Best Restaurants in the UAE: A Food Lover’s Paradise
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is not just known for its stunning skyscrapers, luxurious lifestyle, and golden deserts. It’s also a haven for food enthusiasts. Whether you’re craving traditional Emirati dishes, Asian delights, or international cuisines, the UAE has something for everyone. Here, we’ll explore the best restaurants across the Emirates, their locations, ratings, best dishes, and what people love about them. Let’s dive in!
1. Zuma (Dubai) :
- Location: Gate Village 06, DIFC, Dubai
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Best Food: Black Cod, Sushi, Miso Marinated Chicken
Review Highlights: Zuma is a world-renowned Japanese restaurant with a chic and contemporary vibe. Guests love its sophisticated decor and the vibrant energy of the restaurant. The black cod and sushi rolls are crowd favorites, praised for their exquisite flavors. Diners also enjoy the attentive service and the buzzing atmosphere that makes Zuma perfect for both business dinners and special occasions.
2. Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe (Abu Dhabi) :
- Location: Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Cuisine: Emirati
- Best Food: Lamb Machboos, Luqaimat, Balaleet
Review Highlights: Step into Al Fanar, and you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time to the UAE’s heritage days. Guests love the traditional decor and the authentic Emirati dishes. The lamb machboos is described as flavorful and aromatic, while the sweet luqaimat dessert is a must-try. Visitors often commend the staff’s knowledge of Emirati culture and cuisine.
3. Pierchic (Dubai) :
- Location: Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Best Food: Lobster Thermidor, Grilled Oysters, Scallops
Review Highlights: Pierchic is a romantic overwater dining destination offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf. Diners rave about the fresh seafood, particularly the lobster thermidor and scallops. The serene ambiance and impeccable service make it a popular spot for anniversaries and proposals. The restaurant’s unique location adds an unforgettable touch to the dining experience.
4. BB Social Dining (Dubai) :
- Location: DIFC, Dubai
- Rating: 4.4/5
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
- Best Food: Edamame Hummus, Bao Buns, Spicy Cauliflower
Review Highlights: BB Social Dining offers a fresh take on Asian fusion cuisine. The edamame hummus and bao buns are highly recommended by regulars, while vegetarians appreciate the spicy cauliflower dish. Guests love the cozy and friendly atmosphere, which makes it a great spot for casual gatherings. The rooftop seating adds a lovely touch during cooler months.
5. Hakkasan (Abu Dhabi) :
- Location: Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Cuisine: Cantonese
- Best Food: Peking Duck, Dim Sum, Wagyu Beef
Review Highlights: Located in the iconic Emirates Palace, Hakkasan is synonymous with luxury. Guests adore the stylish interiors and the authentic Cantonese menu. The peking duck and dim sum platters are highlights, often praised for their bold flavors. Diners also enjoy the extensive beverage list and the attentive staff, making it a top choice for upscale dining.
6. Bu Qtair (Dubai) :
- Location: Umm Suqeim Fishing Harbour, Dubai
- Rating: 4.3/5
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Best Food: Fried Fish, Prawns, Fish Curry
Review Highlights: Bu Qtair is a humble seafood shack that has gained legendary status. Known for its fresh and affordable seafood, this spot offers a no-frills dining experience. Diners love the fried fish and spicy prawns, describing them as perfectly cooked and seasoned. Despite its simplicity, the food speaks volumes, drawing locals and tourists alike.
7. Shakespeare and Co. (Sharjah) :
- Location: Al Majaz Waterfront, Sharjah
- Rating: 4.2/5
- Cuisine: International
- Best Food: Eggs Benedict, Caesar Salad, Chocolate Fondant
Review Highlights: Shakespeare and Co. is a whimsical cafe known for its vintage interiors and diverse menu. Guests appreciate the waterfront location in Sharjah, which offers stunning views. The eggs benedict is a breakfast favorite, while the chocolate fondant is a must-try dessert. Diners also love the friendly service and cozy ambiance.
8. Al Hadheerah (Dubai) :
- Location: Bab Al Shams Desert Resort, Dubai
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Best Food: Shawarma, Grilled Meats, Arabic Sweets
Review Highlights: For an authentic Middle Eastern experience, Al Hadheerah is unmatched. Guests enjoy the live entertainment, including belly dancing and camel rides, alongside their meals. The grilled meats and shawarma are highly rated, as are the Arabic sweets for dessert. The desert setting adds a magical touch, making it a must-visit for tourists.
9. Milas (Dubai) :
- Location: Dubai Mall, Dubai
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Cuisine: Emirati
- Best Food: Harees, Thareed, Camel Burger
Review Highlights: Milas is a contemporary Emirati restaurant with a focus on traditional flavors served in a modern way. The camel burger is a unique dish that draws curiosity, while the harees and thareed are comforting classics. Diners enjoy the chic decor and the friendly service. Its convenient location in Dubai Mall makes it popular among shoppers.
10. Coya (Abu Dhabi) :
- Location: The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Cuisine: Peruvian
- Best Food: Ceviche, Wagyu Sirloin, Churros
Review Highlights: Coya offers a vibrant taste of Peru with its bold flavors and colorful decor. The ceviche is a standout dish, praised for its freshness and tangy flavors. Guests also love the wagyu sirloin and churros for dessert. The lively ambiance and excellent service make Coya a favorite for group dinners and celebrations.
11. Jones the Grocer (Dubai) :
- Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai
- Rating: 4.3/5
- Cuisine: Cafe/International
- Best Food: Truffle Fries, Avocado Toast, Ribeye Steak
Review Highlights: Jones the Grocer is a popular cafe chain known for its high-quality ingredients. Diners love the truffle fries and avocado toast for a light bite, while the ribeye steak is a hearty option. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great spot for brunch or casual dining.
Final Thoughts :
The UAE is a melting pot of cultures, and its food scene reflects this diversity. From luxurious fine-dining experiences to humble eateries offering authentic flavors, there’s something for everyone. Each restaurant on this list offers a unique dining experience, ensuring that your culinary journey in the UAE will be unforgettable.
Whether you’re a resident or a tourist, these restaurants are worth a visit. So, why not start exploring today? Let your taste buds guide you through the vibrant flavors of the UAE!
FAQs :
- Best seafood spots in Dubai?
- Pierchic and Bu Qtair are highly recommended. Pierchic offers luxury, while Bu Qtair is fresh and affordable.
- Where to try authentic Emirati food?
- Al Fanar in Abu Dhabi and Milas in Dubai Mall serve traditional Emirati dishes.
- Romantic restaurant in Dubai?
- Pierchic, with its overwater dining and stunning views, is perfect for romance.
- Middle Eastern cuisine with entertainment?
- Al Hadheerah at Bab Al Shams offers great food and live entertainment.
- Asian fusion dining in the UAE?
- BB Social Dining in Dubai is great for dishes like bao buns and edamame hummus.
- Best place for Peruvian food?
- Coya in Abu Dhabi serves amazing ceviche and wagyu sirloin.
- Cafe with views in Sharjah?
- Shakespeare and Co. at Al Majaz Waterfront has vintage decor and great views.
- Top dishes at Hakkasan Abu Dhabi?
- Peking Duck, Dim Sum, and Wagyu Beef are must-tries.
- Modern Emirati flavors in Dubai?
- Milas in Dubai Mall offers dishes like camel burgers and harees with a twist.
- Budget-friendly restaurants in the UAE?
- Bu Qtair is perfect for fresh seafood lovers, while Shakespeare and Co. offers a cozy ambiance with diverse, budget-friendly options.