Food & Drink
A guide to Dubai for foodies
Fri 29 November 2024
With a diverse food scene and everything from street eats to fine dining, there are endless opportunities to eat your way around Dubai.
With a diverse food scene and everything from street eats to fine dining, there are endless opportunities to eat your way around Dubai.
Eat like a local in Dubai
Because of Dubai’s international nature, Emirati cuisine can sometimes fly under the radar. However, it’s never been easier to find delicious local food in the city. An excellent starting point is the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding in Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, where you can enjoy an Emirati meal while hearing about the traditions and cultural nuances of the nation. Nearby at Al Seef is Al Fanar, a popular Emirati restaurant focused on seafood, with stunning views over Dubai Creek.
For an immersive gastronomic experience of local specialities, Culinary Boutique in Jumeirah offers a wholesome blend of European mains and local favourites. Here you can sample dishes reflecting the diverse cultures that call Dubai home, and even try your hand at making some of their signature meals with the restaurant's in-demand cooking classes. Don't miss the chance to check out Emirati-owned hotspots that offer an insight into the local cafe culture, which is constantly evolving.
As for food from the wider Middle East, Dubai offers the opportunity to sample food from across the region. Lebanese food is particularly well-served: try Al Nafoorah in Jumeirah Al Qasr, or Abd El Wahab in Souk Al Bahar with views of The Dubai Fountain.
Discover an array of global cuisines
As a centuries-old trading hub, Dubai has long been a melting pot for different cultures and nationalities, each of whom brought their own culinary style to the city. Now Dubai is more diverse than ever, providing even more ways to experience food from across the world.
For example, Asian food is well served at every level. For an authentic and reasonably-priced experience, try Vietnamese Foodies at Jumeirah Lakes Towers. Or for a more luxurious setting with Chinese signatures, visit Hakkasan at Atlantis, The Palm or Demon Duck by Alvin Leung at Banyan Tree Dubai. Meanwhile, African food is represented by dozens of excellent restaurants such as Zagol near BurJuman Centre for Ethiopian food, or Bab Al Mansour in Downtown Dubai, not far from Dubai Mall, for Moroccan.
If you’re looking for food from a particular place, whether Japanese or irresistible Italian and beyond, Dubai is an excellent place to find it. Start digging, and you’ll discover delicious food from anywhere in the world.
Dine on the best from celebrity chefs
Dubai has attracted a growing number of the world’s best chefs in recent years, putting the city at the forefront of fine dining. Row on 45, from renowned chef Jason Atherton, is one such example. Located in Grosvenor House, the venue offers an intimate experience for 22 guests, with stellar views of Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina from its penthouse location. British celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay also has his own Dubai hotspot: Bread Street Kitchen in Atlantis, The Palm, which serves satisfying classics inclusing beef Wellington, shepherd's pie and a memorable roast dinner.
The city has also enjoyed global recognition thanks to attention from The World's 50 Best, Gault&Millau, and even the Michelin Guide. While a number of restaurants have been recognised for their international chefs, there have also been accolades for homegrown chefs who aren't afraid to try something new, creating waves in the city's foodie scene. Check out 3 Fils at Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, Orfali Bistro Bros at Wasl 51 and Trèsind Studio at Nakheel Mall for a small taste of all that's on offer.
Explore more with culinary tours and food festivals
Along with offering the highest of high-end dining, Dubai also has a vast array of establishments offering excellent food at great prices, from the ubiquitous shawarma, available just about everywhere, to the famed delights of Ravi’s butter chicken, in the heart of Satwa. One of the most fun ways to find the best street food in Dubai is with a culinary tour of the city, such as those from Frying Pan Adventures. Started by two foodie sisters, the tours see guests not only eat some of the best – and best-value – food, but also have a glimpse behind the scenes and hear from the cooks who prepare their meals.
Another great food experience is a desert safari, such as those from Platinum Heritage. These offer an exciting drive through the dunes of Dubai’s desert, followed by a delicious traditional buffet in the cool of the evening, accompanied by music, entertainment and activities for everyone. If you want to skip the dune driving, then Sonara Camp offers a sophisticated dinner amid the dunes too.
Also on the essential list for foodies, provided you’re in town at the right time, is the Dubai Food Festival. Held every year, the festival brings together everything from fine dining to street eats, while restaurants across the city also participate with great offers and special events.