Dubai is known for its opulence, and this extends to its dining scene. With so many restaurants, cafes, and street vendors serving dishes from all over the world, deciding where to eat out in Dubai can be difficult. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know to make the most of your culinary journey through Dubai, whether you're looking for traditional Middle Eastern cuisine, international flavours, or vegetarian and vegan options.
Must-Try Dishes and Where to Find Them in Traditional Middle Eastern Cuisine
Dubai is well-known for its delicious traditional Middle Eastern cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and the best places to find them if you're a foodie looking for an authentic taste of the region:
Shawarma
Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern street food that has become a culinary staple in Dubai. Shawarma is a delicious and filling meal that is made with marinated meat (usually chicken or lamb) and wrapped in a piece of warm pita bread with vegetables and a variety of sauces. Al Mallah, Automatic Restaurant, and Al Farooj Fresh are some of the best places to get shawarma in Dubai.
Hummus
Hummus is a traditional Middle Eastern dip that is made with chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. It is a staple dish in any Middle Eastern restaurant and is usually served with warm pita bread. Head to Al Hallab, Zaroob, or Al Safadi for the best hummus in Dubai.
Grilled Meat
Grilled meat is another Middle Eastern staple, and Dubai has plenty of delicious options. There are numerous dishes to try, ranging from succulent lamb chops to juicy kebabs. Ravis, Al Farooj Fresh, and Zaroob have the best-grilled meat in Dubai.
Exotic Flavors from Around the World: Dubai's International Cuisine
Dubai is a cultural melting pot, and this is reflected in its dining scene. From Indian curries to Japanese sushi, Dubai has a lot of food from all over the world. Here are some of the best places in Dubai to try international cuisine:
Sushi
If you enjoy sushi, you will find plenty of options in Dubai. There is a sushi restaurant for every taste, whether you want traditional sushi rolls or something more experimental. Nobu, Zuma, and Tomo are some of the best sushi restaurants in Dubai.
Indian Cuisine
For good reason, Indian cuisine is one of the most popular international cuisines in Dubai. Indian cuisine has something for everyone, from rich curries to crispy dosas. Rang Mahal, Indego by Vineet, and Bombay Brasserie serve the best Indian food in Dubai.
Italian
Italian cuisine is another popular international cuisine in Dubai, and there are plenty of Italian restaurants to choose from. There is something for everyone, from classic pasta dishes to delectable pizzas. Roberto's, Trattoria Toscana, and Cipriani serve the best Italian food in Dubai.
Fine Dining Restaurants with Michelin-starred Chefs
If you're looking for a truly luxurious dining experience, Dubai has plenty of options for you. These fine dining restaurants are sure to impress, with Michelin-starred chefs and breathtaking views:
At.mosphere
At.mosphere, which is on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa, is the highest restaurant in the world. With stunning city views and a menu designed by a Michelin-starred chef
Restaurant Jol Robuchon
Jol Robuchon is one of the world's most famous chefs, and his Dubai restaurant lives up to his reputation. This restaurant is great for a special occasion because it serves French food and has a fancy atmosphere.
Nobu
Nobu is a world-renowned Japanese restaurant with locations all over the world, including Dubai. Nobu is a restaurant in Dubai that every foodie must go to. It serves sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes, and the views of the city are breathtaking.
Street Food and Food Trucks: Low-Cost Meals with Authentic Flavors
The dining scene in Dubai isn't just about fancy restaurants and fine dining. There are plenty of street vendors and food trucks serving up delicious and authentic dishes at a fraction of the cost. Here are some of the best places in Dubai to find cheap street food:
Restaurant Ravi
Ravi Restaurant is a well-known Pakistani restaurant in Dubai that is known for serving tasty food at a good price. Ravi has something for everyone, from biryani to kebabs.
The Shebi's
The Shebi is a food truck serving shawarma and other Middle Eastern street food. The Shebi is a local and tourist favourite due to its low prices and delicious flavours.
SALT
SALT is a well-known food truck that serves delectable burgers and fries. SALT is a must-visit for anyone looking for a tasty and affordable meal, thanks to its funky vibe and reasonable prices.
Seafood Specialties in Dubai: Fresh Catches and Seafood Restaurants
Dubai's location on the coast of the Persian Gulf means that there is no shortage of fresh seafood available. Here are some of the best seafood restaurants in Dubai, serving everything from grilled fish to lobster thermidor:
Pierchic
Pierchic is a seafood restaurant on the Al Qasr Hotel's pier. Pierchic is a great place to go if you love seafood. It has beautiful views of the ocean and a menu with fresh catches and delicious seafood dishes.
The Fish Market
The Radisson Blu Hotel's Fish Market is a seafood restaurant. Diners can choose their own fish and have it prepared to their liking using the interactive fish market concept. Fish Market is a local and tourist favourite for its fresh catches and delicious flavours.
Maine Oyster Bar and Grill
The Maine Oyster Bar & Grill is a shellfish and oyster restaurant in Portland, Maine. The Maine is a great place to go for a special occasion because of how stylish it is and how good the food is.
Brunch Spots: The Best Weekend Brunches with Friends and Family
Brunch is a popular thing to do in Dubai, where there are many restaurants and cafes with delicious brunch menus. Here are some of the best brunch spots in Dubai:
The Farm
The Farm is an Al Barari restaurant known for its beautiful setting and delicious brunch menu. It is a popular choice if you are looking for a healthy and delicious brunch. This is mainly thanks to its farm-to-table concept and menu featuring fresh, organic ingredients.
Les Arts Bistro
Bistro Des Arts is a French bistro in Dubai Marina known for its delectable brunch menu. With its charming decor and a menu featuring classic French dishes, Bistro Des Arts is a great choice for a relaxing brunch with friends and family.
The Park Hyatt's Traiteur Brunch
The Park Hyatt's Traiteur Brunch is one of the most popular brunches in Dubai. With an international menu and a luxurious setting, this brunch is a must-see for anyone looking for a unique brunch experience.
Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Restaurants with Diverse and Delicious Menu Options
The dining scene in Dubai is not limited to the big names and luxury restaurants. There are numerous hidden gems that provide unique and delectable food options. Here are some of Dubai's best-hidden gem restaurants:
Logma
Logma is a Boxpark restaurant that serves traditional Emirati cuisine with a modern twist. Logma is an excellent choice for anyone looking for something different, thanks to its distinct flavours and relaxed atmosphere.
Arabian Tea Room
Arabian Tea House is a charming tea shop in the Al Fahidi Historical District. Arabian Tea House is a great place to learn about local culture because it has traditional Emirati dishes and teas on its menu and is decorated in a traditional way.
Serg & Tom
Tom & Serg is a cafe in Al Quoz that serves a menu of fresh and healthy dishes. Tom & Serg is a great choice for anyone looking for a casual dining experience, thanks to its relaxed atmosphere and menu featuring unique flavours.
Plant-Based Cuisine in Dubai: Vegetarian and Vegan Options
The dining scene in Dubai is becoming more accommodating to plant-based eaters, with many restaurants offering vegetarian and vegan options. Here are some of the best places in Dubai to find plant-based cuisine:
102 Comptoir
Comptoir 102 is a Jumeirah cafe with a menu that features healthy and organic vegetarian and vegan dishes. Comptoir 102 is a must-visit for any plant-based eater, with its relaxed atmosphere and menu featuring unique and delicious flavours.
Super Natural Cooking
Super Natural Kitchen is a restaurant in Business Bay that serves healthy and organic vegetarian and vegan dishes. Super Natural Kitchen, with its bright and colourful decor and menu featuring unique flavours, is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a healthy and delicious meal.
The Moon and the Wild
Wild & The Moon is a cafe in Al Quoz that serves organic, plant-based dishes and cold-pressed juices. Wild & The Moon is a great choice for anyone looking for a healthy and tasty meal, with its funky decor and menu featuring unique and delicious flavours.
Dessert Spots: Sweet Treats and Dessert Restaurants for the Sweet-Toothed
Dubai is not just known for its savoury dishes but also for its delicious desserts. From Middle Eastern sweets to decadent cakes, here are some of Dubai's best dessert spots.
Karak Residence
Karak House is a cafe located in Downtown Dubai that offers a menu featuring Middle Eastern sweets and desserts. Karak House is a great choice for anyone with a sweet tooth, thanks to its cosy atmosphere and menu featuring unique and delicious flavours.
The Black Tape
Black Tap is a Jumeirah restaurant with a menu that features extravagant milkshakes and desserts. Black Tap is a must-visit for anyone looking for a decadent dessert experience, with its funky decor and menu featuring unique and indulgent flavours.
The Magnolia Bakery
Magnolia Bakery is a bakery in Dubai Mall that serves classic American desserts such as cupcakes and banana custard. Magnolia Bakery is a great choice for anyone with a sweet tooth, with its charming decor and menu featuring delicious and nostalgic flavours.
Conclusion
The dining scene in Dubai is diverse and exciting, with options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you're looking for traditional Middle Eastern cuisine, international flavours, or plant-based options, Dubai's dining scene has something for everyone. You will have an unforgettable culinary journey through Dubai if you follow this guide.
