Dubai Dinners: When Decibels Destroy Conversation

Why must we scream at each other over entrees?

Dubai’s restaurant scene boasts riches from dazzling skyscrapers casting long shadows over open-air terraces, world-class chefs conjuring culinary masterpieces, and a vibrant energy that pulses through every district. But a stealthy villain lurks in these chic haunts, a sonic saboteur threatening to turn your dream dinner into a shouting match: ear-splitting music.

Believe it or not, in the land of dazzling lights and over-the-top experiences, even a quiet tête-à-tête with your significant other can morph into a scene from a bad reality show where communication requires interpretive dance and lip-reading.

Now, I’m all for a bit of ambience. A carefully curated playlist can set the mood or create a lively buzz. But when the music reaches a volume that would impress a heavy metal concert, it’s safe to say we’ve crossed a line.

Here’s the thing, atmosphere is a delicate symphony. It’s the scent of freshly baked bread mingling with laughter, the gentle clinking of glasses, and the soft murmur of conversation. It’s the space where your food presentation comes alive, where the chef’s artistry on the plate ignites the senses. But when the music is cranked to “blow-your-eardrums-out” levels, it drowns out everything else. It’s like watching a silent movie with the radio on full blast – the experience is fundamentally compromised.

Dining out is about more than just sustenance. It’s about connecting with loved ones, catching up with friends, or celebrating a special occasion. But how can you truly connect over a delicious plate of saffron risotto when you must resort to screaming just to acknowledge that the parmesan cheese is missing?

Then there’s the brunch scene. Granted, a livelier atmosphere is expected, but that doesn’t mean conversations should be casualties of bottomless mimosas. There should be a chance to hear your dining companions’ hilarious anecdotes (or ramblings, depending on said mimosa count) without resorting to amateur mime.

Here’s a radical proposition, Dubai restaurants: ditch the DJ (unless it’s a themed night, in which case, full volume might be appropriate). Or train your in-house maestro in the art of “chill vibes.” Curate a playlist that complements the ambience, not overpowers it.

Dubai, from Michelin-starred marvels to hidden hole-in-the-wall gems, your food scene is a constant source of delight. But for all the effort put into presentation, flavour, and service, the ear-splitting levels throw a wrench in the works.

Also, dining out isn’t cheap in Dubai. So, shouldn’t a hefty bill at least come with the ability to hear yourself think, let alone have a conversation with your fellow diners? Surely the only thing leaving our mouths after a phenomenal meal is a chorus of satisfied sighs, not frustrated shouts of “What?”

So, the next time you’re crafting the perfect dining experience, remember it’s all about striking a balance. Let the food be the star, the atmosphere be the supporting act, and the conversation flows freely, like a perfectly chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc. After all, wouldn’t you rather hear your date’s witty banter than a questionable EDM remix blaring in the background?