Welcome to the official best restaurants in Dubai for 2025.

Restaurant of the Decade in Dubai

WINNER: La Petite Maison Dubai

La Petite Maison Dubai has been a Dubai institution for over 15 years. Despite the constant flow of new restaurants in the city, it has not only stood the test of time but thrived, maintaining its reputation and loyal following since its opening.

Named Time Out Dubai’s Restaurant of the Decade, La Petite Maison Dubai continues to excel with a dedicated and well-trained front-of-house team, a fine selection of independent grape, and a menu of consistently exceptional Niçoise cuisine. This classic restaurant is a staple of Dubai’s dining scene, always packed and still one of the most recommended spots for any occasion.

It is Dubai’s most brilliant French restaurant, consistently delivering exquisite meals for any occasion – whether it’s a business lunch, an anniversary dinner, or a catch-up with friends. Located in DIFC, the sophisticated atmosphere matches the quality of the dishes, with a lively buzz throughout the restaurant and a bar that’s perfect for grabbing a drink. Every bite will have you dreaming of your next visit.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “After 15 years of wowing diners, the restaurant is still a go-to destination in the financial district, still one of those rare places you need to reserve days in advance and still one of the slickest dining rooms in the entire city.”

Check out our full La Petite Maison Dubai review here

Licensed. Gate Village 8, DIFC, lpmrestaurants.com/dubai (04 439 0505).

Restaurant of the Year in Dubai

WINNER: FZN by Björn Frantzén

Named Time Out Dubai’s Restaurant of the Year, FZN stands out not only for its incredible food and service but also for its immersive atmosphere and unique dining experience. A true elevation of what fine dining can be in Dubai, this restaurant sets a new benchmark for the city’s culinary scene.

FZN in Dubai, sibling to Frantzén in Stockholm and Zén in Singapore, offers an exceptional 12-course tasting menu that blends modern Nordic cuisine with Japanese influences. Located at Atlantis The Palm, the intimate 27-seat restaurant features an open kitchen, allowing diners to interact with the chefs while enjoying a personal, immersive experience.

Highlights include dishes like duck barbecue with yuzu, Kampot pepper, and foie gras, and turbot with Cecina de wagyu. The restaurant’s extensive grape cellar, with 1,300 labels, offers curated pairings for every course. At Dhs2,000 per person, it’s one of Dubai’s priciest tasting menus—but undeniably one of the best restaurants in Dubai.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “It’s clear that at FZN, there’s always a focus on fresh, well-sourced Nordic dishes incorporating Japanese techniques. While the menu changes regularly, one especially standout starter so far is Frantzén’s famous råraka – a crispy golden cylindrical potato hash that’s filled with vendace roe and topped with bright red pickled onion.”

Check out our full FZN by Björn Frantzén review here

Licensed. Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, restaurantfzn.com (050 107 6322).

Best American & Caribbean restaurant in Dubai

WINNER: Fusión Ceviche

This petite, unassuming Peruvian spot in JLT serves absolutely brilliant Latin American food, to say the least. With their punchy ceviche and rotating hot dishes, chef-founder Penelope Diaz and team are ruthlessly unsparing of the competition. With super-fresh fish and packed full of flavour (and a fair amount of heat), it’s one of the best Latin American restaurants in Dubai and the go-to place to delve into authentic Peruvian food.

With only a handful of tables, make sure you get there early to bag a spot at the counter and go with the chef’s recommendations. She really knows what she’s talking about. Oh, and don’t forget to try one of the refreshing Peruvian juices on offer, too. They’re epic.

This laid-back restaurant is a top one to check out. So good, it even has a branch at Time Out Market Dubai. You have no excuse now.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “From home cook to caterer to real-live restaurateur, chef-owner Penelope Diaz has created a bona fide smash-hit that even all that hard-working Dubai hype hardly does justice.”

Check out our full Fusión Ceviche review here

Unlicensed. Cluster Q, JLT, @fusionceviche (04 449 6292).

Highly commended:

Amazónico Dubai

One of the coolest spots in DIFC, Amazónico is a super spot for a lively evening out. Start off with drinks at the centrepiece downstairs bar and try Latin American flavours, before heading to the restaurant or sushi counter for dinner.

Round off your night at the rooftop bar. The menu is diverse and brilliant, with ceviche, grills, claypots and more all bursting with flavour, while the décor makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a rainforest.

Latin American cuisine is competitive in this city, but Amazónico’s brilliant attention to detail has made it one of the best Latin American restaurants in Dubai.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Spread over three floors, it’s a massive, foliage-filled space – whether you sit on the rooftop, in the lounge, on the ground floor terrace, in the dining room or at the sushi bar, there are almost too many places to enjoy your meal.”

Check out our full Amazónico Dubai review here

Licensed. DIFC Pavilion, amazonicorestaurant.com/dubai (04 571 3999).

Lila Wood-Fired Taqueria

In the mood for tacos? This cute taqueria in Umm Suqueim is a low-key, unlicensed restaurant that makes for a fun spot for casual dining.

Serving an eclectic and sociable menu, this low-key Mexican joint is a decent shout for a laid-back meal with mates. Kick off with guac and chips before diving into the taco list.

Yellowfin tuna, sweet potato and more can be found, but the top choice is the skirt steak version, laden with tender meat, loads of spices and melted cheese.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “It’s the uncomplicated dishes done well that give this restaurant its charm – with the opening chips and guacamole starter a case in point.”

Check out our full Lila Wood-Fired Taqueria review here

Unlicensed. Umm Suqeim, lilataqueria.com (04 282 0005).

Read Time Out Dubai’s best American & Caribbean restaurants 2025 list here

Best Asian restaurant in Dubai

WINNER: Jun’s

Hailed as one of the most creative Asian restaurants in Dubai, Jun’s comes from acclaimed chef Kelvin Cheung and proudly serves up ‘third culture cooking’.

A blend of flavours from around the region, with some North American influences, expect everything from lobster pani puri and red-hot chicken kaarage and waffles through to Jamaican-Chinese lamb neck, jalapeño onion burger and bone marrow shrimp fried rice. And of course, the now infamous rainbow heirloom carrots, the only vegetarian dish we’ve ever eaten that tastes like actual smoked salmon. Yes, really.

Try them, and a heap of other signatures when you’re there. Innovative, fun and thoroughly delicious – with top-notch service and Burj Khalifa views to boot.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “There’s a whole lot to love here – from the food to the fabulous service, and even the ever-present chef Cheung himself, variously on the pass or plating tableside even as the restaurant enters its third year of operations.”

Check out our full Jun’s review here

Licensed. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, junsdubai.com (04 457 6035).

Highly commended:

Hawkerboi

Located at The Park in JLT, Hawkerboi offers a cool night out with a fantastic selection of dishes and an interesting list of mixed drinks.

Hawkerboi started life as a supper club before setting up in its permanent location in April 2023. The open kitchen serves street food-style plates. Think chicken satay, crispy fried squid, duck gyoza and banana blossom salad, as well as perfectly roasted meat, flavoursome curries and palate-popping stir-fries.

There’s a tasting menu – which comes in at Dhs360 for nine courses – if you want to explore different dishes, too. It’s a must-try for many reasons.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Interiors are reminiscent of underground bars in South-East Asia, with red neon piping swirling throughout the venue. Music is loud, lighting is low, and trendy 30-somethings are sipping drinks at the bar. This is clearly the kind of place where you’re meant to have good, clean, unpretentious fun.”

Check out our full Hawkerboi review here

Licensed. The Park, JLT, @‌hawker.boi (505 427 5217).

Kooya Filipino Eatery

It’s been a long time coming, but Time Out Dubai’s top 10 Asian restaurants finally includes a place dedicated to Filipino cuisine. Kooya Filipino Eatery is refreshingly fun, warm and welcoming, designed to reconnect Dubai’s enormous Pinoy population with the motherland.

Flavours like salt, vinegar, tamarind, coconut, ginger and soy lead the way, while portions are generous and ridiculously well-priced.

Main courses include moreish chicken inasal, beef belly caldereta and crispy pancit canton, while the Kooya fried chicken wings in ginger and tamarind gravy are a fail-safe introduction for newcomers to the cuisine.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Chef JP Anglo is a hugely popular figure with hundreds of thousands of followers online and it’s easy to see why based on what’s on offer at Kooya.”

Check out our full Kooya Filipino Eatery review here

Unlicensed. Jannah Place Hotel, Marina Promenade, Dubai Marina, kooyafilipinoeatery.com (050 427 6891).

Read Time Out Dubai’s best Asian restaurants 2025 list here

Best Chinese restaurant in Dubai

WINNER: Long Teng Seafood Restaurant

Long Teng is renowned for its Chinese seafood dishes, which it does extremely well. Set over several floors in Business Bay, this authentic spot is the go-to when it comes to traditional, fresh seafood dishes.

There’s also a wide selection of dim sum – from crystal prawn to veg, as well as cute little chick-shaped custard buns.

From noodles to stir-fries, you’ll find everything you could want, making it one of the best Chinese restaurants in Dubai. It’s so good there’s even a location in Time Out Market Dubai.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “If you’re looking for excellent and authentic Chinese cuisine, Long Teng is a must-visit – and the dim sum alone will keep you coming back for more.”

Unlicensed. U-Bora Business Tower, Business Bay, @‌longtengseafood (04 241 1666).

Check out our full Long Teng Seafood review here

Highly commended:

Hutong

A high-end Chinese restaurant in DIFC, Hutong hails from Hong Kong and has famous locations worldwide, including in London’s The Shard. The DIFC branch is a cool location for lively late-night dinners, fun brunches, business lunches or a dinner date.

With a large, spacious interior, high ceilings and a central bar, plus a cute terrace (often complete with a DJ), it’s quite simply one of the best Chinese restaurants in Dubai.

The menu is fantastic too, with a top selection of dim sum (don’t miss the truffle mushroom bao), as well as plenty of Sichuan-style dishes – including the spicy signature Red Lantern crab.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “The star of the show, if you’re in the mood for a performance, is of course the flaming Peking duck. Brought to your table by the chef, the meat is set alight next to you (hence the flaming) and rotated before being cut into perfectly identical thin slices to be packed into your pancakes.”

Check out our full Hutong review here

Licensed. Gate Building 6, DIFC, hutong-dubai.com (04 220 0868).

XU

This modern Cantonese restaurant has stunning interiors and despite its surprising location in Kempinski Mall of the Emirates, it’s easily one of Dubai’s dining hot spots. From the team behind Twiggy, Ninive and La Cantine du Faubourg, the standard of service and quality of food at XU is high, as you’d expect.

A solid line-up of dim sum and stir-fries is sure to impress with tasty plates including salt and pepper squid and pan-fried scallop dumplings. The black pepper beef tenderloin is a hit, while if you’re feeling bougie, opt for the caviar prawn toast.

The décor is cool and the diners are cool. It’s no wonder that it’s one of the top Chinese restaurants in Dubai.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “But the food isn’t the star of the show here. It’s the sultry space, warm with yellow lighting, crimson velvet banquettes, mirrored ceilings and hidden corners, that draws you in.”

Check out our full XU review here

Licensed. Kempinski Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, xudubai.ae (04 394 6252).

Read Time Out’ Dubai’s best Chinese restaurants 2025 list here

Best European restaurant in Dubai

WINNER: Dinner by Heston Blumenthal

One of the most famous chefs in the world, Heston Blumenthal, opened a restaurant in the eye-popping Atlantis The Royal in 2023.

And two years later, it still hits all the high notes. A stunning experience from start to finish, the service is impeccable, grape list wide-ranging and dishes creative and expertly prepared. You’ll have seen the Insta posts of the famed ‘meat fruit’ and if you’re a carnivore, it’s well worth trying.

As is everything else on the British menu, especially the steak and a dessert from circa 1810. Quirky, fun and elegant at the same time, this is one for a special occasion that will be truly memorable.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “We doubt you’ll ever taste a steak richer than the Hereford rib-eye, oozing with fat and studded with bone marrow. The chef’s famous triple-cooked chips complete a winning order.”

Check out our full Dinner by Heston Blumenthal review here

Licensed. Atlantis The Royal, Palm Jumeirah, dinnerbyheston.com (04 426 2444).

Highly commended:

Bull & Bear

This formerly North American restaurant (New York-inspired to be exact) has completely shifted its focus to a European offering led by British chef Marc Hardiman. The lovely grown-up vibes and slick service, however, have stayed the same.

It’s a truly refined dining experience with a short and sweet menu that features just 19 thoughtfully crafted dishes, which highlight local ingredients and sustainability. Some unmissable dishes include a purple potato wrapped in seaweed and caviar, a sustainable crab sandwich and a satsuma wagyu steak with duck fat fries.

To really get a deeper experience, make sure you go for one of the three tasting menus on offer, starting from Dhs295 per person.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Nobody ever lost money taking a profit, said US financier Bernard Baruch. And nobody will leave dissatisfied after visiting Bull & Bear – it’s the whole package.”

Check out our full Bull & Bear review here

Licensed. Waldorf Astoria Dubai International Financial Centre, DIFC, bullandbeardifc.com (04 515 9888).

Lana Lusa

We’ve long been fans of Lana Lusa’s traditional Portuguese cuisine (that’s why you’ll find it in Time Out Market Dubai), but in its new home at the Four Seasons Private Residences, both the food and the dining experience have levelled up.

It’s a gorgeous space for a start, with a dreamy terrace overlooking Dubai Canal, and while there’s still that home-cooked vibe with recipes from the founder’s grandmother, the menu also includes more diverse Mediterranean dishes.

It’s licensed as well, with Portuguese grape and mixed drinks to pair with your meal.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Order the bacalhau à bras, a hearty bowl of salted cod fish mixed with thinly sliced potatoes and scrambled eggs, or the bife à Portuguesa, a classic Portuguese steak cooked medium-rare that meat-lovers will definitely be impressed by.”

Check out our full Lana Lusa review here

Licensed. Four Seasons Private Residences Dubai, Jumeirah 2 lanalusa.com (04 380 1515).

Read Time Out Dubai’s best European restaurants 2025 list here

Best French restaurant in Dubai

Winner: La Petite Maison Dubai

A global giant when it comes to French dining, La Petite Maison remains one of the most brilliant French restaurants in Dubai. Whether you’re looking for a business lunch, an anniversary dinner or a catch-up with friends, the time is always right for a meal at LPM.

Found in DIFC, there’s a sophisticated vibe to match the delicious dishes made with quality ingredients. The atmosphere is always buzzing – grab a drink at the bar too – while the plates will have you dreaming of when you can return.

The lamb chops are a highlight, we’ve waxed lyrical about the potato gratin for many a year and those snails, which are a gloriously garlicky must-try.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Ask someone to name a French restaurant in Dubai, and chances are LPM are the first three letters out of their mouths – quickly followed by BRB as they dive in a cab to DIFC.”

Check out our full La Petie Maison Dubai review here

Licensed. Gate Village 8, DIFC, lpmrestaurants.com/dubai (04 439 0505).

Highly commended:

L’Atelier Robuchon

For French food fans, this restaurant from the late great Joël Robuchon is a must-visit. Found in DIFC there’s a cool vibe, which gets livelier as the night goes on. It recently underwent a revamp and it’s even better than ever.

On the menu there’s everything from beef tartare to scallops Saint-Jaques, cheese soufflé and lamb chops, to Asian-inspired dishes such as black cod and tuna tartare. There’s a tasting menu and business lunch too, so whether you’re short on time or looking to splash out there’s an option to suit, making it the best French restaurant in Dubai right now.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “The à la carte is filled with mouthwatering descriptions that span France but also take in Japan and South America, too. Le Thon, tuna marinated in citrus, is one example. Leek with wasabi and shitaki is another worth checking out.”

Check out our full L’Atelier Robuchon review here

Licensed. Gate Village, DIFC, atelier-robuchon.ae (04 297 7729).

La Cantine du Faubourg

If you like a trendy vibe paired with excellent food, La Cantine du Faubourg is a brilliant choice. This super-cool spot at Jumeirah Emirates Towers is not only a go-to place for party people, it’s also one of the best French restaurants in Dubai.

During the winter months, the terrace is a charming place to sit, full of twinkling lights and DIFC views, while indoors, there’s a lively chic lounge vibe that stays buzzing into the early hours.

Hailing from Paris, there’s a stellar menu to taste your way through, with our top picks being the tuna ceviche, honey-glazed beef short ribs and the nostalgic ‘les coquillettes de mon enfance’ (a truffly, cheesy pasta dream).

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Whether you’re there for a late-night dinner with a group of party-loving friends, a romantic dinner date with your partner or enjoying the lazy Saturday lunch with your family, it’s time to join the cool crowd at La Cantine. You won’t regret it.”

Check out our full La Cantine du Faubourg review here

Licensed. Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Sheikh Zayed Road, lacantine.ae (04 352 7105).

Read Time Out Dubai’s best French restaurants 2025 list here

Best Greek restaurant in Dubai

WINNER: Mythos Kouzina & Grill

Despite facing new competition every year, Mythos remains the best Greek restaurant in Dubai, no question. A go-to if you want incredible Greek food, prepared expertly at a reasonable price, there is also a second, similarly excellent Mythos at C2 in City Walk, but it’s the OG that holds our hearts.

Found in JLT, this cute taverna-style spot has a friendly vibe, petite terrace ideal for cooler months and a menu jam-packed with home-cooked favourites that you won’t be able to get enough of.

From creamy, garlicky tzatziki, to comforting, flavour-laden moussaka and gemista, a glorious baked feta and an unmissable mixed grill platter (those lamb chops are outstanding), this is one you’ll be returning to time and again – we guarantee it.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Don’t miss the mixed grill – the lamb chops especially are expertly charred for that proper smoky taste (dollop on some more of that tzatziki, you’re not done yet), while the burgers are perfectly seasoned.”

Check out our full Mythos Kouzina & Grill review here

Licensed. Armada Avenue Hotel JLT, Cluster P, JLT, mythosdubai.com (04 399 8166).

Highly commended:

AMMOS

With its whitewashed walls, light, airy dining room and views of the Dubai Marina skyline from the terrace, Ammos is a welcoming, sophisticated space. Channelling Greek island vibes, its menu is fairly classic Greek and Mediterranean fare, with orzo seafood, chicken souvlaki and Greek sea bass among our top picks.

Most of the ingredients are sourced directly from Greek suppliers, making it as close to a true Grecian dinner as you can get in Dubai. There’s even plate-smashing during the weekly Greek Night.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “The spot is charming (by night, by day, the location by the busy hotel pool is a little less relaxing) and the breeze laps over us as we gaze over to Bluewaters Island and Ain Dubai. You’ll linger long after the plates are cleared, enjoying the ambience and laid-back vacation vibes.”

Check out our full Ammos review here

Licensed. Rixos Premium Dubai, The Walk JBR, ammosgreek.com (052 777 9473).

GAIA

One of the best Greek restaurants in Dubai, and one of the best-known, GAIA is from acclaimed chef Izu Ani, who’s a popular name in the city. A super-smart restaurant, this spot boasts all neutral tones with pops of colour, making it a really stunning space.

It has high-end, fancy vibes (one for a special occasion) and there’s even an exclusive hidden bar, NYX, which is a favourite with celebrity guests.

When it comes to dining, the sea bream carpaccio is one of the most Instagrammed dishes out there, but the quality is as good as it looks, while the modern take on moussaka is also a highlight.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “While you can order mains from the assortment on the menu, we recommend picking your own from the day’s seafood display. John Dory, grilled, filleted and served with lemon oil, is the kind of dish you could (should?) eat every single day.”

Check out our full GAIA review here

Licensed. Gate Village, DIFC, gaia-restaurants.com/dubai (04 241 4242).

Read Time Out Dubai’s best Greek restaurants 2025 list here

Best Indian restaurant in Dubai

WINNER: Jamavar

Hailing from Mayfair, Jamavar Dubai sits at the fine dining end of the city’s many Indian restaurants.

Huge chandeliers shine over the ornate dining room, but there’s a garden-esque terrace decked out in warm yellows if you fancy a more casual feel. Small plates may be inspired by India’s street food markets, but there is nothing informal about these delicately plated morsels.

Mains include a perfectly spiced crab pepper masala, a slow-cooked kid goat curry and the signature Old Delhi butter chicken, which is reason enough alone to visit.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Bhatti ka octopus is an absolute stunner of a dish. Tender, perfectly grilled octopus marinated in a bold blend of black pepper and fragrant coriander seeds. Vibrant Kashmiri chilli adds a delightful kick, balancing the smokiness of the grill with its rich, red hue.”

Check out our full Jamavar review here

Licensed. Address Residences Opera District, Downtown Dubai, jamavarrestaurants.com (04 553 7852).

Highly commended:

Khadak

The new casual Indian spot, Khadak, has a story to share, and it does so through every little detail—from the quirky knick-knacks and vibrant wall art to its revival of forgotten recipes and the culinary journey of its chef-founder, Naved Nasir, who made waves at London’s iconic Dishoom.

The menu takes you on a tour of India’s street food scene, with dishes like the Radio Café kheema pao, a heartfelt nod to Bombay’s legendary Radio Café, and the chicken sukka, straight from the coastal kitchens of Mangalore.

Each dish is crafted to pull you in with a tempting description and served in a way that’ll make you want to shout about it from the rooftops.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Start with small plates, which are proof that delicious things come in tiny packages. The broccoli and pomelo bhel, a reimagined take on the quintessential Indian snack, is a winner. Think rice puffs with steamed broccoli, pomelo, walnuts, pistachio and pomegranate, tossed in a honey, lime and tamarind dressing.”

Check out our full Khadak review here

Unlicensed. Villa 426, 12 Al Wasl Rd, Jumeirah 2, khadak.com (058 979 7830).

Trèsind

One of the most avant-garde Indian restaurants in Dubai – and the sister of Carnival by Trèsind and tasting experiences Avatara and Trèsind Studio – there’s a lot to recommend Trèsind.

Found at the One&Only Royal Mirage, it’s a fancy place for a special occasion, and prices reflect that. However, the quality of the cooking is excellent, and it’s a fantastic choice with dishes such as tandoori portobello and butter pepper garlic prawns prepared tableside for a touch of theatre. The mixed drinks are inventive and worth ordering, too.

Licensed. One&Only Royal Mirage, Al Sufouh, tresind.com/dubai (056 420 9754).

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Some dishes are prepared live at the table, flame torch and all, including a delicious cedar wood-smoked tandoori chicken on a bed of burnt pineapple carpaccio.”

Check out our full Trèsind review here

Read Time Out Dubai’s best Indian restaurants 2025 list here

Best Italian restaurant in Dubai

WINNER: L’Amo Bistrò del Mare

This high-end Italian restaurant can be found in a beautiful location at Dubai Harbour, offering super views and a sophisticated vibe.

A recent shake-up to the menu and a new chef in the form of Alessandro Salvatico have put this Italian restaurant right to the top of the list. Serving simple Italian food and seafood-focused dishes with ingredients imported daily from the Mediterranean, including Sicily and the Adriatic Sea, there’s a little bit of something for everyone.

With a charming setting, views of Ain Dubai, Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina, the set-up is pretty special – making for a popular spot for special occasion meals. Time to get booked in.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Push the boat out for the signature ‘Ti Amo Su’ – at Dhs80 it’s on the spenny side for a dessert, but it’s prepared tableside for extra pizzazz.”

Check out our full L’Amo Bistrò del Mare review here

Licensed. Dubai Harbour Yacht Club, lamorestaurant.com (04 278 4800).

Highly commended:

Chic Nonna

This stunning DIFC restaurant is comfortably one of the top Italian eateries in town. Offering up classic Italian food that’s a perfect mix of homely dishes like pizza and pasta and more refined options that truly show off the chefs’ skills.

The dining room is delightful, too, with huge floor-to-ceiling windows that open fully in the winter to reveal views of Burj Khalifa and an elegant feel. The massive grape cellar is also a plus.

For a hearty Italian meal, you know where to go.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Whether you go for lunch, dinner or late-night bites, you’ll be greeted by a warm hum — a gentle chorus of talkative customers, numerous, eager-to-please staff and the classic chef-and-pan score from the open-plan kitchen.”

Check out our full Chic Nonna review here

Licensed. Index Tower, DIFC, chicnonna.com (04 605 2000).

Scalini

To find Scalini, you need to hop into a lift and head down to the restaurant’s sunken garden at Restaurant Village at Four Seasons Resort Dubai. A popular place at any given time of day or night, Scalini draws in a loyal crowd.

The terrace is a charming spot for an al fresco dinner with friends, while inside, bright whites and modern art give a cool feel. Pizzas, pasta, grills, salads and more all fly out of the kitchen.

Having started out in London’s Knightsbridge, this chic restaurant has made a name for itself in Dubai. Go see for yourself.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “If you want something with a little bit of showmanship, don’t hesitate for a second to order the black truffle taglioni. A Parmesan wheel is brought over and with quick hands, a waiter constructs your dish tableside and dramatically shaves black truffles over your creamy, cheesy pasta. There’s more than enough to share.”

Check out our full Scalini review here

Licensed. Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, Jumeirah, scalini-dubai.com (04 349 0068).

Read Time Out Dubai’s best Italian restaurants 2025 list here

Best Japanese restaurant in Dubai

WINNER: Mimi Kakushi

This cooler-than-cool Japanese restaurant at Dubai’s exclusive Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach counts Scalini and COYA among its illustrious neighbours. Inspired by 1920s Osaka, Mimi Kakushi is all about excellent furnishings.

With excellent sushi, robata, claypots and grills (the black cod is terrific) Mimi Kakushi retains its title as the best Japanese restaurant in Dubai for the third year, and you’ll certainly be back time and again.

Brunch fans, you’ll be pleased to hear that Mimi Kakushi also has an excellent brunch offering for when you want to sample all the signatures. Don’t forget to stop in for a Japanese-inspired drink at the restaurant bar for a drink pre- or post-dinner, too.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “While Mimi Kakushi means ‘covering the ears’ in terms of a 1922 Japanese hairstyle, it’s very much worth listening to the hype around this one. Particularly as it’s yet to fade, despite ever-increasing competition.”

Check out our full Mimi Kakushi review here

Licensed. Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, Jumeirah, mimikakushi.ae (04 379 4811).

Highly commended:

Reif Japanese Kushiyaki

Chef Reif Othman is a well-known name here in Dubai, and his cooking is so good he even has a spot in Time Out Market Dubai.

This licensed branch of his eponymous restaurant is a top spot for when you’re in the mood for tasty, Japanese dishes in a cool, low-key setting. Renowned for its silky smooth ramen and delicious kusiyaki, there are plenty of street food-style plates to get stuck into, so gather your mates and order a bunch of stuff to share.

One of the best Japanese restaurants in Dubai, ideal for when you want something more casual but just as tasty.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Reif’s Buranchi feels chilled-out and welcoming. Whether you want to plough through the whole menu or focus on the sashimi with a glass of grape, this is a wallet-friendly brunch offering great quality food and drink.”

Check out our full Reif Japanese Kushiyaki review here

Licensed. Dubai Hills Business Park, reifkushiyaki.com (04 255 5142).

Zuma

A massive hit around the world, Zuma has long been one of the best Japanese restaurants in Dubai. One of the pioneers in DIFC’s dining scene, Zuma draws in the crowds every day of the week – be it for brunch, business lunch or a fabulous dinner.

The black cod is one of the most famous dishes globally, buttery soft, sweet and wonderfully moreish. The service is spot-on, the vibe is buzzing and the plates here are consistently brilliant – be it gyoza, sushi or robata.

You’ll want to check it out… right now.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “But there’s absolutely nothing here that doesn’t knock your novelty socks off. Dynamite spider roll with soft shell crab, Chilean sea bass with ginger dressing, marinated lamb chops – excellent execution all over the place.”

Check out our full Zuma review here

Licensed. Gate Village, DIFC, zumarestaurant.com (04 425 5660).

Read Time Out Dubai’s best Japanese restaurants 2025 list here

Best Lebanese restaurant in Dubai

WINNER: Al Safadi

There are several branches of this brilliant Lebanese restaurant across Dubai, but the one on Sheikh Zayed Road is a superb option.

For classic Lebanese dishes done well, in a buzzing setting, Al Safadi is a popular choice with groups of friends and families looking to share a hearty, delicious meal in a low-key, relaxed setting.

Salads, mezze, grills – all the classics are present and correct here, and you won’t be disappointed in the quality.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “No frills, no modernisation – there are now five Al Safadi restaurants dotted around Dubai and each of them serves authentic Lebanese food without interpretation. And, crucially, with freshly baked bread served regularly to the table.”

Check out our full Al Safadi review here

Unlicensed. Sheikh Zayed Road, alsafadi.ae (04 227 9922).

Highly commended:

Al Beiruti

With branches across Dubai and in Lebanon, Al Beiruti is a popular choice for lovers of authentic Lebanese cooking. The outpost found along Sheikh Zayed Road is a buzzing spot day or night, with a cool restro-café feel and a lively atmosphere.

Choose from various types of hummus, perfectly spiced falafel and a tasty chicken liver dish. Follow it up with a mixed grill and don’t forget to finish your meal with some delicious kunafa.

One of the best Lebanese restaurants in Dubai, and one not to be missed.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Come for the food, stay for the vibe, and keep your eyes off the exit until you’ve rounded the whole thing off with a slice of glorious kunafa.”

Check out our full Al Beiruti review here

Unlicensed. Sheikh Zayed Road, albeiruti.com (04 320 0043).

Em Sherif Café

Known in Beirut as one of the most elegant restaurants in the city, Em Sherif comes with lofty expectations. And here in Dubai, it lives up to those high hopes.

The menu in this city is a more casual, home-style experience than the Beirut original and the food is utterly delicious.

Start with creamy hummus and sesame-studded falafel before moving on to cheese pie and a perfectly cooked mixed grill. A charming experience with generous, tasty plates – it’s no wonder Em Sherif is one of the best Lebanese restaurants in Dubai.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Don’t miss the bokjat jibineh cheese pie, which is beautifully presented and seasoned with mint, parsley and olive. Cheese is warm, stretchy and ridiculously satisfying. This dish will linger in your mind long after you’ve left.”

Check out our full Em Sherif Café review here

Unlicensed. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, emsherif.com (056 577 7900).

Read Time Out’ Dubai’s best Lebanese restaurants 2025 list here

Best Middle Eastern and Northern African restaurant in Dubai

WINNER: Sufret Maryam

There must be something in the water at Wasl 51. New to Time Out Dubai’s top 10 MENA restaurants in Dubai is Sufret Maryam, the latest creation from Salam Dakkak, chef-owner of Dubai institution Bait Maryam.

Her new venture is a lot bigger but still cosy, thoughtfully decorated with works from Middle Eastern artists and rustic knick-knacks. Nostalgic Palestinian and Jordanian dishes are elevated to the level you’d expect from such a renowned chef, beautifully presented and executed.

Splash out on the La’Moshet Maryam, a slow-cooked lamb shoulder marinated in chef Salam’s special spices. It’s a taste experience you’ll want to repeat again and again.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Many of the dishes at Sufret Maryam offer that nostalgic taste of home in the Levant. Everything is served with a warmth and ‘nafas’ that you rarely come across elsewhere in Dubai, making this Jumeirah restaurant one of the city’s best.”

Unlicensed. Wasl 51, Jumeirah 1, sufretmaryam (050 417 2272).

Check out our full Sufret Maryam review here

Highly commended:

Alaya

Meaning ‘sublime’ in Arabic, Alaya comes from acclaimed chef Izu Ani, who’s a popular name in Dubai.

The Middle Eastern-European restaurant has plenty of flair, as you’d expect, while there’s also a ‘hidden’ underground bar, Ly-La, boasting Bedouin vibes, on-trend tunes and creative mixed drinks for when you want to continue the evening. The restaurant itself is set in a former art gallery, and it’s a sleek setup.

There’s an open kitchen showing off a giant rotisserie, while the menu boasts a selection of classics with Middle Eastern touches. Don’t miss the tender, rich lamb shank or indulgent seafood manti, while the kunafa for dessert is excellent, as you’d hope for from one of the best Middle Eastern restaurants in Dubai.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “It’s no wonder it’s sometimes hard to get a booking at Alaya. But if you’re keen on Middle Eastern food and want a trusted heritage, Alaya is not far short of its namesake.”

Check out our full Alaya review here

Licensed. Gate Village 4, DIFC, alayarestaurants.com (04 570 6289).

Orfali Bros.

Consistently excellent, Orfali Bros Bistro is renowned as one of the best Middle Eastern restaurants in Dubai. Helmed by celebrity chef Mohamad Orfali and his siblings Wassim and Omar, the menu here is fresh, fusion and with plenty to talk about, with the Orfali bayildi, umami éclair and OB croquettes being just three of the incredible creations that are in store.

Having been named the best Middle Eastern restaurant in the city multiple times by Time Out Dubai, it’s an eatery that needs to be visited.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Plates are small, and the place itself is almost even smaller. But it’s crammed to the rafters with happy diners and bold sharing plates.”

Check out our full Orfali Bros. review here

Unlicensed. Wasl 51, Jumeirah, orfalibros.com (04 259 2477).

Read Time Out’ Dubai’s best MENA restaurants 2025 list here

Best Thai restaurant in Dubai

WINNER: Café Isan

The winner of Time Out Dubai’s Best Thai Restaurant for several years running, Café Isan really is the most authentic, fun and friendly spot to enjoy Thai food in Dubai.

Found in JLT, the mismatched plastic furniture, Thai market-style bar, pop tunes and affordable prices make it the best Thai restaurant in Dubai, while the food is utterly delicious. Coming from the Isan region of Thailand, expect punchy flavours (Thai spicy really means spicy) with curries, stir-fries, noodles and more.

Take a seat out on the large terrace in winter – but be sure to book ahead, the city’s Thai food fans love it as much as we do.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Award-winning Thai food served up in charmingly higgledy-piggledy surroundings. A place where you can have a superb meal for two for under Dhs200, a place where you can turn up in flip-flops and sweats, a place where you’ll genuinely become part of the furniture.”

Check out our full Café Isan review here

Licensed. Armada Avenue Hotel JLT, Cluster P, JLT, cafeisan.co (058 529 1003).

Highly commended:

The Thai Kitchen

This longstanding spot at Park Hyatt Dubai has open show kitchens inside and a beautiful terrace for the winter months. Overlooking Dubai Creek, the yachts and beyond to the Dubai skyline and Burj Khalifa, it’s a picture-perfect spot at the north end of the city.

Service is friendly and dishes are authentic and tasty. Spice levels are tailored to how hot you can handle, while you can wash the curries, satay, stir-fries and more down with Thai-inspired mixed drinks.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Kick-start your meal with a portion of zingy chicken satay, dunked greedily in a punchy peanut sauce. Don’t miss a serving of the fresh and fragrant papaya salad, that’s sweet, sour and salty and pops off the tongue.”

Check out our full The Thai Kitchen review here

Licensed. Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira (04 602 1814)

Tong Thai

This swanky restaurant at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai serves high-end Thai food and is a longstanding spot that’s popular with lovers of Thai food.

The restaurant itself is a cavernous space, with moody red lighting, hanging lanterns and swish interior design. The menu is also suitably high-end, with all the classics present and correct, but given an upmarket touch. You can choose your spice levels and dishes are indulgent – they’re also large, so order a few to share and get stuck in.

One of the best Thai restaurants in Dubai for many a year, with no signs of fading yet.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Service is slick, the décor is cool and upmarket, and the food is on point. It might not be the newest in town, but it still holds its own.”

Check out our full Tong Thai review here

Licensed. JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, Business Bay, @‌tongthaidubai (04 414 3000).

Read Time Out Dubai’s best Thai restaurants 2025 list here

Best Turkish restaurant in Dubai

This Turkish import is one of the most authentic spots in town. Sirali is officially this year’s best Turkish restaurant, thanks to its skilful cooking, creative presentation and top-notch ingredients.

Tucked away in Al Habtoor City, the dishes at this elegant restaurant are modern, with fun twists, and every meal starts with delicious freshly baked simit bread. The signature rolled adana kebab is a must-try.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Don’t miss the zingy, smoky aubergine moutabel, and an indulgent sultan dip followed by a hot hummus and pastrami that’s the perfect combination of creamy and salty flavours.”

Check out our full Sirali review here

Licensed. Al Habtoor City, siralikebap.com (058 582 7092).

Highly commended:

Çeşme Bazlama Kahvaltı

If you want to experience a real Turkish breakfast, Bazlama is the place to go. There are six branches of this family-run restaurant in Turkey and now one in Dubai, set within a charming Jumeirah villa.

Order the set menu at just Dhs116 and delight as plate after plate is served to you by some of the friendliest waiters we’ve ever met. Turkish cheese, menemen, eggplant saksuka, beef sucuk, burek bites, cinnamon balls and all manner of home-made dips and jams to smear over the ridiculously delicious Bazlama and Pisi breads. The food just keeps on coming and it’s all brilliant.

For founder Anne Nurten, it’s about serving breakfast with a mother’s touch – which means you don’t leave until you are full. Very full and very happy, in our experience.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Head down on a weekend and you’ll likely end up waiting for a table, but it is oh-so worth the wait, especially if you’re after a bellybusting meal that’s 100 percent worthy of getting out of bed for.”

Check out our full Çesme Bazlama Kahvaltı review here

Unlicensed. Al Safa 1, @bazlamakahvalti.ae (04 236 4056).

Günaydin

If you’re looking for somewhere to eat Turkish food in Souk Al Bahar, Günaydin is the one for you. This fancy Turkish steakhouse has prime views of Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Fountain show, so it’s an impressive place to tuck into the tasty grills.

Having started life as a butcher’s shop in Istanbul, there are plenty of meaty mains to try, including steaks and a separate lamb menu. Pick on hot and cold mezze while you ponder which cut you want.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Günaydin is friendly and cheerful, yet undeniably sophisticated, and the team know their meats – we can vouch for that.”

Check out our full Günaydin review here

Licensed. Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, gunaydindubai.com (04 554 0700).

Read Time Out Dubai’s best Turkish restaurants 2025 list here

Best afternoon tea in Dubai

WINNER: The Royal Tearoom

For afternoon tea connoisseurs who have been there, done that, this is a must-try. Served in the huge lobby of the world-famous hotel, next to the water droplet sculpture and just back from the fire walls on entry, there’s a lot to catch your interest at this one.

But the afternoon tea that arrives is guaranteed to keep your attention. Served with flair – and explanations about the tea-brewing process – there’s a selection of high-quality sandwiches and a generous selection of cakes.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “With an elegant vibe and top-notch food, this is a genuinely excellent new addition to Dubai’s afternoon tea scene. Consider that tea officially spilled.”

Check out our full The Royal Tearoom review here

Licensed. Atlantis The Royal, Palm Jumeirah, atlantis.com (04 426 2626).

Highly commended:

Bijou Patisserie

This super-cute spot is home to one of the best afternoon teas in Dubai, having picked up this award in the past. Served in a vault, this is another that has a fun twist on a classic tea setup.

Being at a French patisserie, the cakes, as you’d expect, are exceptional, though there aren’t any scones (word for the purists). You’ll not feel like you’re missing out on those as the pastries and sweet treats are so delightful.

Expect canelé, madeleine, millefeuille and more, as well as savoury stuffed croissants, brioche and éclair.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “The savouries are well thought out and tasty. Served warm to the table is a tea-time take on a croquet monsieur, with emmental cheese, smoked turkey and creamy béchamel, with fresh truffle (of course) being a star of the matinée.”

Check out our full Bijou Patisserie review here

Licensed. Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk, Oud Metha, sofitel-dubai-theobelisk.com (04 281 4111)

The Gallery

Held in its striking lobby with views over Marasi Bay Marina, afternoon tea at The Lana is a sophisticated event created by award-winning pastry chef Angelo Musa. Begin with an assortment of six traditional finger sandwiches, including coronation chicken, lobster & prawn, and truffle egg.

These are followed with raisin and plain scones served with Devon clotted cream and the chef’s signature jams.

Pastries are the highlight here, including a rich chocolate ganache tart and Paris-Brest, with everything presented on the most delicate porcelain. You won’t pour your tea out of a finer pot than this.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Priced at Dhs600 per person (or Dhs700 with a glass of bubbly), the afternoon tea here does not come cheap, but if you want an irrevocably excellent experience and a true slice of elegance in Dubai, right here at the lobby of The Lana this is where you’ll find it.”

Check out our full The Gallery Afternoon Tea review here

Licensed. The Lana – Dorchester Collection, Marasi Drive, Business Bay, dorchestercollection.com (04 541 7755).

Read Time Out Dubai’s best afternoon tea 2025 list here

Best brunch in Dubai

WINNER: Zuma

One of the most popular brunches around, this has both à la carte and buffet aspects to it, and you get to select one of the restaurant’s signature mains, which is brought to your table. It’s a brilliant way to try one of the best Japanese restaurants in Dubai, as there are so many signature dishes to tuck into and a large range of sushi to try.

With a selection of maki, nigiri, sashimi and more, plus robata and tempura, the brunch gets off to a strong start.

Choose from dishes including the famous miso black cod, before rounding it all off with dessert. The service is excellent and the bar makes for a lively post-brunch drink. A stalwart in DIFC and a crowd-pleaser in every way.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Those who have been to Zuma’s brunch at any point in the last 10-plus years know what they’re getting: the chance to try pretty much everything the restaurant does, part buffet, part à la carte.”

Check out our full Zuma review here

Licensed. Gate Village, DIFC, zumarestaurant.com (04 425 5660).

Highly commended:

Netsu

This high-end Japanese restaurant comes alive every Saturday afternoon for brunch, a seemingly never-ending delivery of rather brilliant Japanese cuisine.

Each table receives starters to share, including salmon tacos, wagyu beef gyoza and Korean fried chicken, followed by a seasonal sashimi platter, served shrouded in dry ice for a touch of theatre.

Signature maki rolls are made tableside, while each guest can choose one large dish (the grilled giant tiger prawn is impressive), which you can snaffle solo or share with your group. Your feast concludes with a dessert platter, so save space for a mochi or two.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Get into the steak selection for the main event, and don’t skip the buttery grilled corn and wafu-drizzled broccoli – it’s not often you’ll find sides that stand up so well. “

Check out our full Netsu review here

Licensed. Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Jumeirah 1, mandarinoriental.com (04 777 2232).

Traiteur

If you’re after high-quality food and a chic setup with no gimmicks, Traiteur is for you. One of the best buffet brunches in Dubai, Traiteur takes over Brasserie du Park and NOÉPE for a Saturday afternoon extravaganza.

The optimum time to visit is in the winter when the terrace is the best place to sit, perched next to the Creek, next to the yachts and with a view of the Dubai skyline.

NOÉPE turns into a massive seafood station with lobster, prawns, sushi, oysters and more, while there’s an excellent barbecue area outside too. Drinks are premium, there’s live music and it’s an elegant place for a celebration. Don’t miss the dedicated cheese room either – it’s a real highlight.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “We could wax lyrical about the quality and selection of food at this brunch all day, but it’s one to be experienced at least once. Mark the calendar for your next anniversary/parents’ visit/birthday lunch, though really this one needs no excuses to book.”

Check out our full Traiteur review here

Licensed. Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, hyatt.com (04 602 1814).

Read Time Out Dubai’s best brunch Dubai 2025 list here

Best family brunch in Dubai

WINNER: Imagination Brunch

Entertainment is at the heart of the Imagination brunch at Mowsem, with all sorts of mythical creatures doing the rounds to entertain little ones.

Think unicorns, singing princesses, magicians and dancing wizards alongside activities including glitter face paints, arts and crafts, a bouncy castle and a crazy magic potion show.

Food is great too, with an abundant buffet and a good mix of international items – graze on everything from pasta and pizza to salads and cold seafood, plus you can tuck into dim sum, curries, quiches, grills and more.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “The cold seafood is a highlight – as is the bread, where carb-lovers will find everything you could, ahem, imagine. There’s also a kids’ buffet tucked away with all the usual suspects.”

Check out our full Imagination Brunch review here

Licensed. Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jumeirah @imaginationbrunch (04 230 0073).

Highly commended:

FamilyFest Brunch

New to the Family Brunch Dubai, well, family, is this absolute banger of a family brunch at the Address Beach Resort. It follows the now well-established formula of keeping the kids entertained so the parents can amuse themselves.

Activities include balloon bending, slime-making and face painting, plus shows from a singing princess and every kid’s dream best friend, Magic Phil. With a festival theme, this brunch throws games, dancing and a circus parade into the mix, along with epic views over Ain Dubai and the Arabian Gulf.

The buffet is extravagant, the dessert display is next level, and drinks are free-flowing. It’s pricier than some, but well worth it.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “But it’s the kids’ buffet that wows, with fairground-themed food displays filled with tasty treats that look almost too pretty to eat… Almost.”

Check out our full Familyfest Brunch review here

Licensed. Address Beach Resort, The Walk, JBR, @familyfestdubai (04 879 8888).

The Roast at Bubbalicious

One of the best family brunches in Dubai, this one takes place on a Sunday at Mina’s Kitchen at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi.

A smaller version of the famed Bubbalicious brunch, The Roast, as the name suggests, focuses on serving a slap-up Sunday roast dinner. Dig into a range of meats, fluffy Yorkshires and crispy potatoes.

There’s also a salad bar, seafood station, curries, mezze and a selection of pies to accompany mash and gravy. When it comes to desserts, you’re in for a real treat, too. The entertainment is great – expect live music, a magician, juggler, face painter, arts and crafts and more, all leading to a top-notch family afternoon to round off your weekend in the best of ways.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “With a bright and sunny space that matches the mood, this might be a far cry from a roast dinner at your granny’s (with the fire on and rain outside), but for a roast dinner Dubai-style, this offering from Bubbalicious ticks all boxes with aplomb, no oven mitts or military-style cooking schedule required.”

Check out our full The Roast at Bubbalicious review here

Licensed. The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Al Sufouh (04 511 7373).

Read Time Out Dubai’s best family brunch 2025 list here

Best bakery in Dubai

WINNER: BKRY

In a modern-looking space, newcomer BKRY’s approach to baking is both experimental and artisanal, with an emphasis on sourcing the finest ingredients and prioritising suppliers with sustainable farming practices.

Grains are processed in-house and used to elevate the humble croissant and other traditional bakes to new levels. You’ll need several visits to try them all, but the pecan salted caramel croissant is our current top tip, along with a pumpkin sourdough and fresh rosemary and sea salt focaccia.

Founded by three Emirati friends, also behind Archers speciality coffee roaster, this is already one to watch.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “With all the classics you know and love and refreshingly alt. bakes, BKRY is definitely one big doughy goldmine.”

Check out our full BKRY review here

Unlicensed. Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, @bkry.space (04 832 2433).

Highly commended:

Kneaded

Bringing together traditional baking techniques with local flavours is Kneaded, a grab-and-go concept in Al Khawaneej. Signature items include the raspberry pistachio cruffin (dreamy), tahini croissant, jalapeno cheese croissant and date & fennel loaves.

Cosy and community-focused, this new Dubai bakery is fast becoming a go-to for bread lovers, with its freshly-baked sourdough front and centre. If you prefer something sweeter, order one of the cruffins, filled with smooth, silky pastry cream.

There’s also coffee, hot chocolate, matcha and a refreshing cold hibiscus tea to go with them.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “While the delicious bakes are the main draw, you’ll be pairing them with a cup of great speciality coffee or an iced matcha latte to wash it all down with.”

Check out our full Kneaded review here

Unlicensed. Al Khawaneej St, Al Khawaneej @alwayskneaded (04 557 1205).

Pekoe Tea & Bread Bar

A modern Japanese bakery, Pekoe is a top shout if you’re after a chilled-out weekend morning in Dubai.

Nestled away in the hip Alserkal Avenue, this relative newcomer to the bakery scene is impressing diners with its slick interiors and joy-bringing baked goods.

Don’t miss the bread and spread – to choose your own slices and toppings, while unique takes on classic croissants are fun and tasty.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Pekoe place is buzzing on weekend mornings and has a regular crumb-covered customer base. So join the cool kids, sit back and enjoy your artfully made baked goods and the perfect brew.’

Check out our full Pekoe Tea & Bread Bar review here

Unlicensed. Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, mypekoe.com (04 359 3553).

Read Time Out Dubai’s best bakeries 2025 list here

Best bar food in Dubai

WINNER: Paradiso

Funky interiors, including life-sized carousel horses and carnival lights, a spacious rooftop with sweeping views of the Palm and Bluewaters and world-class DJs made Paradiso an instant hit with Dubai’s coolest bar crowd.

Add to the mix some seriously flamboyant drinks and fun, flavour-packed bar bites and it’s easy to see why this place is so popular. Order a selection of modern tapas, with the crunchy octopus cracker, truffle brioche, wagyu beef meatballs and paella croquettes all very well presented and extremely moreish.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “If you’re in the mood for something creamy, order the Paradiso Express. With notes of coffee, banana and sesame foam, it’s a winner. Oh, and it arrives in a little choo-choo train – get those taste buds ready for the journey.”

Check out our full Paradiso review here

Licensed. FIVE Luxe JBR, The Walk, JBR @paradisodubai (04 275 9999).

Highly commended:

AGORA Cocktail Bar

It may be famed for its exclusive juniper selections and mixology by Simone Caporale,  but AGORA is also a bar with a pretty extensive and well-thought-out nibbling menu.

There’s a variety of carpaccios and salads but a good selection of more substantial options too, including pizzetta tartufo, burrata ravioli, braised beef short ribs and Josper tiger prawns.

If you prefer picky bits with your drinks, the croquettes with manchego and chorizo are a very good shout. All this in a chic, elegant spot decked out in rich green velvet that hosts live music and DJs playing house beats.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Our advice? Don’t miss the manchego and chorizo croquettes, which are cheesy and tasty with a gooey centre and perfectly crispy outer layer.”

Check out our full AGORA review here

Licensed. The Dubai EDITION, Downtown Dubai, agora-dxb.com (058 592 5823).

Honeycomb Hi-Fi

Honeycomb Hi-Fi is not only the number one place for a brilliant night out, but it also serves some of the best bar food in Dubai. One of the coolest spots in town, Honeycomb Hi-Fi is a hit with music-lovers.

With a music listening station, a vinyl record store and a roster of top DJs, it’s a popular spot for a hip evening with your friends, with creative mixed drinks, too. When it comes to food, it’s an izakaya-style idea, so try plates such as chicken karaage, lamb gyoza, garlic prawn udon and stuffed wings.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Although Honeycomb Hi-Fi bills itself primarily as a bar, its menu is restaurant level, showcasing dishes with great flavour that make as much noise as the records do.”

Check out our full Honeycomb Hi-Fi review here

Licensed. Pullman Dubai Downtown, Business Bay, honeycombhifi.com (04 412 6666).

Read Time Out Dubai’s best bar food list here

Best budget restaurant in Dubai

WINNER: Dampa Seafood Grill

Nothing could dampen (ahem) the passion Dampa has for delivering its legendary Filipino seafood to the masses. After a fire caused the Deira restaurant to close in 2023, it reopened in February 2024 and quickly re-established its vibrant energy.

With a menu crammed with all manner of catch, from whole grilled squid to baked mussels, your best bet is to try it all with the signature seafest dump. At just Dhs176 and enough for three people, watch as the freshest haul is pretty much chucked on the table in front of you, sauce and all (top tip: go for the Cajun).

Tuck in with your hands and devour the lot. The more mess, the better.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Sweet, smoky, fragrant marinade gets into the crevices of every single bite – and likely your hands, elbows and anything else that happens to be exposed.”

Check out our full Dampa Seafood Grill review here

Unlicensed. Baniyas Road, Deira @dampaseafoodgrill (04 299 0884).

Highly commended:

Calicut Paragon

If authentic Keralan cooking, packed full of flavour and spice, is what you’re searching for, Calicut Paragon is for you. An excellent Indian restaurant specialising in Southern Indian cuisine, this has been one of the best budget restaurants in Dubai for many years, and one of the top Indian restaurants in town, too.

With dishes that sing with spice, dig into chicken Malabari, fish tikka, moilee, masala mushrooms and more, all served with piping hot naan.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “While there are plenty of meat and vegetarian dishes, it’s seafood that reigns supreme at Calicut Paragon. And, for us, the crab tushar takes the crown for the best.”

Check out our full Calicut Paragon review here

Unlicensed. Karama, @‌calicutparagon (04 335 8700).

San Wan Hand Pulled Noodles

Having opened in JLT in 2023, tucked away in an unassuming corner of Cluster F, right next to Asian Street by Thai, San Wan Hand Pulled Noodles’ popularity has rocketed into it claiming the title of the best budget restaurant in Dubai, hands down.

Service is friendly and there’s a concise menu of Northern Chinese classics that you don’t want to miss. Serving affordable, authentic Shaanxi cuisine, the main order here is, as the name suggests, those deliciously moreish noodles – which you can watch the chefs pulling in the kitchen.

The chicken wontons are a must-try too. In short, don’t miss it – it’s a mighty find in a low-key location.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “San Wan is a real neighbourhood place with character and style, and delivers on what a lot of places promise in Dubai, but don’t always come through on. Great food, fantastic value. One of the best budget eateries in town.”

Check out our full San Wan Hand Pulled Noodles review here

Unlicensed. Cluster F, JLT, @‌sanwan.dxb (050 759 9584).

Read Time Out Dubai’s best budget restaurants 2025 list here

Best burger bar in Dubai

WINNER: Smash and Sear at Maxzi The Good Food Shop

Hungry for a smashed burger? This is the place for you. Maxzi was originally an online grocery store, before setting up shop in the hip Al Quoz in 2018. And since then its awesome burgers have drawn in a loyal following.

Burgers are made with wagyu beef and smooshed into squidgy potato buns, smothered with onion, pickles and house sauce. Hungry? Go for the double cheeseburger. Extra-hungry? Go large with the triple patty. Pair it with tater tots and you’re onto a good thing.

Now officially the best burger in Dubai for 2025, this is one patty you’ll be dreaming of for days.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Just getting acquainted? Do the introductions via a classic double cheeseburger to get a sense for just how smashed and seared these babies are, garnished with onion, pickles and house sauce, and all wedged into a yielding potato bun.”

Check out our full Smash and Sear at Maxzi The Good Food Shop review here

Unlicensed. Al Shafar Investment Building, Al Quoz, maxzi.ae (04 395 3988).

Highly commended:

Eleven Green

The brainchild of husband and wife duo Sultan and Kinda Chatila – aka supperclub stars Tanos At 8 – there was great anticipation when Eleven Green opened. And this brilliant burger bar fulfilled all expectations.

With Art Deco-style décor and green banquettes, the interiors contrast with the stripped-back metal trays the burgers come on and it’s a cooler-than-cool place to grab a burger.

And the burgers themselves are excellent. Don’t miss the Double Trouble, with cheese, onion, pickles and signature 11G sauce in a potato bun, or the signature Bull Burger smothered in melted cheddar, onions, house-made bacon jam and the team’s famed bull sauce.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Set on the corner of Al Thanya, at the foot of Meyan Mall, Eleven Green’s interior hardly screams burger bar. A combination of equations on the walls, Art Deco reading lamps on the tables and bottle-green banquettes couldn’t be further from the archetypal urban aesthetic.”

Check out our full Eleven Green review here

Unlicensed. Mayan Mall, Umm Suqeim, eleven-green.com

Pickl

Everyone’s heard of Pickl – and with good reason, it’s a giant when it comes to the best burgers in Dubai. A multiple winner of the best burger in Dubai award, you can look forward to a perfectly seared patty, smothered in special sauce and snuggled into a squishy potato bun.

Not only are the beef versions lip-smackingly good, Pickl’s chicken sando has become the stuff of legend, so make sure you order one of each – you won’t regret it. Morning, noon, night – there’s never a wrong time to dig into a Pickl burger.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Pick from a short menu of cheese, chicken and now Impossible burgers (Pickl was the first to bring the latter to the UAE market), then sling in a side – this place prides itself on its mega-souped-up fries, loaded with everything from bacon to pickles.”

Check out our full Pickl review here

Unlicensed. One JLT, JLT, eatpickl.com (04 584 6859).

Read Time Out Dubai’s best burger restaurants 2025 list here

Best café in Dubai

WINNER: NAC

This Mayfair import, officially known as North Audley Cantine, is a rather fancy café, with a modern French menu and bistro vibes.

There are separate menus for the daytime and evening (it’s open until 11pm in the week and midnight at the weekend), as well as a breakfasty-brunch type menu available Friday to Sunday.

Small sharing plates are the focus, with winners including flamed aubergine with miso, popcorn chicken, crushed burrata and a torched cauliflower. Don’t be disheartened by the small selection of desserts – the crushed milk chocolate cookies with Frosties soft serve is all you need.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “While the interiors and rainbow-coloured plates are worth a trip to this part of town, NAC isn’t the place for a much-needed catch-up or date night as the TikTok-inspired can start to dominate the atmosphere.”

Check out our full NAC review here

Unlicensed. The H Residence, Al Safa 1, nacdubai.com (04 373 0000)

Highly commended:

BRIX Café

BRIX café and dessert bar comes from the team behind 3 Fils and is a cute spot for a lazy meal and moreish coffee. The setting is charming, at Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, making it a relaxed spot for a catch up with friends.

If you have a sweet tooth, you’re in the right place as the wide-ranging dessert and pastry menu is absolutely excellent. From carrot cake to lemon and basil sponge, basque cheesecake and millefeuille, each treat has a quirky twist on the original and they look as good as they taste. It’s brilliant and it’s officially one of the best cafés in Dubai for 2025.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “And whether you’ve spotted BRIX Café on your Instagram or are reading about it here for the very first time, just know that it definitely lives up to the hype. So go… Now.”

Check out our full BRIX Café review here

Unlicensed. Jumeirah Fishing Harbour 1, brixdessert.com/café (054 515 7861).

One Life Kitchen & Café

For home-roasted coffee with a hip crowd, this DIFC café should be on your radar. Having opened back in 2016, it’s been a go-to café for those who live and work in the area for many years now.

The creative, fun menu spans the globe – from Turkish eggs to Tokyo Fluff and a full-English in a New York-style bagel. Later in the day, you’ll find steaks, tacos, salads, kofte and poke making up the world eats. With happy hours (it’s licensed) and breakfast deals, there are plenty of excuses to return, too.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “All the classics make an appearance on the menu, like eggs and avocado on toast (topped with sliced radishes and zaatar), shakshoumi (think shakshouka, but with added halloumi), and bancakes (a slightly healthier version of the real thing made from banana and oat flour).”

Check out our full One Life Kitchen & Café review here

Licensed. Dubai Design District, onelifedxb.com (04 513 4727).

Read Time Out Dubai’s best cafés 2025 list here

Best family restaurant in Dubai

WINNER: Reform Social & Grill

Officially the best family restaurant in Dubai, Reform is always buzzing, not least because of the amount of activities and deals it runs. From parent and baby sessions to happy hours and family brunches, there’s always good reason to return.

The food is tasty – especially the belly-busting breakfasts – and kids will be happy with their choice. The pub garden is also excellent.

Expect an upgraded play area with slides and a climbing frame and plenty of green space to kick a ball or run around. It’s dog-friendly too, so the entire family can come along for an afternoon out, truly making it one of the best family restaurants in Dubai.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “It’s not just the weekends that are buzzy. It’s also rammed during the week with people popping in for a pint and bite on the way home from work. And those bites are very good, by the way.”

Check out our full Reform Social & Grill review here

Licensed. The Lakes Club, The Lakes, reformsocialgrill.ae  (04 454 2638).

Highly commended:

The Byron Bathers Club

Coming from the team behind Common Grounds and Tom & Serg, this place knows how to cater to families.

With a swimming pool to dip into (with a minimum spend you can get a lounger and pool access) as well as the beach to play on and a beach playground area with swings and a climbing frame, the kids will be occupied for hours.

Food ranges from grills and seafood selections to pizzas, burgers and fish and chips, so all bases are covered there. It’s chic too – all blues, whites and neutral tones – as well as being licensed, so parents will be as happy as the kids.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Food itself is decent, and being a seaside joint the menu is seafood focused. The fish tacos are a hit, enveloped in a floury tortilla with just the right amount of spicy sauce and guac, while the white fish is coated in a delightful coconutty crumb.”

Check out our full The Byron Bathers Club review here

Licensed. Shoreline 4, Palm Jumeirah, byronbathers.com (04323 7378).

Twiggy Family

The younger sister of Twiggy Dubai, this second lagoon pool at Park Hyatt Dubai is about as chic as they come when it comes to family-friendly beach clubs.

With views over the Creek, yachts and Dubai skyline beyond, it’s a picture-perfect spot and the lagoon pool itself is stunning too. With sugar-soft sand and comfy loungers, plus a splash pad for the kids and plenty of pool toys, it has all the holiday feels.

The cover charge is non-redeemable, but there’s an a la carte menu of salads, pasta, pizza and more for when you and the gang get peckish – and as you’d expect from Twiggy the food quality is high.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “A classic tomato pasta comes with an unctuous sauce, push the boat out and add juicy prawns for a hit of protein and texture. Salads are fresh and bright and there are grills if you’re feeling like a full meal. The pizzas are pillowy and great to share.”

Check out our full Twiggy Family review here

Licensed. Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, twiggy.ae (04 602 1105).

Read Time Out Dubai’s best family restaurants 2025 list here

Best pizza in Dubai

WINNER: Pitfire Pizza

It’s done it again. New York-Neapolitan-style pizzas are the order of the day here at Pitfire. We really don’t need to tell you that Pitfire is firmly a Dubai institution.

Its latest outpost in Dubai Hills Estate now gives you the chance to enjoy the best pizza in town, alongside a fully stocked bar serving up a variety of grape and hop beverages, as well as some pretty creative mixed drinks.

There’s everything from traditional pepperoni and margheritas to turkey ham and pineapple and even potato or dates, meaning whatever your jam you’ll find it here. The crusts are puffy and blistered, and the place for those compulsory garlic knots.

Licensed. Dubai Hills Estate, pitfiredubai.ae (04 553 0465).

Highly commended:

Pulcinella

If you live anywhere near Sports City, you’ll have heard of Pulcinella. A neighbourhood eatery that’s one of the best pizzerias in Dubai, it has casual, family-friendly vibes and puffy-crusted pizzas that are perfect for sharing.

Pepperoni, margherita, capricciosa – all the classics are present and correct at Pulchinella, while there are also white bases, calzone and more to take a bite out of. One for your Friday night pizza list.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Yes, you’re here for the pizza, but don’t skip the parmigiana to start. It’s a comforting dish that brings the warm and fuzzies. And if you’re dining in a group get the sapori di casa platter, but don’t go so big so soon, more pizzas are yet to come.”

Check out our full Pulcinella review here

Unlicensed. Dubai Sports City, pulcinelladubai.com (04 277 6281).

Za Za Slice

Starting life as a pop-up at Sole DXB, Za Za Slice comes from the co-founder of popular sandwich spot Rascals. Found at Jumeirah Garden City, Za Za Slice has quickly established itself as one of the best pizzerias in Dubai.

Pizzas boast thin and crunchy bases slathered with gourmet Italian ingredients, so expect a flavour-packed slice that belies its unassuming location. There aren’t many seats at this pizza bar – which only serves six types of pizza – so be prepared for a wait, which we assure you will be worth it.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Slices are larger than your average pizza slice and range between Dhs23 and Dhs29 per piece. The beauty of this system is the chance to try as many of the flavours as you like without committing to entire pizzas.”

Check out our full Za Za Slice review here

Unlicensed. Jumeirah Garden City, Al Satwa @‌zazaslice (04 337 6679).

Read Time Out Dubai’s best pizzerias 2025 list here

Best pub food in Dubai 2025

WINNER: The Coterie

Time Out Dubai’s Pub Food winner for 2025 not only lays on top deals and shows a vast range of sport, the food is top-notch, too. Marmite roasties deserve special mention, while the wings are some of the best in town.

Cumberland Scotch eggs are another prime pick, while burgers, pies and fish and chips make for hearty mains. The sports bar section is over-21s only, but there’s a family-friendly dining area for when the whole gang is in the mood for a homely roast dinner with huge Yorkshire puddings.

The best places for pub food in Dubai, if you haven’t been – book in for the next match day.

Licensed. P6, Ibn Battuta Mall, coteriegroup.com (04 570 8072).

Highly commended:

Goose Island Tap House

This gastropub hails from Chicago, from the brewery of the same name. Having opened in 2021 in JVC, it’s now become a super popular spot for diners in and around JBR.

It’s no surprise because Goose Island serves some pretty amazing pub grub. With plenty of deals including happy hours and ladies’ nights, as well as a golf simulator, there’s a lot to help you work up an appetite.

The menu boasts some of the best pub food in Dubai and has all the staples you’d want – from wings to pizza, burgers, fish and chips and more, while there’s also a decent selection for vegetarians and vegans. The craft hops list is also one of the best out there, so Goose Island ticks a lot of boxes.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “But despite all the other accolades, the best thing about this place is the number of screens for watching the sport. There really are no bad seats here. It’s been expertly designed so that you’ll have a great view from any angle – every tackle, penalty, free-kick you’ll see in crisp HD on one of the 19 screens.”

Check out our full Goose Island Tap House review here

Licensed. FIVE LUXE JBR, Jumeirah Beach Residences, gooseislanddubai.com (04 455 9989).

The Black Sheep

Discover classic pub favourites alongside small plates perfect to pair with a drink at this popular British gastropub in JLT. Think pan-seared salmon, braised beef casserole, shepherd’s pie, sausage & mash and even a good ol’ spag bol.

The Sunday roast is well worth trying, served with roast potatoes, carrots, parsnips, braised red cabbage, broccolini, Yorkshire pudding, gravy and either mac & cheese or cauli cheese. Everything is cooked with a side of nostalgia, giving expats a real taste of home.

There’s even a pie and a pint deal, for when only comfort food will do.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Occupying a space in one of Dubai’s busiest neighbourhoods, The Black Sheep is one of the area’s most relaxed and friendly new venues.”

Check out our full The Black Sheep review here

Licensed. Pullman Jumeirah Lakes Towers, JLT, the blacksheepdubai.com (058 599 5664).

Read Time Out Dubai’s best pub food 2025 list here

Best seafood restaurant in Dubai

WINNER: Ibn AlBahr

One of the most charming seafood restaurants in Dubai, and consistently one of the best – this spot at Club Vista Mare is run by Lebanese fishermen. If you like your catch fresh as can be, you’re in the right place.

Take a seat on the terrace or sit on the beach for a toes-in-the-sand dining experience. Dig into a selection of mezze to start before opting for your seafood prepared in a style of your choosing. We say keep it simple and enjoy grilled fish with a view of the sea.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Salads are fresh and fragrant and make for top beachfront fare, while a few dips are a fantastic choice to share with friends over a sundowner or two.”

Check out our full Ibn AlBahr review here

Licensed. Club Vista Mare, Palm Jumeirah, ibnalbahr.me (04 553 9575).

Highly commended:

Alici

This charming spot overlooks the Arabian Gulf and JBR, meaning it’s ideal for holidaymakers, while those who live in Dubai will also enjoy the vacation feel.

Focusing on flavours from Southern Italy and the Amalfi Coast, the cute blues and whites give a fresh feeling, while the menu stars Italian seafood dishes.

From raw plates to the specialty ingredient anchovies (Alici means anchovy), there’s plenty to try for seafood-lovers. The lobster pasta is artfully presented, served table-side and comes with tender shellfish in an unctuous tomato sauce.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Set over two floors, the space is bathed in neutral shades and heaps of natural light, with citrus trees, beachy blues and white-washed wood. Take a seat and stare out to sea – either from the terrace in winter or from massive floor-to-ceiling windows from the upstairs dining room.”

Check out our full Alici review here

Licensed. Bluewaters Dubai, alici.com (04 275 2577).

Lucia’s Mare

If you’re after an excellent seafood dining experience, generally it’s a good idea to head to a venue by the sea. You can’t get much closer than Lucia’s Mare at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, which sits on the sand at the foot of Burj Al Arab.

The stunning location is matched by exquisite coastal cuisine from Capri, with a collection of delicate raw seafood dishes, salads, hot starters, pasta, risotto, pizza and mains like grilled sea bream and an Italian seafood stew.

Designed for sharing, the huge portion of paccheri all’astice – whole lobster with gragnano paccheri pasta, bisque, cherry tomatoes and basil ­­– is a show-stopper.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “Kick off with a couple of staples – vitello tonnato is perfectly balanced, while arancini is bursting with molten mozzarella and fragrant truffled rice. Don’t miss Lucia’s salad for a fresh starter packed with flavour. It’s studded with creamy mozzarella, sweet white peach, earthy asparagus and drizzled with a zingy blood orange dressing. ”

Check out our full Lucia’s Mare review here

Licensed. Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Umm Suqeim, luciasdubai.com (04 422 4321).

Read Time Out Dubai’s best seafood restaurants 2025 list here

Best steakhouse in Dubai or grill

WINNER: Prime68

An oldie but still a very goodie – Prime68 is a stalwart on the Dubai dining scene with valid reason.

Officially the best steakhouse in Dubai – again – Prime68 not only serves delicious, expertly cooked meat, it also offers some of the best views around. As you’d expect from the name, you’ll find this steakhouse on the 68th floor of the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai with stunning skyline views.

Inside it’s a pretty classic setup in terms of steakhouses, but lifted with modern touches. When it comes to meat, enjoy cuts from all over the world, including a tomahawk if you’re in the mood to share. Expertly cooked and full of flavour, meat-eaters will love Prime68.

These guys are steak specialists – they know what they’re doing and they do it well every time while keeping the prices in the mid-range, and for that, we applaud them.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “The signature cuts start from Dhs330 with the Australian Black Angus ranging up to Dhs800 for the 1kg USDA prime tomahawk. Steaks are cooked perfectly with a sear on the outside and juicy, tender meat on the inside.”

Check out our full Prime68 review here

Licensed. JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, Business Bay, @‌prime68dxb (04 414 3000).

Highly commended:

Rhodes Twenty10

Coming from the late, great Gary Rhodes, Rhodes Twenty10 is one of the best steakhouses in Dubai and a top place for carnivores looking for a relaxed dinner with friends and family.

You’ll find a mix of hotel guests and visitors to this restaurant and the menu stars favourites from Rhodes’ menus over the years. Tuck into juicy burgers, prime USDA steaks and steak pie. And if you’re on a date you can never go wrong with a tender chateaubriand.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “But for those with a love for beef, the options here are unparalleled. The 140-day grain-fed black Angus rib-eye is a showstopper, offering a tender and well-seasoned piece of meat. If that doesn’t suit your steak craving, the USDA sirloin is equally excellent.”

Check out our full Rhodes Twenty10 review here

Licensed. Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai Marina, rhodestwenty10.com (04 316 5550).

The Ninth Cut Butchery & Steakhouse

As the name suggests, The Ninth Cut is more than just a restaurant. A full-service butchery, with oxtail, brisket and dry-aged cuts, as well as lamb, chicken, veal and a house-special biltong (all of which you can buy to take home), this is a place with produce at its heart.

Tucked away behind the butchery and deli is the dining room, offering an East-meets-West take on steakhouse classics.

Starters include a signature fattoush, Piri Piri chicken livers and baked Brie, while mains mix it up with a smoked lamb shank mandi, cast iron oxtail and steak & eggs. In its unassuming location, this is refreshingly different dining.

Licensed. Novotel Al Barsha, Sheikh Zayed Road @theninthcut (052 872 1441).

Read Time Out Dubai’s best steakhouses 2025 list here

Best tasting menu in Dubai

WINNER: FZN by Björn Frantzén

Sibling to the Frantzén in Stockholm and Zén in Singapore, FZN in Dubai offers a nine-course tasting menu featuring chef Björn Frantzén’s modern Nordic cuisine with Japanese influences.

The restaurant at Atlantis The Palm has just 27 seats, 13 of which surround the open kitchen, and the experience is personal and interactive, with diners taken on a journey around the venue.

Menu highlights include duck barbecue with yuzu, Kampot pepper and foie gras, and turbot with Cecina de wagyu. At dinner, you can choose a grape pairing, a zero percent pairing, a combination of both, or your own selections from a cellar featuring 1,300 grape labels.

Starting from Dhs2,000 per person, this is one of the most expensive tasting menus in Dubai – but it’s also one of the best.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “At the time of writing, a rose-shaped course featuring Japanese bluefin tuna surrounded by a refreshing colatura fish sauce kicks off the main dining experience. It’s followed by a highly unique Koshihikari rice-studded langoustine paired with a rich egg white emulsion.”

Check out our full FZN by Björn Frantzén review here

Licensed. Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, restaurantfzn.com (050 107 6322).

Highly commended:

Row on 45

Alongside City Social sits Row on 45 – a petite 12-seater experience from acclaimed British chef Jason Atherton. The 17-course haute cuisine menu is presented in three acts and takes place in various locations, including the bubbly lounge, main dining room and chef’s library, for a truly immersive experience.

One of the best tasting menus in Dubai, Row on 45 focuses on quality ingredients that are plated with panache and blends European and Japanese flavours.

There’s a vegetarian version of the menu too, and if you’re going all out, opt for the grape pairing. A new addition to the degustation menu scene, and one that’s well worth trying.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “This is a refined experience, with service to match. As you might expect for a meal that will be north of Dhs2,500 for two people. Though the team deserve credit for making sure it is not overly stuffy, something the classic pop and rock soundtrack helps with.”

Check out our full Row on 45 review here

Licensed. Grosvenor House Dubai, Dubai Marina, rowon45dubai.com (056 832 4545).

Trèsind Studio

This acclaimed Indian restaurant is helmed by chef Himanshu Saini and it has been consistently excellent since opening in 2018. It moved to St. Regis Gardens on the Palm in 2022 and has a dining area that seats just 20 diners.

The studio-style space is set up so all tables face the kitchen, like a stage – meaning all eyes are on the talented chefs at work, carefully tweezing edible flowers and painting swirls of sauces on to plates to enhance the already exquisite creations they’ve whipped up.

One of the best tasting menus in Dubai, Trèsind Studio is somewhere that needs to be tried at least once, especially if you love avant garde Indian cuisine.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “This sense of anticipation is key to the meal – you’re only given the menu at the end. Throughout, you’ll have the sense that something important is about to happen. For serious foodies only, Trèsind Studio takes its Indian cuisine seriously and expects you to do the same.”

Check out our full Trèsind Studio review here

Licensed. St. Regis Gardens, Palm Jumeirah, tresindstudio.com (058 895 1272).

Read Time Out Dubai’s tasting menus 2025 list here

The best casual dining restaurants in Dubai 2025

WINNER: Sufret Maryam

There must be something in the water at Wasl 51. New to Time Out Dubai‘s top 10 casual restaurants in Dubai is Sufret Maryam, the latest creation from Salam Dakkak, chef-owner of Dubai institution Bait Maryam.

Her new venture is a lot bigger but still cosy, thoughtfully decorated with works from Middle Eastern artists and rustic knick-knacks.

Nostalgic Palestinian and Jordanian dishes are elevated to the level you’d expect from such a renowned chef, beautifully presented and executed.

Splash out on the La’Moshet Maryam, a slow-cooked lamb shoulder marinated in chef Salam’s special spices. It’s a taste experience you’ll want to repeat again and again.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “When it comes to the food, every single dish is well thought-out and beautifully plated. The menu is cleverly curated so that even the most seasoned consumers of Middle Eastern cuisine will find an element of surprise in whatever they order.”

Check out our full Sufret Maryam review here

Unlicensed. Wasl 51, Jumeirah 1, sufretmaryam.com (050 417 2272).

Highly commended:

Khadak

New casual Indian restaurant Khadak has a story to tell. It does this through everything from knick-knacks and wall-art to its revival of long-forgotten recipes and the culinary adventures of its chef founder Naved Nasir, famed for his years at London’s Dishoom.

The menu pays homage to Indian street food stalls across the country, with examples including Radio Café kheema pao, a nostalgic tribute to Bombay’s former Radio Café, and chicken sukka, from the coastal kitchens of Mangalore. Every dish is described to make you want to try it – and served to make you want to tell everyone about it.

Time Out Dubai reviewers say: “For the main event, you have options – and loads of them. The chicken sulkka, a tasty combination of boneless chicken oysters prepared in a fragrant coconut masala and tempered with curry leaves is a hit. Khadak’s recipe hails from the coastal kitchens of Mangalore and the thought behind it shows.”

Check out our full Khadak review here

Unlicensed. Villa 426, 12 Al Wasl Rd, Jumeirah 2, khadak.com (058 979 7830).

Kinoya

It may now have a branch at one of the fanciest department stores in the world – Harrods in London’s Knightsbridge – but Kinoya in Dubai’s The Greens is distinctly more casual. A top Japanese restaurant, this spot comes from supper club star chef Neha Mishra and has been a total hit since opening in 2021.

Famed for its silky smooth ramen, this casual izakaya is a brilliant place to visit when you need a comforting bowl of soup, or some of the delicious gyoza, skewers and sushi. It’s all excellent, so make a trip there, pronto.