What's On

“For 15 years this has been one of my favourite restaurants, and it’s incredibly underrated. The original is found in Al Karama and the meats are always so moist and tender, yet still perfectly charred and spicy.” — Kyung soo Moon

“My second, more recent go-to is El Primo Taqueria. It’s definitely worth the hype. The tacos are very well executed, and the staff and chefs are all lovely. The oxtail birria is a must-try, as well as the Baja-style fish.” — Burcu Cracknell

“A favourite hidden gem that tugs at my heartstrings is called Sallet Al Sayad in Karama. It’s a Palestinian seafood restaurant that serves the most delicious grilled fish, shrimp, and much more marinated in their house spicy salsas. They also have amazing breads, salads, and mezze. The staff is uber-welcoming and always happy to see you. It’s a place I always crave and bring all my friends to.” — Luma Maklouf

“Both Lila Taqueria and Lila Molino are deeply comforting spaces to experience authentic Mexican food, where every ingredient is thoughtfully sourced.” — Naved Nasir

“Couqley has become one of my top destinations among my culinary adventures. It is their consistency, quality, and warmth that sets them apart. Expect every aspect of their unparalleled blend of French bistro, cozy and welcoming ambiance, and great value for money. For me, the steak frites and escargot never fail to satisfy my palate.” — Gabriela Chamorro

“I don’t eat out often, however, Tresind is really close to my heart. I go at least once a year for special occasions. Everything about it is consistently flawless: the food, the service, the experience, the team. The fact that Indian cuisine has been showcased in this way makes my heart sing.” — Jill Okkers

“I also love specific things at different places like the cheung fung at Long Teng, tamarind chicken wings at Sticky Rice, garlic knots at Pitfire, halloumi bowl at Tom & Serg, lamb tacos at Lila Taqueria, baked alaska at Flamingo Room, grilled oysters at the Dibba Bay, I could go on and on…” — Kunwal Safdar

“At Tasca, I love sitting in the restaurant and watching the chefs in the open kitchen. My advice is to order the tuna tartare, the tiger prawn rice, and the codfish salad.” — Penelope Diaz

“I can’t imagine life in the UAE without my regular visits to the multi award-winning Orfali Bros – helmed by Syrian chef and TV personality Mohammad Orfali at Dubai’s Wasl 51 complex. I go there for food that’s packed with a clever confluence of flavours and the intimate atmosphere that is always abuzz.” — Tiffany Eslick

“I also love specific things at different places like the cheung fung at Long Teng, tamarind chicken wings at Sticky Rice, garlic knots at Pitfire, halloumi bowl at Tom & Serg, lamb tacos at Lila Taqueria, baked alaska at Flamingo Room, grilled oysters at the Dibba Bay, I could go on and on…” — Kunwal Safdar

“Zagol is one of those places that just feels like home for me. It’s tucked away in Karama, right next to where my son and I get our weekly haircuts, and it’s become part of our routine as a family. The food is deeply comforting, the beyenet platter is always the move” — Kelvin Cheung

“I like going to Arabian Tea House, especially the one in Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood. I think it’s one of the oldest spots, and it really makes me feel like I’m in Dubai.” — Burcu Cracknell

“His Pici all’aglione, with that rich garlic-infused tomato sauce, always takes me straight back to Tuscany. He’s been leading the kitchen for eight years, and it’s the only Italian restaurant in the region to be recognised in MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants.” — Giuseppe Pezzella

“I also love specific things at different places like the cheung fung at Long Teng, tamarind chicken wings at Sticky Rice, garlic knots at Pitfire, halloumi bowl at Tom & Serg, lamb tacos at Lila Taqueria, baked alaska at Flamingo Room, grilled oysters at the Dibba Bay, I could go on and on…” — Kunwal Safdar

“Training with local chefs and a three-Michelin-star mentor taught me the care and precision behind every ingredient, especially seafood, and you can taste that in every dish here.” — Giuseppe Pezzella

“Trèsind Studio is one of those experiences that stays with you long after the meal. Chef Himanshu Saini has created something truly exceptional, an experience that balances innovation with deep respect for tradition.” — Naved Nasir

“Hashmi is the definition of honest, no-frills cooking that hits every time. It’s the kind of place I send chefs and friends visiting Dubai because it tells a story, Indian tandoori techniques with Kenyan flavours that are bold, floral and unique. The chooza and their fried chicken are non-negotiables” — Kelvin Cheung

“I also love specific things at different places like the cheung fung at Long Teng, tamarind chicken wings at Sticky Rice, garlic knots at Pitfire, halloumi bowl at Tom & Serg, lamb tacos at Lila Taqueria, baked alaska at Flamingo Room, grilled oysters at the Dibba Bay, I could go on and on…” — Kunwal Safdar

“I also love specific things at different places like the cheung fung at Long Teng, tamarind chicken wings at Sticky Rice, garlic knots at Pitfire, halloumi bowl at Tom & Serg, lamb tacos at Lila Taqueria, baked alaska at Flamingo Room, grilled oysters at the Dibba Bay, I could go on and on…” — Kunwal Safdar

“Both Lila Taqueria and Lila Molino are deeply comforting spaces to experience authentic Mexican food, where every ingredient is thoughtfully sourced.” — Naved Nasir

“I have always been a big fan of CQ Brasserie in JLT. I have spent a decent amount of time in and around Paris, and I really appreciate the simplicity and familiarity of the food.” — Nick Alvis

“The restaurants I revisit most often are Bait Maryam in JLT and Tasca at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel. Chef Salam (the founder of Bait Maryam) is an inspiration to me. I go here for the delicious Levantine food, cosy, relaxed atmosphere, and the fatet lahme (lamb) with rice is my go-to order.” — Penelope Diaz

“My favourite restaurant in Dubai is La Fabbrica Italiana Focacceria. Sure, the focaccia is great – but for my husband, Tarek, and I, the fresh pastas are a bit of an unsung hero – the spaghetti nerano takes us straight back to Capri and the lasagna is like a warm Italian hug, and Karam and Maurizio are such warm and lovely hosts. It’s one of our favorite lunch spots.” — Shaw Lash

“My all-time favorite Dubai restaurant is Mythos, across both their JLT to City Walk locations. I’ve been a fan since their Bur Dubai beginnings. I love their team, food, and cosy ambiance – whenever I’m at Mythos, it feels like a warm embrace from old friends. My go-to dishes are taramosalata, grilled calamari, and saganaki prawns – every single time, they transport my soul to Greece.” — Stasha Toncev