Nikki Beach Hospitality Group is proud to announce that Maison Mer, the latest addition to its expanding portfolio of luxury lifestyle brands, is now open. The group’s newest restaurant concept brings the warmth and charm of Provence and the French Riviera to Dubai’s shores. Meaning “House of the Sea” in French, Maison Mer celebrates both the coastal setting and the comforting spirit of “mère” — the French word for “mother” — evoking the joy of gathering for home-cooked meals and long afternoons shared around the table. As Dubai welcomes the al fresco season, Maison Mer invites guests to dine by the water for dinner, and take in sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf as the evening unfolds.
Led by France-based Corporate Executive Chef Alessandro Pizza and Dubai-based Head Chef Kavish Chimajee, the culinary team translates the flavors of the South of France through refined cuisine, with a homemade touch. Drawing on over two decades of experience along the Riviera, Chef Alessandro brings a dedication to purity and provenance, allowing every ingredient to speak for itself through classic techniques and delicate seasoning.
The menu, inspired by the landscapes between Nice and Marseille, celebrates regional simplicity and Mediterranean abundance. Dishes such as Ratatouille Provençale topped with stracciatella and sliced tuna, finished with red and yellow pepper coulis, and Parmigiana de Courgette, layered with smoked scamorza, parmesan, and rustic tomato sauce, reflect a balance of comfort and sophistication. Signature items also include Linguini aux Tomate Cerise et Poisson Frais du Jour, made with homemade pasta and the daily catch; Artichaut Vinaigrette, braised in white wine and olive oil; and Salad de Sucrine et Belle Crevette à L‘Abricot, and Carpaccio de Thon à la Puttanesca, perfect for sharing. Maison Mer’s cocktail program celebrates the art of the apéritif, reimagining classic drinks with Provençal flair. Highlights include the Vent du Sud, a bright blend of gin, elderflower, basil, cucumber, and lemon that evokes a summer breeze off the coast, and the Provence Sour, which pairs lavender-infused vodka with cassis, honey, and lemon for a delicate floral finish. The list also features sparkling creations like the Thymeless Royal, herbaceous and light, and the Azur Margarita, a vibrant Riviera twist on a timeless favorite. Each cocktail captures the colors and character of the Mediterranean, balancing freshness and depth.
“For many years, the South of France has felt like a second home, and I’ve always dreamed of sharing that way of life with the world,” shared Lucia Penrod, CEO, Cofounder & Owner of Nikki Beach Hospitality Group. “The ease of mornings at the market, long afternoons with a glass of rosé, and evenings surrounded by friends have shaped the spirit of Maison Mer. I’m thrilled to now bring this lifestyle to Dubai, where guests can experience a taste of Riviera living by the sea.”
Designed by Nikki Beach Hospitality Group’s Interior Design Architect Rémi Viale, the restaurant channels the feeling of a modern Provençal home by the sea. Vaulted ceilings, arched portals, and hand-tiled tables in shades of thyme and basil create a fresh, elegant atmosphere. Outdoors, scalloped parasols and panoramic Gulf views frame leisurely seaside dining, while select antique and artisan pieces sourced directly from Provence add a personal touch. Maison Mer’s visual identity reimagines the traditional Provençal paisley motif, known as indiennes, across its design and branding, from custom ceramics to subtle logo details, bridging French heritage with contemporary style.
As with all Nikki Beach Hospitality Group concepts, music and entertainment play a central role in the Maison Mer experience. From midweek onward, the atmosphere takes on a new rhythm. Wednesdays mark the signature night, where live vocals and musicians set the tone before the evening lifts into French house and disco. From Thursday through Saturday, guests can enjoy live performances from our pianist, guitarist, and singer, filling dinner service with warmth and melody. Sundays close the week on a softer note, with Riviera jazz and gentle DJ sets that capture the ease of the Côte d’Azur by the sea.
Located within Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai, Maison Mer marks an exciting new chapter for Nikki Beach Hospitality Group as it continues to expand into standalone dining concepts. Like the group’s Lucia brand, Maison Mer is designed to evolve independently and may open in future destinations. Maison Mer is open Tuesday to Sunday for dinner, with lunch coming soon. Explore the full menus at maisonmerrestaurants.com. For updates, follow @maisonmerdubai.
