Dubai, a city of superlatives where everything seems to be the biggest, tallest, or most luxurious, is also a melting pot of cultures, traditions, and flavors. It’s a place where you can have a taste of the world without ever leaving its borders. From the bustling souks that offer aromatic spices and dates to the Michelin-starred restaurants that showcase modern culinary art, Dubai is a food lover’s paradise. Join me as I take you on a journey through my culinary adventures in this vibrant city, where every meal is a story waiting to be told.
1. Starting the Day: A Breakfast to Remember
My mornings in Dubai always start with a little excitement. One day, I decided to head to Arabian Tea House in the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood. I had heard a lot about their Emirati breakfast, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The meal was an array of dishes that told a story of tradition and culture. There was balaleet, a sweet-savory noodle dish served with an omelet, and khameer, fluffy bread that you could dip into date syrup or enjoy with creamy cheese.
Sitting in the courtyard of the tea house, surrounded by the gentle hum of conversation and the scent of incense wafting through the air, I felt like I had stepped back in time. The mint tea I sipped on was refreshing, with just the right amount of sweetness. It was the perfect way to kick off a day of exploring the city.
If you’re a fan of hearty breakfasts, make sure to also check out Baker & Spice in the Souk Al Bahar. Their focus on local, organic produce shines through in every dish. I loved their shakshuka—a spiced tomato and pepper stew with poached eggs—paired with freshly baked sourdough. Trust me, it’s the kind of breakfast that leaves you satisfied and ready to conquer the day.
2. Exploring the Souks: A Feast for the Senses
No culinary adventure in Dubai is complete without a visit to the traditional souks. Wandering through the narrow alleys of the Spice Souk, I was enveloped by the rich aroma of saffron, cardamom, and dried roses. Every stall seemed to offer something new—a treasure trove of ingredients that could elevate any dish.
I chatted with a vendor about the different varieties of dates, and he insisted I try a few. My favorite was the Medjool date, which was plump, juicy, and bursting with sweetness. He also introduced me to Luqaimat, little fried dough balls drizzled with date syrup and sprinkled with sesame seeds. These golden bites of joy are a traditional Emirati dessert, and they’re absolutely addictive.
Next, I made my way to the Gold Souk, not just to admire the dazzling jewelry but also to find Za’atar, a Middle Eastern herb mix that I had fallen in love with. A friend once served me manakish, a flatbread topped with za’atar, olive oil, and cheese, and it had been on my mind ever since. I found a blend that was fragrant and perfectly balanced, and I couldn’t wait to get home and recreate that delicious snack.
3. Street Food Delights: Discovering Hidden Gems
Dubai’s street food scene is as diverse as its population. One evening, after a long day of exploring, I found myself at the Al Karama district, which is famous for its affordable and authentic eats. The streets were alive with the scent of grilled meat and the chatter of people enjoying their meals.
I stumbled upon a small kiosk serving Shawarma, the quintessential Middle Eastern sandwich. I watched as the cook shaved thin slices of marinated meat from the rotating spit, then wrapped them in warm flatbread with a generous helping of garlic sauce, pickles, and fries. The first bite was pure comfort—warm, savory, and full of flavor. It was, without a doubt, one of the best shawarmas I’ve ever had.
Another street food favorite I discovered was Regag. This thin, crispy Emirati crepe is often filled with cheese, egg, or honey and is a popular snack among locals. I ordered one with egg and cheese from a small stand, and it was the perfect blend of crunchy and soft. It’s the kind of snack you can eat on the go, and I found myself craving it again and again during my stay.
4. Lunching Like a Local: Traditional Emirati Cuisine
For a more substantial meal, I wanted to dive into authentic Emirati cuisine, so I headed to Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe. The ambiance there is reminiscent of a bygone era, with its décor inspired by the old Dubai of the 1960s. The menu was filled with traditional dishes, and I was eager to try as many as I could.
I started with Machboos, a spiced rice dish with tender lamb. The flavors were deep and complex, with the perfect amount of heat from the spices. It reminded me a bit of biryani, but with its own unique twist. Alongside it, I had Harees, a dish made from wheat and meat that is slow-cooked until it reaches a porridge-like consistency. It was comforting and hearty, the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out.
Another dish that stood out was Tharid, a traditional stew with layers of bread soaked in a rich broth with vegetables and meat. The bread absorbed all the flavors, making each bite incredibly satisfying. It’s a dish that has been enjoyed for centuries and is particularly popular during Ramadan.
5. High-End Dining: Experiencing Dubai’s Culinary Heights
While I love street food and traditional eats, I couldn’t resist experiencing the high-end dining scene that Dubai is famous for. One night, I made a reservation at At.mosphere, located on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa. Dining there is not just about the food; it’s about the whole experience. The views of the city from that height are nothing short of breathtaking, especially at sunset when the skyline glows in golden hues.
The menu at At.mosphere is a blend of European and Middle Eastern flavors, with a focus on seasonal ingredients. I started with an appetizer of Burrata with heirloom tomatoes and basil oil. The creaminess of the burrata paired perfectly with the sweet and tangy tomatoes. For the main course, I couldn’t resist the Wagyu beef tenderloin. Cooked to perfection, it melted in my mouth with each bite. The accompanying truffle mash was indulgent, and the red wine jus tied everything together beautifully.
For dessert, I opted for the Date Soufflé—a nod to the region’s love for dates. It was light, airy, and full of rich, caramel-like flavors. Paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it was the perfect ending to a luxurious meal.
6. Exploring Global Flavors: A World of Cuisines in One City
Dubai’s diverse population means that you can find cuisine from almost every corner of the world. One of my favorite culinary adventures was at Zuma, a contemporary Japanese restaurant in DIFC. The atmosphere was lively, and the food was exquisite. I ordered the miso-marinated black cod, a dish that has become iconic in the world of Japanese cuisine. The fish was tender and flaky, with a glaze that was both sweet and savory.
On another evening, I visited La Petite Maison, a French Mediterranean restaurant that’s also located in DIFC. The simplicity of the dishes is what makes them stand out. I particularly enjoyed the ratatouille, a traditional vegetable stew that was bursting with freshness and flavor. The whole sea bass, grilled to perfection and served with a side of fresh herbs and lemon, was another highlight.
But it’s not just the fine dining establishments that offer global flavors. Even the malls in Dubai have food courts that could rival any international food festival. I remember stopping by Mall of the Emirates after a long day of shopping and being pleasantly surprised by the variety of options. From Indian curries to Italian pizzas, it felt like a mini-tour of the world’s cuisines.
7. Sweet Endings: Indulging in Dubai’s Desserts
No culinary journey is complete without indulging in some desserts, and Dubai has plenty to offer. I have a bit of a sweet tooth, so I made it a point to try as many desserts as I could during my stay.
One of my favorite places to satisfy my sugar cravings was Baker & Spice. Their cakes and pastries are to die for. I fell in love with their carrot cake, which was moist, spiced just right, and topped with a thick layer of cream cheese frosting. Another must-try is their date cake, which is rich, sticky, and served warm with a dollop of cream.
For something more traditional, I visited Firas Sweets in Deira, famous for their Kunafa. This Middle Eastern dessert is made of thin, noodle-like pastry soaked in syrup and layered with cheese or cream. The combination of textures—the crunch of the pastry, the softness of the cheese, and the sweetness of the syrup—is simply irresistible. I enjoyed it with a cup of strong Arabic coffee, which perfectly balanced the sweetness.
If you’re a fan of chocolate, don’t miss out on Boutique Le Chocolat in City Walk. It’s a haven for chocolate lovers, offering a wide range of artisanal chocolates from around the world. I treated myself to a few pralines, and they were as beautiful to look at as they were delicious to eat.
8. Afternoon Tea: A Luxurious Ritual
One of the more luxurious experiences I treated myself to was afternoon tea at The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai. There’s something incredibly indulgent about sitting down for afternoon tea in such an opulent setting. The selection of teas was extensive, but I opted for the classic Earl Grey.
The tea was served with a three-tiered stand filled with delicate sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and an array of pastries. The scones, served with clotted cream and homemade jam, were my favorite. The pastries, each more exquisite than the last, included macarons, éclairs, and tarts. It was an afternoon of pure indulgence, and I felt like royalty with every bite.
9. Sundowners and Late-Night Eats: The Perfect End to the Day
After a day of exploring and eating, there’s no better way to unwind than with a sundowner at one of Dubai’s rooftop bars. One of my favorite spots was Level 43 Sky Lounge. The views of the city’s skyline were stunning, especially as the sun set and the city lights began to twinkle. I sipped on a refreshing Mojito while nibbling on some light bites, like calamari and truffle fries. It was the perfect way to relax after a day of culinary adventures.
If you’re looking for late-night eats, Dubai doesn’t disappoint. I discovered Al Ustad Special Kabab, a humble eatery in Bur Dubai that’s popular with locals and tourists alike. Open late into the night, it serves some of the best kebabs in the city. The meat was juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. Paired with freshly baked naan and a side of spicy chutney, it was the perfect way to end the night.
10. A Culinary Souvenir: Bringing the Flavors of Dubai Home
Before leaving Dubai, I knew I had to bring some of the city’s flavors back home with me. I visited the Dubai Spice Souk one last time to stock up on saffron, za’atar, and other spices that would remind me of my culinary adventures.
I also made a stop at Bateel, known for its gourmet dates. I picked up a beautifully packaged box of stuffed dates—filled with almonds, pistachios, and even orange peel—to share with friends and family. The dates were a hit, and every time I tasted one, I was transported back to the vibrant streets of Dubai.
As I packed my bags and prepared to leave, I couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible journey I had been on. Dubai is a city that embraces the old and the new, where tradition meets innovation, and where every meal is an adventure. Whether you’re a foodie like me or just someone who enjoys a good meal, Dubai has something to offer everyone. I left with a full heart and an even fuller belly, already planning my next culinary adventure in this incredible city.