No trip to Dubai is complete without experiencing a meal at one of the highest restaurants in the world- At.mosphere. Perched on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa, At.mosphere offers panoramic views of downtown Dubai and the famous Dubai Fountains.

We stopped by Dubai for a 24 hour layover while on the way to the Maldives with my parents. Kaan, who was born and raised in Dubai, wanted to show my parents the best of Dubai since this was their first time there. The breathtaking views from At.mosphere were THE perfect backdrop for the incredible lunch we had, making the occasion even more memorable.

After taking the elevator 122 floors up, we entered the stunning lobby of the restaurant, complete with a winding staircase. One side of the floor is dedicated to their lounge, where you can have drinks, cigars, and afternoon tea, while the other half is the restaurant. We sat at a table in the restaurant that had stunning views of the fountains and opted for the three-course lunch menu- which ended up being a feast for both the eyes and the palate. We started with the Spanish bluefin tuna tartare, a dish as vibrant and refreshing as the Dubai skyline outside. For our mains, the Wagyu croquette and wild seabass were impeccably prepared, blending rich flavors with a touch of elegance. The Parisian flan and chocolate delight that followed for dessert were the perfect sweet conclusion to our meal, each bite echoing the sophisticated ambiance of the restaurant.

Adding to the allure were the non-alcoholic cocktails, served with a flourish of dry ice that created an ethereal, cloud-like effect. This playful touch perfectly complemented the sense of dining in the sky, enhancing our overall experience. Every aspect of our visit to At.mosphere—from the exquisite cuisine to the stunning views—made it a highlight of our Dubai stopover and a memorable introduction for my parents to the wonders of this dazzling city.