When I found out Banyan Tree was building a beachfront restaurant – I was quite excited about it. Finally! A spot in Bluewaters where we can go with the kids, sit right by the sand and watch the sun set. Of course you can see the sunset from any other restaurant at Banyan, but there’s something different about sitting right there on the beach, right?
Here’s what to expect, at Casa Playa.
The Venue
Situated just pass the main pool and at the edge of the beach, you’ll find Casa Playa.
On one side – sits the main counter – a rustic bar with stone-clad base. All meat and produce is stored under a glass display – so if you prefer to pick a piece of your own personal choice, you can. The kitchen team is based here – so again, if you’re one of those people who like to watch your dinner cooked in front of you – you could. We like to give them a bit of space so we very obediently followed the team out to the other side where the seating area was, for the evening.
On the beachside, is where Casa Playa’s main bar and lounge area is situated. At sunset – the bar area is warmly lit up, giving it a cosy feel. There were a few people sitting by the bar when we were there, having a drink or two.
There’s dining tables to the side, on a wooden deck. We chose to sit here as we were there with the kids. Further in front on the sand, you’ll find a more relaxed seating arrangement – armchairs, and low tables on woven mats.
Every Friday and Saturday, there’s live music – a DJ playing upbeat Latin music – and periodically moving onto the conga drums. A bonfire is set up right in front. Just sitting there and watching this scene is somewhat calming. It’s the fact that beyond the DJ setup – all you see is the ocean and the waves gently rolling in. And let’s be honest – you don’t get that much here in Dubai.
The Menu
Casa Playa’s menu is Latin-inspired – and caters for those who are thinking of having just a bite with a drink at sunset, or if you’re there for a proper dinner.
We ordered the Classic Guacamole – always a winner with the kids and a healthy option for the whole family too. The charcoal-grilled ribeye tacos came in trios – and if you wanted, they have options for crispy tiget prawn, cajun-spiced chicken or vegetarian : portobello tempura.
Casa Playa does a good selection of charcoal-grilled dishes ie “La Parrilla” – all served with roasted baby potatoes, charred sweetcorn, grilled broccolini and cherry tomatoes. I mean, you gotta have a barbeque if you’re sitting at the beachfront, right?
We went down the usual route of ordering a Black Angus Ribeye, and Lamb Chops (pictured, below). There’s also Octopus, Salmon, Jumbo Prawns, Seabass or otherwise – go all out and order their Charcoal-grilled Canadian lobster with charred tomato salsa verde.
As for desserts? Don’t miss out on Casa Playa’s very own churros with dark chocolate sauce. Perfect way to end the evening.
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Is Casa Playa family-friendly?
The beachfront restaurant is literally situated on the beach, where other hotel guests will likely still be there on the sunbeds on the side – enjoying the last bit of sun before it goes down. It very much welcomes families – as it does couples, and adults.
As for the menu itself – if the kids don’t have such a refined tastebud – you can definitely request for the Kids’ Menu. They have all the usual suspects – cream pasta, spaghetti bolognaise, chicken tenders.
Overall Thoughts
Next time you’re looking for a spot for sundowners – somewhere a bit more chilled and private, consider Casa Playa at Banyan Tree. Its location at Bluewaters means a quick drive over the bridge to, with minimal traffic – and easy valet. Stress-free. Do let us know how it goes if you go!
- Casa Playa, Banyan Tree Dubai
- Opening Hours : 6pm to 10pm Daily
- Call +971 4 556 6466
- Email here
- For more details see banyantree.com
Disclosure : Partner Content