Summary:
Explore the finest dining establishments in Dubai, where opulent culinary experiences continually transform against breathtaking sea or city backdrops.
Dubai’s dynamic culinary landscape captivates with its high-caliber establishments, combining exceptional cuisine with remarkable visual appeal. Immerse yourself in our curated selection of preferred dining destinations, organized by cuisine type, facilitating effortless planning.
In the Middle Eastern culture, dining typically takes place later in the day; lunch locales become lively around 2 pm, while dinner settings flourish closer to 9:30 pm.
The Best Restaurants in Dubai – ASIAN
ZUMA
ADDRESS: Gate Village 06, Podium Level – Al Mustaqbal St – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 12pm – 4pm, 7pm – 12am daily
CONTACT: +97144255660
A prominent dining venue in Dubai, ZUMA has maintained its position due to consistent culinary excellence, attentive service, and a vibrant atmosphere. This stylish and contemporary Japanese establishment offers a captivating bar setting that serves as an engaging starting point for the evening.
ROKA
ADDRESS: Level 1, The Opus by Omniyat – Al Amal St – Business Bay – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 12pm – 4pm, 6:30pm – 12am daily
CONTACT: +97144397171
INSTAGRAM: @rokadubaiofficial
Although relatively new to Dubai, Roka enjoys a commendable reputation in London with four outlets in prestigious areas. As a sister establishment to ZUMA, it assures even the most discerning patrons of its culinary prowess. The sleek restaurant is housed in the distinctive Opus building, designed by the iconic British Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid. Their black and king crab dumplings and beef and ginger dumplings are particularly noteworthy.
HUTONG
ADDRESS: Gate Building 6, Ground Floor DIFC Al Sukook Street – DIFC – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 12pm – 2:30 pm, 6pm – 2am Saturday – Thursday, 12:30pm – 4pm, 6pm – 2am Friday
CONTACT: +97142200868
INSTAGRAM: @hutongdubai
The prestigious Northern Chinese restaurant, Hutong, has established its presence in cities such as Hong Kong, London, and New York. Signature dishes include the Hutong prawn roll—a light and crispy roll filled with prawns and scallops, spiced beef xiao long bao, roasted Peking duck with pancakes, and the Red Lantern, featuring deep-fried spiced soft-shell crab atop dried whole chilies.
SHANGHAI ME
ADDRESS: Podium Level, Gate Village 11 – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 12pm – 2am daily
CONTACT: +97145640505
INSTAGRAM: @shanghaimedxb
Experience a wealth of glamorous ambiance at this establishment characterized by its dramatic red carpet entrance, sumptuous deep red velvet seating, pristine white linens, and a terrace adorned with bamboo and bougainvillea. Contrary to its name, the fare is Far East Asian rather than exclusively Chinese, with a user-friendly menu that includes the must-have nostalgic giant fortune cookie dessert.
INDOCHINE
ADDRESS: DIFC Gate Precinct Building 3, Level 2 – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 12pm – 1am Saturday – Tuesday, 12pm – 2am Wednesday, 12pm – 3am Thursday & Friday
CONTACT: +97142089333
INSTAGRAM: @indochinedxb
The New York classic, visited by notable figures such as Andy Warhol and Madonna, has arrived in Dubai to much acclaim. This French-Vietnamese venue introduces an inviting aesthetic with French colonial design elements, fresh whites, rattan, and verdant palm leaf decor. The Vietnamese ravioli, filled with rice noodles, chicken, shrimp, and shiitake mushrooms, along with the Dubai-exclusive Lamb Char Siu, which features slowly cooked lamb neck glazed with honey, are highly recommended.
THIPTARA
ADDRESS: Ground Level, Palace Downtown 9770 – Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 6pm – 11:30pm Saturday – Thursday, 12:30pm – 4pm, 6pm – 11:30pm Friday
CONTACT: +97144287961
INSTAGRAM: @thiptaradubai
There is perhaps no better locale for observing the Dubai fountains than this exceptionally romantic Thai restaurant. Expect impeccably prepared Thai classics, an inviting atmosphere, seamless service, and awe-inspiring views at Thiptara.
MAIDEN SHANGHAI
ADDRESS: No 1 Palm – Jumeirah Dubai – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 12:30pm – 3:30pm, 7pm – 11:30pm Tuesday – Saturday, 7pm – 11:30pm Sunday & Monday
CONTACT: +97144559989
INSTAGRAM: @maidenshanghaidubai
This vibrant restaurant presents a modern interpretation of Chinese classics within one of Dubai’s premier nightlife venues. The views of the Palm are quite remarkable! For those seeking a nightcap or to extend the festivities, the hotel’s rooftop bar and club, known as ‘The Penthouse,’ features two glass-encased swimming pools.
3 FILS
ADDRESS: Shop 02, Jumeirah Fishing Harbour – 1 Al Urouba St – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 12pm – 11:30pm daily
CONTACT: +97143334003
INSTAGRAM: @3.fils
This petite eatery enjoys a vibrant and lively reputation, attributed to its exceptional fresh offerings, welcoming staff, and picturesque views of the fishing harbor. Despite its no-reservation policy, it boasts a dedicated clientele. The restaurant is the product of Singaporean-born chef Akmal Anuar, who previously honed his skills at his family’s hawker stall for a decade. Drawing parallels with Singaporean cuisine, the space is compact and uncomplicated, serving remarkable food. The fish here is of such quality that no soy sauce accompanies the sushi; the staff assert its excellence does not require it. Anticipate Asian-inspired tapas like spicy beef tartare on toast, scallop carpaccio with mandarin orange and sumac, and spiced barbecue marinated lamb ribs.
GREEK
GAIA
ADDRESS: IDFC – 4th St – Trade Centre DIFC – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 12–4pm, 7–11:30pm Saturday – Wednesday, 12–4pm, 7pm–12am Thursday & Friday
CONTACT: +97142414242
INSTAGRAM: @gaia__dxb
This trendy venue, helmed by local celebrity chef Izu, serves as a tribute to Greece. Chef Izu has an unblemished track record across his Dubai establishments, and Gaia is a notable entry among them. The restaurant has earned numerous accolades, including Esquire Middle East’s ‘Restaurant of the Year in 2019’. Do not miss the orzo seafood pasta, as it promises satisfaction.
AVLI BY TASHAS
ADDRESS: Unit C-01, Ground Floor, Gate Village Building 9 – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 12pm–12:30am daily
CONTACT: +97143590008
INSTAGRAM: @avlibytashas
Another triumph from acclaimed Tasha’s, Avli showcases a celebration of contemporary Athenian culture and culinary artistry. The hearty and soulful Greek fare, combined with modern Mediterranean decor, has rendered this restaurant exceptionally popular. Visit with an appetite, as the generous portions guarantee a delightful experience.
NAMMOS
ADDRESS: Beach, Four Seasons Resort – Jumeirah 2 – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 12:30pm–1am Sunday – Wednesday, 12:30pm–2am Thursday – Saturday
CONTACT: +97143401002
INSTAGRAM: @nammos.dubai
Originating from Mykonos, renowned restaurant and beach venue Nammos is a welcome addition to Dubai’s beach club scene. It features a Mediterranean and Asian fusion menu with enticing offerings such as calamari with hummus, ginger, and lemon olive oil alongside spicy king crab tartar with yuzu truffle. The burrata with four types of tomatoes, avocado, grilled asparagus, and olive oil serves as an excellent starter. The music transitions from relaxed house beats to celebratory classics, making Nammos a preferred locale for a stylish, enjoyable lunch.
Make a reservation at Nammos, one of the best restaurants in Dubai.
FISH BEACH TAVERNA
ADDRESS: Fish Beach Taverna, Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 12–4pm, 6–11pm daily
CONTACT: +97145117373
INSTAGRAM: @fishdubai
Experience the charm of Greece at this seaside venue, where the gentle lapping of waves enhances the experience, evoking memories of serene Mediterranean summers.
FRENCH
CARINE
ADDRESS: Emirates Golf Club – Emirates Hills 2 – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 12–3pm, 7–10:30pm Sunday – Wednesday, 12–3pm, 7–11:30pm Thursday, 9am–3pm, 7–11:30pm Friday & Saturday
CONTACT: +97144179885
INSTAGRAM: @emiratesgc
Chef Izu’s inaugural independent venture, Mediterranean-inspired Carine features classics such as seafood ravioli, known for consistent excellence. The highlight, however, is their tarte tatin dessert, designed for sharing. Be mindful to request it early, as its preparation requires 45 minutes.
LPM RESTAURANT & BAR
ADDRESS: Gate Village No, 8, Dubai International Financial Center – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 12pm–12am Sunday – Thursday, 12:30pm–1am Friday, 12:30pm–12am Saturday
CONTACT: +97144390505
INSTAGRAM: @lpmdubai
LPM has become a cherished staple in Dubai, appealing equally to locals and visitors. This elegantly appointed restaurant consistently delivers quality, a characteristic often overlooked. Your experience initiates with a variety of warm, freshly baked bread accompanied by fresh lemon, tomatoes, and high-quality olive oil—a somewhat simple yet appreciable touch indicative of forthcoming excellence. Indulge in beautiful French offerings such as decadent escargots de Bourgogne, savory grilled tiger prawns, and luxuriously light French toast served with spiced ice cream.
LA SERRE BISTRO & BOULANGERIE
ADDRESS: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 7am–2am Tuesday – Sunday, 7am–1am Monday
CONTACT: +97145283779
INSTAGRAM: @laserredubai
This airy and stylish boulangerie consistently delights visitors. It’s recommended to indulge in their weekend champagne breakfast—decadent as it sounds! Expect a beautifully baked selection of pastries, a fresh fruit platter, Greek yogurt, a variety of hot egg dishes, and two glasses of Champagne. Among the indulgent choices are oeufs brouillés à la truffe noir (organic scrambled eggs with black truffle) and l’avocat Benedicte de “La Serre”.
BAGATELLE
ADDRESS: First Floor, Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 8pm–2am Saturday – Wednesday, 8pm–3am Thursday & Friday
CONTACT: +97143545035
INSTAGRAM: @bagatelledubai
Bagatelle invites guests for an extraordinary late-night dining experience accompanied by vibrant dancing. The restaurant consistently exudes liveliness, offering entertaining swings and animated tunes from the ’80s and ’90s. Despite its lively ambiance, the French Riviera-inspired cuisine remains superb and indulgent.
BLEU BLANC DUBAI
ADDRESS: Renaissance Downtown Hotel – Marasi Dr – Business Bay – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 6pm – 1am Tuesday – Saturday, 1pm – 4pm, 7pm – 1am Friday, closed Sunday – Monday
CONTACT: +97145125533
INSTAGRAM: @bleublanc_dubai
Bleu Blanc evokes the essence of the French countryside with decor reminiscent of a charming Provençal farmhouse. With a menu of rustic, fire-roasted dishes that warm the heart, the candlelit atmosphere provides an intimate dining setting. The terrace, with views over the Dubai Canal, creates a romantic backdrop. Last year, Bleu Blanc offered a fashion-themed menu drawing inspiration from the infamous lavender fields show by Jacquemus; further innovative concepts from this gem are anticipated.
The Best Restaurants in Dubai – ITALIAN
IL BORRO
ADDRESS: 906 Jumeirah St – Umm Suqeim 3 – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 12–3:30pm, 7pm–1am daily
CONTACT: +97142752555
INSTAGRAM: @tuscanbistrodubai
This bistro marks the Ferragamo family’s first foray outside Italy, situated beside Jumeirah Al Naseem’s turtle rehabilitation lagoon. The establishment offers exceptional fare and is among our top recommendations in Dubai. Outstanding choices include burrata cheese with organic tomatoes, basil, and Il Borro’s organic extra virgin olive oil; the elegantly simple handmade Tuscan spaghetti with organic garlic tomato sauce and basil; and the melt-in-your-mouth branzino for two. Pair your meal with a few glasses of wine from the Il Borro Tuscan estate—it’s exquisite! Attentive service and a live evening pianist enhance the ambiance, satisfying all senses at Il Borro.
ALICI
ADDRESS: Bluewaters Island – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 12–3:30pm, 7pm–12am daily
CONTACT: +97142752577
INSTAGRAM: @alicidubai
Alici serves as a delightful waterside destination, offering attentive and considerate service along with well-crafted dishes in a light and inviting atmosphere.
TORNO SUBITO
ADDRESS: The Palm Jumeirah – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 6:30–11:30pm Sunday – Thursday, 12:30–11:30pm Friday & Saturday
CONTACT: +97142455555
INSTAGRAM: @tornosubitodubai
Renowned chef Massimo Bottura has introduced this exciting new culinary adventure, much to the delight of Dubai’s food enthusiasts. The setting is audacious, infused with vibrant hues, reflecting a nostalgic 1960s seaside essence.
Make a reservation at Torno Subito, one of the best restaurants in Dubai.
The Best Restaurants in Dubai – MEDITERRANEAN
VERDE
ADDRESS: Restaurant Village Four Seasons Resort Jumeirah Beach Road – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 7pm – 3am daily
CONTACT:+97143338025
Located within the iconic Four Seasons Hotel Jumeirah Beach, Verde Dubai offers an unparalleled luxurious and festive dining experience. Catering to those with a penchant for Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, Verde invites you to indulge in its flavorful offerings, reflecting international and seasonal inspirations. The signature dishes at Verde prioritize presentation as much as taste, ensuring a comprehensive sensory experience.
NUSR-ET
ADDRESS: Restaurant Village Four Seasons Resort – Jumeirah Beach Road – Jumeirah 2 – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 12pm–12am daily
CONTACT: +97144074100
INSTAGRAM: @nusretdubai
Nusr-et’s founder, known popularly as ‘Salt Bae’, has captivated audiences globally through social media. His Dubai venture combines fun and creativity alongside exquisite steak offerings. The “steak sushi” appetizer is not to be missed, while the shareable “Nusr-et special” and baklava dessert must also find a place on your table.
THE MAINE OYSTER BAR & GRILL
ADDRESS: Ground Floor, The DoubleTree by Hilton – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 12pm–12am daily
CONTACT: +97144576719
INSTAGRAM: @themainedxb
The Maine Oyster Bar & Grill prides itself on delectable seafood offerings and an inviting decor that maintains a lively atmosphere, especially on Wednesdays during their ladies’ night, where complimentary drinks are offered.
FOLLY BY NICK & SCOTT
ADDRESS: Unit 27, Souk Madinat Jumeirah – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 5pm–12am daily
CONTACT: +97144308535
INSTAGRAM: @follydubai
Prominent chefs Nick Alvis and Scott Price have brilliantly executed the concept behind Folly by Nick & Scott, which features an intimate dining space, a chef’s table, a dedicated wine and cheese area, a rooftop bar, and a splendid outdoor terrace with stunning views of the Madinat waterways, Burj Al Arab, and the sea. The menu emphasizes quality produce, focusing on beautifully crafted bite-sized creations with contemporary twists, such as their signature crispy hen’s egg accompanied by pancetta and maple syrup.
Make a reservation at Folly, one of the best restaurants in Dubai.
FLAMINGO ROOM BY TASHAS
ADDRESS: Al Naseem, Madinat Jumeirah Road, 75157 – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 12–4pm, 6pm–12am daily
CONTACT: +97142447278
INSTAGRAM: @flamingoroombytashas
Another success from Tasha’s, Flamingo Room by Tashas is vibrant, colorful, and undoubtedly ranks among Dubai’s top Instagrammable venues. Classic offerings include calamari Mozambique—calamari and squid heads prepared in a lemon butter, tarragon and peri peri sauce, complemented by generous portions of crispy shoestring fries—and a decadent lobster pasta infused with roasted cherry tomatoes, crème fraîche, garlic, chili, red onion, and fresh tagliatelle.
Make a reservation at Flamingo Room by Tashas, one of the best restaurants in Dubai.
The Best Restaurants in Dubai – MIDDLE EASTERN & NORTH AFRICAN
NINIVE
ADDRESS: Emirates Towers Hotel – Sheikh Zayed Rd – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 5pm–1am daily
CONTACT: +97143266105
INSTAGRAM: @ninivedubai
Ninive, named after the ancient city of present-day Iraq, captures the authenticity of Arabic culture, fostering a social space designed to evolve. An urban majlis boasts enchanting skyline views and a menu featuring delicacies from Iran, Iraq, Egypt, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia, including the Iraqi specialty ‘Tashreeb,’ which consists of braised lamb cooked in spices for seven hours.
Make a reservation at Ninive, one of the best restaurants in Dubai.
AL NAFOORAH
ADDRESS: Sheikh Zayed Road, Ground Level, The Boulevard, Emirates Towers – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 12–11:30pm daily
CONTACT: +971800666353
INSTAGRAM: @alnafoorahdubai
Indulge in authentic Lebanese cuisine at Al Nafoorah, renowned for its classic grilled and mezze dishes. Its relaxed ambiance creates the perfect environment for casual dining.
Make a reservation at Al Nafoorah, one of the best restaurants in Dubai.
BABEL
ADDRESS: Unit 403, S30, 2A St, La Mer South – Dubai (Location Map)
OPENING HOURS: 5pm–12am Sunday – Thursday, 12pm–1am Friday & Saturday
CONTACT: +97144190220
INSTAGRAM: @babeluae
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