Le Relais de l’Entrecôte Dubai: A Parisian Bistro Bringing Steak Frites to the UAE

Dubai’s dining scene is known for its variety, but one of the latest additions is sure to capture the hearts of steak lovers. Le Relais de l’Entrecôte, the iconic Parisian bistro that has been delighting diners since 1959, is opening its doors in the UAE for the first time, offering a taste of its famed steak frites in the heart of Business Bay.

A Parisian Experience in the Heart of Dubai

For those who have been to Paris or are familiar with the restaurant, the name Le Relais de l’Entrecôte is synonymous with one thing: delicious steak frites. The Dubai location, set to open on January 10, brings the authentic French bistro experience to the UAE, offering a simple yet irresistible menu. As I walked up to the Me Dubai Hotel where the restaurant is located, the first thing I noticed was the classic Parisian red awning, setting the tone for the charming French atmosphere inside.

Upon entering, I was transported to a Parisian bistro with Belle Époque posters, vibrant primary-colored tablecloths, and a mixture of banquette seating and wooden paneling. While the terrace isn’t quite a Parisian boulevard, it does offer a stunning view of the Burj Khalifa, adding a modern Dubai touch to the French dining experience.

The Dish Everyone’s Talking About: Steak Frites

Le Relais de l’Entrecôte is famous for its no-fuss menu that focuses on one thing: the entrecôte steak frites. It’s a restaurant not designed for vegetarians, as the main dish features a perfectly cooked sirloin steak paired with crispy golden fries and the bistro's legendary sauce.

At Le Relais de l’Entrecôte Dubai, the dish is priced at Dh155, which includes a generous serving of steak, fries, and the secret sauce. For those with a hearty appetite, a second helping of steak, fries, and sauce is offered at no additional charge—making it a deal worth waiting for.

When I visited the restaurant ahead of the grand opening, I was simply asked how I liked my steak (rare, of course), and the rest was taken care of. The meal began with a light house walnut salad dressed in a tangy mustard vinaigrette and fresh French baguette, perfect for dipping into the rich sauce.

The main event arrived shortly after—perfectly cooked steak, sliced and paired with golden, crispy fries and topped with the iconic secret sauce. The steak was cooked to pink perfection, tender and juicy, while the fries offered the perfect crunch. But it was the sauce that stole the show—herby, buttery, and intensely flavorful, with hints of thyme, parsley, tarragon, and mustard. The recipe is a closely guarded family secret, making it nearly impossible to replicate, but it’s easy to see why the sauce has become legendary.

A Glimpse at the Dessert Menu

While the focus at Le Relais de l’Entrecôte is undoubtedly the steak frites, the dessert menu is something to behold. Though I didn’t try any of the sweet dishes on my visit, I had a peek at the handwritten menu, which featured over 20 options, including profiteroles, crème brûlée, fruit tarts, and a delightful strawberry melba tulip—a biscuit bowl filled with vanilla ice cream, fresh strawberries, Chantilly cream, and almonds.

An Iconic Parisian Dining Experience in Dubai

Le Relais de l’Entrecôte first made its debut in Dubai back in 2015, but this new location is the first exact replica of the legendary Parisian bistro. The fact that the restaurant is so committed to its signature dish, offering just one option on the menu, speaks volumes about the confidence it has in its food. While the no-reservation policy may cause some to think twice, it’s clear that the wait will be worth it for a taste of the famous steak frites and that irreplaceable sauce.

As for the queue, it remains to be seen how well Dubai’s diners will embrace the no-reservations policy, especially in the hot summer months. However, the team has assured that air-conditioned solutions will be explored for a more comfortable dining experience during the warmer months. If you’re a fan of quality steak, crispy fries, and unforgettable flavors, Le Relais de l’Entrecôte Dubai should be on your radar.