Foodie Heaven: My Favorite Restaurants and Dishes in Dubai
By Kainat Chaudhary
Dubai is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, making it a paradise for food lovers. From traditional Middle Eastern delicacies to exotic international dishes, the city's culinary scene is diverse and exciting. As a self-proclaimed foodie, I love exploring new restaurants and savoring delicious meals. Here are some of my favorite restaurants and dishes in Dubai.
Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe
Al Fanar offers an authentic Emirati dining experience, transporting you back to the 1960s with its charming decor and traditional dishes. My go-to dish here is the Machboos, a flavorful rice dish with tender lamb or chicken, cooked with fragrant spices.
- Authentic Emirati cuisine
- Nostalgic ambiance
- Must-try dish: Machboos
Zuma Dubai
Zuma is a contemporary Japanese izakaya-style restaurant located in DIFC. The sleek and modern setting is perfect for enjoying dishes like the Black Cod marinated in miso and the Wagyu Beef with truffle. The flavors are exquisite and the presentation is top-notch.
- Contemporary Japanese cuisine
- Elegant ambiance
- Must-try dish: Black Cod
Ravi Restaurant
For a taste of authentic Pakistani street food, Ravi Restaurant in Satwa is the place to be. It's a no-frills eatery known for its delicious and affordable dishes. I highly recommend the Chicken Karahi, a spicy and savory dish cooked in a wok, bursting with flavors.
- Authentic Pakistani cuisine
- Casual dining experience
- Must-try dish: Chicken Karahi
Coya Dubai
Coya brings the vibrant flavors of Peru to Dubai, offering a unique dining experience with a fusion of Latin American cuisine. The atmosphere is lively and the dishes are creative. My favorite is the Arroz Nikkei, a Peruvian-Japanese fusion rice dish with sea bass and spicy lime.
- Fusion Latin American cuisine
- Lively and vibrant atmosphere
- Must-try dish: Arroz Nikkei
Bu Qtair
Bu Qtair is a hidden gem near Jumeirah Beach, famous for its fresh and simple seafood. The menu is straightforward, offering fried fish and shrimp with a side of rice or paratha. The flavors are authentic and the experience is truly local.
- Fresh seafood
- Authentic local experience
- Must-try dish: Fried Fish
La Petite Maison
La Petite Maison in DIFC serves French-Mediterranean cuisine in an elegant setting. The ingredients are fresh, and the dishes are simple yet flavorful. My favorite is the Burrata with tomatoes and basil, a perfect blend of creamy and tangy flavors.
- French-Mediterranean cuisine
- Elegant dining experience
- Must-try dish: Burrata
Dubai's culinary scene is a delightful journey of flavors and experiences. Whether you're craving traditional Emirati dishes, authentic Pakistani street food, or exotic international cuisines, the city has something to offer every food enthusiast. These are just a few of my favorite restaurants and dishes that make Dubai a true foodie heaven.

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