Dining on Top of the World at At.mosphere, Burj Khalifa

It’s tucked away in the world’s tallest building, just a few floors below At The Top, Burj Khalifa’s official observation deck; and, at one point, was named the world’s highest restaurant. The top title remains so in Dubai’s vicinity, where At.mosphere is renowned for its showstopping 360-degree views of the skyline.

On a bright, sunny day, the restaurant overlooks Downtown Dubai’s most iconic sights, including the Dubai Fountain’s mesmerising dance choreography. By night, this same view transforms into a glittering masterplan as far as the eye can see. Meanwhile, a cloudy day would bring out the poetic experience of dining in the skies. However, nothing beats the golden hues at sunset within the luxurious comforts of At.mosphere.

Despite first opening its doors in 2011, At.mosphere remains a showstopping dining destination in Dubai. Sitting 442 metres above ground, the exclusive fine dining restaurant and lounge underwent a six-month closure before reopening in February 2023 with a stunning makeover and an updated menu.

The lounge’s west-facing orientation is primed for sunset views.

In place of the former hand-polished walls and harmonious shades of amethyst and cocoa are extravagant gold finishings, speckled mosaic flooring, plush pillows and lush carpeting, marbled counters and contrasting wallpapers. It’s a grand 1920s Art Deco takeover, complete with glass chandeliers and brass touches. In the daytime, sunlight floods through the floor-to-ceiling windows, where the sun beams off every golden surface. As night falls, At.mosphere is enveloped in soft lighting, casting a warm, inviting glow around the room that sets the perfect ambience for both intimate tête-à-têtes and lively dinner parties.

At.mosphere welcomes guests throughout the day, though reservations are highly recommended. The more casual lounge, distinguishable by its more colourful palette and bold patterns, invites guests to a decadent breakfast stand, a lavish three-course Afternoon Tea or sunset-sipping molecular signature cocktails concocted by their trained mixologists. Facing the west, At.mosphere’s lounge is particularly primed for sunset views. There is even the option of sampling some of the world’s best cigar brands in The Conservatory of the lounge, where the sommelier might even suggest a worthy French cognac pairing.

At.mosphere reopened in 2023 with a fresh Art Deco-inspired look.

The east-facing restaurant, on the other hand, basked in grandiose and rich colours and textures, takes pride in the exquisite flavours of contemporary French cuisine it has to offer for both lunch and dinner. Experience seasonal and traditional French delicacies with their seven-course tasting menus – one of which is completely inspired by black truffle. Diners can also sample some of the finest ingredients through equally indulgent dishes such as Normandy blue lobster, foie gras, a cold seafood tower, caviar and oysters on ice, duck à l’orange, and sous vide extra marbled Australian wagyu.

It’s easy to see how At.mosphere became such an awe-inspiring dining destination in Dubai, for both locals and travellers alike. It’s more than just the million-dollar views or haute culinary creations; it’s unimaginably akin to dining on top of the world.