Question 1

What are some well-known Emirati dishes?

Accepted Answer

While the world of Emirati cuisine is vast, there are some must-try Arabian dishes on your Dubai holiday. Sip from a cup of piping hot gahwa (Arabic coffee) to accompany your traditional Emirati breakfast of chebab (pancakes) and regag (a thin, crispy bread with cheese, egg and honey fillings). You can also opt for balaleet (fried egg and vermicelli), with beid wa tomat (local-style scrambled eggs) and dango (spiced chickpeas). Seafood plays a large role in Emirati menus, so definitely order meshawi or grills, where platters of grilled, juicy seafood will arrive for you to tuck into.

Question 2

Where can I eat like a local in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

The city is dotted with many restaurants and cafes where you can satiate your cravings for Emirati food with delectable and authentic Arabian recipes. Venture to the heart of Old Dubai to Aseelah at Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek, where you’ll find a fine dining restaurant that celebrates the best of Arabian cuisine. For a deep dive into culture with a side of Emirati food, make your way to the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) – it’s a must-visit. Other recommended restaurants include Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant and Al Fanar.

Question 3

Where can I try Emirati-owned restaurants in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

The entrepreneurial nature of the Emirati community is one to be lauded, and locals have made their mark in the foodie scene of the city. There are a number of award-winning restaurants and cafes that are local-owned in the city, serving up plates of delicious food from all over the world. Armed with a Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2023 is 3Fils, owned by Emirati duo Ahmed Saleh and Adnan Al Ali, where seafood with a Japanese influence will amaze you. Newer concept Mitts & Trays is the brainchild of Emirati chef Amna Al Hashemi, where wholesome meals will leave you satisfied. And of course, everyone loves burgers, so it's no surprise that concepts like High Joint and She Burger are owned by Emiratis who know how to stay in the foodie spotlight with mouth-watering burgers and great service.

Question 4

Are there any homegrown cafes in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

The city of Dubai is thriving with chefs and restaurateurs who have created homegrown concepts that delight tourists and residents alike. Some popular cafes that locals love include the Melbourne-inspired Tom & Serg in the heart of Al Quoz, where you’ll keep coming back for fresh and healthy dishes. Within the same district is RAW Coffee Company, part roastery, part retail space, part cafe, where you can spend hours immersing yourself in all things coffee. You also can’t go wrong with Emirati-owned cafe, concept store and art space hybrid Kulture House in Jumeirah, where many a cosy afternoon awaits. Another locally-owned cafe is maisan15, a hidden gem in Barsha South you’ll keep wanting to revisit.

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