Dubai might be home to sky-high dining and glittering Michelin stars, but have you ever heard about its affordable food scene that chefs themselves adore? We’re talking about those budget-friendly Dubai food restaurants, the ones where top culinary talents go when they’re off-duty. From sizzling skewers to comforting bowls of ramen, here’s a curated list of the best restaurants in Dubai, handpicked by the city’s finest chefs.
This guide reveals where Dubai's foodies go!
1. 3 Fils — Jumeirah Fishing Harbour
A favorite of many foodies and chefs alike, 3 Fils is a humble, seafront gem that specializes in modern Asian cuisine with a twist. Even though it has won awards and gained popularity, it still keeps its price in check. Imagine crispy sushi rolls, wagyu overload fries, and their signature seaweed salad.
Chef's Pick: Charcoal-grilled octopus and the spicy tuna rolls.
Why it's one of the hit Dubai food restaurants: It's upscale casual dining at street food prices, and with a view.
2. Allo Beirut — Hessa Street, JBR, and beyond
Lebanese street food joint Allo Beirut is the spot to visit for late-night hunger pangs and lunchtime binges. Dripping with flavor and nostalgia, Allo Beirut serves up moist shawarma, manakish, and mezze that are consistently just right.
Chef's Pick: Chicken Shawarma Platter with Garlic Sauce and Crispy Fries.
What makes it special among all Dubai food restaurants: Real flavors, generous serving sizes, and affordable prices.
3. Al Mallah — Satwa & Al Nahda
Al Mallah is almost a Dubai institution in the casual dining world. Famed for its neon-lit signs and busy roadside seating, this Lebanese restaurant serves some of the city's best shawarma wraps, falafel, and fresh juices.
Chef's Favorite: Falafel sandwich and mixed grill platter, accompanied by pomegranate juice.
Why it's listed under excellent Dubai food restaurants: Open until late, quick service, and value for money like no other.
4. Al Ustad Special Kabab — Bur Dubai
Ask any old Dubai resident or chef, and they are bound to mention Al Ustad Special Kabab as one destination they can't miss. This traditional Iranian kebab restaurant is renowned for its delectable meats, distinctive decor, and timeless appeal.
Chef's Pick: Chicken tikka kebab with saffron rice.
Why it's one of the exceptional food restaurants Dubai: Legendary tastes and prices that have remained essentially unchanged over the past decades.
5. Betawi Café — Karama & JLT
Missing Indonesian comfort food? Betawi Café is a secret gem. With its homey dishes, it's where cooks who adore Southeast Asian food go to refuel.
Chef's Pick: Gado-gado (veggie peanut salad) and beef rendang with jasmine rice.
Why it's said to be one of the great food restaurants Dubai: A gem for authentic Indonesian tastes in Dubai at prices that can't be beaten.
Suggested Read:Best Outdoor Restaurants in Dubai for an Amazing Vibe
6. Bombay Bungalow — JBR
Bombay Bungalow is a fusion of contemporary and classic Indian cuisine, set against the picturesque backdrop of the beach. Though it's trendy and Instagram-worthy, the prices are reasonable, given the quality and location.
Overall Standout: Butter chicken with naan and the truffle biryani.
Why it's a special food restaurants Dubai: Chic atmosphere, affordable gourmet Indian food.
7. Bosnian House — Jumeirah
The multicultural food scene in Dubai is a beauty, and Bosnian House is its testament. It offers mouthwatering cevapcici (meat sausages grilled), homemade bread, and creamy kaymak, which is a hit with chefs seeking Eastern European comfort food.
Chef's Pick: The signature Bosnian platter and grilled cheese-filled somun bread.
Why everyone says it's an ideal food restaurants Dubai: A novelty taste of Bosnia, generous servings, and a warm atmosphere.
8. Boston Lane — Al Quoz
Initiated by Australian expats, Boston Lane is a café nestled within the Courtyard complex in Al Quoz. It's where chefs go for breakfast or a peaceful meal. The food is uncomplicated yet carefully prepared, featuring dishes like smashed avocado toast and full-fat halloumi sandwiches.
Chef's Pick: Halloumi toastie with chimichurri and flat white.
Why it's a top-pick food restaurants Dubai: Stylish hideout with homey, value-priced café grub.
9. Reif Japanese Kushiyaki — Dar Wasl Mall
Chef Reif Othman operates this easygoing Japanese eatery, striking a balance between premium ingredients and a street-level style. With its popularity, Reif Japanese Kushiyaki maintains reasonable prices, and it's a familiar name on local chefs' lists.
Chef's Pick: Chicken katsu sando and kushiyaki skewers.
Why it's the best restaurants in Dubai: Michelin Bib Gourmand winner serving chef-driven food minus the fine-dining price tag.
Wrap-Up: Where Chefs Eat When They're Off the Clock!
Dubai's food scene is diverse and vibrant, and you don't have to spend a fortune to taste its best. These restaurants are not only famous for food, but the city's best chefs endorse them. As a traveler or a local, these are the tasty glimpses into Dubai's authentic, affordable food culture.
Discover these gems and others when exploring the top restaurants in Dubai, as excellent cuisine doesn't have to come at a high cost.
