Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, and it is no surprise that its culinary scene is diverse and flavoursome, with a strong Middle Eastern influence. The city offers many dining experiences catering to every budget and taste preference. However, as a foodie, you want to savour Middle Eastern cuisine in its birthplace and indulge in local flavours. This post will take you on a culinary journey through Dubai, listing the top places to indulge in delicious Middle Eastern cuisine. Let’s get started!
Al Fanar Restaurant and Café
If you want to experience traditional Emirati cuisine, Al Fanar Restaurant and Café is the place to go. The restaurant boasts a retro décor that represents Dubai’s heritage, and the menu has a range of traditional dishes such as chicken machboos, luqaimat (Emirati doughnuts), balaleet (sweet vermicelli), and camel burgers. The restaurant has several branches in Dubai; however, the one in Dubai Festival City is the largest and most popular.
Basta Art Café
Located in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, Basta Art Café is a charming eatery that offers delicious Middle Eastern cuisine in a vintage setting. The café serves classic dishes such as shakshuka (a tomato and egg-based dish), falafel, and hummus. Basta Art Café is unique because its menu changes daily, offering diners a new experience with every visit.
Zuma
If you are looking for a more upscale dining experience, Zuma is the place to be. The restaurant’s Japanese-inspired menu incorporates Middle Eastern flavours, offering miso-marinated black cod and wagyu beef with truffle and ponzu. Located in the Dubai International Financial Centre, Zuma’s sleek and trendy ambience is perfect for a night out with friends or a special occasion.
Ravi Restaurant
Ravi Restaurant is an unassuming eatery serving Pakistani and North Indian cuisine for more than two decades. The restaurant is famous for its karahi dishes, such as karahi chicken and lamb, cooked in a wok-like pan with spices and served sizzling hot with naan bread. The restaurant’s location in Satwa is small and not fancy, but that is part of its charm.
Operation: Falafel
For a quick and tasty bite, head to Operation: Falafel. The eatery has several branches across Dubai, serving delicious falafel, shawarma, and other Middle Eastern favourites. The menu has vegetarian and non-vegetarian options at reasonable prices. What sets Operation: Falafel apart from other fast-food chains is its commitment to using high-quality ingredients and preparing everything fresh.
Dubai is a foodie’s paradise, offering a range of culinary experiences that cater to every taste and budget. Whether you are looking for traditional Emirati cuisine, Pakistani and North Indian dishes, or Japanese-inspired cuisine with a Middle Eastern twist, you will find it in Dubai’s diverse dining scene. The places we have listed in this post are some of the best spots to indulge in delicious Middle Eastern cuisine, but they are just the tip of the iceberg. So, go ahead and explore Dubai’s food scene – you won’t be disappointed!
