Top Restaurants and Street Food Spots in Dubai

Dubai is a gourmand's delight for a city of boundless ambition and dazzling skylines.  A stopover for the adventurous traveller, Dubai is also home to a diverse and vibrant culinary scene that will please the palate and linger in the mind. You’ll find a food adventure from the many aromatic and bustling streets to the elegant dining rooms with breathtaking views of Dubai. Join us as we discover secret gems and popular classic favourites, unravelling the vast cuisine that makes Dubai such a food lovers' paradise.

A city that can’t get enough to eat. There are fancy restaurants and street food, with something for everyone. Let's explore some of the best places to satisfy your cravings.

Street Food Adventures

Al Mallah

Al Mallah, Dubai’s favourite restaurant, is more than old – this establishment strikes deep into the heart of this dynamic city. This informal restaurant specialises in delicious shawarmas, succulent grilled proteins, and tasty falafel.  With the vibrant and proactive approach to serving meals, the affordable prices, and focusing on the traditional street food of Dubai, customers get the unique experience of dining at Al Mallah. Be it a snack or a proper meal, one should not skip Al Mallah while being a guest of this amazing city.

Speciality: They are very famous for their classic shawarma.

Location: Al Dhiyafa Road, Satwa.

Timings: Perfect for a midnight snack open late.

Charges: AED 15-25.

Ambience: Perfect for a quick bite, it’s very busy and lively.

Operation Falafel

Do you ever wonder how that neatly crunchy, tasty falafel ends up on your plate? Everybody knows this Middle Eastern restaurant is flung wide to unveil what makes its dishes rich and tasty. Right from the selection of raw food to the actual preparation of falafels, it’s all about commitment to the originalness of the real thing. 

Speciality: Known for some of the best falafel.

Location: The Beach at JBR, Dubai Hills Mall, Boulevard Central, Beirut street and others.

Timings: 8 am to 1 am.

Charges: AED 20-30.

Ambience: Great for a casual meal, casual and relaxed.

Filli Cafe

Many people like to come to this cafe because it gives them the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Dubai’s café culture. It is famous for providing tasty beverages and nibbles; indeed, Emirati notes have a modern interpretation. 

Speciality: They are famous for their best karak chai.

Location: Al Dubaya Street, Bay Avenue Mall, Al Tayer Building and many others.

Timings: 8:30 am to 3:00 am.

Charges: AED 10-15.

Ambience: Great place for a chat with friends, cosy and friendly.

Fine Dining Experiences

Pierchic

This fantastic restaurant is built on the water, meaning that while you are eating, you overlook the water. From an Italian restaurant to a fancy dinner on the sea, this location is ideal if the special someone loves seafood. It would be clearer if we looked at what makes this place amazing.

Specialty: There’s nothing like delicious seafood with an amazing view of the Burj Al Arab.

Location: Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah

Timings: 1:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

Charges: AED 300-400.

Ambience: A luxurious romantic, good for a special occasion.

Armani/Amal

Imagine dining in a luxurious restaurant high above the city, with stunning views and amazing Indian food. This place is known for its fancy atmosphere, delicious dishes, and unique takes on classic recipes. Let's explore what makes it so special.

Specialty: Elegant setting and authentic Indian cuisine.

Location: Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai

Timings: Lunch and dinner service.

Charges: AED 300-400 per person.

Ambience: Incredibly elegant and sophisticated, with incredible views.

Local Cuisines

Arabian Tea House

Break from the urban noise and dive into the Arabian Tea House. This adorable little cafe boasts a skylight, many plants, and a sea-green interior with accents of turquoise and white. The ambience is serene and genial for a cup of authentic Arabian coffee or breakfast. The place has a serene environment with good food and beverages for sale, hence becoming a significant point of interest to the locals and tourists.

Speciality: Breakfast trays, Traditional Arabian Cofee (Gahwa)
Ambience: Relaxing and inviting.
Timings: Open Thursday–Friday from 9 am to 11 pm, Sunday–Wednesday from 9 am to 10 pm (closed on Saturdays).

Location: Bastakiya Opposite Al Mussala Post Office, Al Fahidi St, Bur Dubai, Al Fahidi

Bu Qtair

Forget fancy menus and fussy dishes! Bu Qtair is a Dubai legend serving the freshest seafood in a no-frills setting. They keep it simple with perfectly fried fish or prawns, served with delicious curry sauce and paratha bread. It's a taste of old Dubai that locals and tourists alike can't get enough of!

Speciality: Fried fish or prawns

Ambience: Casual and relaxed, with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the harbour

Timings: Open every day from 11:30 AM to 11:30 PM
Location: Old 32B Street, Fishing Harbor 2, Dubai

Tips for Foodies

The following are the tips one must follow to enjoy the best places and food:

• Dive into the amazing street food scene in Al Karama and Satwa for authentic and affordable eats.
• Check for dress codes before heading to upscale restaurants, and make reservations in advance for popular spots.
• Don't miss the chance to try traditional Emirati dishes and ask locals for their favourite hidden gems.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is the most popular food in Dubai?

That's a tough one, but shawarma takes the crown! It's everywhere, and for good reason – it's delicious! Other popular street foods include samosas, Oman Chips Roll (a crispy, savoury snack), and Chebab (Emirati pancakes).

Where is street food most popular? 

For an authentic street food experience, head to the bustling neighbourhoods of Al Karama and Satwa. These areas have small eateries and food stalls offering various flavours and cuisines.

Where do the rich dine in Dubai? 

Head to the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) to taste the high life. This area is known for its upscale restaurants and bars, often frequented by Dubai's elite. You'll also find plenty of luxurious dining options in Downtown Dubai and along the Palm Jumeirah. Head to DIFC (Zuma, COYA, Hakkasan) and Downtown (Armani/Amal, Thiptara) to taste Dubai's high life. 

Conclusion

Dubai's diversified culinary world caters to all palates. You can find an abundance of Emirati flavours or international delicacies in Dubai. Explore this gastronomic wonderland and create memories you won’t soon forget.

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