The Top 10 Best Emirati Restaurants In Dubai
You don’t find that many restaurants that serve authentic, true-to-the-core Emirati cuisine in Dubai.
That’s because most of the locals genuinely value the art of cooking from home, making things from scratch and being around family throughout the entire process. All of the previously mentioned factors, adding with the aromatic fragrances that come from spices used- all add to the beauty of Emirati food.
So if you’ve been wondering where to head for a decent luqaimat or machboos– then you’re in for a real treat.
We’ve rounded up a few of Dubai residents’ favourite restaurants that serve Emirati cuisine.
How did Lovin Dubai choose the final list?
- Finalists were selected from all across Dubai
- Online reviews, previous media coverage and notable blogs were also included in the overall rating
- The final list is subjective – if we’ve missed out on any must-try places across Dubai, please do let us know!
- The brand’s social media audience and engagement were considered
10. Local Awi
This Al Barsha gem is a favorite among diners since it’s quick, tasty and affordable- all at the same time.
If you crave a full-on Emirati breakfast then this one’s sure to be your next weekend go-to.
Balaleet served with saffron, rose and all the goodness that is this dish- paired with karak.
This one’s an absolute gem.
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9. Cultural Center: Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding
Although a little more of a place for tourists, beginners to the Emirati cuisine and anyone who’s trying to get to know the Emirati culture through its food- the Cultural Center, located in Al Fahidi District, is a great start.
Not only is a lunch or dinner package here entertaining and informative, it’s pretty interactive too.
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8. Al Mashowa
Seafood lovers need not look elsewhere for this Emirati seafood restaurant is quite the spot.
Head down to City Walk to try out Emirati dishes based on recipes that have been, and I quote “passed down from generations.”
More than 70 dishes are available on the menu, and it’s really a haven for fish and shrimp lovers.
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7. Seven Sands
This place is known for serving shark meat, and if you’re a bit of a daredevil- that might be a peculiarly interesting try. The resto, in JBR and Bluewaters, is beautiful with am ambience that makes it perfect for group birthday dinners.
Do NOT leave without trying the date pudding.
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6. HumYum
HumYum is that local place that you go to get your fix of tea and snacks, followed by a beach visit.
People usually recommend their samboosa, breakfast dishes AND burgers.
It may not serve the rice dishes you crave but by golly- this is that spot for a good Emirati snack or two.
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5. Al Jalboot
Al Jalboot screams authenticity.
A seafood hotspot, located by the marina, with access to fishing AND actually getting to eat the seafood for a decent price.
Biryani shrimps and their signature seafood soup are one of its regular customers’ top choice.
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4. Aseelah
Inside Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek is Aseela, the Emirati resto that is a pure delight.
Rubyan (shrimp), biryanis, jarish AND lamb thareed are served with a home-cooked feel. Enjoy a date-stuffed chicken leg or camel stew, just like the old locals used to.
This is fusion on another level.
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3. Logma
Logma has been around for years but still retains its spot as one of the top 5 best Emirati restos in Dubai. Known for its quality, service and incredibly good menu options.
Logama takes the Emirati dishes you KNOW and love but fuses it with a modern touch.
Have some baith tamat (egg and tomato dish) AND logma’s signature fries. Your life is ’bout to change.
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2. Arabian Tea House
With the best atmosphere during winter, this tea house isn’t just superior in the realms of tea but ALL things Emirati. Be welcomed in style, and take aesthetically pleasing photos BUT wait for the best part- and that’s the food.
That’s where the real ‘tea’ is (forgive me.)
With almost 2,000 reviews on Google, and all ‘mostly’ positive- it’s quite clear that this is THE spot to go when visiting Al Bastakiya. Perfect for a traditional breakfast or light bites before or after you explore old Dubai.
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1. Al Fanar
The city’s favourite go-to for the best of Emirati food is Al Fanar, with several branches across the UAE- it’s no surprise why this ‘Dubai in the ’60s’- inspired eatery has become a staple.
It’s easily the closest thing one could get to taste what a home-cooked Emirati rice and dish meal is like.
In Dubai, Al Fanar has TWO branches, namely the one at Dubai Festival City Mall and the other in Al Seef. Dishes like the machboos deyay, shaari samak (a type of fish), saloona laham AND all the tasty hearty Emirati dishes are available AND will change your lunch game routine completely.
Try it out for yourself and see what we mean.
This one’s a 5/5, easily.
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