Exploring culinary delights is one of my top reasons for traveling. I derive immense pleasure from sampling novel cuisines and experiencing fresh eateries. What elevates this exhilarating experience significantly is discovering the charming hideaways that boast scrumptious dishes and affable personnel.
Throughout our travels, we’ve discovered numerous exceptional eateries, and Dubai is no different. The city boasts a tremendous selection of culinary establishments, ranging from fast-food joints to extravagant fine dining. While there are undoubtedly many high-end and expensive options, you need not break the bank to enjoy a delectable meal in Dubai. Nonetheless, finding a luxurious restaurant should not pose much of a challenge in this city.
Restaurants and eateries from all over the world, including many popular chains, can be found in Dubai. Below are some of the most loved ones.
If you’re on a tight budget, head to Satwa District’s Al Dhiyafha Road and visit Al Mallah. This Lebanese street food joint offers a menu replete with shawarma, kebobs, hummus, falafel, and more, all at very affordable prices. For example, a Shish Tawook plate with fries, hummus, pita, and salad goes for approximately $9. It’s the perfect spot for a quick bite, a relaxed lunch, or a laid-back dinner.
The company has established two additional sites within the city. Located on Al Khaleej Road, Mamzar sits adjacent to the exquisite Al Mamzar Mosque. Opposite the Free Zone Metro station lies Qusais Al Tawar 1.
The Arabian Tea House Restaurant and Cafe, once known as the Basta Art Cafe, can be found in the charming Bastakiya district of Bur Dubai. Situated in close proximity to Al Fahidi Street, this unique eatery boasts a picturesque courtyard where patrons can indulge in refreshing mint iced tea, accompanied by a healthy salad or a delicious date and walnut cake served with plain yogurt. The courtyard is sheltered by an ancient tree, providing a cool and relaxing ambience. The minimum cost is $13 to avail the service.
The One&Only Royal Mirage boasts a chic and stylish fine-dining restaurant and lounge, Celebrities. With sweeping views of the city, patrons can enjoy cocktails in either the indoor or outdoor lounges. The restaurant offers an array of reasonably priced tapas, ranging from $11 to $20.
Celebrities’ main dining room offers an ala carte menu catering to a range of budgets, from $25 for a serving of vegetable gnocchi to $70 for a decadent whole lobster Thermidor or a succulent Wagyu fillet. In a city where luxury hotel dining often burns a hole in one’s pocket, Celebrities offers fine cuisine that’s a steal. Breakfast is served every day, while dinner is available all days except Saturday. The restaurant is family-friendly, welcoming children above 8 years of age.
Nestled in the Heritage Village neighborhood of Bur Dubai, Kan Zaman is a restaurant which specializes in Lebanese dishes. With an outdoor seating arrangement located right by the creek, patrons can relish the delightful sight of abra boats ferrying passengers back and forth.
A vast selection of Lebanese cuisine is available, ranging from soups to entrees, with a modest kids’ menu. European cuisine is also offered, featuring Chicken Cordon Blue, Chicken Escalope, and pizzas. However, it’s suggested to indulge in Lebanese delicacies like Arabic mixed grills, tapas, and pastries for the optimal dining experience.
The dining establishment boasts an extensive beverage menu, featuring fresh fruit juices, milkshakes, teas, and coffees. Savor the creekside view and unwinding with a shisha pipe after dinner. Prized Shawarma sandwiches are available at $4, while the main course commences at $8 for a chicken shawarma plate and extends to $65 for the opulent Royal Seafood Stand, complete with lobster, fish, prawn, and calamari. Alternatively, you can relish their tapas menu, featuring a delectable assortment of dips, fried bites, meat, and veggie pastries.
Situated within the Al Qasr Hotel property, Madinat Jumeirah, PIER CHIC adds to the scenic charm of Dubai. The restaurant is positioned at the end of a lengthy wooden pier, accessible from the beach. As you walk along the pier, you’ll find two pods: Chic Bar and Chic Lounge, adding to the uniqueness of the hotspot.
An upscale seafood restaurant with stunning vistas of Burj Al Arab, the Gulf, and Palm Jumeirah, perches gracefully over the water. This high-end eatery is ideal for connoisseurs of fine seafood, with a wide selection of delicacies such as lobster, oysters, and salmon.
If you’re seeking the ‘it’ spot, look no further than Tagine in The One & Only Royal Mirage. The restaurant is bedecked in Moroccan decor with lanterns and oriental rugs, providing a lavish environment. Moroccan cuisine is their specialty, with entrees ranging from $31 for salmon to $245 for a Hot Seafood Platter for Two. Along with your meal, enjoy the melodies of a Moroccan Duo.
At this Moroccan Restaurant, you’ll find a diverse selection of traditional dishes such as Tagines, Couscous, and grilled kebobs. These are made using an assortment of meats and vegetables. Indulge in a Tagine for $29, Couscous for $27 or kebobs for $26.
Craving a hearty meaty meal? The Meat Co. located on the seafront of Souk Madinat Jumeirah should be on the top of your list. They serve scrumptious burgers, succulent steaks, and delectable seafood for both lunch and dinner. Delight in the fantastic view of the Burj Al Arab from your outdoor seat right by the waterfront. Their burgers can be savored from $20, while steaks start at $42, with the Rump steak from New Zealand being a popular choice.
Nestled amidst the sandy dunes of the Bab Al Shams Resort & Spa, AL HADHEERAH offers a buffet of authentic Arabic cuisine within the ambience of a desert fortress. Along with a delightful dining experience, guests are treated to mesmerizing dance performances and engaging cultural activities.
Indulging in the weekday dinner buffet/show shall set you back $115 per individual.
To partake in Thursday and Friday night events, the cost per person is $135.
Children aged between 5 to 12 enjoy a 50% discount.
Children aged four and below are exempt from charges.