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“has always been my favourite. Definitely hits the spot every time and, most importantly, the food is always consistent – which I find a big problem in most places. There is nothing worse than craving a meal somewhere and leaving disappointed.” — Iman Nazemi

“at Depachika Food Hall is our go-to when we look for a proper dining experience at home. It’s a father-and-son duo who have poured their hearts into perfecting their salmon over decades, so I know I’m always getting the very best quality.” — Rowan Mansour Kamel

“for something casual. Solid Iranian kebabs and value-for-money.” — Panchali Mahendra

“is a fellow JLT gem. I cherish the authenticity, love and unwavering quality, as well as consistency of the Palestinian food that is obviously prepared with great care and passion.” — Fay Economides

“transports me outside of Dubai. The peace and quiet of the outdoor garden, the celebration of local farmers and ingredients. A perfect winter night for us is perched on the outdoor couches, a bottle of rosé, and a wide mixture from their menu. We love it.” — Shaw Lash

“for excellent Japanese food, attention-to-detail and quality ingredients.” — Panchali Mahendra

“for when the weather is great. I love the laid back atmosphere - and they have the BEST bread!” — Natasha Sideris

“is my go-to for sushi, especially the crab roll and salmon nigiri. And, of course, the Chilean sea bass hot pot.” — Natasha Sideris

“for one of those “wow” moments. The storytelling in the menu; the entire experience really stayed with me. I think that’s what makes a place special, when it leaves you with more than just a good meal.” — Ray Yafi

“for the cooking with fire; fun collaborations; unique and delicious non-alcoholic concoctions; a knock-out burger; and the modern feel of a made-over Jumeirah villa.” — Fay Economides

“sets the standard for culinary excellence in the city and for good reason. What truly impresses me is its unwavering commitment to quality and consistency. Despite the passage of time, LPM delivers the same unparalleled dining experience with every visit.” — Neha Anand

“weaves something deeply nostalgic into the experience. Rooted in Balkan heritage, it has mastered the art of soulful cooking, with an approach that’s humble and heartfelt. I love how the menu unfolds like a story, where each dish feels like a chapter. The space is welcoming and familiar, almost like being invited into someone’s home. It is warm, grounding, and deeply nourishing in every sense.” — Gabriela Chamorro

“for when I am looking to impress visitors. It’s just incredible. The journey; the off-beat music; the flavours; the service. It’s world class.” — Natasha Sideris

“is a constant on my list. On my most recent visit with my sister, the whole experience really felt like home. From the Jordanian and broader Levantine food to the thoughtfully creative touches that stay true to the cuisine, all the way to a team that’s genuinely warm and great at what they do, it’s always such a special experience.” — Rowan Mansour Kamel

“is where we end up whenever we don’t know what to eat. We always leave feeling satisfied. Food is so good, and also consistent.” — Iman Nazemi

“is for a special out of town guest or date night. I love chef Kelvin’s food, his team is perfection, and everything they do is so delicious and yummy.” — Shaw Lash

“overlooking the water canal, is a short walk from my home, and something about it always feels familiar. I go there when I need a little reset. And the sardines are some of the best I’ve eaten.” — Ray Yafi

“is smart, cool, fun and playful, yet cosy and welcoming. I love chef Hadrien. There’s no one like him that can do so much serious work and, effortlessly, turn it into fun dining.” — Stasha Toncev

“is a Malaysian restaurant with two locations in Dubai. You will often find me at the one on Hadiqa Road near Safa Park for breakfast or lunch. Having lived in Kuala Lumpur for ten years before coming here, I find comfort and familiarity in the dishes they serve…like nasi lemak, roti canai, murtabak, and of course iced teh tarik, or iced lemon tea. On weekends you’ll have to wait for a seat but it’s worth it.” — Michele Johnson

“for a special celebration is a dream restaurant where we feel truly taken care of and privileged. Yannick Alleno and his team share exceptional French dishes - precise, subtle and where the ingredients speak for themsleves. With impeccable service and a serene atmosphere, it is a place where time slows down, allowing me to share a truly magical dining experience in Dubai.” — Morgane Duhamel

“for family-run, ingredient-focused, casual Japanese dining. Everyone working in this restaurant is Japanese. The salmon handroll and uni tempura are outstanding.” — Lily Hoa Nguyen

“for modern Hong Kong-cum-Cantonese fare. The aromatic roasted Peking duck is so soft, juicy and fragrant with a crispy skin. The view overlooking Ain Dubai and the shoreline is impressive and memorable.” — Lily Hoa Nguyen

“at Dubai Hills Business Park has a very laid-back charm that reminds me of our own company ethos. It’s the restaurant I love to visit time and time again because the dishes are so fresh, simple, and well-priced. The service is consistently top-notch. A special shoutout to Roman and Dasha, who always take such good care of us every time Ziad and I dine there.” — Rowan Mansour Kamel

“as I’m a taco girl through and through, and this place on Jumeirah Beach Road is my go-to for something easy and always good. The Baja fish taco is a staple in my rotation.” — Ray Yafi

“ramen is simply the best here made with absolute precision and love. The sashimi is fantastic too. The vibe of an izakaya is true to its name and a shining example of everything I love about Japanese dining.” — Neha Anand

“is my go-to when I’m hungry, but not sure what I want. You will find basic communal seating and a large selection of cuisines to choose from including Singaporean, Indian, Sri Lankan, Mexican, Italian, Peruvian and Japanese. All the kiosks are staffed by friendly, knowledgeable chefs and cooks, serving really good versions of their country’s staple dishes, so it’s nearly impossible to go wrong.” — Michele Johnson

“is one of my favourite outdoor dining spots in Dubai. I love the relaxed yet refined atmosphere, and the location is conveniently close to home. It’s perfect for enjoying the beautiful weather, good food and a laid-back coastal ambience. My go-to place when I want something elegant yet effortless.” — Diana Rysbaeva

“for daily fresh fish and seafood flown in from Turkey. The location in this quaint little fishing harbour and marina is so fitting with the concept, and the ambience is so relaxing.” — Lily Hoa Nguyen

“is an artsy, quirky, down-to-earth and off-the-beaten track new favourite of mine. And where you will find the most delicious, fluffy hot bread to pair with divine dips and mouthwatering shakshouka.” — Fay Economides

“gives me a proper Syrian breakfast, my emotional anchor, and the closest thing I have to being “back home”. It’s nothing fancy, just a simple, homey spread, but I’m so grateful for it. The flavours take me somewhere familiar, even if I can’t be there myself.” — Ray Yafi