned with hand-painted murals that softly evoke Greek mythology, with earthy colors reminiscent of sun-soaked Aegean villages. Gentle, golden lighting bathes rustic wooden tables and textured ceramics, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages leisurely meals. At the heart of the bistro, a bespoke pizza oven crackles, filling the air with an irresistible smoky aroma mingled with baking bread. Each element of the layout—from the intimate bar to the lively dining area and airy terrace overlooking the Marina—facilitates different gatherings, whether it’s cocktails with friends, family feasts, or romantic dinners beneath the stars.
A Menu That Celebrates the Mediterranean Way of Eating
The menu at Elaia is a reflection of coastal tavernas where the focus is on fresh, quality ingredients meant for sharing. Begin your culinary journey with dips like the smoky eggplant melitzanosalata or roasted red pepper tirokafteri, best paired with warm, wood-fired bread. Small plates such as crispy zucchini with tzatziki, prawns saganaki, or hand-rolled keftedes invite a spirit of communal dining, while heartier mains, like the salt-baked red snapper or grilled octopus drizzled with harissa romesco, showcase a delicate balance of bold flavors and elegant simplicity.
The wood-fired pizzas—topped with luxurious truffle or bountiful seafood—are crafted with the same ethos of generosity and satisfaction, while the dessert selection transports you straight to a nostalgic Greek tablescape with each heavenly bite.
The Spirit of Steki—A Home Away From Home
What truly distinguishes Elaia is its embrace of the Greek concept of steki—a cherished gathering spot where camaraderie resembles family. Bartenders remember your favorite drink, servers guide you enthusiastically through the menu, and the ambiance is filled with laughter and the cheerful clinks of glasses. It’s this spirit of togetherness that wraps you in warmth, making every visit feel like coming home.
Summer Offers to Transport You
For those spending the season in Dubai, Elaia presents curated offers that provide a delightful escape. Weekday lunches consist of a two-course meal for just Dhs 99. As the sun sets, cocktails can be enjoyed for Dhs 35, while wines begin at Dhs 29. Tuesday evenings are dedicated to shared starters paired with delightful wines during the She Said Wine event, and Sundays invite you to indulge in half-off pizzas with the Pizza Between Us offer—because what better way to celebrate the weekend than with a perfectly charred pizza and a chilled glass of rosé?
In a city that rarely pauses, Elaia encourages you to take a moment to slow down, savor every bite, and stay awhile. Whether you seek a new regular haunt or a taste of the Mediterranean that feels like a journey without the travel, the answer awaits at Elaia—with open doors and a table set just for you.
Open daily, noon-2am. Dubai Marina, elaiadubai.com (Reservations: 058 978 1000)
– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
Images & Feature Image: Supplied