45 Bluewaters opens a new chapter in Dubai’s bistro concept

With sweeping views of Ain Dubai and a terrace that effortlessly captures the relaxed energy of Bluewaters Island, 45 Bistro has found a fitting home for its second Dubai location. The homegrown concept, which first made its mark at Port de La Mer, has evolved into a full-fledged European bistro that comfortably transitions from breakfast to dinner without losing its neighborhood charm.

The atmosphere is immediately inviting. During our visit, the restaurant was already lively by mid-morning, with tables filled by friends lingering over flat whites, families sharing leisurely breakfasts, and diners soaking up the waterfront views. The space strikes a balance between polished and approachable, making it equally suited to a casual coffee stop or an evening meal.

The menu, created by Chef Maria Zanosiy, celebrates classic European flavours with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and comforting execution. Breakfast remains a major draw, with beautifully presented syrniki served alongside sour cream mousse and condensed milk offering a nostalgic yet refined take on the Eastern European favourite. The avocado and salmon toast is another crowd-pleaser, elevated by quality ingredients rather than unnecessary embellishments.

As the day progresses, the menu expands into a collection of hearty European dishes. The Tomato Carpaccio with Warm Brioche makes for a light yet flavourful starter, while the Traditional Borscht, finished with smoked sour cream, delivers depth and richness without feeling heavy. Among the mains, the Filet Steak with Truffle Purée is a standout, cooked precisely and complemented by the earthy smoothness of the purée. The Slow-Braised Duck Leg, served with cherries and creamy mashed potatoes, offers a satisfying balance of savoury and sweet, while the Dover Sole caters to guests seeking a lighter seafood option.

Desserts deserve special mention. The San Sebastián Cheesecake arrives with its signature caramelised exterior and creamy centre, while the homemade wafer cake, prepared from a traditional family recipe adds a personal touch that reflects the restaurant's emphasis on heritage and comfort.

The beverage programme follows the same philosophy of quality and simplicity. Fresh house-made lemonades, particularly the Triple Peach Lemonade, provide refreshing alternatives to classic soft drinks, while smoothies combine tropical fruits with coconut milk for a lighter option. For evening guests, the licensed drinks menu features a thoughtfully selected wine list alongside classic cocktails that pair naturally with the European menu.

What distinguishes 45 Bistro from many of Dubai's new openings is its versatility. Rather than positioning itself solely as a destination restaurant, it succeeds as an all-day venue where breakfast meetings, leisurely lunches, sunset drinks and relaxed dinners all feel equally appropriate. The service reflects this ease, with attentive yet unhurried hospitality that encourages guests to settle in rather than rush through their meal.

Having already established a loyal following at Port de La Mer, the Bluewaters opening represents a confident next step for the growing brand. While the two locations share the same culinary philosophy, Bluewaters feels like the more complete expression of the concept, combining scenic waterfront views, an expanded dining experience and a licensed beverage programme under one roof.

45 Bistro Bluewaters successfully blends approachable European cuisine with warm hospitality and one of Dubai's most attractive waterfront settings. Whether you're visiting for specialty coffee and breakfast, a business lunch, or a leisurely dinner overlooking Ain Dubai, the restaurant delivers a consistently enjoyable experience that makes it easy to understand why the brand continues to grow. It's a welcome addition to Bluewaters' dining scene and one that's worth returning to at any time of day.