DEIRA. Some of Dubai's most highly regarded sushi is served here Tuesday and Friday-Sunday evenings. The view may be a disappointment (a wall blocks the bustling creek banks), but the authentic atmosphere and exceptional menu are sure to please.

JUMEIRAH. Mixing sushi with modern convenience ­ that is the shtick at Emirates Towers Sushi, one of business district's trendier lunch eateries. Colorful plates of maki sushi, nigiri sushi, matto maki, rainbow maki and California rolls ride out to customers on a conveyor belt, circling the seated area. Plates are color coded, so you can keep up with how much your bill is going to be ­ just be careful, everything is so enticing that it's easy to accumulate quite a bill. If you're in the mood for something warmer, ET also prepares excellent portions of Japanese chicken, grilled sardines and fried vegetables.

Spectrum on One, the luxurious Fairmont Dubai's signature restaurant, offers internationally-themed gastronomy, from Szechwan specialties and tandoori dishes to succulent seafood from the coast of Normandy and Continental-inspired pastries and desserts. Those opting for seafood may select their "Catch" from the restaurant's own saltwater tank. Spectrum's best tables offer sweeping views of downtown Dubai, and a cozy bar/lounge area is an ideal place to wind down your day over a few cocktails in a refined setting.