Top 10 Restaurants In Dubai

One evening in Dubai can feel like a global food tour without packing a suitcase. You can start with breakfast in Paris, lunch in Beirut, and finish with a plate of fragrant Emirati Harees under the Burj Khalifa glow. Behind the shiny skyscrapers, Dubai has quietly built one of the most diverse and fascinating food scenes in the world, with a flavor for every passport.

Need proof? This city blends Michelin-star fine dining, lively street eats, and centuries-old family recipes, side by side. With thousands of restaurants tucked into five-star hotels, glittering malls, or quiet side streets, it’s genuinely hard to decide where to eat. Ready for a deep dive through Dubai’s tastiest treasure map?

Why Dubai Is a Global Dining Destination

Dubai’s food scene is like the city itself—ultra-modern but packed with history, stylish yet warm, and always open to new ideas. You can thank its mix of cultures for this incredible buffet. People from over 200 countries call Dubai home, and every community brings something to the table. The result? You’ll find Indian biryani as easily as Neapolitan pizza, Persian kebabs next to dim sum, and new twists on Arabic classics.

It’s not just about numbers or variety. Dubai chefs get creative, fusing East and West in ways you rarely see elsewhere. Think camel sliders with pickled peppers, sushi drizzled with dates syrup, or vegan mezze made totally gluten-free. Top-tier restaurants aren’t shy about using high-tech kitchen magic (liquid nitrogen desserts and edible art, anyone?). Meanwhile, local spots keep traditions alive, especially during Ramadan iftar feasts or Eid celebrations.

Of course, Dubai isn’t shy about luxury. Some hotels hire celebrity chefs from around the world and deck out their restaurants with gold leaf, chandeliers, and tables with a view from the 122nd floor. That said, you’ll find just as many tiny eateries filled with expats seeking flavors of home. This duality—innovation fused with authenticity—is Dubai’s secret ingredient.

What Food Is Famous in Dubai?

You can’t talk about food here without starting with the classics. The aroma of spiced rice and grilled meats follows you everywhere: mandi (slow-cooked lamb over fragrant rice), machboos (like a Gulf-style biryani), and shawarma (Dubai’s reigning king of street food). Al Harees stands out as an Emirati favorite, especially during Ramadan—a simple but satisfying dish of cracked wheat and meat, simmered forever until every spoonful melts on your tongue.

Other must-tries? Luqaimat, those golden doughnut-like fritters drizzled with date syrup, are everywhere during celebrations. For breakfast, locals dig into balaleet (sweet saffron noodles with scrambled eggs). Then there’s camel meat, usually saved for weddings or big festivals—with new cafes now serving camel burgers if you like your roots with a modern twist.

The city also embraces its Indian, Iranian, Lebanese, and Filipino influences. You’ll see biryani joints packed at lunchtime, bakeries serving sweet kunafa with stretchy cheese, and shawarma shops that never close. Dubai food is defined by fusion and freshness, but it never forgets where it started.

The National Dish of Dubai and Where to Try It

Al Harees is the national dish that pops up every Ramadan and family holiday. What makes it special? Just wheat, meat (usually chicken or lamb), a touch of salt, and patience—a pot simmers for hours until everything blends into creamy perfection. No fancy spices, just slow-cooked goodness and tradition.

If you want to taste Harees like the locals do, skip the big hotel buffets. Head to Billal Al Harees in Deira or Al Fanar Restaurant for the true deal. Want a more upscale version? Al Khayma Heritage in Al Seef serves Harees in a restored wind tower house with a side of history. The bonus: staff are always happy to explain what makes their Harees recipe special.

Harees is usually served during iftar in Ramadan, but these spots serve it year-round. It’s worth the trip, especially if you’re curious about the flavors that shaped old Dubai before the city’s skyscrapers hit the skyline.

Best Restaurants in Dubai for Fine Dining Lovers

If you love dressing up and eating somewhere glamorous, Dubai does not disappoint. Think sweeping views, white tablecloths, and tasting menus that look like edible art. Zuma and Nobu are household names here, with fresh sushi, dramatic interiors, and cocktails as lively as the crowd.

Armani/Ristorante in the Burj Khalifa feels like a scene from a movie: floor-to-ceiling windows, precision Italian plates, and an ever-changing seasonal menu crafted by Italian chefs. Ossiano, at Atlantis The Palm, takes it underwater—literally. Sip Champagne beside the world’s largest aquarium, with seafood you won’t forget. STAY by Yannick Alléno offers classic French done with Dubai flair, minus the snobbery but with all the truffles.

A little tip: Book weeks ahead for the most popular tables, especially if you want window seats or chef’s specials. You’ll pay for the experience, but for a special night out, the memories last longer than the dessert.

Michelin Guide Dubai: Stars, Chefs, and Iconic Locations

The arrival of the Michelin Guide gave Dubai’s restaurant scene a major spotlight. In 2024, 14 Dubai restaurants claimed coveted Michelin stars, and dozens more got Bib Gourmand or Michelin Plate mentions. Stars aren’t handed out lightly—inspectors visit anonymously, judging flavors, technique, and consistency.

Restaurants like Ossiano, Tasca by José Avillez, and Trèsind Studio made the list thanks to their inventive tasting menus and Instagram-worthy plating. It’s not all fancy; 21 Grams, a Balkan bistro, is a humble favorite that earned a Michelin Plate. Rüya, with Anatolian-inspired dishes and breezy waterfront vibes, is another must for foodies hunting for flavor and fun.

What does this mean for travelers? Michelin stars in Dubai bring more attention, but even unstarred kitchens might surprise you with world-class dishes. Don’t judge just by the awards—some of the tastiest plates are hiding in plain sight.

Dinner by Heston Blumenthal – Culinary Theatre at Atlantis The Royal

Dinner by Heston Blumenthal landed in Dubai’s brand-new Atlantis The Royal, and the buzz hasn’t stopped since opening day. British celebrity chef Heston is famous for molecular gastronomy—think edible meat fruits, ice cream that smokes, and roast chicken unlike anything in your grandma’s cookbook. The Dubai outpost brings his London menu with Emirati-inspired twists.

What makes it special? Every course is a history lesson, featuring recipes from Britain’s royal court and medieval cookbooks. The Tipsy Cake (spit-roasted pineapple with buttery brioche) is a crowd favorite, and no one goes home without trying the “Meat Fruit”—a silky chicken liver parfait disguised as a mandarin orange. Staff love to explain each dish, and there’s real theatrical flair in the service. Reserve early and come hungry.

It’s definitely one for the bucket list if you care as much about the show as you do the flavors. The view from Atlantis The Royal only makes the night more magical.

Top Dubai Restaurants with Burj Khalifa Views

Dining with the Burj Khalifa in your line of sight is almost a rite of passage. Atmosphere, perched on the 122nd floor, is the highest restaurant in the world—it doesn’t get more “Dubai” than sipping afternoon tea above the clouds. For something more relaxed, CE LA VI sits rooftop-style on Address Sky View, capturing every angle of the city and the tower at sunset. The Pan-Asian menu gives you a break from all the Mediterranean and grills found elsewhere.

Thiptara, overlooking the Dubai Fountain, does modern Thai with views of the water show. The patio tables are the prize seats, so book them before you land in Dubai. Other options: ZETA Seventy Seven for fresh seafood and Asian fusion, or house-favorite Bab Al Mansour, for Moroccan feasts and terrace selfies.

Bigger tip? Try to get a booking around dusk when the city lights start glowing and the fountain shows light up. The menu matters, but those Burj Khalifa memories are what guests rave about most.

Seafood Restaurants in Dubai That Impress

When you’re surrounded by the Arabian Gulf, you expect great seafood, and Dubai lives up to the promise. Pierchic wins the crown for romance and location—it sits at the end of a wooden pier, surrounded by water and city lights. If you want something less formal, Bu Qtair started as a humble beach shack and now feeds locals and tourists legendary fried fish and curry with roti right by the waves.

For fine dining, look at Sea Fu at the Four Seasons or Fish Beach Taverna, a pretty spot painted all white and blue for a Greek island vibe. Even sushi lovers get their fix: 3 Fils serves creative Asian small plates and catch-of-the-day sashimi on Jumeirah’s fishing harbor. Prices vary, but for the best seafood, freshness is never up for debate.

Ask about the daily catch—most places offer a local hammour or kingfish. And don’t miss a Friday brunch at one of these seafood hotspots: unlimited oysters, king prawns, and even lobster, often with live music and endless bubbles.

Best Indian Restaurant in Dubai: Authentic Flavors

Dubai’s Indian food is next-level, with choices for spicy street eats and royal banquet-style feasts. For real-deal flavor, make a beeline to Ravi Restaurant in Satwa—no-frills, neon-lit, and open until sunrise. Try their mutton curry and Karachi-style dal with fluffy naan. For a more polished vibe, Tresind Studio rethinks classic Indian food with a twist—tasting menus with whipped chaat, edible flowers, and smoked curries, all with a show.

Punjabi By Nature is famous for hefty Punjabi grills and butter chicken, while Bombay Brasserie inside Taj Dubai is a hot pick for foodies after a fancier touch. Newcomers like Masti at La Mer add color and fun, with cocktails and modern Indian bowls. Whether you’re after dosa for breakfast or tandoori lamb for dinner, Dubai’s Indian restaurants deliver at every price point.

Kids tip: Head to any Karama restaurant for great South Indian dosas or biryanis—there’s a reason taxi drivers eat there on their breaks!

The Best Pizza in Dubai: Where Italy Meets the Emirates

Italian pizza in Dubai is a friendly battleground: who slings the best crust and freshest toppings? Motorino and Pitfire Pizza both score high with locals—thin, wood-fired bases, creamy burrata, and toppings flown in from Italy. Luigia in JBR does a killer Margherita, while Il Borro Tuscan Bistro, run by the Ferragamo family, adds serious class (and truffles) to the competition.

Even the backstreet slice shops put out artisan pizza these days. For Neapolitan purists, Akiba Dori is a must—chefs hand-toss dough and blast pizzas in high-heat ovens for that perfect char. Need gluten-free or vegan? Pisacco at DIFC has you covered.

The secret to a perfect Dubai pizza? It’s all about the crust: chewy, smoky, with a bit of attitude. And there’s no better way to end a hot day than with a cold drink and a slice fresh from the oven.

Dubai’s Best Thai Restaurants You Shouldn't Miss

For brilliant Thai flavors, a lot of Dubai folks swear by The Thai Kitchen at Park Hyatt—flame-charred satay and spicy tom yum soup prepared just behind the counter. Tong Thai in Business Bay, with its dramatic interiors and big city views, is a go-to for green curry and sticky rice. Little Bangkok, scattered around the city, delivers affordable pad Thai and crispy spring rolls, fast and full of zing.

Looking for something off the radar? Wise Kwai is a colorful retro spot with street food flavors and friendly prices, loved by those in the know. Mango Tree Thai Bistro offers great vegan options, while Benjarong at Dusit Thani is famous for their royal recipes and warm hospitality.

Ask for “spicy” if you like it hot—the chefs here aren’t shy, and they’ll dial up the heat if you want the real Bangkok burn.

Where to Find the Best Casual Dining Restaurants in Dubai

Not every meal needs to feel like an Instagram event. When you want something simple and satisfying, head to Operation: Falafel for crunchy wraps, or Al Mallah on 2nd of December for grilled chicken and fresh juice. Diners, cafes, and food courts around Dubai Mall are packed daily with families, friends, and solo adventurers looking for quick, tasty fuel.

For classic comfort food, try The Cheesecake Factory (yes, it lives up to the hype), or Black Tap for big burgers and even bigger milkshakes. Din Tai Fung has fans for its dumplings and noodle bowls, while Allo Beirut’s late-night menu is great after a long day exploring the city.

Ask locals where they like to grab breakfast or their favorite “shawarma spot”—you’ll discover hidden gems not listed on any tourist map.

Exploring Middle Eastern Cuisine: A True Taste of the Region

Dubai acts as a bridge between Levantine, Persian, and Maghrebi food traditions. Step into restaurants like Al Nafoorah for Lebanese mezze—smoky baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, and grilled lamb. Shiraz, an Iranian institution, is legendary for its kebabs and saffron rice. Al Safadi offers a crowd-pleaser menu and never seems to close its doors.

Even the humble street shawarma rivals anything you’ll find in Beirut or Amman. Al Ijaza (Jumeirah) and Automatic (Marina) are local legends for juicy shawarma sandwiches, dripping with garlic sauce and salad. If you’re craving Persian, try Shabestan for roasted meats and hearty stews.

The beauty of Dubai’s Middle Eastern dining lies in the communal style—order lots, share everything, and don’t rush the meal.

Top Turkish Restaurants in Dubai

Craving smoky grills and fresh baklava? Dubai’s Turkish restaurants deliver. Bosporus and Günaydin in Downtown Dubai serve islak burgers and legendary mixed grills with imported Turkish cheese and homemade breads. Nusret (a.k.a. Salt Bae’s steakhouse) is all drama—salt thrown over the shoulder, gold-plated tomahawk steaks, and plenty of showmanship on every plate.

Tike, near JBR, is beloved for its pides (Turkish flatbreads) and family-style breakfasts. Kaftan’s huge terrace is a favorite for group gatherings, with platters of lamb kebab and endless cups of Turkish tea. For dessert, try kunefe—melty cheese and sweet syrup, straight out of Istanbul’s oldest playbook.

Many Turkish spots do weekend brunches that last for hours; don’t skip the mezes and salads to start.

Italian Restaurants in Dubai That Serve More Than Pasta

Dubai’s Italian spots go beyond pizza and pasta, digging into regional specialties and romantic atmospheres. Il Borro Tuscan Bistro is a hallmark of Italian elegance—Tuscan beef, truffle risotto, and proper gelato served up in a dazzling lakeside dining room. Roberto’s in DIFC is where Dubai’s Italian community goes for a taste of home—expect aged Parmesan, delicate seafood crudo, and beautiful people-watching.

Bussola is all about the view, especially at sunset—a three-storey restaurant with a sea-facing terrace and wood-fired oven. Cipriani in DIFC channels Venice, with creamy risotto and Bellinis served by bow-tied waiters. For something different, Scalini offers Sardinian bottarga (cured fish roe) and island specialties.

If you love Italian food that feels like it’s been handed down generations, ask about the restaurant’s chef (many are family-run) and what’s in season right now.

The Largest Buffet in the World? Dubai Has It

Dubai holds the bragging rights for colossal buffets, and Gevora Hotel currently claims to have the world’s largest buffet spread. Picture endless rows of food—cuisines from Japan, India, China, Italy, and the Middle East—all under one roof. It’s overwhelming in the best way: carving stations, chocolate fountains, ice cream rolled on marble, and more than 200 dessert options.

Friday brunch is where the buffet magic really happens across Dubai. Atlantis, The Palm and Al Gargour both turn lunch into an epic feast, with live bands and tables groaning under sushi, grilled meats, cheese, salads, and fresh seafood. It’s all about pacing yourself; locals joke you should fast for a day just to do these buffets justice.

If you’re a foodie that wants endless choice and a bit of spectacle, don’t skip a Dubai mega-buffet experience. And yes—people have been known to snap selfies with the buffet for proof!

Dubai Mall Restaurants: Where to Eat After You Shop

Shopping marathon in Dubai Mall? Plan your pit stops. For fancy dinners, Social House overlooks the fountains, while Din Tai Fung has lines for its xiao long bao (soup dumplings). PF Chang’s, Red Lobster, and Carluccio’s have loyal followings, but don’t ignore the food courts—Dubai Mall’s lower ground packs stalls with shawarma, burgers, sushi, bubble tea, and every type of sweet you can dream up.

If you’re craving a treat after shopping, try Markette for all-day pancakes or Angelina for hot chocolate so rich it’s almost a meal. Family favorites like Cheesecake Factory and Rainforest Café offer big portions with a bit of theatrical flair—great if you’re with kids or need a break from luxury shopping.

Need more ideas? Check out the Top 10 Restaurants in Dubai for a diverse hit-list close to Dubai Mall and beyond.

Best Cafés in Dubai: A Coffee Lover’s Guide

Café culture is thriving here. The Sum of Us and RAW Coffee Company both roast their own beans, drawing crowds of laptop warriors, creatives, and early risers. %Arabica in City Walk is famous for smooth flat whites, and Seven Fortunes focuses on Arabian specialty blends.

Nostalgic types will love Arabian Tea House in Al Fahidi—whitewashed walls, shady courtyards, and dates served with each Arabic coffee. Among the skyscrapers, Common Grounds and Nightjar nail the vibe for cozy breakfasts or long remote work sessions. Tom & Serg, with its industrial-cool interiors, helped launch Dubai’s third-wave coffee movement.

If you want a sunset coffee with a view, head to Creekside for traditional Emirati snacks, or Friends Avenue Café in JLT for neighborhood-friendly vibes and creative lattes.

Bars in Dubai That Pair Food with Atmosphere

For food-lovers who love a side of music, live DJs, and great people-watching, Dubai has you covered. COYA Monte Carlo in Four Seasons mixes cocktails with Peruvian plates, while Soho Garden serves Asian-inspired bar bites alongside epic sunsets. Treehouse at Taj Dubai does rooftop chic with city views, mojitos, and spicy tapas.

At Soho Garden and Sky 2.0, you’ll get global bar food with a twist—think teriyaki sliders, truffle fries, and Middle Eastern sharing platters. Zuma’s izakaya bar makes sipping a craft cocktail over sushi an art form. Bars in Dubai follow strict licensing rules, so most are inside hotels, but the payoff is creativity and crowd-pleasing bar menus.

Happy hour is a thing here—ask about drink deals and set menus between 5 and 8pm for the best value. The food is never just an afterthought in Dubai’s top bars—it’s the reason locals go, even if they don’t drink.

FAQ: Everything Tourists Want to Know About Dining in Dubai

Curious about food, tipping, or fine dining in Dubai? Here are the answers to the most common questions visitors ask.

What is the most famous food of Dubai?

Shawarma is the street food icon, while Al Harees, a traditional Emirati dish of wheat and meat slow-cooked in clay pots, represents local heritage.

What food is famous in Dubai?

Dubai is known for its diverse food scene, but Emirati, Indian, Lebanese, and Persian cuisines dominate the most popular menus.

What is the national dish of Dubai?

Al Harees is considered the national dish of the UAE. It’s a humble, hearty meal typically served during Ramadan and festive occasions.

What's the most popular food in the UAE?

Dishes like Mandi, Al Machboos, and grilled meats are favorites across the UAE, often served with fragrant rice and spices.

Is there a Michelin star in Dubai?

Yes, Dubai has several Michelin-starred restaurants, including venues featured in the Michelin Guide for their culinary excellence and service.

What is the most expensive restaurant in Dubai?

Sublimotion at Atlantis The Royal is considered the most expensive, offering a multi-sensory dining experience that blends food with performance art.

Which restaurant is the highest in the UAE?

At.mosphere, located on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa, holds the title of the highest restaurant in the country—and one of the highest in the world.

Does Burj Al Arab have Michelin stars?

None of its restaurants hold official Michelin stars, but the culinary experiences at Al Muntaha and other venues are widely recognized for their quality.

How many restaurants exist in Dubai?

Dubai has over 13,000 registered restaurants, ranging from casual dining spots to high-end fine dining and luxury hotel restaurants.

What is the highest earning restaurant in Dubai?

While exact figures aren’t public, Zuma and Nusr-Et are widely believed to be among the top revenue generators in the Dubai restaurant scene.

What is the largest buffet in the world Dubai?

The buffet at Gevora Hotel is often cited as the largest in Dubai, offering hundreds of international and local dishes in one sitting.

Is $100 a day enough in Dubai?

Yes, $100 per day is sufficient for casual and mid-range dining, especially if you avoid luxury hotel venues and opt for local favorites.

Do you tip in Dubai?

Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s customary to leave 10–15% for good service. Some restaurants include a service charge in the bill.

What is the only 7 star restaurant in the world?

There’s no official 7-star restaurant. The term is informally used to describe the extravagant dining at Burj Al Arab, especially Al Mahara.

Who owns Burj Al Arab?

Burj Al Arab is owned by the Jumeirah Group, which also operates several luxury hotels and restaurants across Dubai and the UAE.

What is the tallest restaurant in the world Dubai?

At.mosphere in Burj Khalifa is the tallest restaurant in Dubai and one of the highest globally, offering views from over 440 meters above ground.

Final Thoughts: How to Find the Best Restaurants in Dubai

With new places opening weekly and old favorites buzzing past midnight, choosing where to eat in Dubai can feel overwhelming. Here’s my secret: ask the staff wherever you stay about their go-to lunch spots and what’s new in town. Chances are, you’ll find a neighborhood restaurant or food truck that never shows up on Google Maps, but serves unforgettable food.

If you’re hungry for luxury, check reservation apps for last-minute seats at Michelin-starred kitchens or window tables with Burj Khalifa views. Curious about real Emirati food? Look for small places in Deira or the Al Fahidi district, where families have cooked the same dishes for generations. Going out with picky eaters? Dubai’s buffets, malls, and casual spots are happy to cater to every flavor.

Bottom line: trust your taste buds and explore something bold. Whether you’re after five-star fusion or a shawarma eaten curbside at 2am, Dubai’s dining scene is built to impress. If you can eat it, you’ll find it here—and there’s always another restaurant opening tomorrow.