Steak frites
The signature steak frites is repeatedly praised, with well-cooked steak, crisp fries, fresh salad and a distinctive sauce.
CQ French Brasserie - JLT
Jumeirah Lake Towers
CQ French Brasserie is a mellow French bistro in Jumeirah Lake Towers, with a cozy, conversational dining room and casual brasserie fare. Reviews particularly point to the steak frites and pain perdu, alongside a wine-and-dessert-focused experience that works for relaxed dinners or lively occasions.
Reputation Score
4.8
★★★★★
4,750 ratings
Source: Google Maps
The Good Stuff
Cozy atmosphere
The room is cozy enough for conversation, while busier evenings bring a lively Parisian-brasserie feel.
Attentive service
Reviews describe service as warm and observant, including a case where an unfinished steak prompted a replacement offer without the guest complaining.
Delivery quality
Several delivered dishes held up impressively, including Mushroom Steak Frites, crispy calamari and crème brûlée.
Wine pairing
The bar team is credited with thoughtful wine recommendations that complement the steak and frites.
Mussels deal
The mussels deal is a recurring draw, with one reviewer highlighting unusually large, delicious mussels.
Vegetarian choices
Vegetarian diners have specific options such as cauliflower steak and portobello with gravy.
What to Eat at CQ French Brasserie - JLT How we choose these items We use AI to find praise and criticism of specific foods and drinks in a selection of Google reviews. For CQ French Brasserie - JLT, this list is based on 50 reviews, not every review of the restaurant. The score is positive reviews minus negative reviews. For example, two positive reviews and one negative review give +1. Each review counts once per item; neutral comments do not change the score. A zero score is not a positive recommendation. “Only neutral feedback” means there are no positive or negative votes. “Mixed feedback” means equal numbers of positive and negative votes. The quotes are examples of what people said, not every comment we counted. We use different reviews where we can. We normally show up to 10 foods and 5 drinks with non-negative scores. Items with the same score stay together. If a tied group would go past the limit, that group and the lower non-negative scores go into Honorable mentions. If an overflowing positive top tie would leave the list empty, we show up to 10 items from that tie and keep the rest in Honorable mentions. Foods and drinks with a negative score are under What to Avoid. Use this as a guide to what reviewers liked, not a guarantee that you will like it too.
These items at CQ French Brasserie - JLT got the most positive mentions in user reviews. Check them out!
Food 8
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Steak frites Net +10
“Most of us ordered steak frites, partly habit, partly trust. The steak arrived exactly as hoped, confident without showing off, and the frites & salad did what frites & salad should do, namely not get in the way.”
Positive 10Negative 0
Review excerpts
“Most of us ordered steak frites, partly habit, partly trust. The steak arrived exactly as hoped, confident without showing off, and the frites & salad did what frites & salad should do, namely not get in the way.”February 2026
“This restaurant was recommended by a friend and I get why she’s confident that steak frites will be a hit for me! The steak was AMAZING and the sauce? Wow, I think I’ll dream of it forever. The sides were great too.”February 2026
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Escargots Net +6
“We had the snails to start with, GQ steak frites and a good time.”
Positive 6Negative 0Neutral 1
Review excerpts
“We had the snails to start with, GQ steak frites and a good time.”April 2026
“We had escargot, French onions soup and steak - paired with a refreshing bubbly.”June 2026
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Apple tart tatin Net +2
“- apple tart tatin is good. For me I prefer the more heavily caramelised version of this dish. Their version is quite sharp and fresh (4/5)”
Positive 2Negative 0
Review excerpts
“- apple tart tatin is good. For me I prefer the more heavily caramelised version of this dish. Their version is quite sharp and fresh (4/5)”February 2026
“The apple tart is highly recommended for those with a sweet tooth.”January 2026
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Chocolate mousse Net +2
“A great experience all round and would recommend to all - the CQ secret sauce is addictive and the chocolate mousse is out of this world!”
Positive 2Negative 0
Review excerpts
“A great experience all round and would recommend to all - the CQ secret sauce is addictive and the chocolate mousse is out of this world!”March 2026
“The escargot, calamari, crème brûlée and chocolate mousse were nice, not excellent.”May 2026
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Crème brûlée Net +2
“The escargot, calamari, crème brûlée and chocolate mousse were nice, not excellent.”
Positive 2Negative 0
Review excerpts
“The escargot, calamari, crème brûlée and chocolate mousse were nice, not excellent.”May 2026
“The Crème Brûlée had that satisfying crisp caramelized top with a smooth creamy center, while the Crème Caramel was silky, rich, elegant, and felt like something served in a high-end French restaurant rather than arriving through delivery.”May 2026
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Crispy calamari Net +2
“The crispy calamari was another highlight. Light, crunchy, fresh, and not oily at all. Even after delivery, it maintained its texture beautifully which is something many restaurants struggle to achieve.”
Positive 2Negative 0
Review excerpts
“The crispy calamari was another highlight. Light, crunchy, fresh, and not oily at all. Even after delivery, it maintained its texture beautifully which is something many restaurants struggle to achieve.”May 2026
“The escargot, calamari, crème brûlée and chocolate mousse were nice, not excellent.”May 2026
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Duck confit Net +2
“Foie gras ... , it was even better then in France, muessels, salmon, duck confit and so one and one.”
Positive 2Negative 0
Review excerpts
“Foie gras ... , it was even better then in France, muessels, salmon, duck confit and so one and one.”December 2025
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French onions soup Net +2
“We had escargot, French onions soup and steak - paired with a refreshing bubbly.”
Positive 2Negative 0
Review excerpts
“We had escargot, French onions soup and steak - paired with a refreshing bubbly.”June 2026
“Before that, I had the onion soup, and the very first spoonful was incredibly satisfying. It was rich and comforting, though a bit heavy overall. Next time, I might ask for it without cheese, as I think that would make it much lighter; if you prefer a lighter soup, that’s something I would definitely recommend considering.”January 2026
Honorable mentions (15)
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Bavette Net +1
“While they’re famous for their steak frites, I highly recommend the Bavette and Entrecôte for meat!”
Positive 1Negative 0
Review excerpts
“While they’re famous for their steak frites, I highly recommend the Bavette and Entrecôte for meat!”April 2026
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Cauliflower steak Net +1
“Loved the vegetarian options, especially the cauliflower steak and portobello — super yum, and the gravy was excellent.”
Positive 1Negative 0
Review excerpts
“Loved the vegetarian options, especially the cauliflower steak and portobello — super yum, and the gravy was excellent.”February 2026
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Chicken and fries Net +1
“The chicken and fries were great and everyone loved the steak.”
Positive 1Negative 0
Review excerpts
“The chicken and fries were great and everyone loved the steak.”March 2026
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Chicken tagliatelle Net +1
“- the chicken tagliatelle we ordered as we wanted more protein and the chicken is great quality. The pasta and sauce is rich and goes well alongside the meat (5/5)”
Positive 1Negative 0
Review excerpts
“- the chicken tagliatelle we ordered as we wanted more protein and the chicken is great quality. The pasta and sauce is rich and goes well alongside the meat (5/5)”February 2026
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Crème caramel Net +1
“The Crème Brûlée had that satisfying crisp caramelized top with a smooth creamy center, while the Crème Caramel was silky, rich, elegant, and felt like something served in a high-end French restaurant rather than arriving through delivery.”
Positive 1Negative 0
Review excerpts
“The Crème Brûlée had that satisfying crisp caramelized top with a smooth creamy center, while the Crème Caramel was silky, rich, elegant, and felt like something served in a high-end French restaurant rather than arriving through delivery.”May 2026
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Entrecôte Net +1
“While they’re famous for their steak frites, I highly recommend the Bavette and Entrecôte for meat!”
Positive 1Negative 0
Review excerpts
“While they’re famous for their steak frites, I highly recommend the Bavette and Entrecôte for meat!”April 2026
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Foie gras Net +1
“Foie gras ... , it was even better then in France, muessels, salmon, duck confit and so one and one.”
Positive 1Negative 0
Review excerpts
“Foie gras ... , it was even better then in France, muessels, salmon, duck confit and so one and one.”December 2025
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Medium spicy steak tartare Net +1
“The medium spicy steak tartare is also great (our go-to these days, we treat it like a starter), and the escargots are a treat.”
Positive 1Negative 0
Review excerpts
“The medium spicy steak tartare is also great (our go-to these days, we treat it like a starter), and the escargots are a treat.”April 2026
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Mushroom steak frites Net +1
“The Mushroom Steak Frites was exceptional. Perfectly cooked, tender, rich in flavor, and executed with a level of precision that many dine-in restaurants fail to achieve even when serving directly from the kitchen to the table. The steak quality, sauce, seasoning, and overall balance were outstanding.”
Positive 1Negative 0
Review excerpts
“The Mushroom Steak Frites was exceptional. Perfectly cooked, tender, rich in flavor, and executed with a level of precision that many dine-in restaurants fail to achieve even when serving directly from the kitchen to the table. The steak quality, sauce, seasoning, and overall balance were outstanding.”May 2026
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Pain perdu dessert Net +1
“The pain perdu dessert was also superb, easily one of the highlights of the meal.”
Positive 1Negative 0
Review excerpts
“The pain perdu dessert was also superb, easily one of the highlights of the meal.”April 2026
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Raclette burger Net +1
“The Raclette Burger is easily one of the best gourmet burgers I’ve had in Dubai. Juicy, flavorful, indulgent without being heavy, and clearly made using premium ingredients rather than relying on presentation alone.”
Positive 1Negative 0
Review excerpts
“The Raclette Burger is easily one of the best gourmet burgers I’ve had in Dubai. Juicy, flavorful, indulgent without being heavy, and clearly made using premium ingredients rather than relying on presentation alone.”May 2026
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Salmon Net +1
“Foie gras ... , it was even better then in France, muessels, salmon, duck confit and so one and one.”
Positive 1Negative 0
Review excerpts
“Foie gras ... , it was even better then in France, muessels, salmon, duck confit and so one and one.”December 2025
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Sea bass ceviche Net +1
“- the sea bass ceviche was very refreshing. Although I would like a stronger flavour (4/5)”
Positive 1Negative 0
Review excerpts
“- the sea bass ceviche was very refreshing. Although I would like a stronger flavour (4/5)”February 2026
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Steak and fries Net +1
“I ordered the steak and fries, and it was truly delicious, cooked perfectly and full of flavor.”
Positive 1Negative 0
Review excerpts
“I ordered the steak and fries, and it was truly delicious, cooked perfectly and full of flavor.”January 2026
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Tenderloin Net +1
“Yes, tenderloin is simple, but way, how meat is cooked ..!”
Positive 1Negative 0
Review excerpts
“Yes, tenderloin is simple, but way, how meat is cooked ..!”December 2025
Drinks 1
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Negroni Net +1
“Brought us back to southern france with the vibe, food and service! We enjoyed the appetizers and mains. Escargot was good 👍. My husband in particular enjoyed the drinks especially the Negroni. Will definitely be back again! Shout out to Zaki for the attentive service to our table despite the busy atmosphere, ensuring our glasses are always filled!”
Positive 1Negative 0
Review excerpts
“Brought us back to southern france with the vibe, food and service! We enjoyed the appetizers and mains. Escargot was good 👍. My husband in particular enjoyed the drinks especially the Negroni. Will definitely be back again! Shout out to Zaki for the attentive service to our table despite the busy atmosphere, ensuring our glasses are always filled!”February 2026
What to Avoid (1)
Food 1
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Flank steak Net −1
“It's very good food. Felt I need to finally leave a review today after not finishing a flank steak, it was too fatty for my taste.”
Positive 0Negative 1
Critical review excerpts
“It's very good food. Felt I need to finally leave a review today after not finishing a flank steak, it was too fatty for my taste.”June 2026
Tips for a Better Visit
Book ahead. Reserve for Ladies Night: one visit was fully booked, although the bar provided a waiting option for cancellations.
Sauce aside. Ask for the steak sauce on the side if you prefer the meat’s flavour without it being covered.
Lighten soup. For a lighter onion soup, ask for it without cheese; one diner found the standard version rich and heavy.
Try steak cuts. Beyond the famous steak frites, consider the Bavette or Entrecôte, which a regular specifically recommends.
Friday magic. Friday visitors may catch close-up table magic, adding an entertainment element to dinner.
Bar option. If you prefer a more informal seat, the bar is a useful fallback when the dining room is busy.
Plan the visit
Practical details
Mövenpick Hotel - Cluster A
Al Thanyah Fifth - Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai
| Mon | 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM |
| Tue | 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM |
| Wed | 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM |
| Thu | 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM |
| Fri | 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM |
| Sat | 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM |
| Sun | 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM |
Common Concerns
Steak fat
One diner found the flank steak too fatty, although staff offered a replacement.
Unsalted fries
A steak frites meal was let down slightly by fries that needed more salt.
Desserts vary
One review found the desserts and sorbets disappointing, while another called several desserts good rather than excellent.
Limited non-alcoholic
The selection of non-alcoholic drinks was identified as the main area needing improvement.
Busy evenings
The restaurant can be full or loud, and one reviewer experienced slow service when too few waiters were available.
DXB
LOCAL
LOCAL
The Bottom Line
CQ French Brasserie is a French restaurant in Jumeirah Lake Towers built around relaxed bistro dining rather than a formal, hushed experience. The steak frites is the clearest reason to visit, joined by escargot, onion soup, mussels and desserts such as pain perdu. It suits couples, small groups and business lunches, with a room that can feel intimate but also lively when full.
The strongest pattern in the reviews is consistency: returning diners say the food holds up, and service is usually attentive without hovering. The wine selection and pairing advice receive praise, while the delivery menu also performs unusually well, particularly the Mushroom Steak Frites, Raclette Burger and crispy calamari. Vegetarian diners have more than a token choice, including cauliflower steak and portobello.
There are a few practical caveats. Ladies Night can fill the restaurant, so booking ahead is sensible for that evening. Ask for steak sauce on the side if you dislike meat being heavily coated, and consider requesting the onion soup without cheese if rich dishes feel too heavy.
Fries may need extra seasoning, non-alcoholic drinks are less extensive, and dessert quality appears less consistent than the savoury menu.