Best Restaurants In Dubai: A Culinary Journey for Every Taste and Budget
Whether you are a gourmet enthusiast seeking the finest culinary delights or a family on a budget looking for memorable dining experiences, Dubai’s vibrant food scene has something special for everyone. This city’s diverse range of renowned eateries ensures that every foodie finds satisfaction with ease.
Dubai’s restaurants reflect the city’s inclusive and welcoming culture, celebrating diversity in every dish. From luxurious dining establishments to hidden gems in the city’s nooks, Dubai caters to a wide array of tastes and social classes, mirroring the varied tapestry of its population.
Whether you’re craving the best Emirati cuisine or international flavors from around the globe, we have curated a list of the top restaurants in Dubai to suit all budget sizes. Additionally, we have included a special list of Kerala and mandi restaurants near you in Dubai that you shouldn’t miss. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and discover the culinary delights that Dubai has to offer!
List of Best Restaurants In Dubai
The Premium
Dubai has a plethora of fabulous top-notch eateries with an ideal mix of global foods. But have you ever experienced the intricacy of gold-plated food?
JIVA ELITE
Jiva Elite is the only restaurant that’s offering an entire side menu comprising exclusively of gold-covered food. So if you’re into experiencing that sort of extravagance, head on down to Jiva Elite in Al Karama. And yes, it’s 100% vegetarian-friendly.
The new gold menu is called ‘Gold Excursion’. The menu serves 2 starters, 2 main courses, a dessert and a beverage.
Beginning with the two brilliant starters, you’ll be offered a 24k gold samosa with masala chickpea and chipotle barbecued curds with golden buttons. The main course has Gold fruity Kofta with Makhani sauce, yams and barbecued zucchini. All topped with a gold cigar. And now for what we think is the main event: Gold Covered Gulab Jamun! Served with either Vanilla Ice Cream or the traditional ‘Rabri’.
Jiva Elite is a well-frequented Indian restaurant and if you’re not so sure about the gold bit, they offer an extensive non-gold menu also. Our recommendations are the Cajun Potatoes, Palak Patta Chaat, Paneer Angaara and of course the Butter Naan.
Timings: 11:30am to 12am
- AED 80 per person for the regular menu
- AED 300 for a gold excursion
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/xx9HVpNKt7DJ3BGt7
Orfali Bros Bistro
Orfali Bros Bistro is a must-visit in Dubai and is ranked high in the Center East and North Africa by the 50 Best Honors Board. Labeling itself a ‘Test Kitchen’ it is helmed by three Syrian siblings – Mohammad, Wassim and Omar Orfali. On their website is an emphatic claim that when it comes to their kitchen, ‘rules are meant to be broken’.
So be prepared to be greeted by an unconventional menu that embodies the founders’ adoration for all things food. Your choices comprise of, but are not limited to Korean, Greek, Asian, Central Eastern and Western dishes that are guaranteed to make you want to come again. A key charm is that Mohammad often personally interacts with all his customers and helps them order according to their distinct palette.
Our favorites were the Corn Bomb, Orfali Bayildi, Shish Barak A La Gyoza and the Karaz for dessert.
Be sure to reserve your table in advance
AED 200 per person
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rszSaTEqqq4D348L8
STAY BY YANNICK ALLÉNO
STAY by Yannick Alléno is one of only two cafés in Dubai to hold two Michelin stars, found in the elite island territory that is the Palm. Offering Alléno’s particular interpretation of exemplary French cooking, a dinner at STAY is a luxurious experience, with a progression of shock-tasting menus displaying the best presentations. While the eatery pushes the limits of top-notch food, it is recognized for a minimalistic approach, a style that is honestly uncommon in Dubai.
These days, service is becoming as significant as the food there making it a show-halting café, and even the staff at STAY is very well-informed and supportive without being domineering. The overall ambiance is very insightful too, with a high-ceilinged lounge decorated with energetic crafts portraying the vibe for an exceptionally unique culinary experience.
Our picks are the Foie Gras, Crab Salad, Angus Beef Tenderloin and the Chocolate Soufflé for dessert.
AED 500 per person
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Pnbzx62J3uschbcj7
AL MUNTAHA
Sitting on the 27th floor of the famous Burj Al Arab, Al Muntaha possesses what is effectively perhaps one of the most coveted spots in all of Dubai; demand a table by the floor-to-top window for inspiring views of the city.
Driven by culinary specialist Saverio Sbaragli, the eatery is solidly established in European food, with exemplary French flavors and techniques flawlessly mixing with a couple of Mediterranean contacts. The outcome is an experimental menu brimming with striking dishes that have gotten Al Muntaha a coveted Michelin star.
1000 AED per person
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rDkWt1D6FkALM4D88
The Economical
If you’re hoping to satisfy your taste buds without burning through every last cent, we’ve got you covered. We’ve reviewed some of the best budget-friendly restaurants that Dubai has to offer.
BU QTAIR RESTAURANT
Try asking any local about the best seafood place in the city, and you will be directed to visit a nitty gritty joint on old 32B Road, Fishing Harbor in the bustling shore area of Sequirm, BU Qtair. The menu is so well known with local people and sightseers, that it has not changed significantly for more than 20 years.
The menu at Bu Qtair is about fish and barbecued meat try the masala-marinated fish and prawns with a side of coconut fish curry sauce and hot paratha, and after that grab a table on the outside porch that overlooks the fishing harbor.
All things considered, Bu Qtair is a phenomenal spot to go for yummy food without burning through an excess of cash.
AED 40 per person
Enjoy the BBQ fish, biryani and hummus.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BnA4KWJVu7N42DSL6
AL MALLAH
Shielded in the vivacious area of Satwa on Second December Road, the easygoing Arabic restaurant, Al Mallah, has been serving pocket-friendly and flavorful Lebanese food since 1979. It’s as traditional as the UAE itself. Do visit Al Mallah for a speedy meat kebab flatbread, or entertain yourself with a full meze spread with tart plant leaves, fattoush salad, and broiler new flatbread.
AED 30-40 per head
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ozFjgMDkiDzmU9cj8
AMASEENA
One of the richest Arabic eateries in the Dubai Marina region is located inside the Ritz Carlton, Jumeirah. The name translates to ‘by night’ and it is fittingly apt. You can sit back and enjoy your assortment under the star-filled sky in Bedouin tents with live Arabic tunes playing in the background.
From the hearty fragrance of saffron-infused rice to the sizzle of delicious kebabs on open flares, genuine Arabic cooking cafés catch the embodiment of the district’s culinary legacy. Whether you’re partaking in a mezze platter with companions or relishing slow-cooked stews, this restaurant offers a veritable taste of Middle Eastern culture and hospitality. You’re guaranteed to leave with memories that stay long after the dinner is over.
AED 250 per person
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/aUC7cyM1vLEouUfB6
AL USTAD SPECIAL KABAB
The Al Ansari family has run Al Ustad Special Kabab for over 40 years now. This Iranian place in Bur Dubai is famous for grilled kebabs. One bite of their signature meal and you dwell into the intricacy of flavors of Khas kebab, yogurt-marinated chicken or lamb dish, and soon you will find out why the walls are filled with photographs of happy foodie customers.
AED 50 per person
Yogurt kababs all the way.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ivHBCKPRtywkj9ge7
BEHROUZ BIRYANI
Behrouz Biryani is one of the top restaurants in Dubai that makes unbelievably authentic and zesty biryani. Biryani is a dish made with rice, meat (chicken or lamb) and loads of tasty flavors. In other words, it’s a party in your mouth!
At Behrouz Biryani, they make their biryani in an extraordinary way called “dum.” This implies that they cook it gradually in a fixed pot, which makes the flavors mix impeccably. The outcome is a biryani that is loaded with astonishing preferences.
They have various sorts of biryani for you to browse. Assuming you like meat, you can attempt their “dum gosht” biryani, which has delicate bits of meat blended in with the fragrant rice. If you prefer chicken, they have an exceptional biryani called “ghee cook chicken.” The chicken is cooked in ghee (which is like margarine) and it makes the biryani taste extra special. Furthermore, if you’re vegetarian they have a biryani with paneer, which is a sort of delicate cheddar. However, that is not all! Don’t forget to try the savour kababs.
AED 20 per person.
Try anything with biryani in it. Guaranteed satisfaction.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/oReNSxHdRrr1Mm8V8
NOUR IN THE KITCHEN
Nour in the Kitchen is a food venture by Nour Ashraf, who is a self-trained pastry specialist delivering joy to doorsteps across Dubai. Nour soared to progress after her Nutella magma cupcakes became a web sensation on a food blog. Ashraf’s menu goes from solid breakfast oats treats to vegetarian cakes and gluten-free sweets for all events. The sweet yet solid keto-prepared doughnuts are particularly famous.
The Steals
In a city filled with extravagance, these least expensive restaurants serve some of the best food. These treasures grandstand the city’s social variety and culinary skill, offering a legitimate taste of different cooking styles from around the world. In this way, whether you’re a traveler on a budget or a local looking for new flavors, these restaurants demonstrate that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy remarkable food.
THE KEBAB SHOP: A KEBAB LOVER’S HEAVEN
In Al Safa, The Kebab Shop: A Kebab Lover’s Heaven serves a wide variety of delicious kebabs that take care of every sense of taste. From chicken to burgers, the menu brags an exhibiting array of choices that grandstand the excellence of barbecued meat. The modest prices and generous portions guarantee that your kabab desires are satisfied without stressing out your wallet.
AED 20 per person
RAVI RESTAURANT
Settled in the core of Al Satwa, away from the glamor of downtown, Ravi Restaurant is a genuine hidden gem under the entire top-rated restaurants in Dubai. This modest restaurant is cherished by locals and expats alike for its bona fide Pakistani cooking. From aromatic biryani to delicious kebabs, each dish is an eruption of flavors. The overall price adds to the appeal, making it an ideal spot for those looking for reasonable yet scrumptious eating
AED 20 per person
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/pEkiivEEBHq8A8LN9
AAPPA KADAI
For a tint of South Indian food, Aappa Kadai will be your go-to for comfort food. From squishy dosas to aromatic and traditional curries, this restaurant teleports you directly to the roads of Chennai. The reasonable costs and credible flavors make your decision to try Aappa Kadai for lively South Indian cooking, worth it.
AED 20 per person
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/KFryQuwY2uzFdbmZ8
That’s our collection of the best restaurants in Dubai for all budgets. Let us know what you think of our choices, and be sure to reach out if we’ve left out your favorite spot. We also suggest you visit our Dine section to explore multi-food spots in Dubai streets.
FAQs
What are the best fine dining restaurants in Dubai? Some of the top fine dining restaurants in Dubai include Nobu, Zuma, and Pierchic, each offering a luxurious dining experience with exquisite dishes and exceptional service.
Where can I find authentic Emirati cuisine in Dubai? For authentic Emirati cuisine, visit Al Fanar Restaurant and Café or Aseelah, where you can enjoy traditional dishes like Al Harees and Al Machboos.
Are there budget-friendly restaurants in Dubai? Yes, Dubai has numerous budget-friendly options. Al Ustad Special Kabab and Ravi Restaurant are popular choices that offer delicious meals at reasonable prices.
What international cuisines can I find in Dubai? Dubai offers a wide range of international cuisines, including Italian, Japanese, French-Mediterranean, and many more. Restaurants like La Petite Maison and Zuma are excellent choices for a global culinary experience.
Where can I find Kerala and mandi restaurants in Dubai? For Kerala cuisine, try Kerala Kitchen and Calicut Paragon. For mandi dishes, Bait Al Mandi and Al Tawasol are popular spots.
What makes Dubai’s restaurant scene unique? Dubai’s restaurant scene is unique due to its diversity, quality, and the complete dining experience it offers, with stunning views, elegant interiors, and impeccable service.
Conclusion
Dubai’s culinary landscape is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. From fine dining extravaganzas to hidden gems and budget-friendly delights, there is something for every taste and budget. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring the best restaurants in Dubai is a journey through the city’s vibrant and multicultural spirit. So, prepare to tempt your taste buds and discover the culinary joys that Dubai has to offer.
