Every corner of Dubai offers a chance to taste something extraordinary. Whether it’s the complex spice blends used in an Emirati Majboos or the delicate saffron in an Iranian ice cream, Dubai’s food scene is a treasure trove that promises to thrill, delight, and inspire. From luxury dining to the comfort of a simple, perfectly spiced kebab, each meal can be a bridge connecting you to the stories and traditions of over 200 nationalities that call this city home.
So, gear up with your forks (and maybe a spoon or two), and dive into the culinary wonders of Dubai. Every meal here is a chance to explore, connect, and even make new friends. Dubai isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a place to experience eating in a whole new way.
1. Asian Delights: Jun’s
Jun’s stands out as a premier destination for Asian cuisine, offering an innovative menu that combines traditional elements with modern culinary techniques. It’s the perfect spot for those who appreciate a contemporary twist on classic Asian dishes.
Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, junsdubai.com (04 457 6035).
2. Chinese Mastery: Hutong
At Hutong, you’ll find fiery Northern Chinese dishes served in a beautifully designed ambiance that echoes the Hutong districts of old Beijing. This restaurant is celebrated for its authentic flavors and creative presentations.
Gate Building 6, DIFC, hutong-dubai.com (04 220 0868).
3. European Elegance: Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal presents a menu inspired by the historical gastronomy of Britain. This restaurant is not just about food; it's about experiencing history through taste, making it a must-visit for lovers of European cuisine.
Atlantis The Royal, Palm Jumeirah, dinnerbyheston.com (04 426 2444).
4. French Flair: L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon
L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon offers a French dining experience that combines the sophistication of Paris with the innovation of one of the world’s most renowned chefs. The interactive counter seating adds an intimate touch to your dining experience.
Gate Village 11, DIFC, atelier-robuchon.ae (04 297 7729).
5. Greek Traditions: Mythos Kouzina & Grill
Nestled in the heart of Dubai, Mythos Kouzina & Grill transports you to the Greek islands with its authentic flavors and rustic charm. It’s the go-to place for fresh, flavorful, and hearty Greek meals.
Armada Avenue Hotel JLT, Cluster P, JLT, mythosdubai.com (04 399 8166).
6. Indian Innovations: Atrangi by Ritu Dalmia
Atrangi brings the vibrant spirit and diverse tastes of India under the guidance of celebrated chef Ritu Dalmia. This restaurant is known for its bold flavors and innovative use of traditional Indian ingredients.
Jumeirah Al Qasr, Umm Suqeim, atrangidubai.com (055 168 0802).
7. Italian Indulgence: Chic Nonna
Chic Nonna delights with its luxurious Italian dining experience. From freshly made pasta to rich and decadent risottos, each dish is a work of art crafted with the finest ingredients from Italy.
DIFC, chicnonna.com (04 605 2000).
8. Japanese Perfection: Mimi Kakushi
Mimi Kakushi serves up the quintessential Osaka-style cuisine with a 1920s flair. With excellent sushi, robata, claypots and grills (the black cod is terrific) Mimi Kakushi retains its title as the best Japanese restaurant in Dubai for the second year, and you’ll certain to be back time and again. This restaurant is perfect for those who love Japanese culture and cuisine, offering everything from sushi to teppanyaki.
Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, Jumeirah, mimikakushi.ae (04 379 4811).
9. Latin American Vibrancy: Amazónico Dubai
Experience the heart of the Amazon with Amazónico Dubai’s tropical and vibrant dishes. One of the coolest spots in DIFC, Amazónico is a super spot for a lively evening out, known for its exotic blend of flavors, it's a little slice of Latin America in the heart of the desert.
DIFC Pavilion, amazonicorestaurant.com/dubai (04 571 3999).
10. Lebanese Hospitality: Em Sherif Café
Em Sherif Café offers a genuine taste of Lebanese cuisine with dishes that are as rich in flavor as they are in history. Known in Beirut as one of the most elegant restaurants in the city, Em Sherif comes with lofty expectation. The café provides a warm, inviting atmosphere, ideal for a family meal or a casual dining experience.
Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, emsherif.com (056 577 7900).
11. Middle Eastern Delights: Orfali Bros Bistro
The Orfali Bros Bistro is a culinary gem that brings a contemporary twist to Middle Eastern cuisine. Helmed by celebrity chef Mohamad Orfali and his siblings Wassim and Omar, the menu here is fresh, fusion and with plenty to talk about, with the Orfali bayildi, umami éclair and OB croquettes being just three of the incredible creations that are in store. This restaurant is celebrated for its creative dishes that maintain the essence of the region's flavors.
Wasl 51, Jumeirah, orfalibros.com (04 259 2477).
12. American & Caribbean Treats: Nola Bijou Bistro & Bar
For a taste of the South in the Middle East, head to Nola Bijou Bistro & Bar. It combines the laid-back vibe of New Orleans with the vibrant flavors of Caribbean cuisine. The restaurant is designed to look like a colonial house in New Orleans in the 1800s, complete with antique furniture to really give you a time hop. Dishes include bayou shrimp beignets, empanadas, Cajun grills and the famed Nola burger.
C2, City Walk, noladubai.com (04 334 4098).
13. Exquisite Thai: Café Isan
The winner of Time Out Dubai’s Best Thai Restaurant for several years running, Café Isan really is the most authentic, fun and friendly spot to enjoy Thai food in Dubai. Café Isan is your gateway to the unique flavors of Northeastern Thailand. It’s known for its authentic dishes and street food favorites, all served in a friendly, casual setting.
Armada Avenue Hotel JLT, Cluster P, JLT, cafeisan.co (058 529 1003).
14. Turkish Delicacies: Sultan Saray
Experience the opulence of Ottoman cuisine at Sultan Saray, where traditional Turkish dishes are served with a side of grandeur in an authentically decorated setting. The mezze is top-notch – dive into hummus, fattoush, tabbouleh and more, before trying pide and grilled meats
Sheikh Zayed Road, sultansaray.ae (04 229 0600).
15. Afternoon Tea: The Royal Tearoom
For a refined afternoon, served with flair – and explanations about the tea-brewing process, visit The Royal Tearoom, which offers a selection of fine teas, delicate pastries, and light fare in an elegant environment.
Atlantis The Royal, Palm Jumeirah, atlantis.com (04 426 2626).
16. Best À La Carte Brunch: La Cantine du Faubourg
Brunch at La Cantine du Faubourg is more than a meal; it's an experience, with a lively atmosphere and a sophisticated menu that blends French cuisine with international influences. Available on both Saturdays and Sundays, with a buzzing after party on Saturday, and one of the best value house beverage packages for a premium branch at Dhs510 per person, It really is the brunch to go to in 2024.
Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Sheikh Zayed Road, lacantine.ae (04 352 7105).
17. Best Family Restaurant: Limonata
Limonata is a cheerful, family-friendly spot that offers a relaxed dining experience with dishes that appeal to all ages, making it perfect for a family outing. Expect classic Italian dishes – pizza, pasta, calzone, salad etc – as well as gelato and traditional desserts so order a bunch of dishes and share.
Club Vista Mare, Palm Jumeirah, @limonatadubai (058 140 5777).
18. Best Buffet Brunch: Al Qasr Brunch
The luxurious Al Qasr Brunch at the Madinat Jumeirah is an extravagant affair with a lavish spread that includes everything from seafood to artisan cheeses and everything in between. Grills are also a top choice, while there’s also truffle mac and cheese, beef wellington, dim sum, curries, salads and more. Plus there’s live music, premium drinks and even an after-party if you’re not ready to call the afternoon quits at 4pm.
Jumeirah Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah, AlQasrBrunch.com Umm Suqeim (800 323 232).
19. Best Pastries: Pekoe Tea & Bread Bar
At Pekoe Tea & Bread Bar, the pastries are as beautiful as they are delicious. This spot is a haven for pastry lovers looking for exquisite baked goods paired with perfectly brewed teas. Don’t miss the bread and spread – to choose your own slices and toppings, while unique takes on classic croissants are fun and tasty.
Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, mypekoe.com (04 359 3553).
20. Best Budget Restaurant: San Wan Hand Pulled Noodles
San Wan Hand Pulled Noodles offers delicious and authentic Chinese noodles at budget-friendly prices, perfect for diners looking for great value without compromising on taste. Serving affordable, authentic Shaanxi cuisine, the main order here is, as the name suggests, those deliciously moreish noodles – which you can watch the chefs pulling in the kitchen. The chicken wontons are a must-try too. In short, don’t miss it – it’s a mighty find in a low-key location.
Cluster F, JLT, @sanwan.dxb (050 759 9584).
21. Best Burger Bar: Eleven Green
Eleven Green is known for its juicy, gourmet burgers and a vibrant setting, making it a favorite for burger aficionados across the city. And the burgers themselves are excellent. Don’t miss the Double Trouble, with cheese, onion, pickles and signature 11G sauce in a potato bun, or the signature Bull Burger smothered in melted cheddar, onions, house-made bacon jam and the team’s famed bull sauce
Umm Suqeim, eleven-green.com .
22. Best Café in Dubai: BRIX Café
BRIX Café stands out for its innovative dishes and chic, comfortable atmosphere, perfect for a casual coffee date or a light meal. From carrot cake to lemon and basil sponge, basque cheesecake and millefeuille, each treat has a quirky twist on the original and they look as good as they taste. It’s new, it’s brilliant and it’s officially the best café in Dubai for 2024.
Jumeirah Fishing Harbour 1, brixdessert.com/café (054 515 7861).
23. Best Bar Food: Honeycomb Hi-Fi
Honeycomb Hi-Fi combines great music with delicious bar food, offering a dynamic environment where you can unwind and enjoy a lively night out. With a music listening station, a vinyl record store and roster of top DJs, it’s a popular spot for a hip evening with your friends, with creative mixed drinks, too. When it comes to food, it’s an izakaya-style idea so try plates such as chicken karaage, lamb gyoza, garlic prawn udon and stuffed wings.
Pullman Dubai Downtown, Business Bay, honeycombhifi.com (04 412 6666).
24. Best Outdoor Restaurant: SAL
SAL boasts breathtaking views and a fabulous menu, located at the Burj Al Arab. Its terrace dining experience is unparalleled, perfect for special occasions. Look up to see the iconic sail-shaped building, and outwards to take in the views of the city and vast expanse of ocean before you. Meaning ‘salt’ in Portuguese, the menu here has a Mediterranean seafood leaning, with the lobster pasta and prawns in tomato sauce top orders.
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim, @sal_burjalarab (800 323 232).
25. Best Pizzeria: Pitfire Pizza
Pitfire Pizza serves up artisanal pizzas with a variety of traditional and unique toppings, all cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven. Set up by a husband-and-wife team, the pizzas here are massive and come fully loaded – Pitfire doesn’t skimp on the toppings.
Cluster D, JLT, pitfiredubai.ae (800 748 3473).
26. Best Pub Food: Goose Island Tap House
Goose Island Tap House offers a relaxed vibe with a side of delicious, hearty pub fare, complemented by an excellent selection of craft beers. With plenty of deals including happy hours and ladies’ nights, as well as a golf simulator, there’s a lot to help you work up an appetite. The menu - from wings to pizza, burgers, fish and chips and more, while there’s also a decent selection for vegetarians and vegans.
FIVE Jumeirah Village, JVC, gooseislanddubai.com (04 455 9989).
27. Best Seafood: Bordo Mavi
For the freshest catch and maritime flavors, Bordo Mavi is a must-visit. Their seafood dishes are infused with Mediterranean influences, providing a delightful dining experience. The menu comes from Turkish fishmonger Ersan Yılmaz who draws inspiration from coastal fishing village traditions and modern-day preparations and features 200-year-old recipes that have been passed down through generations.
Jumeirah Fishing Harbour 1, bordomavidubai.com (056 508 5002).
28. Best Steakhouse: Prime68
Officially the best steakhouses in Dubai – again – Prime68 not only serves delicious, expertly cooked meat, it also offers some of the best views around. Located high up in the JW Marriott Marquis, Prime68 presents stunning city views alongside its critically acclaimed steaks, making it a top choice for meat lovers.
JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, Business Bay, @prime68dxb (04 414 3000).
29. Best Vegan Restaurant: Folia
Folia offers a creative plant-based menu/dishes from mushroom sliders to summer rolls, pizzas, tacos that impresses even the most discerning foodies, located in the serene gardens of the Four Seasons Resort Dubai. Coming from acclaimed vegan chef, restaurateur and cookbook author Matthew Kenney, you can expect top-quality, plant-based dishes here.
Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, Jumeirah, fourseasons.com (04 270 7777).
30. Best Casual Dining: Hawkerboi
Hawkerboi brings the vibrant flavors of Asian street food to Dubai, offering a casual yet buzzing atmosphere perfect for a fun, relaxed meal. With a lively vibe, moody lighting and a range of creative mixed drinks, it’s the prime place for a fun date night that’s not too fancy but with great food.
The Park, JLT, @hawker.boi (505 427 5217).
31. Best Sushi: 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant
For sushi connoisseurs, 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant is a pinnacle of perfection, offering meticulously prepared sushi and Japanese dishes that are both authentic and innovative.
Address Downtown, 99sushibar.com (04 547 2241).
Each of these restaurants not only highlights its specific cuisine but also offers a unique atmosphere and dining experience that make each visit memorable. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these culinary destinations provide a taste of Dubai's rich, diverse food scene.
Safe Travels & Enjoy The Flavors Lovies - Egypt Explorers
