Quick answers — eating in Dubai
- Best restaurant overall
- STAY by Yannick Alléno
- Best value
- Fi'lia (AED 200 - 400 / USD 55 - 110)
- Strongest cuisines
- Italian, French, Indian, Seafood, Modern European
- Dishes to try
- Machboos, Shawarma, Luqaimat, Camel Milk Ice Cream
- Booking window
- For Michelin-starred restaurants, book 4-8 weeks ahead, especially for weekend dinner. Use online platforms like SevenRooms or direct restaurant websites for immediate confirmation.
Booking several weeks, or even months, in advance is essential for top-tier restaurants, especially for weekend evenings. Dress codes are typically elegant smart casual to formal. Tipping is customary, often 10-15%, though some establishments include a service charge. Dinner hours generally run from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM, with later sittings popular on weekends.
Italian
Best Italian restaurants in Dubai
Italian kitchens abroad split into two camps: the classic trattoria doing pasta, fish and a short wine list, and the modern dining rooms treating Italian produce with tasting-menu precision.
Il Ristorante - Niko Romito
Two MICHELIN StarsModern Italian · Jumeirah Bay Island · AED 900 - 1500+ / USD 245 - 410+
Niko Romito
Nestled within the Bulgari Resort, this restaurant delivers a minimalist yet profound Italian culinary experience. Chef Niko Romito's philosophy centres on purity of flavour and masterful technique, elevating simple ingredients to extraordinary heights. The understated elegance of the dining room complements the exquisite, contemporary interpretations of Italian classics, showcasing exceptional produce.
Order: Antipasto all'Italiana; Vitello Tonnato with Black Garlic Mayonnaise
Fi'lia
Bib GourmandItalian · Business Bay · AED 200 - 400 / USD 55 - 110
Sara Aqel (formerly Chef Roberta)
Located on the 70th floor of SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences, Fi'lia offers authentic Italian cooking with stunning city views. The menu, guided by a female-led culinary team, focuses on traditional recipes passed down through generations, reimagined with fresh, high-quality ingredients. It offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with robust, flavourful dishes.
Order: Homemade Tagliatelle Bolognese; Margherita Pizza
French
Best French restaurants in Dubai
French cooking is still the backbone of fine dining almost everywhere — expect sauce work, butter, precise service and set lunch menus that cost a fraction of dinner.
STAY by Yannick Alléno
Three MICHELIN StarsModern French · Palm Jumeirah · AED 1200 - 1800+ / USD 325 - 490+
Yannick Alléno
Located within One&Only The Palm, STAY offers a refined French dining experience where classic techniques meet contemporary flair. The 'Common Table' concept allows guests to interact with the chefs, while the elegant decor and immaculate service create an unforgettable gastronomic journey. Alléno's inventive dishes focus on extracting the purest flavors from high-quality ingredients.
Order: Confited Lamb Shoulder with Spices; Caviar and Sea Urchin with Saffron Gelée
Indian
Best Indian restaurants in Dubai
Modern Indian kitchens have moved far beyond curry-house shorthand — regional recipes, live-fire tandoors and tasting menus that put spice work at the centre rather than heat.
Trèsind Studio
Two MICHELIN StarsModern Indian · The Palm Jumeirah · AED 800 - 1200+ / USD 220 - 325+
Himanshu Saini
An intimate and theatrical dining experience, Trèsind Studio offers an innovative and highly refined interpretation of Indian cuisine. Chef Himanshu Saini's tasting menus are a journey through India's diverse culinary landscape, presented with artistic flair and unexpected twists. The small, chef's table-style setting fosters engagement and showcases culinary artistry.
Order: Mushroom Chai; Modernist Pani Puri
Seafood
Best seafood restaurants in Dubai
Seafood restaurants live or die on the day's catch — the shortest menus are usually the best sign, because the kitchen is cooking what actually came in.
Ossiano
Two MICHELIN StarsSeafood · Palm Jumeirah · AED 1100 - 1800+ / USD 300 - 490+
Gregoire Perrot (formerly Grégoire Berger)
Set amidst the Ambassador Lagoon of Atlantis, The Palm, Ossiano offers an immersive underwater dining experience. The multi-course tasting menu, often themed around the ocean, showcases exceptionally high-quality seafood with creative presentations and daring flavour combinations. Dining here is an aquatic ballet of sensory delights, making it truly unique.
Order: Floating Island with Caviar; 'The Seaweed' with Oyster and Green Apple
Modern European
Best modern European restaurants in Dubai
Modern European is the catch-all for kitchens that borrow technique from France, produce from their own region and ideas from everywhere — usually tasting-menu only.
Tasca by José Avillez
One MICHELIN StarModern Portuguese · Jumeirah · AED 500 - 900+ / USD 135 - 245+
José Avillez
Perched on the sixth floor of Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Tasca brings the vibrant flavours of Portugal to Dubai with a contemporary twist. Chef José Avillez's menu features innovative tapas and larger dishes, emphasizing fresh ingredients and robust, authentic tastes. The stylish, open-kitchen setting and ocean views create a lively yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Order: Explosion of Olives; Tempura Codfish with Truffle Mayonnaise
Chinese
Best Chinese restaurants in Dubai
Chinese fine dining is regional: Cantonese seafood and dim sum, the chilli and numbing pepper of Sichuan, the delicate soups of Shanghai. Larger tables see more of the menu.
Hakkasan Dubai
One MICHELIN StarModern Cantonese · Palm Jumeirah · AED 450 - 800+ / USD 120 - 220+
Andy Toh
Located at Atlantis, The Palm, Hakkasan blends traditional Cantonese recipes with contemporary culinary techniques and presentation. The opulent dark wood and intricate latticework create an atmospheric, exclusive dining experience. Signature dishes are expertly crafted, showcasing refined flavours and premium ingredients, consistently delivering a luxurious Cantonese journey.
Order: Peking Duck with Caviar; Dim Sum Platter
Steak & grill
Best steak and grill restaurants in Dubai
Grill rooms are about sourcing and fire: ask where the beef comes from, how long it was aged, and order one cut to share rather than two on separate plates.
11 Woodfire
One MICHELIN StarGrilled Cuisine · Jumeirah 1 · AED 350 - 650+ / USD 95 - 175+
Akmal Anuar
11 Woodfire focuses on the primal art of cooking over open flames, showcasing exceptional ingredients kissed by smoke and char. Chef Akmal Anuar’s menu features a range of premium meats, seafood, and vegetables, all expertly prepared to highlight their natural flavours. The rustic yet refined setting provides a comfortable backdrop for this celebrated wood-fired journey.
Order: Wagyu Ribeye; Grilled Oysters with Spicy Lime Dressing
Mediterranean
Best Mediterranean restaurants in Dubai
Mediterranean menus borrow freely across the sea — olive oil, fish, vegetables, citrus — and tend to be the easiest choice for a mixed table.
BOCA
Bib GourmandMediterranean · DIFC · AED 250 - 450 / USD 70 - 120
Matthias Stuber
BOCA champions sustainable sourcing and modern Mediterranean flavours, with a strong focus on seasonal, local ingredients from UAE farms and waters. Its lively, urban setting in DIFC is perfect for sharing creative tapas and substantial mains. The commitment to fresh produce and innovative preparation makes it a standout for value and quality.
Order: Spanish Octopus with Smoked Paprika; Black Rice Paella with Seafood
Middle Eastern
Best Middle Eastern restaurants in Dubai
Middle Eastern tables are built around sharing — dips, flatbread, grilled meat and salads arriving together rather than in courses.
Al Nafoura
MICHELIN SelectedLebanese · Jumeirah Beach Residence · AED 300 - 600 / USD 80 - 165
Nestled within the Jumeirah Al Qasr hotel, Al Nafoura offers a truly authentic Lebanese dining experience amidst beautiful traditional architecture and lush gardens. The menu features an extensive array of classic mezze, grilled meats, and fresh seafood, prepared with traditional methods and high-quality ingredients. Live entertainment often accompanies the dining.
Order: Mixed Grill Platter; Hummus with Lamb Awarma
Budget
Where to eat cheaply in Dubai
Ravi Restaurant
A legendary Pakistani eatery in Satwa, known for its hearty and incredibly affordable curries, kebabs, and parathas. Expect robust flavors and a bustling, authentic atmosphere. A full meal with drinks can cost around AED 25-50 (USD 7-14).
Zaroob
Offering delicious and vibrant Levantine street food, Zaroob is famous for its mana'eesh (flatbreads), falafel, foul medames, and shawarma. It’s a popular spot for a casual, flavourful meal at any time of day, typically costing AED 30-70 (USD 8-19) per person.
Bu Qtair Fish Restaurant
Originally a simple beach shack, Bu Qtair serves incredibly fresh, spiced fried fish and prawns. Guests choose their catch, which is then marinated and fried to perfection. A rustic, no-frills experience with amazing seafood, costing around AED 40-80 (USD 11-22) depending on fish size.
Al Ustad Special Kabab
An iconic Iranian kebab house established in 1978, renowned for its juicy, tender lamb and chicken kebabs. The atmosphere is charmingly old-school, with friendly service and traditional decor. A generous meal costs approximately AED 40-70 (USD 11-19).
Manousheh Street
Specializing in Lebanese flatbreads (manousheh), this casual spot offers a variety of toppings from classic za'atar and cheese to more elaborate combinations. It’s perfect for a quick, delicious, and very affordable bite, with prices typically ranging from AED 15-30 (USD 4-8).
Local dishes
What to eat in Dubai
Machboos
A fragrant and hearty traditional Emirati rice dish, typically prepared with meat (chicken, lamb, or fish), slow-cooked with aromatic spices and dried limes, served with rice. The flavors are rich and complex, a staple at family gatherings. Try it at Arabian Tea House Restaurant & Cafe in Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood.
Shawarma
A popular Middle Eastern street food, consisting of thinly sliced marinated meat (chicken or lamb) roasted on a vertical spit, wrapped in a warm flatbread with pickles, fries, and garlic sauce. It's a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal found across the city. Zaroob offers a fantastic version.
Luqaimat
These are sweet, crispy fried dough balls, similar to doughnuts, traditionally drizzled with date syrup (dibbs) and sprinkled with sesame seeds. They are a beloved Emirati dessert, often served during celebrations or as an afternoon treat with coffee. Find excellent luqaimat at Logma in The Dubai Mall.
Camel Milk Ice Cream
A unique and distinctly Arabian dessert, camel milk ice cream offers a slightly saltier and richer flavor profile than traditional ice cream. It's often found in various flavors like date, pistachio, or saffron, providing a taste of local culinary innovation. Look for it at Majlis Dubai or some cafes.
Manakish
A popular Lebanese flatbread, similar to pizza, topped with za'atar (thyme, sumac, sesame seeds), cheese, or minced meat. It's commonly eaten for breakfast or lunch, offering a delightful aromatic and savory experience. Reem Al Bawadi serves excellent, freshly baked manakish.
Harees
A savory and comforting Emirati dish, Harees is made from cracked wheat slow-cooked with meat (usually chicken or lamb) until it forms a porridge-like consistency. It's seasoned simply with salt and often garnished with ghee, making it a mild yet deeply satisfying dish. Best found in traditional Emirati restaurants.
Thareed
A rich and flavorful Emirati stew, Thareed consists of vegetables and meat (lamb or chicken) slow-cooked in a savory broth, served over thin pieces of traditional bread. The bread absorbs the delicious gravy, making it a hearty and fulfilling meal, often prepared for special occasions.
Fatteh
A popular Levantine dish, Fatteh features layers of toasted or fried bread, chickpeas, and sometimes meat (chicken or lamb), topped with a garlicky yogurt sauce and often garnished with nuts and parsley. It's a delightful blend of textures and fresh flavors, perfect for a hearty lunch.
How to book a table in Dubai
- · For Michelin-starred restaurants, book 4-8 weeks ahead, especially for weekend dinner. Use online platforms like SevenRooms or direct restaurant websites for immediate confirmation.
- · Many high-end establishments require a credit card guarantee or a non-refundable deposit for tasting menus, particularly for larger groups or prime time slots. Check their specific cancellation policies carefully.
- · Consider booking lunch menus at fine dining restaurants. They often offer a more accessible price point for a similar culinary experience, providing excellent value for a taste of their renowned cuisine.
- · Be aware of no-show and late cancellation policies, as fines can be substantial. Inform the restaurant immediately if your plans change to avoid charges and maintain goodwill.
FAQ
Dubai restaurant questions travellers ask
What is the best restaurant in Dubai?
STAY by Yannick Alléno in Palm Jumeirah is the benchmark table — Modern French, led by Yannick Alléno, three michelin stars, around AED 1200 - 1800+ / USD 325 - 490+ per person. Order the Confited Lamb Shoulder with Spices; Caviar and Sea Urchin with Saffron Gelée
Where is the best Italian restaurant in Dubai?
Il Ristorante - Niko Romito in Jumeirah Bay Island is the Italian table to book in Dubai (AED 900 - 1500+ / USD 245 - 410+ per person). Other strong options: Fi'lia.
Where is the best French restaurant in Dubai?
STAY by Yannick Alléno in Palm Jumeirah is the French table to book in Dubai (AED 1200 - 1800+ / USD 325 - 490+ per person).
Where is the best Indian restaurant in Dubai?
Trèsind Studio in The Palm Jumeirah is the Indian table to book in Dubai (AED 800 - 1200+ / USD 220 - 325+ per person).
Where is the best seafood restaurant in Dubai?
Ossiano in Palm Jumeirah is the seafood table to book in Dubai (AED 1100 - 1800+ / USD 300 - 490+ per person).
Where is the best modern European restaurant in Dubai?
Tasca by José Avillez in Jumeirah is the modern European table to book in Dubai (AED 500 - 900+ / USD 135 - 245+ per person).
Where is the best Chinese restaurant in Dubai?
Hakkasan Dubai in Palm Jumeirah is the Chinese table to book in Dubai (AED 450 - 800+ / USD 120 - 220+ per person).
Where can I eat well in Dubai without spending a fortune?
Fi'lia is the best-value table on this list at roughly AED 200 - 400 / USD 55 - 110 per person. Beyond fine dining, locals point to Ravi Restaurant, Zaroob, Bu Qtair Fish Restaurant.
How far in advance should I book restaurants in Dubai?
For Michelin-starred restaurants, book 4-8 weeks ahead, especially for weekend dinner. Use online platforms like SevenRooms or direct restaurant websites for immediate confirmation. Many high-end establishments require a credit card guarantee or a non-refundable deposit for tasting menus, particularly for larger groups or prime time slots. Check their specific cancellation policies carefully.
What food is Dubai famous for?
Machboos, Shawarma, Luqaimat, Camel Milk Ice Cream, Manakish — the dishes most worth eating where they come from. A fragrant and hearty traditional Emirati rice dish, typically prepared with meat (chicken, lamb, or fish), slow-cooked with aromatic spices and dried limes, served with rice. The flavors are rich and complex, a staple at family gatherings. Try it at Arabian Tea House Restaurant & Cafe in Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood.
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