African Queen, the iconic restaurant with over 55 years of history, is now open to guests looking to experience its legendary French Riviera charm and flair here in Dubai. Dubai’s dining scene is about to be elevated with the opening of African Queen at J1 Beach, one of the most highly anticipated restaurants of the season.
Nestled on the French Riviera in Beaulieu-sur-Mer, African Queen restaurant is a legendary and iconic establishment that needs no introduction. First established in 1969 in Beaulieu-sur-Mer on the Côte d’Azur, the venue has become renowned over the years. With its blend of refined elegance and relaxed charm, attracting global icons such as Naomi Campbell, Bono, and Sylvester Stallone.
African Queen’s 55-year legacy in the South of France in Beaulieu-sur-Mer Cote d’Azur gives it an unparalleled charm. It has been visited by celebrities, politicians and people from all over the world. Having its own atmosphere and audience, the restaurant is very popular and loved by everyone.
A Culinary Journey
At African Queen, the menu is designed to reflect both its storied history and its innovative approach. The menu at African Queen at J1 Beach offers a unique fusion of Mediterranean classics infused with vibrant, exotic touches. Inspired by the 1951 film African Queen, the restaurant marries Mediterranean Riviera classics with vibrant exotic flavours, creating an experience that is both timeless and adventurous. The restaurant blends Southern Mediterranean cuisine with African-inspired décor, offering guests the perfect combination of tradition and contemporary.
Signature dishes such as the Grandma Style Salad Nicoise and the Pissaladiere Pizza of anchovies and caramelized onions. These will sit alongside new creations that highlight local flavours and seasonal produce. Guests can also savour decadent dishes like Red Pawn Carpaccio, ”Riveira“ Red Tuna, and one of the signature recipes the African Curry is made with corn-fed chicken and slow-cooked lamb.
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Gourmets and regulars alike can indulge in the signature dishes that have made African Queen famous. From wood-fired truffle pizza to traditional Niçoise tuna salad and grilled fish, the menu showcases the flavors of the region.
For dessert lovers, the options are equally indulgent. The Tropézziene Tart is a Saint Tropez dessert and sweet brioche filled with vanilla cream, while The Traditional Baba is made with Rum baba, chantily, and soaked raisins. No meal at African Queen would be complete without indulging in their exquisite desserts.
Design and Ambiance
Designed by the Monegasque architects Humbert & Poyet, African Queen’s interiors have been modernised while preserving its charm, blending its rich history with a fresh vision. The design of African Queen at J1 Beach blends its rich history with a contemporary vision. While working together on the design of African Queen we blended its rich history preserving its iconic charm with a fresh, contemporary vision, honouring its legendary status while embracing the future. The brand’s rich history is reflected in its African-inspired décor, creating a captivating ambiance that echoes the glamour of the French Riviera. The plate ware, ribbed drinking glasses, and table lamps were carefully curated and selected to match the plates in the Beaulieu-sur-Mer location. Additionally, the interior design and African-inspired décor create a captivating ambiance that echoes the glamour of the French Riviera.
Another key feature is the elongated blue bird sculptures located at one edge of the long square pool. The restaurant's stunning sea view setting has undergone a remarkable architectural transformation by the renowned Franco-Monegasque agency, Humbert & Poyet. Extensive renovations were carried out over several months to modernize the space while preserving its spirit and history. The designers incorporated ethnic touches in the textiles, woven rattan chairs, emerald green ceramic tiles, and lighting fixtures, creating an exotic and timeless ambiance.
Being an old bank, only three windows opened into the reception and bar area. Double-stacked café curtains in James Dunlop’s Maharaja II envelop the space and enhance the visual experience. “Evoking a sense of opulence, place, and historical significance while addressing practical considerations. “Additionally, the fabric's ability to absorb sound when in a S-Fold Curtain enhances the dining experience by creating a more intimate and immersive atmosphere within the space. With custom bends and curves throughout the tracks, a flawless installation by Marlow & Finch was essential in creating this theatrical dining environment. “Overall, the design draws inspiration from the rich tapestry of history, culture, and place.
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Our vibrant new Beachfront location - J1 Beach (La MER) - is a cluster with over 10 world-famous restaurant brands and beach clubs. Our restaurant has a its own beach with an infinity swimming pool, cabanas, sunbeds and vibrant live music. On the second floor of our own 2-story building, we will have a club with a large terrace overlooking the sunset.
African Queen restaurant has a rich history and has been a beloved spot for locals and visitors for many years. It has been a meeting place for friends to enjoy delicious cuisine from the South while celebrating life and the pleasures of the table. Beaulieu-sur-Mer is a year-round destination, and African Queen restaurant welcomes guests throughout the seasons.
While in Beaulieu-sur-Mer, take the opportunity to explore the surrounding area. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, including the Plage des Fourmis, which is just a short walk from African Queen. You can also visit the stunning Villa Kérylos, a reconstructed ancient Greek villa that offers a glimpse into the past.
The Dubai Experience
To discover African Queen’s Beach in Dubai is the promise to experience a vibrant and luxurious seaside destination where relaxation and fun blend seamlessly. The atmosphere is lively yet laid-back, making it the perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying African Queen’s signatures.
African Queen is poised to make its mark as one of Dubai’s most anticipated dining destinations. The venue’s fusion of Mediterranean Riviera sophistication and exotic flavours will make it the must-visit global dining destination for Dubai’s residents and visitors alike.
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As African Queen at J1 Beach prepares to open its doors, it is poised to make a lasting impact on Dubai’s dynamic dining scene. Combining Mediterranean Riviera sophistication with exotic flair, this new outpost promises to deliver a dining experience that is both memorable and refined.
A famous phrase from Frank Sinatra’s song “If I can make it there, I’ll make it anywhere” can nowadays be applied to Dubai as today it is the most important trade and finance hub not only for the UAE and the whole Middle East but also for the rest of world. Our aim is to leverage African Queen’s strategic location and iconic heritage to attract audiences locally as well as from outside and establish this brand in the whole region and beyond.
Partnering with Riccardo Giraudi of GIRAUDI Group, we decided to bring the iconic African Queen to Dubai. We found an exciting new destination for this historic restaurant concept in Dubai’s J1 Beachfront. This brand was established in 1969, and the restaurant gained its mega popularity among Hollywood celebrities, politicians and global icons after Katharine Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart’s stared in the movie “African Queen”. Our guests will enjoy a modern version of this project.
The UAE's F&B sector is projected to exceed $19.98 billion in 2024, highlighting significant growth. As the country continues to lead the F&B market in the Middle East, driven by a rising number of tourists and international visitors any new concept entering this market needs to be competitive but also to carve out their own niche.
Launching this project for 2 years was a very exciting time. The geographical difference between Russia and Dubai was a challenge. Daily conference calls with my partners in Dubai discussing construction, design and legal issues. I formed a skilled international management team which comprise of F&B professionals from London, the USA, Europe and the middle East. This experience inspired me to consider opening 800°C Contemporary Steak in the UAE, recognizing the potential for premium steak dining in this region.
MARIANA AFRICAN RESTAURANT IN DUBAI DEIRA, FOR ALL AFRICAN FOOD
Events and Experiences
African Queen offers a variety of events and experiences to enhance your visit:
- Pool & Beach Experience: Daily from 10 AM till 8 PM.
- The Riviera Lunch: Available Monday to Friday from 12 PM till 3 PM for AED 250 per person (starter, main, and dessert).
- Margarita Hours: Every Tuesday from 7 PM till 11 PM for AED 55 per margarita (bar only).
- Call of the Jungle: Every Saturday from 2 AM till 6 PM, packages starting from AED 475.
- Wednesdays is for Soirée!: Every Wednesday from 8 PM till Late.
- L’heure de L’Apéritif: Monday to Friday From 5 PM to 9 PM.
- Indoors Yoga & Breakfast: Every Saturday From 9 AM.
Age Policy: Guests under 12 are allowed until 9 PM and must be accompanied by an adult. Guests must be 21 and above to consume alcohol, with a valid ID required.
