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. 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. Now, Giraudi Group’s African Queen has brought its storied legacy to the UAE in partnership with Alexander Kolobov, Boris Kofman, and Henry Karpin as of December 2024.
A fusion of African and Mediterranean influences
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. With a legacy that stretches over five decades, the Dubai venue carries forward the spirit of its Côte d’Azur roots while adding a modern touch that speaks to the region’s landscape.
The restaurant blends Southern Mediterranean cuisine with African-inspired décor, offering guests the perfect combination of tradition and contemporary. The menu showcases the best of French Riviera classics, elevated with vibrant flavours. These dishes are crafted to evoke a sense of nostalgia while introducing unexpected elements that will surprise and delight even the most discerning palates.
Unpacking the menu
At African Queen, the menu is designed to reflect both its storied history and its innovative approach. 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. Each dish highlights the finest ingredients, with an emphasis on Southern Mediterranean cuisine enhanced by subtle exotic notes.
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. These are just a few examples of the sweet delicacies that will round off a meal at African Queen. Drinks include the AQ Rose Sangria and our classic French Riviera.
Aesthetics and design
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 brand’s rich history is reflected in its African-inspired décor, creating a captivating ambiance that echoes the glamour of the French Riviera. Guests can expect bold designs and animal prints along with hues of green, soft beige, brown and white with gold and wooden accents, creating a mystical and mythical atmosphere.
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. Meanwhile, the alternate end of the pool faces the J1 beach shoreline.
The J1 Beach outpost showcases a combination of contemporary elegance and timeless design, offering a colourful yet chic space that ensures every corner of the venue is perfect for both intimate dinners and lively celebrations. The main standout of the terrace is the elongated squared pool facing the J1 Beach which no other venue has.
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. Whether it’s for a relaxed meal with friends or a moment of escapism by the sea, African Queen promises to deliver a dining experience that is both memorable and sophisticated, bringing its Riviera charm and accessible luxury to a new audience.
To learn more about African Queen, visit https://africanqueen-restaurant.com
