The Backyard by Swim & Tonic: Your new after brunch/work spot in Business Bay.

I love being pleasantly surprised by a venue. Having had a rather disappointing visit on my last trip to the Steigenberger, there was a lot that needed to be overcome and I'll be honest when I say my expectations were a bit low. Thus, when I walked down the stairs to the newly converted Backyard at the Steigenberger, I had no idea what I was in for.  Fortunately, this new urban garden terrace was everything I didn't know I was looking for.  Much like the difficult to describe layout at the classic Barasti, The Backyard is a funky bar meets lounge meets park meets ultimate chill out location.  With high ceilings, picnic tables, a huge screen, dance floor, DJ booth, eclectic graffiti pieces, and a food truck, the location has all of the elements necessary for a great night or afternoon. While Business Bay does have nearby Treehouse (among other outdoor venues), The Backyard seems a bit more upbeat and trendy (and you don't have to walk through another restaurant to visit). In case you needed a few more reasons to plan a visit, there is a ladies night on Thursday and Friday nights (with 2 complimentary drinks).  Also, ice cream.  Yup, what is a backyard without some Ben & Jerry's, after all?  Seriously -- they've thought of everything!  While I was able to try a few small bites off the menu, there are a number of dishes worth coming back to try (Ulitmate Backyard Burger, I'm looking at you). I love when hotels get creative and offer something I didn't even know the market needed.  Well done, Steigenberger!  I'm looking forward to my next visit. Do you have a favorite spot in Business Bay? A to Za'atar was a guest of The Backyard. Opinions are my own, just ask my husband.