Dust off your boots and leave your diet at the door — because this August, Dubai’s getting a new sheriff in town. And no, it’s not a cowboy with a six-shooter — it’s Rodeo Drive at Oaks Hotel, Ibn Battuta Gate, and it’s here to hog-tie your tastebuds, crank up your weekend plans, and lasso your inner child (yes, even if you’re 40 and still afraid of bull rides).
We’re talking 14,000 sq. ft. of unfiltered American-meets-Latin energy — all sizzling under one giant, neon-studded roof. From messy burgers to molcajete magic, this place is the cheat day of dreams. Head Chef Walter Melo, the culinary cowboy from Mexico and Texas, is running the kitchen like a spicy rodeo ringmaster — and trust us, his live-fire grill pit is not just hot, it’s HOT hot.
Comfort Food, Cocktails, and a Whole Lotta Chaos (The Good Kind)
Picture this: you, a juicy brisket, and a margarita the size of your face. Throw in arcade games, beer pong, a mechanical bull (because why not), and a DJ who knows their way around a weekend drop. Add live bands, themed nights, and cocktails so photogenic they might just outshine your OOTD — and you’ve got Rodeo Drive’s full-blown F&B circus.
Don’t worry, it’s not all wild rides and whiskey shots. Got kids? Bring ’em along! The dedicated play zone is a mini wonderland of crafts, books, toys, and full-time nannies — aka, blessings in human form. Kids from 1 to 10 get their own slice of the rodeo pie, while you sip your cocktail knowing everyone’s entertained (including you).
Six Zones, Infinite Vibes
Designed by India’s design maverick Hiren Ganatra, this isn’t your average steakhouse. Nope — this is a sensory rollercoaster through six immersive zones:
- Wild West Grill: rustic meats, vintage leather, and cowboy-core perfection.
- East Coast Bar: New York underground glam meets glossy-tile coolness.
- Arcade Alley: Think neon graffiti, retro games, and the occasional Mario Kart meltdown.
- Bull Arena: Strap in. Or don’t. But definitely film your friend trying it.
- Mobster Mancave: Hidden behind a bookshelf (yes, like in the movies), this speakeasy is all oak, velvet, and gangster swagger.
- Broadway Stage: Drama, dazzle, and diva-level live performances that’ll have you cheering mid-burger.
The Vibe? Unapologetically Extra
According to Rahul Shetty, the big boss at Peninsula Hospitality, this isn’t just a restaurant. It’s a “larger, livelier experience” that’s part dinner, part playground, part mini Vegas… and all fun. It seats 305 guests, but with a 600-guest capacity, you better book before FOMO hits like a mechanical bull at full throttle.
Operations Manager Joe Dourans breaks it down: “Dubai’s west side is booming — Palm Jebel Ali, Al Furjan, Jebel Ali Hills — and we’re giving this crowd something bold, unforgettable, and wildly different.”
This Ain’t Your Typical Night Out
Whether you’re planning a wild Friday with friends, a midweek family dinner, or just desperately need a place where both you and your toddler can be equally entertained — Rodeo Drive Ibn Battuta Gate is your new go-to. Bring your appetite, your camera, and maybe an extra pair of pants (because that bull ride? Unforgiving).
