Fodor's Expert Review Barrel 12

Despite Palm Jumeirah's chichi image, there are plenty of casual bars and bistros, particularly on the trunk where the bulk of residential apartment buildings are located. Barrel 12 might be one of the most unappealing (and practically invisible) establishments from the outside, but there's plenty of life past the front door. A sports bar at heart, this modern industrial space pulls a very diverse crowd with a range of happy hours and daily specials. Expect anything from steak nights to kids' afternoons, ladies brunch and "drunch" (a dinnertime fixed-price drinking session). There's an outdoor terrace over the water with palm canal views, making it a lovely sundowner stop. Drinks and food are well made and well priced (for Dubai). Friday brunch is a great value.