What’s it like: This outpost of the popular UK chain, located in Madinat Jumeirah, offers a gorgeous outdoor terrace overlooking the water ways, which is where my dining partner and I sat on the evening we visited. If you find it too hot for alfresco dining, the indoors is no less appealing – with the vibe of a restaurant by the wharf, but with a contemporary twist in the quirky neon-lit quotes on the wall, a typical Rivi touch.

To begin the meal, we shared the eggs benedict – an all-time favourite – and roasted sea scallops, which were served atop a minted pea and tomato dressing. The dressing and cherry tomatoes were sweet, and beautifully set off the cooked-to-perfection salty scallops.

For mains, I ordered the salmon bomb with egg butter sauce, a generous portion served in an iron skillet-like bowl. The deep fried salmon ball was crusty on the outside and tender inside, with a hint of sweetness, while the egg butter sauce was light and tasted great with the bed of spinach underneath. My partner was sold on the 250-day old Black Angus ribeye, which was juicy and moist, and served with hand-cut chips and Béarnaise sauce. So full we were almost bursting, we knew we shouldn’t have ordered desserts, but decided to share one of our favourite British desserts – Sticky toffee pudding. There’s no better way to end a meal, than with a delectable pudding with hot toffee sauce, teamed with vanilla ice cream.

If you want to go: Around Dhs450 for 3-course dinner for two, without drinks. Call 04-3666464.

Best for: A casual night with friends

– Nicola Monteath