Must-see restaurants in Dubai

Singaporean chef Akmal Anuar turns out innovative yet unpretentious Asian-influenced small plates at this tiny, unlicensed spot – a perfect foil to Dubai…

Every dish speaks of refinement in this perennially popular bi-level restaurant that gives classic Japanese fare an up-to-the-minute workout. No matter if…

Prepare for a culinary journey along the Spice Road at this theatrically decorated restaurant, which is entered via a candlelit corridor that spills into…

A pioneer of the local-organic-fresh maxim in Dubai, this London import offers a seasonal bounty of dishes, prepared in-house and served amid charming,…

This funky Emirati cafe is a great introduction to contemporary local cuisine. It's popular for breakfast dishes such as shakshuka (poached eggs in a…

It may be hard to concentrate on the food at this marina-adjacent al fresco pavilion, with its stunning skyline views. Come for nibbles and cocktails in…

Always packed to the gills, this simple eatery is a Dubai institution famous for its dock-fresh fish and shrimp, marinated in a 'secret' masala curry…

With its mix of traditional and modern Emirati cuisine, this stylish restaurant ticks all the boxes. Many dishes feature a local spice mix called bezar …

The chef here has Dorchester and Ritz cred, and studied under nouvelle cuisine guru Michel Guerard. Kickstart your menu with the dahi puri (stuffed crispy…

Escape Dubai’s bustle at this lovely courtyard cafe where the menu eschews meat in favour of a daily rotating menu of innovative vegetarian dishes, such…

Three-Michelin-starred Yannick Alléno brings his culinary magic to Dubai in this subtly theatrical vaulted dining room accented with black crystal…

Looking for a place to drop an engagement ring into a glass of champagne? Make reservations (far in advance) at this impossibly romantic seafood house…

Enjoy dazzling views while floating down the Creek aboard this fancily outfitted, air-conditioned, glass-roofed dinner boat with panoramic windows, linen…

A Dubai restaurant serving Syrian food to adoring crowds since 1980 must be doing something right. A perfect meal would start with hummus and a fattoush…

An abra ride, a canalside table and candlelight are the hallmarks of a romantic night out, and this enchanting spot sparks on all cylinders. If your date…

Chef Darren Velvick flies the flag for modern British cooking at this relaxed restaurant with an open kitchen and spacious terrace overlooking the lights…

Italy's popular shop-cum-cafe has landed in Dubai Mall, bringing artisanal morsels from around the Boot to discerning palates. Stock up on pesto from…

Take in the skyline on this moving feast aboard a traditional wooden dhow (cargo boat) decorated with bands of twinkling lights. Soulful Arabic song…

With its live cooking stations, open kitchens, fruit-filled baskets, colourful lanterns and graffiti-covered steel shutters, Zaroob radiates the urban…

The family that introduced Italian ice cream to the UK in 1907 now also serves their wonderfully creamy flavours to gelato fans in Dubai. Order just a…