Looks aren't everything...

How many floor-to-ceiling mirrors, blush-pink walls and neon quotes can you cram into a Dubai restaurant?

As Lindsay Lohan’s character in Mean Girls wisely says: "The limit does not exist."

In Dubai, it’s easy to be impressed before the first bite even lands. Besides, most restaurants here are absolutely stunning.

But the hard truth is that some of Dubai's eateries get by on only aesthetics. It’s not that the food isn't good – it’s just... there. Polished, photogenic, average. But when the room looks good, that tends to be enough.

The good news is that Dubai’s dining scene really can deliver the best of both worlds, where the flavours hit as hard as the design brief. And when it all comes together? The food, the feeling and the feed are pure perfection.

The place nailing it all is La Petite Maison Dubai. Buzzy atmosphere, gorgeous interiors (just look at that art) and most importantly, delicious food that's consistently excellent. Heading to Mimi Kakushi is also a safe bet. Good vibes, busy dining room and next-level Japanese food.

Or if you're in the mood for something casual, you can never go wrong with Café Isan, which serves up authentic-to-the-bones food in a lively and charmingly higgledy-piggledy surroundings. And that's just the beginning.

So go on, go for the spots where every bite is worthy of the hype – your plate will thank you.

Until then... Stay hydrated.

Yousra