Paco's Bar

Paco's Bar has anchored Al Ain's nightlife scene from inside the Radisson Blu (formerly Hilton) for decades, and it still works as intended: a Tex-Mex pub with a poolside terrace that draws a familiar, neighbourly crowd. Indoors leans loud, lively and smoky, especially on Thursday and Friday nights when live music or a DJ fills the room. The outdoor patio, overlooking the pool, is the better option when the weather allows, though expect a few resident cats to wander the tables. The kitchen delivers capably rather than ambitiously. Chicken chimichangas, burritos, sizzling fajitas and the Paco's burger are the reliable orders, alongside platter-style shares of nachos, wings and sliders. Portions are generous to the point of excess, particularly at the Friday brunch (4pm to 7pm, three platters plus free-flowing drinks) which is comfortably enough food for two. Fajitas can occasionally arrive with tortillas that have spent too long in the microwave, and the Asian wings run hotter than the "not spicy" description suggests, so calibrate accordingly. Drinks are where Paco's holds its value. Happy hour stretches generously into the late evening, frozen margaritas are well made, and the recently added German lager has become a regular favourite. The bar team, with Rubel, Sathish, Shyadev, Sheeden and chef Asab the current names to know, runs a warm, attentive floor that pulls in repeat customers. A few honest caveats worth knowing: a dress code is enforced at the door and has turned away guests in casual wear, so check ahead before driving out. Service quality has fluctuated with management changes over the years, and on quieter weeknights the atmosphere can feel thin. Come on a Thursday or Friday evening for the full effect, book ahead for brunch, and sit outside if you prefer your air clear.