Review: Sunday Lunch at Mr. Chow Dubai – The Peking Duck That Rules Them All
Indulge in the finest Peking Duck and refined elegance at Mr. Chow's Sunday lunch in Dubai.
Review: Sunday Lunch at Mr. Chow Dubai – The Peking Duck That Rules Them All
Sunday in Dubai is often a day to reset, plan the week ahead, and enjoy a long, leisurely lunch. And if there is one place in DIFC that turns a simple Sunday into an occasion, it’s Mr. Chow. Known worldwide for elevating Chinese cuisine into a fine dining spectacle, its Dubai outpost is the perfect setting for a midday indulgence. My Sunday lunch there reminded me why this restaurant isn’t just another name on the DIFC dining map—it’s an institution. And the reason is clear: the Peking Duck: hands down, the best in Dubai.
The Sunday Atmosphere
Lunch has a very different energy from dinner, and at Mr. Chow, it’s refreshingly elegant without being too formal. Sunlight filters through the windows, giving the dining room a bright, inviting glow. The whitewashed interiors, modern art accents, and minimalist lines feel even more striking in daylight, and the space buzzes with a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe.
Unlike the bustling, sometimes high-octane energy of a DIFC evening, Sunday lunch at Mr. Chow is calmer, more measured. Families, friends, and business groups gather over long meals, creating a scene that’s both social and intimate. It feels like the perfect way to begin the week in Dubai’s fast-paced rhythm.
The Star of the Table: Peking Duck
Let’s get straight to the point: the Peking Duck at Mr. Chow isn’t just a dish—it’s an experience. And during Sunday lunch, it shines brighter than ever.
The duck arrives at the table glistening, roasted to golden perfection. There is something ceremonial about the way it’s presented and carved tableside. The chef’s knife moves with precision, slicing paper-thin pieces of skin alongside tender cuts of meat. Watching it happen in front of you makes lunch feel like theater.
This browser does not support the video element.
And then comes the flavor. The skin is light and crisp with a delicate smokiness, the meat juicy and perfectly balanced. Paired with soft pancakes, fresh spring onions, cucumbers, and the signature hoisin sauce, each bite is indulgent without being heavy. On a sunny Sunday afternoon, when you want something that feels both comforting and celebratory, this duck delivers in spades. I’ve had Peking Duck across the globe, but the one at Mr. Chow Dubai comfortably takes the crown.
Service That Defines Hospitality
Sunday lunches can sometimes be tricky in restaurants—service can feel either rushed or too laid-back. But at Mr. Chow, the staff find the perfect balance.
From the moment I arrived, they were warm, attentive, and remarkably in tune with the pace of lunch. Plates appeared and disappeared seamlessly, glasses were refilled without a word, and recommendations were delivered with genuine knowledge of the menu.
One touch I particularly appreciated: before the duck carving began, warm water bowls were discreetly placed on the table. It’s these thoughtful gestures—done quietly, without drawing attention—that reflect a level of service few restaurants in Dubai manage to achieve consistently.
The staff didn’t just serve lunch; they orchestrated it. Every detail felt deliberate, elevating the whole experience from a meal to a moment.
Beyond the Duck
As much as the Peking Duck stole the show, the supporting cast was strong. The dim sum selection was delicate and flavorful, with dumplings that felt like little parcels of artistry. The prawns—another Mr. Chow signature—were fresh, juicy, and perfectly seasoned.
The hand-pulled noodles, prepared with finesse, offered the kind of comfort food that’s ideal for a midday meal. And the chicken satay skewers, smoky and tender, paired beautifully with their rich peanut sauce.
The Crowd at Sunday Lunch
What struck me most about Sunday lunch at Mr. Chow was the mix of people. Families sharing long meals, business associates catching up over duck pancakes, and friends lingering over cocktails. Unlike the high-powered DIFC evenings, Sunday lunch had a softer, more communal vibe.
It was lively, but not overwhelming; stylish, but not intimidating. The restaurant managed to create a space where everyone—from executives to couples to families—felt equally at home.
Practical Details That Matter
Another reason Mr. Chow works so well for Sunday lunch is convenience. Located in DIFC, it is easily accessible, and the restaurant provides complimentary valet parking, which takes away the hassle of finding a spot on a busy afternoon.
As for timings, Mr. Chow Dubai is open daily for both lunch and dinner, with lunch service starting at 12:00 PM and running until 4:00 PM, while dinner begins at 6:00 PM and goes late into the evening. For a long, relaxed Sunday meal, those lunch hours are perfect—you never feel rushed, and there’s time to enjoy each course at your own pace.
Final Thoughts
When I look back on that Sunday, what stands out isn’t just the food—it’s the way everything came together. The refined setting, the thoughtful service, the lively yet relaxed atmosphere, and, of course, the unforgettable Peking Duck.
Mr. Chow Dubai has managed to capture the essence of what makes dining out truly special. It’s not about one dish, one moment, or one detail—it’s about the harmony of all of them. And on a Sunday afternoon, when the city slows down just a little, that harmony feels even more rewarding.
The Peking Duck alone is reason enough to make Mr. Chow your Sunday tradition. But paired with the restaurant’s attention to detail, impeccable service, elegant setting, generous working hours, and hassle-free valet parking, it becomes more than just lunch. It becomes a ritual.
So if you’re looking for the best way to begin your week in Dubai, skip the usual brunch scene and head to Mr. Chow in DIFC. Order the duck, linger a little longer over dessert, and let the experience remind you why some meals stay with you long after the last bite.
If You Go
📍 Location: Gate Village 11, DIFC, Dubai
🕛 Hours: Lunch 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Dinner 6:00 PM – Late
🅿️ Parking: Complimentary valet service available
🌐 Website: www.mrchow.com