Review: Le Piaf Dubai brings a new dinner and a show concept to DIFC

When Dubai-born Rikas Hospitality joined forces with Europe’s renowned Paris Society, it opened the door for a regional hospitality heavyweight to import to Dubai some of France’s hottest spots, from Paris to Megeve to Saint Tropez. That partnership has already resulted in show-stopping beach clubs like Gigi Rigolatto and Maison Revka. Le Piaf is the latest instalment, transforming the former La Cantine spot in Jumeirah Emirates Towers into Paris’ renowned piano bar. Dimly lit and dramatic, Le Piaf Dubai is dressed in endless red velvet shades, with gilded mirrors and crystal chandeliers adding a sultry, feminine touch. Lashings of gold leaf and black lacquer further layer into the design drama, with walls dotted with old paintings and banquettes upholstered in the brand’s signature crimson hue. White tableclothed tables are packed in next to each other, lit ambiently with warm candlelight, and all arranged across split levels to ensure everyone gets a view of the stage. French, with a hefty dose of Mediterranean influence, the menu is concise and designed to be shared, so you’ll want to order a few plates between two. For starters, the French bean salad is a table favourite, serving smooth, rich foie gras on a bed of crunchy green beans, neatly plated in three. A wagyu burger might not be the easiest option to share, but the juicy patty with crispy caramelised onions is an indulgent pick, and we’d order it with the golden French fries every time. Make a 9pm reservation to make the most of the live entertainment, which builds from melodic piano tunes to more energetic live performances. On the evening we booked, a fantastic female vocalist served up note-perfect renditions of everything from Englishman in New York to Mamma Mia, the latter resulting in a restaurant-wide sing-along. Even between sets, the DJ spins the kind of tunes that have you wanting to be up on your feet, and many guests are as the clock ticks towards midnight. Slick and energetic, the team look like they’re genuinely having a good time. And as the evening progresses, our waiters are quick to dance on tables and wave napkins with as much gusto as they shuttle plates and bottles between tables. Starters range from Dhs95 to Dhs125, while mains sit between Dhs150 and Dhs290, with everything designed to share. For a glamourous and fun night out with brilliant live music, few are doing it better in this part of town.