by Dubai is like a food lover’s playground. From lavish hotel restaurants to neighbourhood gems, this city has endless dining experiences for travelers to enjoy. The culinary scene in Dubai remains at the forefront, as it perfectly blends culture, creativity, and adds a touch of showmanship. For people who love to travel and explore the cuisine of different places, Dubai deserves the top spot on their travel list.
Food in Dubai is not only scrumptious but an experience in itself. According to the latest reports, Dubai is poised to become a global gastronomy hub, with dozens of restaurants earning international accolades. If you wish to try the famous food in Dubai and satiate your cravings, we have curated a list of the best food in Dubai for you to try.
Famous food in Dubai to satisfy your taste buds
Dubai is hands down the best city for all kinds of foodies. From Michelin star hotels to local eateries, you will find all varieties of cuisine to satisfy your taste buds during your visit. That said, the best time to visit Dubai is from November to March, as the weather is pleasant and one can enjoy dining outdoors. Moreover, the cool evenings and soothing breeze enhance the ambience manifold.
Here are some of the must-try food places in Dubai, each one offering something quite different to cater to various tastes. Whether you want a luxurious fine dining experience or simply want to try something more relaxed yet refined, you’ll find something here. So, without any further ado, let’s have a look at some of the famous food spots serving traditional food in Dubai.
1. Orfali Bros Bistro
- Address: Wasl 51, Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah 1, Dubai
- Popular For: Modern Levantine and Middle Eastern Fusion
- Best Dishes to Try: Shish Barak à la Gyoza, Umami Éclair, Aleppo Kebab with burnt butter yoghurt, and Pistachio Cheesecake
- Estimated Cost per Person: AED 250–400
- Ideal Time to Visit: Dinner (6:00 PM–10:00 PM)
- Ideal For: Foodies, couples, and culinary explorers
Tucked away in the Wasl 51 neighbourhood, this restaurant is the brain-child of three Syrian-born brothers, Mohammad, Wassim, and Omar Orfali. Orfali Bros Bistro was curated with a passion for rethinking Levantine cuisine with creativity and warmth. The restaurant has earned its place as the No. 1 winner in the Middle East and North Africa’s “50 Best Restaurants” list for multiple years.
The specialty lies in the dishes, which are playful yet grounded in tradition. While small plates are designed for sharing, the classics have been given an inventive twist. As the restaurant is quite popular and somewhat compact, make a booking at least a week in advance to secure a table.
2. Trèsind Studio
- Address: St. Regis Gardens, The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
- Popular For: Progressive Indian and Fine Dining
- Best Dishes to Try: Chef’s seasonal tasting menu (changes monthly), Deconstructed pani puri, Forest mushroom kebab with truffle, and Saffron dessert sphere
- Estimated Cost per Person: AED 800–1200
- Ideal Time to Visit: Dinner only (7:00 PM onwards)
- Ideal For: Celebrations, anniversaries, luxury dining experiences
Trèsind Studio is heaven for those looking for a truly indulgent evening and an immersive modern-Indian fine dining experience. Chef Himanshu Saini’s work has earned the restaurant major accolades, crediting it among the most avant-garde Indian dining spots globally.
The multi-course tasting menus, strong presentation, and an elegant and purposeful ambience are the key highlights of this restaurant. If you want your dinner to be memorable for a special occasion or just as a treat rather than casual dining, this is your go-to spot. Because of its popularity, expect higher cost and savour every moment, not just a quick bite.
3. Ossiano
- Address: Atlantis The Palm, Crescent Road, The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
- Popular For: Contemporary Seafood and European Fine Dining
- Best Dishes to Try: Blue Lobster with caviar and truffle, Black cod with miso glaze, Sea bass with saffron foam, and Signature “Ocean Memories” dessert
- Estimated Cost per Person: AED 900–1400
- Ideal Time to Visit: Dinner (7:00 PM–11:00 PM)
- Ideal For: Honeymooners, luxury seekers, and anniversaries
If dining surrounded by marine life sounds appealing to you, Ossiano is the place for you. Located inside Atlantis The Palm, the restaurant offers multiple varieties of seafood in a luxurious and immersive underwater-style environment.
Apart from delivering the best food in Dubai, the restaurant offers a relaxing environment, aquarium view, ambience, and the sense that you’re in a very special place. The experience is visually arresting and widely praised. Perfect for anniversaries and special occasions when you want something more than just dinner. For the best experience, ask for a table by the aquarium window; it’s worth the wait.
4. CÉ LA VI Dubai
- Address: Level 54, Address Sky View Hotel, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai
- Popular For: Contemporary Asian and International Fusion
- Best Dishes to Try: Truffle Mushroom Risotto, Wagyu Beef Tartare, Miso Black Cod, and Signature Chocolate Sphere
- Estimated Cost per Person: AED 400–700
- Ideal Time to Visit: Sunset hours (5:30 PM–8:00 PM) for breathtaking views
- Ideal For: Friends’ night out, romantic dinners, and Instagram-worthy dining
Moving towards something with a more relaxed yet aesthetic vibe, CÉ LA VI deserves all your attention. It not only delivers famous food in Dubai, but also splendid views and a vibrant atmosphere. The restaurant combines skyline vistas with a destination dining experience, making it a great spot if you want good food, a great view, and a manageable dress code. It is the kind of place you would love to linger over, so arrive near sunset to enjoy the transition from daylight views to city lights.
5. La Petite Maison (LPM) Dubai
- Address: Gate Village No. 8, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Dubai
- Popular For: French-Mediterranean
- Best Dishes to Try: Burrata with tomatoes and basil, Roast Baby Chicken marinated in lemon, Grilled Lamb Cutlets with smoked aubergine, and Vanilla Crème Brûlée
- Estimated Cost per Person: AED 400–600
- Ideal Time to Visit: Lunch or Dinner (12:30 PM–10:30 PM)
- Ideal For: Business dinners, romantic dates, and sophisticated evenings
La Petite Maison is a home to dining that boasts European elegance without being overly formal. LPM is a favorite for its French-Mediterranean cuisine with a good wine list. While classics are done perfectly, the excellent service is an understated flair. A dinner at this restaurant feels very special, but not ultra-luxury. Don’t forget to try LPM’s signature cocktail, Tomatini – a light, tangy, and refreshingly unique drink – while you are here.
6. Al Fanar Restaurant & Café
- Address: Dubai Festival City Mall, Dubai Creek
- Popular For: Traditional Emirati
- Best Dishes to Try: Machboos, Emirati Shrimp Biryani, Luqaimat, and Khabisa
- Estimated Cost per Person: AED 120–200
- Ideal Time to Visit: Lunch or Early Dinner
- Ideal For: Families, culture lovers, and first-time visitors
Designed like an old Emirati village, Al Fanar is ideal for people who love everything antique and classic. This beautiful cafe recreates the 1960s charm of Dubai by offering vintage décor and some authentic recipes that have been passed down through generations. If you are a first-time visitor, the sunset timing will be perfect for enjoying outdoor creek views while sipping a traditional Arabic coffee.
7. Arabian Tea House
- Address: Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Bur Dubai
- Popular For: Emirati and Arabic Fusion
- Best Dishes to Try: Emirati Breakfast Platter, Chicken Saloona (stew), Raqaq Bread with Cheese & Honey, and Karak Chai
- Estimated Cost per Person: AED 100–150
- Ideal Time to Visit: Morning or brunch (8:00 AM–12:00 PM)
- Ideal For: Solo travelers, breakfast lovers, and culture seekers
Arabian Tea House is located in Dubai’s oldest district, away from the hustle and bustle of the main city. This restaurant is perfect for people seeking a cultural meal in a calm setting. Surrounded by old-world charm, it boasts turquoise interiors and a shaded courtyard, perfect for Instagram-worthy pictures. If you want to enjoy peace and views before the tourist rush, visit during the early morning hours.
8. Logma
- Address: Boxpark, Al Wasl Road, Dubai
- Popular For: Modern Emirati and Khaleeji Fusion
- Best Dishes to Try: Logma Fries with Khaleeji Spices, Chicken Machboos, Khameer Bread with Date Syrup, and Karak Milkshake
- Estimated Cost per Person: AED 90–150
- Ideal Time to Visit: Brunch or casual dinner
- Ideal For: Families, young travelers, and casual diners
Logma means “bite” in Arabic, and this beautiful restaurant brings Emirati flavors and a modern setting together. It offers chic interiors and a casual vibe, making it the perfect representation of Dubai’s local flavors, but with a twist. For food that surprises without being intimidating, and an atmosphere that’s antique but comfortable, you must visit this place. For a perfect Emirati comfort combo, try their Karak tea with Khameer bread.
Dining tips for first-time visitors in Dubai
Dubai’s dining scene is enormous, as the city is actively being developed as a global gastronomy hub. With so many choices, people are left with the biggest question: “What to eat in Dubai?” and “Which is the most famous food in Dubai?” From casual and local to High-end and destination dining, Dubai offers something for everyone.
Even in a vibrant scene and with the high number of restaurants, Dubai consistently delivers excellent everyday meals. That said, reservations will be a smart idea. For any of these famous restaurants in Dubai, especially the more sought-after ones, booking ahead is strongly advised.
Dubai covers every price point. Some meals will require a significant budget, and dress codes or ambience might differ. However, you are advised not to skip the local flavour. While some restaurants are higher-end and international, Dubai also has some fantastic, more local or casual venues worth exploring if time allows.
Final words
If you are planning a trip to Dubai, whether for a short stay or a long staycation, don’t skip these handpicked dinner experiences. While Orfali Bros Bistro hits that sweet spot of creative cuisine and excellent ambience, Logma takes you to the old charm of Dubai. On the other hand, some restaurants are more accessible when compared with ultra-luxury spots. Meanwhile, you can aim for CÉ LA VI to soak in skyline views and more relaxed elegance. But if it is a special occasion or a celebration, then Trèsind Studio or Ossiano will be irresistible. So, what are you waiting for? Explore these food spots in Dubai and enjoy an experience of a lifetime!
