7 Best Restaurants To Visit In Dubai

Dubai’s food scene – like the city itself – has exploded in recent years. Here’s our pick of the bunch, from high-end restaurants to authentic kebab joints.

It should come as no surprise that Dubai’s culinary landscape reflects the rich diversity of its inhabitants. The city is teeming with restaurants that serve as a testament to the multifaceted nature of Arabic cuisine, with subtle nuances reflecting the unique histories of the various parts of the region.

# Al Ustad Special Kabab

Among the oldest and most beloved food establishments in Dubai, Al Ustad Special Kabab has been serving succulent Iranian kebab dishes at an affordable price for years. Its modest menu showcases time-tested recipes, most notably a selection of mutton and chicken kebabs, marinated to perfection and served over buttered saffron rice with salad. A favourite among residents of the city, the humble haven is adorned with photographs of satisfied customers, including members of the royal family and visiting celebrities. Their smiles serve as a testimonial to Al Ustad’s unmatched grills and its warm and inviting atmosphere.

# Roberto’s

The epitome of minimalist fine dining, Roberto’s offers a delightful Italian culinary experience. With three areas – the Ristorante (main dining room), Salotto (lounge) and Cortina (private terrace) – it provides an appropriate atmosphere for every occasion, from intimate meals to family gatherings, but always with impeccable Italian hospitality. The menu has an array of authentic Italian cuisine, with fresh ingredients sourced from around the globe – think New Zealand scampi and Canadian lobster. It’s worth sampling as many of the dishes as possible, including the ever-popular Roberto’s pizza – its crispy dough base topped with beef carpaccio, wild rocket, parmesan shavings and black truffles is not to be missed. The restaurant also boasts an award-winning wine list.

# Elia

Elia is a slice of Greek paradise. Located in Bur Dubai, the restaurant provides an immersive education on Mediterranean cuisine, allowing foodies to enjoy the freshest ingredients and recipes developed by celebrity chef Yiannis Baxevanis. The tzatziki dip and the mousaka have garnered rave reviews, as has the pita bread. With decor resembling a Greek tavern, the atmosphere in Elia is homely, too, with lovely outdoor seating that completes the Mediterranean experience.

# Dampa Seafood Grill

Located at the heart of Deira, Dampa Seafood Grill offers a brilliant introduction to traditional Filipino cuisine. The restaurant is best known for its Seafest Dump, where a mountain of shrimp, crab, mussels, clams and corn are placed on the table in a boodle-fight format so that guests can dig in with their hands. The fresh seafood comes with a choice of sauce, with cajun being a crowd favourite. It’s a messy and fun meal to be enjoyed with loved ones, with the relaxed and fun decor contributing to the festive atmosphere.

# The Meating Room

An unassuming no-frills restaurant in Karama, The Meating Room offers an exciting menu of fusion recipes – from Indian and Chinese to Italian and Mexican – along with grills and kebabs. Its creative take on traditional fare includes dishes such as the Naanza (a pizza with a naan base) and Psychedelic Lamb Chops served with tzatziki and grilled veggies. The daring menu is impeccably executed, with warm and comforting dishes that you most likely have not tried before.

# Biryani Adda

With so many excellent Indian restaurants in Dubai, it can difficult to dial in on the best biryani, but Biryani Adda is definitely up there. Located near Burjuman station, this low-key restaurant is all about the food. Serving traditional Hyderabadi fare, Biryani Adda offers good value for money and is fast becoming a clear favourite among even the most discerning food lovers. The flavourful mutton biryani is a standout, as is the tandoori paneer tikka.

# Maraheb

Whatever Maraheb lacks in terms of ambience, it more than makes up for with its tried-and-tested selection of mandi and other traditional Yemeni dishes. A favourite among lovers of authentic Middle Eastern cuisine is the hanith, a massive cut of shoulder or rib of lamb marinated and cooked for hours and served over a bed of fragrant rice. Maraheb’s no-frills seating area is always packed, so be sure to get here early whether you’re having lunch or dinner.