Azure

Azure is the poolside all-day Mediterranean restaurant at the Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah, wrapped around the resort's main pool deck under a run of timber pergolas. The look is relaxed and contemporary - bleached woods, linen shades, soft white seating - and the room is defined by the play of light across the pool and the gulf beyond, which makes long lunches feel like holidays. The menu leans Italian-Mediterranean, with Greek-leaning accents on the sharing plates. The burrata salad has a cult following among returning guests, the cauliflower steak and aubergine dip are the dishes people name from the vegetable-forward side, and the Roman-style pizzas come out properly thin-crusted. The wine list is priced reasonably for the address, with enough quality Italian labels to make a lunchtime pairing worthwhile. Service is notably personal, and the kitchen is willing to go off-menu to recreate dishes regulars have loved. It's at its best as a weekend lunch or early-evening option - beforesunset turns the terrace golden and the pool empties of day guests. Book ahead for poolside tables; this is a daylight venue as much as a dinner one.