“To eat is a necessity, but to eat intelligently is an art” - La Rochefoucauld
Well, he said it right! Eating is a necessity but eating something that goes directly to your heart and blows out your tastebuds with joy is a heavenly feeling.
So why not eat “intelligently” as La Rochefoucauld said?
To address this, 360 Adventures has brought a detailed guide for every Emarati. Dubai is said to be a melting pot of cultures and that is why its culinary scene offers a wide range of options. From traditional Emirati dishes to global gourmet experiences, Dubai has something to satisfy every foodie's craving. Whether you’re visiting the city for the first time or a resident looking for the best flavors, here’s a detailed guide to the top 10 foods to try in Dubai and where to find them.
1. Al Harees – The Traditional Emirati Delight
Al Harees is a simple yet delicious dish made from wheat, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and a pinch of salt, slow-cooked to perfection. It’s the best food in Dubai during Ramadan and festive occasions.
Where to Try:
● Al Fanar Restaurant & Café – Dubai Festival City, Open 8 AM – 11 PM
● Logma – DownTown Dubai, Open 10 AM – 12 AM
● Al Khayama Heritage Restaurant – Al Fahidi, Open 8 AM – 11 PM
2. Shawarma – Dubai’s Favorite Street Food
Shawarma is a prominent Middle Eastern staple dish made from grilled chicken or beef, served on Arabic bread with tahini, garlic sauce, and pickles. It is probably one of the most common dishes in Dubai and said to be the best food to eat in Dubai! So if you’re visiting Dubai and not having a “Sharwama” on your plate, you’re definitely missing out on something!
Where to Try:
● Al Mallah – Satwa, Open 7 AM – 2 AM
● Al Mashawi Al Halabya - Al Barsha, Open 8 AM – 3 AM
● Shawarma Kiosks/Stalls – Various locations, Open 24/7
3. Mandi – The Yemeni-Arabian Delight
Indulge into the Arabian-mouthwatering adventure of flavours with “Mandi”. It is a traditional dish made with rice, slow-cooked lamb or chicken, and an Arabic spice mix, which gives it a fragrant and delicate flavor.
Where to Try:
● Zam Zam Mandi– Karama, Open 10 PM – 12 AM
● Rayyan Mandi Mankhool - Bur Dubai, Open 11 AM – 2:30 AM
4. Luqaimat-The Emirati Sweet Treat
Finding something to treat your sweet tooth? Luqaimat are fried dumplings immersed in date syrup and topped with sesame seeds. These golden crispy delights are crispy on the outside and soft inside.
Where to Try:
● Arabian Tea House – Al Fahidi, Open 7 AM – 11 PM
● Loqa Desserts – Jumeirah, Open 2 PM – 2 AM
5. Camel Meat Dishes – An Exclusive Dubai Delicacy
Camel meat is a delicacy in Dubai, making Dubai’s food stand out amongst the other cultural delicacies. It is mainly consumed as burgers, stews, or grilled. It is a healthier option for red meat.
Where to Try:
● Seven Sands – JBR, Open 8 AM – 12 AM
● Local House Restaurant – Al Fahidi, Open 8 AM – 11 PM
6. Samboosa – The Emirati Version of Samosa
These flaky pastries are filled with spiced meat, vegetables, or cheese and are highly enjoyed as a snack, especially during Ramadan. So, you must try-out this best food in Dubai now!
Where to Try:
● Samosawala – Al Karama, Open 9 AM – 11 PM
● Samboosa King – Al Warqa, Open 6 AM – 12 AM
7. Machboos – The Emirati Biryani
Machboos is a spiced rice dish mixed with meat (chicken, lamb, or shrimp) and slow-cooked with dried lime for a tangy flavor. We can see you drooling over this, try out the best Machboos here:
● Awtar Restaurant – Grand Hyatt, Open 7 PM – 12 AM
● Sikka Café – La Mer, Open 9 AM – 11 PM
● Al Khayama Heritage Restaurant – Al Fahidi, Open 8 AM – 11 PM
8. Knafeh – The Middle Eastern Dessert
Knafeh is a sweet, cheesy pastry soaked in sugar syrup and topped with crushed pistachios. It's layers of crisp and sweet and soft intermingle, you experience a series of surprises. It's a Middle Eastern favorite, often enjoyed fresh and hot.
Where to Try:
● Firas Sweets – Deira, Open 10 AM – 12 AM
● Qwaider Al Nabulsi – Al Muraqqabat, Open 9 AM – 12 AM
9. Chebab – Emirati Pancakes
Pancakes but a touch of Arab - Chebab is an Emirati version of pancakes. It is served with date syrup and cheese, making it a sweet and savory breakfast option.
Where to Try:
● Logma – Boxpark, Open 10 AM – 12 AM
● Bosporus Turkish Cuisine - The Dubai Mal, Open 8 AM – 12:30 AM
● Arabian Tea House – Al Fahidi, Open 8 AM – 11 PM
10. Falafel – A Vegetarian Favorite
Falafel is ground chickpeas and herbs deep-fried until golden brown. It is served in pita bread with tahini and vegetables.
Where to Try:
● Operation: Falafel – Various locations, Open 24/7
● Zaroob – Sheikh Zayed Road, Open 24/7
Conclusion
Dubai offers food that is a perfect combination of traditional Emirati flavors and international influences. Whether you are exploring the best food in Dubai or local eateries or high-end restaurants, these 10 must-try dishes will give you an unforgettable culinary experience.
These recommendations will be the best starting point for foodies visiting Dubai, ensuring an authentic taste of the city. Go, explore these places and indulge in the best food that Dubai has to offer.
Remember, eating intelligently is an art!
