In recent years, Dubai’s culinary scene has exploded with some of the best food that the city has seen in decades.
With the likes of Michelin Guide and the World’s 50 Best Restaurants coming to the city, the true stars of the food space have shined through, making Dubai one of the best places for food lovers with a vibrant and diverse food scene that’s sure to delight any palate. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for a great meal, Dubai offers a little something for everyone.
If you are looking to explore Dubai’s dining scene, here are some restaurants that are a must for your Dubai Restaurant Bucket List.
Trèsind Studio
At Trèsind Studio, dining is nothing short of a magical experience. This intimate 20-seat restaurant offers a multi-course tasting menu that showcases flavors from all over India. Chef Himanshu Saini, known for his innovative approach to Indian cuisine, has crafted a menu that is both theatrical and deeply rooted in India’s rich culinary history. Expect dishes like ash-roasted artichokes and seafood delights inspired by India’s coastal regions. Trèsind Studio boasts two Michelin Stars and ranks number 2 on the MENA World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, making it one of the best restaurants in Dubai.
Orfali Bros
Run by three Syrian brothers, Orfali Bros Bistro in Dubai is a culinary gem and one of the top restaurants in Dubai. The restaurant features a two-story open kitchen where Mediterranean-inspired small plates with global influences are prepared with precision. Highlights include ‘Come with me to Aleppo’ and beautifully crafted desserts by the pâtissier brothers. The relaxed yet professional service adds to the charm, making this a top dining destination. Orfali Bros has earned one Michelin star and topped the MENA World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
Ossiano
Dining at Ossiano is a surreal experience, set against the backdrop of a massive aquarium teeming with marine life at Atlantis, The Palm. Chef Grégoire Berger’s seafood-centric menu is inspired by his French heritage and personal travels. Dishes are not just meals but theatrical presentations, often completed tableside. Expect to be mesmerized by courses like smoked salmon paired with caviar and plankton. Ossiano, with its unique underwater dining atmosphere, has one Michelin star and ranks number 3 on the MENA World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, making it one of the most popular restaurants in Dubai.
STAY by Yannick Alléno
STAY by Yannick Alléno offers a luxurious dining experience without the stiffness. The menu combines French culinary traditions with modern innovations, creating harmonious and unforgettable dishes. The high ceilings and elegant gardens enhance the dining atmosphere. This restaurant, holding two Michelin stars, is a must-visit for those seeking refined French cuisine in a breathtaking setting.
Il Ristorante-Niko Romito
Nestled within the Bulgari Resort Hotel, Il Ristorante-Niko Romito exudes style and sophistication. The modern Italian menu by Chef Giacomo Amicucci features top-quality ingredients, many flown in from Italy. Fish and pasta dishes are standout choices. The intimate and romantic ambiance, coupled with impeccable service, makes this restaurant a top dining spot. Il Ristorante-Niko Romito holds two Michelin stars.
Row on 45
British chef Jason Atherton’s Row on 45 is an intimate 22-seat restaurant located on the 45th floor of The Grosvenor House. The restaurant offers a 17-course tasting menu featuring fine Japanese ingredients prepared with French techniques. With dishes like Hokkaido scallop and Saroma Wagyu A5, this dining experience is both sophisticated and meticulously presented. Row on 45 has two Michelin stars and is ranked number 41 on the MENA World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
La Dame de Pic
La Dame de Pic Dubai, by internationally renowned chef Anne-Sophie Pic, is located on the 25th floor of the One&Only One Za’abeel hotel. The restaurant offers two set menus, Symphony and Harmony, featuring modern French cuisine with classic roots. Expect delicate dishes like wild John Dory with razor clams, elevated by expertly used spices. This stylish venue, with its bar and open kitchen, has one Michelin star.
Al Muntaha
Perched on the 27th floor of the iconic Burj Al Arab, Al Muntaha offers breathtaking views and sophisticated French-Mediterranean cuisine. The menu features luxury ingredients like truffles and caviar, prepared with precision. The attentive staff and stunning floor-to-ceiling windows enhance the overall dining experience, earning Al Muntaha its one Michelin star.
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
Located in Atlantis The Royal, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal transports diners through centuries of British culinary history with a modern twist. Signature dishes like ‘Meat Fruit’ and ‘Tipsy Cake’ are must-tries. The atmospheric setting, smooth service, and innovative menu make it a standout dining destination, just like its world-famous London counterpart. Dinner by Heston Blumenthal has one Michelin star.
Tasca by José Avillez
Tasca, situated in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, offers vibrant Portuguese flavors with a modern edge. The menu features innovative dishes crafted from fresh, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant’s beachside location, infinity pool terrace, and attentive service make it a delightful spot for a relaxed yet flavorful dining experience with one Michelin star.
Hōseki
Hōseki, located in the Bulgari Hotel, provides an ultra-intimate dining experience with just nine counter-seats. Sixth-generation sushi master Masahiro Sugiyama creates a personalized omakase menu for each guest, blending top-quality Japanese ingredients with individual tastes. The elegant and serene setting enhances the refined culinary journey, earning Hōseki its one Michelin star.
Moonrise
Moonrise, an omakase-style restaurant led by Dubai-raised chef Solemann Haddad, offers a unique dining experience with Middle Eastern flavors and Japanese techniques. The intimate 12-seat counter setup allows diners to closely observe the preparation of each dish. Moonrise has quickly gained acclaim, holding one Michelin star and ranking number 4 on the MENA World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
Torno Subito
Torno Subito, at the W Hotel on the Palm, is a lively tribute to the Italian Riviera of the 1960s. Chef Massimo Bottura offers modern Italian dishes bursting with color and flavor. The vibrant atmosphere, open kitchen, and beachfront views make it a fun and memorable dining spot with a coveted Michelin star.
Hakkasan
Hakkasan, located in Atlantis The Palm, is a global brand known for its reimagined Chinese dishes. The Dubai outpost offers a lively atmosphere, smooth service, and a menu featuring classics like lychee lobster with yuzu pearl. The stylish setting and creative dishes, along with its one Michelin star make Hakkasan a popular choice.
Avatāra
Avatāra offers a unique vegetarian dining experience with a menu inspired by various regions of India. The beautifully presented dishes are made without garlic or onion, each telling a story explained by the delightful team. The restaurant’s distinctive décor and intimate setting add to the unforgettable experience. Avatāra also holds a one Michelin star.
11 Woodfire
11 Woodfire, in Jumeirah, offers a relaxed dining experience with a focus on grilled dishes using global ingredients. The industrial-style setting, open kitchen, and expertly cooked vegetables, seafood, and meats create a laid-back yet sophisticated atmosphere. 11 Woodfire has one Michelin star and is ranked number 18 on the MENA World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
Sagetsu by Tetsuya
Sagetsu by Tetsuya, blending Japanese precision and French techniques, offers a serene dining experience with views of Dubai’s skyline. The tasting menu highlights balanced flavors with a minimalist approach, earning Segetsu its one Michelin star. Signature dishes like sea urchin with Bohan shrimp showcase the chef’s expertise.
Smoked Room
Smoked Room, led by Chef Dani García, offers an immersive “Fire Omakase” experience at the St. Regis Gardens on the Palm Jumeirah. The intimate setting and 11-course menu highlight creative and technically skilled dishes like sea cucumber carbonara. The restaurant’s engaging atmosphere and stunning desserts make it a must-visit. Smoked Room has one Michelin star.
Armani Ristorante
Located in the Armani Hotel at the Burj Khalifa, Armani Ristorante offers elegant Italian cuisine with first-class ingredients. The high ceilings, marble flooring, and glass-fronted kitchen create a luxurious dining experience. Signature dishes like Tortelli Piacentini and exquisite desserts make it a standout Michelin star spot.
Hoe Lee Kow
Hoe Lee Kow, in Dubai Hills Business Park, is a contemporary Korean eatery by chef Reif Othman. The restaurant offers barbecue dishes with a playful twist, like marinated grilled salmon with gochujang sauce. The vibrant décor and warm service add to the enjoyable dining experience. Hoe Lee Kow has a Bib Gourmand mention in the Michelin Guide.
Indya by Vineet
Indya by Vineet offers vibrant, modern Indian cuisine in a fun and funky poolside setting. The eclectic menu features generous portions of colorful dishes like tandoori cauliflower roast and lamb biryani kofta. The charming team ensures a delightful dining experience, earning Indya a Bib Gourmand mention in the Michelin Guide.
3 Fils
Located in the Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, 3 Fils is a simple yet popular eatery known for its open kitchen and laid-back ambiance. The restaurant offers a variety of Asian small plates with a strong emphasis on Japanese flavors. 3 Fils is recognized in the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand section and is ranked no. 6 on the MENA World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
REIF Japanese Kushiyaki
In the Al Wasl neighborhood, this kushiyaki-inspired restaurant offers a friendly atmosphere and a menu that goes beyond grilled skewered meats. The contemporary Japanese menu includes well-priced snacks, sushi, and ramen, such as Tantamen ramen, raw salmon with crispy black rice, and Wagyu steamed bun. Don’t forget to save room for the innovative desserts. REIF Japanese Kushiyaki is featured in the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand and is ranked no. 23 on the MENA World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
DUO Gastrobar
DUO Gastrobar, in Dubai Hills, offers a light and airy atmosphere with modern dishes influenced by Asian and European cuisines. The restaurant’s signature dishes, like oxtail pie with Taleggio, are worth trying. The well-trained staff and sleek décor enhance the dining experience. DUO Gastrobar has a Bib Gourmand mention in the Michelin Guide.
Bait Maryam
Bait Maryam, named after the owner’s mother, offers a warm, home-like atmosphere and delicious Levantine dishes. The menu blends traditional recipes with modern touches, offering dishes like Maryam fukhara and kibbe meatballs cooked with pomegranate molasses in a clay pot. The restaurant features both indoor and lakeside terrace seating, is noted in the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand, and ranked no. 28 on the MENA World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
Revelry
Revelry, the sister restaurant to avatāra, offers a casual, tapas-style dining experience with a focus on contemporary Indian dishes. The lively atmosphere is complemented by a good range of India-inspired cocktails and sports games on TV. The menu features a blend of tradition and modernity, with dishes like smoked jackfruit, corn shami kebab, and bouillabaisse Malai curry. Revelry is listed in the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand.
Goldfish
Situated in a stylish mall, Goldfish offers vibrant, modern Japanese cuisine. The menu includes sushi, uni, yakitori, and a variety of sharing plates, as well as Wagyu steak. Daily chef’s specials and creative mocktails add to the dining experience. The reasonable prices and attentive service make this a popular spot. Goldfish is mentioned in the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand.
Ibn Albahr
This Lebanese seafood restaurant, located on the beach, features a charming décor with fishing-themed decorations. Diners can choose their fresh fish from the counter and enjoy simple yet flavorful dishes prepared with aromatic herbs and spices. The beachfront setting enhances the dining experience. Ibn Albahr is also highlighted in the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand.
Aamara
Aamara, inspired by the Silk Route, offers a vibrant dining experience with dishes that blend Mediterranean and Asian flavors. The sharing plates include signatures like smoked jackfruit, corn shami kebab, and bouillabaisse Malai curry. Aamara quickly became a favorite for its innovative menu and lively atmosphere, earning it a mention in Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand.
Beranjak
Located in Al Wasl, Beranjak is a Persian restaurant decorated with oriental mosaics and carpets. The menu offers a wide selection of hot and cold mezze and charcoal-grilled kebabs, all reasonably priced. The restaurant also has a separate room for families and large gatherings. Beranjak is recognized in the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand.
21 Grams
21 Grams is an urban Balkan bistro located in a shopping mall. The menu features dishes from Eastern Europe, Greece, and Turkey, all made fresh and satisfying. The signature phyllo pie and homemade pitta with various egg dishes are highlights. 21 Grams is noted in the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand and ranked no. 32 on the MENA World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant
Part restaurant, part museum, Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant offers a rustic dining experience with traditional Emirati dishes. The air-conditioned courtyard features live music and freshly cooked bread. The carefully prepared and flavorful dishes are complemented by the charming setting. Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant is mentioned in the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand.
Konjiki Hototogisu
Located in the Mall of the Emirates, Konjiki Hototogisu offers a simplified version of its Tokyo counterpart. The menu includes ramen, gyoza, tempura, and kushiyaki. The signature shoyu ramen and matcha mochi with coconut ice cream are standout dishes. Konjiki Hototogisu is featured in the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand.
Shabestan
Shabestan, a third-generation family-run restaurant, serves authentic Persian cuisine with views of the Creek and Old Dubai. The menu includes traditional dishes like Kash E Bademjan and marinated meats served in generous portions. Shabestan is recognized in the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand.
Kinoya
Kinoya offers a buzzing atmosphere and an authentic izakaya experience. The menu features five ramen dishes, along with sushi, sashimi, robata, and tempura. High-quality ingredients, careful cooking, and delicious flavors define the dining experience. Booking seats at the counter in advance is recommended to watch the chefs in action. Kinoya is noted in the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand and ranked no. 11 on the MENA World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
Teible
Teible, situated at the Jameel Arts Centre, is a spacious and minimalistic restaurant with beautiful views through its floor-to-ceiling windows. The restaurant’s mantra of “sustainability, seasonality, simplicity, and locality” is evident in its décor and modern dishes. The menu features seasonal, local, and occasionally fermented ingredients, offering great value plates. Teible is also included in the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand.
Zuma
Zuma offers a blend of Japanese techniques with Western glamour, resulting in an indulgent dining experience. The restaurant has three kitchens: a main section, a sushi counter, and a robata grill. The dramatic dining room is complemented by earthy brass tones and aged-steel walls, with a terrace for alfresco dining. Signature dishes include Japanese wagyu seared over a robata grill with black truffle and ponzu sauce and miso-marinated black cod wrapped in hoba leaf. Zuma is ranked no. 13 on the MENA World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
BOCA
BOCA, founded in 2014 by Omar Shihab, is a DIFC-based restaurant serving modern Spanish-inspired cuisine. The restaurant focuses on sustainability and local produce, sourcing ingredients from local farms and foragers. BOCA hosts events that highlight female chefs and bartenders, and support Dubai’s growing sommelier community. BOCA is ranked no. 17 on the MENA World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
Mimi Kakushi
Located at the Four Seasons Dubai Jumeirah Beach, Mimi Kakushi is inspired by 1920s Japan and serves contemporary Japanese cuisine. Head chef Vladimir Kim presents a diverse skillset with traditional dishes and show-stopping platters. The bar program, led by Manja Stankovic, has gained regional and global recognition. Mimi Kakushi is ranked no. 19 on the MENA World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
Jun’s
Jun’s, opened by Kelvin Cheung, offers a fusion of North American, Indian, and Asian flavors. The menu features dishes like burrata-topped kulcha and prawn cheese toast with Singapore-style coconut curry. The restaurant’s prime location offers stunning views of the Burj Khalifa. Jun’s is ranked no. 21 on the MENA World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
LPM
LPM has been a staple in Dubai’s culinary scene for over a decade, known for its quality ingredients, tried-and-tested recipes, and consistent service. The menu features favorites like lentil salad, baked seabream with Provençal herbs, and confit duck with orange and hispi cabbage. LPM is ranked no. 23 on the MENA World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
Gaia
Gaia, launched by chef Izu Ani, offers a relaxed Mediterranean dining experience with a taverna-esque atmosphere. The restaurant features an ice counter where diners can select their seafood and how they’d like it cooked. The menu includes a variety of seafood and other Mediterranean dishes, with standout desserts like loukomades and Greek yogurt. Gaia is ranked no. 35 on the MENA World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
Lowe
Lowe, located in a leafy residential development, offers experimental, ingredient-driven dishes cooked over fire. Chef Ali Siddique brings culinary creativity to the restaurant’s sustainable approach, earning Lowe the Sustainable Restaurant Award in 2022. The breakfast menu is particularly popular, with dishes like lobster benedict. Lowe is ranked no. 37 on the MENA World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
