For two years City Walk has been the hottest neighbourhood in Dubai, immensely popular among locals and especially charming at night. It’s unsurprisingly the result hard work and smart marketing. Free, spacious underground and outdoor parking, edgy design, futuristic lightening, street art and a rare opportunity to explore places on foot contributes to City Walk’s fame. However, only a few had enough time and patience to discover the hidden gems of this district. One of them is incredible Turkish restaurant that serves freshly baked bread and out of the world Bakhlava (Babaji). Only a few days ago I discovered that a glass of red is not taboo at City Walk either.
To be honest, Lima, a new Peruvian restaurant is slightly off he beaten path. That’s why I produly call it “a hidden gem of City Walk”. Reach the square and the head towards Al Wasl street checking places on your left. Once you spot a few steps leading up, you are probably on the right path. Google maps are extremely helpful.
The first thing you’ll notice is lush greenery. Lima’s cosy outdoor terrace is covered in plants and bushes, creating the feeling of a little oasis in the center of urban Dubai. Step in and be surprised once again by the warmth and authenticity. Expect smiles reaching out to you from every corner.
I started my night at Lima on the first floor, right at the bar where Max and Luis were creating the best traditional Pisco Sour I’ve had in my life. Mixing bartending and story telling, Luis conveyed me of fables of past and present, and in a few minutes I was very aware of Peruvian dining rituals. Equipped with a drink I lost myself to the Latin tunes, nestling in a cosy hanging chair made of wood. The DJ’s booth at the opposite corner was barely noticeable but his work pushed my soul to dance.
An hour later, all set with aperitifs, I made my way to the cevicheria, placed in a way that all cooking magic would be visible from anywhere at Lima. While I watched salmon being gently sliced, chef Diego Sanchez has appeared at the counter and I couldn’t resist but speak to him. Quick and very very charming, he talked me through the variety of ceviche dishes served at Lima and his passion to tweak traditional recipes introducing new flavours and tastes. A challenging task in Dubai, he thought. A big fan of a change I quietly disagreed, because only a silly girl would argue with a great chef while he is cooking for her.
Chef Diego Sanchez started when he was just 17, a fact recognized by me as a huge achievement. With a little candid smile and eyes sparkling with passion, he immediately wins over his guests, capturing respect and attention. His charm continue with the taste of his dishes, perfected to the ultimate beauty in taste and presentation. I couldn’t stop applauding every time he appeared from the kitchen, adding a fantastic touch to the whole dining experience.
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Life at Her Brightest 
Looks lovely 🙂
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