The Best Food and Drink Places To Visit In Dubai
Dubai, the jewel of the United Arab Emirates, is renowned not only for its towering skyscrapers and luxurious lifestyle but also for its diverse and delectable food scene. The city’s culinary landscape is a melting pot of traditional Emirati cuisine, Middle Eastern flavours, and international influences. In this blog, we will explore the best food and drink places in Dubai, highlighting the most mouthwatering dishes and must-visit restaurants that cater to all taste buds. So welcome to this blog on the best food and drink places to visit in Dubai.
1. Arabic Delights: Exploring Traditional Flavours
Dubai’s culinary heritage is deeply rooted in traditional Emirati food, offering a unique blend of spices and flavours that captivate the taste buds. For those looking to indulge in authentic local cuisine, Al Fanar is a standout choice. Located in the heart of Bur Dubai, Al Fanar provides a nostalgic journey through time, presenting traditional dishes like Al Harees, a slow-cooked delicacy of meat and wheat that has been a staple during special occasions for generations.
Must-Try Dish: Al Harees Al Harees, a dish often associated with celebrations and family gatherings, is slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. The combination of camel meat, fava beans, and a pinch of salt creates a savoury masterpiece that represents the rich history of Dubai. So, when it comes to the best food and drink places to visit in Dubai, you do have to try some of the traditional middle eastern food if you are here.
2. Street Food Delights: Exploring the Best Street Eats
For those who prefer to explore the vibrant streets and savour the flavours of Dubai on the go, the city offers a plethora of street food options that cater to various palates. One can’t miss the aromatic Shish Tawook, succulent grilled chicken skewers, commonly found at popular street food stalls near the Palm Jumeirah and metro stations.
Must-Try Dish: Shish Tawook
The marinated chicken, often accompanied by a flavourful tomato sauce and sesame seeds, creates a delightful combination that has become a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
3. Best Casual Eateries!
Dubai is full of Casual spots with tasty options to choose from, and having been to Dubai several times, below are some of my favourite places I visited in 2023 to check out if you are a first-time visitor to Dubai.
Salt (Kite Beach Branch)
Salt was a beachside food concept that gained popularity for its casual and laid-back setting. Salt is not exclusive to Kite Beach; it has several locations across Dubai, including various beach destinations and urban areas. The concept revolves around providing fresh and simple food in a beachside setting, allowing visitors to enjoy their meals with a view of the sea.
Typically, Salt offers a menu that includes a variety of burgers, fries, and beverages. The emphasis is often on using high-quality ingredients and providing a relaxed environment for patrons. The beachside location on Kite Beach enhances the overall experience, providing a casual and enjoyable spot for residents and tourists alike.
Catch 22
A Seafood/American cuisine restaurant located on JBR is a great option if you plan on visiting JBR, whether with friends or with family. We actually just happened to stop by this place in the evening and decided, based on positive reviews, to visit this restaurant, and we were not disappointed. The restaurant has both outdoor and indoor seating, and the vast majority of the food we ate was so good! I would highly recommend the shrimp dynamite, burgers, and the lotus french toast. They have very nice kid-friendly food options, too, which are presented in fun, creative ways, as seen below.
Samad Al Iraqi Restaurant
If you are an Arabic food lover, I recommend this place to you; the location and Burj khalifa view are amazing, and you will not regret being there. The taste of the food we ordered was fresh and of great quality. The fish options are great, but just be mindful of the small bones in some of them, so perhaps not the best option for kids. Of course, don’t forget the Iraqi kebab and the shish tawook with the cold mezza and great appetisers. The tea boy is the best. Don’t forget the dessert kunafa cheese with loomi tea! And let’s not forget the views to look out on.
4. Sweet Treats: Desserts to Satisfy Your Cravings
No culinary journey is complete without indulging in sweet treats that leave a lasting impression. Dubai’s dessert scene is diverse, ranging from traditional favourites to modern interpretations of classic dishes. Esh Asaraya, a traditional Emirati-style pancake dessert, is a heavenly delight found in many local restaurants and sweet shops.
Must-Try Dish: Esh Asaraya
This heavenly dessert, made with simple ingredients like cream cheese, sweet date syrup, and a touch of lemon juice, boasts a cheesecake-like texture that is both decadent and satisfying.
Below are my top dessert places I visited in 2023:
Rumailah Farm
Rumailah Farm stands as the inaugural Jersey cow milk farm in the UAE. With a herd exceeding 400 Jersey cattle, the farm employs natural grazing and local milking practices to yield the freshest and creamiest dairy products. These high-quality offerings are now conveniently available for purchase at the drive-thru located on Jumeirah Road. We visited the branch near Kite Beach, where there is a very small outside seating area of two tables. As a family, we ordered a wide range of desserts, and our top favourites were the small milkshakes they had. I loved the blueberry milkshake, and the classic vanilla cone was fresh and sweet.
Pappa Roti
Pappa Roti is a cafe chain originating from Malaysia that specialises in offering customisable coffee buns and ice cream sandwich buns. We went to the branch at JBR and were not disappointed. The Chocolate Roti bun was popular amongst the family.
5. Fine Dining: Exquisite Gastronomic Experiences
For those seeking a luxurious dining experience, Dubai offers a myriad of fine dining establishments that showcase the city’s culinary prowess. Burj Khalifa, the iconic symbol of Dubai, is home to some of the best restaurants that provide panoramic views of the city while serving exquisite dishes.
6. International Influences: Culinary Diversity in Dubai
Dubai’s cosmopolitan atmosphere is reflected in its diverse food offerings, with influences from North Africa, India, Saudi Arabia, and beyond. The city’s culinary scene has become a global playground for food lovers, offering a variety of international cuisines. One can explore the rich flavours of Indian food at affordable restaurants in Bur Dubai or experience the taste of Saudi Arabian delights in the bustling streets of Abu Dhabi.
Must-Try Dish: Esh Hasaraya
Esh Hasaraya, a delightful dish with its roots in Saudi Arabia, is often served in Dubai’s international restaurants. This fragrant dish, made with a blend of spices, pine nuts, and orange blossom water, is a pleasant surprise for those seeking a unique taste experience.
7. Culinary Adventures: Exploring Local Gems
Venturing off the beaten path, one can discover hidden gems that showcase Dubai’s culinary treasures. The Arabian Tea House, nestled in the Al Fahidi Historic District, is a local favourite known for its traditional atmosphere and menu featuring a range of Emirati specialities.
Must-Try Dish: Traditional Rice Dish with a Twist
The Arabian Tea House offers a modern interpretation of a traditional rice dish, incorporating fresh vegetables and a hint of coconut milk for a healthy and flavorful twist. This dish is a testament to the creativity of modern chefs in Dubai.
8. Unique Ingredients: From Olive Oil to Sesame Seeds
Dubai’s cuisine boasts the use of unique ingredients that contribute to its distinct flavours. Olive oil, sesame seeds, and date palm tree products are commonly featured in many dishes, adding a touch of richness and authenticity.
Must-Try Dish: Traditional Emirati Pizza
Local pizzas in Dubai often incorporate these unique ingredients, creating a delightful fusion of flavours. The use of olive oil, sesame seeds, and sour cheese elevates the humble pizza to a gastronomic delight.
Conclusion: A Feast for the Senses
In conclusion, Dubai’s culinary scene is a feast for the senses, offering a diverse array of flavours that cater to every palate. Whether you’re indulging in traditional Emirati cuisine, exploring international influences, or savouring street food delights, Dubai has something for every food lover. The city’s commitment to preserving its culinary heritage while embracing modern innovations makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a memorable gastronomic experience. So, pack your taste buds and embark on a culinary journey through the vibrant streets and luxurious dining establishments of Dubai – a city that truly knows how to satisfy the hunger for extraordinary flavours.
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