REVIEW: Inside CQ French Brasserie

CQ French Brasserie gives the classic brasserie a contemporary spin in Dubai, with an interior that rewards a closer look

In the heart of Barsha Heights, at the Grand Millennium Hotel, CQ French Brasserie brings a distinctly French sensibility to Dubai. From the moment you walk through the revolving door, there is a sense of leaving the city behind.

The Design

The noise and energy of Dubai give way to a space composed in deep red, creamy white and green, where every detail feels deliberately placed.

CQ has a strong visual identity, and it starts with the stripes. Red and white stripes appear overhead and continue outside, where the terrace opens beneath a rippling striped canopy. Green woven chairs add another layer of colour, set against the richness of the red tiled floors and walls.

Inside, the palette softens. A geometric tiled floor runs beneath dark timber tables, while green banquettes and chairs sit alongside pale stone columns. Above, a coffered ceiling and clusters of spherical pendant lights bring a sense of symmetry and a grand touch.

The bar anchors the space, stretching in a long, generous line beneath tiered shelves of glassware and spirits. Look closer and the smaller details begin to reveal themselves. Distinctive matchboxes sit at the host desk, while the napkins and glassware carry a subtle cockerel motif.

The reference is to Le Coq, the Gallic rooster, an enduring symbol of French identity associated with courage and resilience. At CQ, though, the motif feels playful rather than ceremonial.

The details continue into the setting itself. Vintage style wall lights and red curtains frame views towards the terrace, while outside, the palette becomes louder and more playful, with stripes, greenery and colour extending the interior into an open air garden setting.
As dusk settles, the atmosphere shifts again. The last light fades and the glow of table lamps begins to warm the air conditioned garden terrace. The mood remains unhurried, making it an easy place to linger, gather and let the evening unfold at its own pace.

The Food

That same approach carries into Apéro O’Clock, where French brasserie favourites are recast for sharing. Expect elevated comfort food, Foie Gras with apple compote, Olive Duo Tapenade, Steak Tartare Toast and Whipped Comté Mousse sit alongside Lobster Brioche, Salmon Blinis, Shrimp au Pastis and oysters. The food is a delight. 

It is the sort of menu made for grazing rather than rushing through, which suits the setting perfectly. Order a few plates, settle in and let the evening take its time.

CQ doesn’t try to recreate Paris and that is perhaps what makes it work. Instead, it takes the visual language of a classic French brasserie, from the stripes and tiles to the glassware, greenery and carefully chosen details, and gives it a distinctly Dubai setting.

Visit: CQ French Brasserie