DXB: Zinc Nightclub

After a few beers at the Belgian Beer Cafe, I was ready to head out for some dancing. I got a tip from some locals that said the Zinc nightclub was rocking on Monday nights - it was their 80's retro night. I was the only one of the crew wanting to head out, so I grabbed a cab (and a beer for the road) and headed out to Zinc.

Zinc is located on Sheikh Zayed Road, kinda the main drag of Dubai with tons of hotels and bars. Rumor has it that the Virgin crews stay around here somewhere, but I can't confirm that. The bar is on the lobby level of the Crown Plaza Hotel. If you are staying at that hotel, you'll get in for free, but it's 100 dirhams if you are not. Someone had said that you need a 'date' to get in, but that was not the case with me. I tried to get out of the 100 dirham cover charge, saying I was a Crown Plaza guest at Festival City, but that went nowhere. The cab ride was about 12 minutes, and cost about 25 dirhams each way.

I'm not sure if there's a dress code, but you'll be out of place in shorts and sneakers/sandals.

That night, the music was awesome! The mix was indeed heavily 80's, even getting in some AC/DC and the Footloose song. I did not have any drinks there, due to planning ahead, but I hear they are pricey. So plan accordingly. Last call was around 2am.

Zinc is definitely a place to check out.  You'll bust your bank account if you go there thirsty, but pick the right night, and you'll have a great time!

Belgian Beer Cafe, Dubai

The Belgian Beer Cafe is located at the lobby level of the Crown Plaza Festival City. The location and atmosphere combine for a fun experience, not to mention the wide variety of authentic Belgian and European beers.

UAL Crews get a 20% discount on the food, but not the booze. Their signature dish is a plate of mussels served in a few different styles. They can also whip up a mean plate of sausages and mashed potatoes. If you're in the mood for more of a snack, go for the french fries. These delectable fries a cooked in an oil that is probably banned in the US, and come complete with a small cup of mayonaisse to be true to the euro-style. These fries will russle up your european memories, but jsut don't plan on getting a cholesterol check for a few days...

Smoking is allowed in the indoor bar, so that can be a bother if it's crowded. Head outside if the temperature is bearable for a more relaxed atmosphere. Prices are high all around. Expect to pay 30-40 Dirhams for a big beer (about $9-10). Food prices are also on the high side, but the %20 discount makes it bearable.