Dubai's top seafood restaurants

This over-water venue, at the edge of its own pier, offers incomparable views of Burj Al Arab. A multi-award-winning Italian restaurant, it offers mellow lighting and serene views of the Arabian Gulf – ideal for a romantic meal. Explore the extensive menu, featuring fresh seafood and classic Italian dishes. Or put your trust in Pierchic's head chef, Beatrice Segoni, and enjoy her six-course blind tasting menu, as she takes you on a journey through her native Italy.

If you’re a seafood fan, then you’ll be happy here. This award-winning restaurant situated in the Jumeirah Beach Residences area is more than a standard seaside brasserie with fresh fish, 'steamers' and of course, a raw bar serving seafood towers. The space flaunts a retro-vintage feel, so take a seat indoors for a view of their sprawling exhibition kitchen that displays fresh produce or grab a rattan seat on the terrace. While oysters may be in its name, the range of Maine's expertise doesn't stop with the humble mollusc and showcases a catalogue of dishes paying homage to the kitchens of New England.

One of the best seafood restaurants in Dubai, the Michelin-starred Ossiano always impresses. Surrounded by The Lost Chambers Aquarium in Atlantis, The Palm, this may be the perfect choice for a romantic dinner. With floor-to-ceiling windows, you can enjoy the most stunning aquarium views right from your table. Each course in the gastronomic journey tells an intensely personal story, with chef Gregoire Berger drawing inspiration from his own encounters and musings. Expect intricate plating, theatrical table-side preparations and surprising flavours and textures, as you embark on a tasting menu that highlights fruits de mer. Vegetarian versions are also available, packing the same exquisite sensations.

The best Lebanese seafood is available at Ibn AlBahr, offering a taste of the Levant on the shores of Dubai. Bring your family and friends to enjoy the exceptional light bites and grilled fish, caught fresh and priced by the kilo. You’ll find the portions are generous enough to satisfy your entire crew. The wonderful flavours of Lebanon will make you almost forget you’re at the picturesque Club Vista Mare on Palm Jumeirah. A second branch has now opened its doors in the equally stunning Park Hyatt Dubai. Head over and experience the magic for yourself.

Head down here for a seafood extravaganza surrounded by dreamy views and holiday vibes. The white and silver interiors lend a glamorous feel to this Mediterranean spot situated at Jumeirah Al Naseem. The restaurant is known for its raw seafood dishes like spicy tuna tartare and sea bass crudo. And if you are feeling indulgent, order their chef's selection, which includes freshly-caught fish – thinly sliced and marinated with oil, lemon and a variety of seasonings. From handmade pasta to fresh fish and grills, this dining destination has it all. 

Born in Kyiv, the Dubai outpost of Not Only Fish in Almas Towers at Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) lives up to its hotspot pedigree. Pescatarian pleasures are a speciality here thanks to the raw bar with sushi, sashimi and tartare, while tried-and-tested favourites include plump dumplings and popcorn shrimp. Those wanting to push culinary boundaries should try the octopus roti and eel ramen. Fans of Japanese food will also find plenty to indulge in – the caviar and truffle-topped nigiri is simply sublime.

Perched by the waterfront of Dubai Harbour Yacht club, L’Amo Bistro del Mare offers a taste of fresh Italian seafood in a chic setting. Chef Lorenzo Buccarini showcases his expertise with dishes like spaghetti cacio pepe e ricci di mare — a serving of spaghetti with a dash of black pepper, pecorino cheese and buttery sea urchin. Lobster lovers must try their risotto zafferano scampi e caviale that delights with a touch of saffron spice. To take your dinner to the next level, order a portion of their Calvisius caviar, which the team imports all the way from Brescia city.

This new waterside spot on the shores of Palm Jumeirah takes inspiration from Australian beaches. Snack on small plates or feast on a selection of mains, with an emphasis on coastal flavours putting the spotlight on seafood and seasonal ingredients. From morning favourites like crab omelettes to chargrilled octopus, scallop hotdogs and sourdough pizzas, you'll find plenty to satiate your appetite. Those keen to be impressed will go straight for the Instagram-friendly, multi-tiered seafood tower. Work your way through the oysters, crab, lobster, sushi and more that's part of this huge platter, which is ideal for sharing.

Chef Andrea Migliaccio helms the only two Michelin-starred restaurant on the chic island of Capri and now he's bringing his famed Ristorante L'Olivo to Burj Al Arab's spectacular Al Mahara restaurant. With a strong focus on seafood, diners can feast on tuna tartare tagliolini, saffron-dusted blue lobster with raspberries, and red prawn and lemon risotto among other delicacies. For an unforgettable foodie experience, opt for the five-course tasting menu featuring indulgent ingredients like langoustine and caviar.

One of Dubai’s best-loved budget restaurants, Dampa Seafood Grill invites you to roll up your sleeves for a fishy feast with a difference. The fuss-free spot promises shrimp, clams, mussels, crab and corn by the table-load – literally. The restaurant’s 'seafest dump' is inspired by the Filipino military tradition of boodle fight-style dining, which sees the entire table covered in paper, piled with freshly-steamed rice and topped with a bucket-load of richly-marinated seafood.

Sea Fu sits at the edge of the Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach and serves up Asian seafood specialities with flair. Sushi fans will be delighted to find everything from sashimi to nigiri and maki to gunkan here – with fresh flavours highlighted in every offering. Opt for their truffle-infused 'crispy ice salad' or the yellowfin tuna tartare – both are exceptional. You'll find plenty of great options in the mains too. Our favourite – the roasted Chilean sea bass – is marinated for 72 hours in Japanese miso. Their wagyu tenderloin spiced with Sichuan pepper sauce is another crowd favourite.