Two restaurants to close operations at Souk Madinat

They’ve been a duo of stalwart restaurants on the Madinat Jumeirah dining scene for seven years, but Publique and folly are set to close later this month, it’s been announced.

In an open letter by chief executive of Gates Hospitality – the parent company behind the two restaurants – Naim Maadad accredited the closure to the evolving and maturing dining scene in Dubai. While recognising that both restaurants ‘set a benchmark’ for homegrown hospitality brands back in 2017 when they opened, he also acknowledged that, “what residents and visitors to Dubai may have wanted seven, five, or even two years ago, isn’t necessarily what they want today.”

Maadad added that both restaurants would remain open until April 30. So if you’re wanting to catch-up over fondue for two at Publique, or enjoy a treasured Prosecco pop at folly’s beloved rooftop, you’ve got until the end of the month to do so.

But it’s not all bad news. In the letter, Maadad explained that Gates is still considering what the future of the brands could look like, adding that the group is ‘excited for what’s to come’ in the next chapter. So, we’re hopeful that could mean new locations, or evolutions of the brands in the near future.

Awarded Bib Gourmand by The Michelin Guide for two years in a row and two toques by Gault&Millau in 2022 and one toque in 2023 and 2024, folly has become synonymous with food driven by experience and creativity, with a strong focus on flavour and a commitment to sourcing high-quality produce.

Publique has cemented its status as a fun and familiar haven to escape the city's hustle and bustle and a great social hub for friends to assemble and enjoy mountain feasts. The two restaurants will operate till April 30, and have some offers.

folly’s farewell menu will offer three courses for Dh250, five courses for Dh320 and seven courses for Dh475, while Publique’s all day brunch, that starts from April 21, will feature soft beverages, priced at Dh225 and house beverages, priced at Dh345.