Dubai is a city where global flavors meet local tradition. For any visitor or resident who loves food, this guide lists the best food spots in Dubai right now. It mixes fine dining, local cafés, and iconic stalls. You will find recommendations for top restaurants in Dubai, casual bites, and food places in Dubai that locals really love. If you want authentic flavours, explore Dubai street food corners and family-run kitchens alongside luxury venues. All places below were cross-checked with trusted local and tourism sources.
- 1. Al Fanar Restaurant & Café — Emirati classics with nostalgia
- 2. Ravi Restaurant — Satwa’s beloved Pakistani canteen
- 3. Bu Qtair — Fresh fish at Jumeirah’s fisherman’s shack
- 4. Al Mallah — Shawarma, juices, and late-night cravings
- 5. SALT — Kite Beach burgers born from a food truck idea
- 6. Zuma — Contemporary Japanese in DIFC
- 7. Arabian Tea House — Al Fahidi’s calm culinary refuge
- 8. Pierchic — Romantic seafood on a private pier
- 9. Logma — Modern Khaleeji flavours with a creative twist
- 10. Tom & Serg — Industrial café culture in Al Quoz
- Where to go for Dubai street food
- Why these picks
- How to choose from the best food spots in Dubai
- Quick tips for dining in Dubai
- FAQs
1. Al Fanar Restaurant & Café — Emirati classics with nostalgia
Al Fanar recreates old Dubai in its decor and menu. It opened to celebrate Emirati recipes and serves Thareed (chicken stew) instead of machboos and harees. The setting helps you understand local food culture fast. Portions are suitable for sharing and prices are moderate. It ranks among the best food spots in Dubai for those who want heritage dishes. Visit Al Fanar to taste recipes rooted in the UAE’s past.
2. Ravi Restaurant — Satwa’s beloved Pakistani canteen
Ravi is a no-frills, affordable favourite. The curry, biryani, and naan attract workers and well-known visitors alike. Service stays brisk and portions remain generous. For casual dining that feels honest, head to Ravi. This diner shows how many food places in Dubai offer depth without glamour.
3. Bu Qtair — Fresh fish at Jumeirah’s fisherman’s shack
Originally a shack or trailer, now in a proper building, but still focused on fresh fish and curry in a no-frills setting. It is widely recognized as one of the best food spots in Dubai and often mentioned in guides covering Dubai street food.
4. Al Mallah — Shawarma, juices, and late-night cravings
Al Mallah is a popular shawarma and juice spot, though its exact origin as a juice bar is unverified. It is ideal for quick, affordable Lebanese-style wraps and falafel. Locals praise its garlic sauce and fresh flatbread. Al Mallah shows how street scenes can evolve into city staples. Grab a shawarma and fresh juice after sightseeing.
5. SALT — Kite Beach burgers born from a food truck idea
SALT began as a vintage trailer serving burgers on the sand. It has grown yet kept its casual charm on Kite Beach. The wagyu and chicken sliders pair well with sea air. SALT helped change Dubai’s casual-dining scene and often appears on curated lists of best food spots in Dubai. Bring friends and order a few sliders to share.
6. Zuma — Contemporary Japanese in DIFC
Zuma is a go-to destination for contemporary Japanese dining, located in the heart of DIFC. Known for its sleek, upscale setting, the restaurant draws a fashionable crowd and serves beautifully crafted sushi along with flavorful dishes from the robata grill. Its reputation for refined flavors and exceptional service has earned it a place among the top restaurants in Dubai for modern Japanese cuisine. Booking ahead is essential, especially on weekends.
7. Arabian Tea House — Al Fahidi’s calm culinary refuge
The Arabian Tea House sits in the Al Fahidi Heritage area. It pairs traditional Emirati breakfasts with a broad tea menu. The courtyard atmosphere adds calm to busy sightseeing. This spot brings heritage dishes to the foreground and remains a go-to among thoughtful food places in Dubai. Its relaxed pace makes it ideal for unwinding.
8. Pierchic — Romantic seafood on a private pier
Situated at the end of an extended pier, Pierchic offers views of the Burj Al Arab. It offers seafood-focused tasting and à la carte menus. This is a splurge choice for special occasions. The location and polished service make it memorable. Critics often rank Pierchic among the top restaurants in Dubai for romantic dining by the water.
9. Logma — Modern Khaleeji flavours with a creative twist
Logma modernises Khaleeji and Emirati plates for a casual crowd. Try their signature khameer or majboos variations. The style blends regional tradition with playful plating. Logma has multiple outlets and loyal fans. It reflects how contemporary eateries spotlight regional flavours across the city.
10. Tom & Serg — Industrial café culture in Al Quoz
Tom & Serg brought Melbourne-style coffee and easy brunches to Al Quoz. The open-plan café serves quality coffee, robust breakfasts, and sharable mains. It matches relaxed weekends and creative neighbourhoods well. Locals praise its coffee and laid-back vibe. This café made specialty coffee culture more visible in Dubai’s casual scene.
Where to go for Dubai street food
Dubai’s street food scene is vibrant, with popular options in areas like Deira and Karama, as well as numerous cafeterias and stalls across the city. No official “street-food circuits” are designated; recommendations are based on travel guides and Visit Dubai listings.
Why these picks
We chose venues that represent Dubai’s range. Each selection highlights heritage, innovation, or strong value. Some spots remain budget-friendly. Others reward splurges with memorable views and polished service. Try a balanced mix to understand how global influences meet local tastes in the emirate.
How to choose from the best food spots in Dubai
Decide by mood and budget. Want casual? Try Bu Qtair, Al Mallah, or SALT. Want heritage and calm? Choose Al Fanar or Arabian Tea House. Seeking high-end dinner theatre? Book Pierchic or Zuma. These picks balance history, value, and innovation. Use official sites to check menus and reserve places.
Quick tips for dining in Dubai
- Book high-end tables in advance. Popular venues fill fast.
- Carry cash for some street-side stalls. Not all accept cards.
- Respect local customs at traditional and Emirati venues. Dress and behaviour vary.
- Try a mix of fine dining and street stands for a full view of the city’s cuisine.
- Bring sunscreen for beachside dining.
- Use transport apps to compare routes.
- Keep reservation confirmations, contact numbers handy.
- Check Ramadan and holiday hours before you go.
FAQs
Q: Are these the absolute “best food spots in Dubai”?
A: The list highlights ten well-documented and popular venues across price ranges. It balances heritage stalls and modern restaurants while avoiding speculation.
Q: Do these places serve halal food?
A: Most mainstream restaurants in Dubai follow halal standards. Confirm with the venue for specific dishes or dietary needs.
Q: Can you safely eat street food in Dubai?
A: Street food in Dubai is widely enjoyed. Choose busy stalls with high turnover for the freshest options and stick to reputable neighborhood favourites.
Q: How do I find current opening hours?
A: Check each restaurant’s official page, Visit Dubai listings, or local news pages to confirm the latest hours and booking rules.
