Dubai’s culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, blending traditional Middle Eastern cuisine with global influences. From sizzling street food stalls to opulent Michelin-starred restaurants, the city offers a gastronomic adventure for every palate. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this guide highlights the trending street food spots and prestigious dining destinations that make Dubai a foodie paradise in 2025.
Trending Street Food in Dubai
Dubai’s street food scene is thriving, offering affordable yet delicious bites that reflect the city’s multicultural identity. Here are some must-try street food experiences:
1. Al Mallah – Shawarma Perfection
Located in Al Satwa, Al Mallah is a beloved spot for authentic shawarma. Their chicken and beef shawarma wraps, stuffed with juicy meat, tahini, pickles, and fries, are a local favorite. Pair it with a refreshing mango juice for the ultimate street food combo.
- Must-Try: Chicken shawarma with extra garlic sauce.
- Location: Al Diyafah Street, Satwa.
- Price: AED 7-10 per wrap.
2. Ravi Restaurant – Pakistani Delights
A Dubai institution, Ravi in Satwa serves mouthwatering Pakistani street food. Their mutton karahi, served with freshly baked naan, is a crowd-pleaser. The vibrant, no-frills atmosphere adds to the authentic experience.
- Must-Try: Mutton karahi and chicken tikka.
- Location: Al Satwa Road.
- Price: AED 20-30 per dish.
3. Karak Tea Stalls – Emirati Chai Culture
No Dubai foodie guide is complete without mentioning karak tea. These roadside stalls, found across areas like Al Rigga and Karama, serve strong, spiced tea brewed with cardamom and milk. Pair it with a paratha roll stuffed with eggs or spicy chicken.
- Must-Try: Karak tea with a cheese paratha.
- Location: Various stalls in Karama and Deira.
- Price: AED 2-5 for tea, AED 5-10 for rolls.
4. Global Village Food Stalls – A World of Flavors
Open during the cooler months (November to April), Global Village is a street food haven. From Turkish kebabs to Indian pani puri and Syrian kunafa, the international pavilions offer a global culinary journey in one place.
- Must-Try: Egyptian koshari and Moroccan lamb tagine.
- Location: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road.
- Price: AED 10-25 per dish.
5. Last Exit – Food Truck Park
Last Exit, a trendy food truck park on Sheikh Zayed Road, combines quirky aesthetics with gourmet street food. Think truffle burgers, loaded hot dogs, and artisanal ice cream. It’s perfect for Instagrammable foodie moments.
- Must-Try: The Urban Burger food truck’s signature truffle fries.
- Location: Exit 11, Sheikh Zayed Road.
- Price: AED 25-50 per dish.
Michelin-Starred Restaurants in Dubai
Dubai’s fine dining scene has earned global acclaim, with several restaurants receiving Michelin stars and Bib Gourmand awards. Here are some top picks for an elevated dining experience:
1. IDAM by Alain Ducasse – Michelin One Star
Located in the Museum of Islamic Art, IDAM by Alain Ducasse blends French culinary techniques with Arabian flavors. The tasting menu, featuring dishes like camel tartare and saffron-infused lobster, is a masterpiece of innovation.
- Must-Try: The seven-course tasting menu.
- Location: Katara Cultural Village, Al Sufouh.
- Price: AED 600-800 per person.
- Reservation Tip: Book at least two weeks in advance.
2. Trèsind Studio – Michelin Two Stars
This intimate 20-seater in St. Regis Gardens offers a theatrical Indian tasting menu. Chef Himanshu Saini’s dishes, like the pani puri with molecular gastronomy twists, redefine Indian cuisine.
- Must-Try: The “Memories of India” tasting menu.
- Location: St. Regis Gardens, Palm Jumeirah.
- Price: AED 700-900 per person.
- Reservation Tip: Limited seating; book a month ahead.
3. Orfali Bros Bistro – Michelin One Star
Run by three Syrian brothers, Orfali Bros in Wasl 51 is a fusion of Middle Eastern and global flavors. Their signature “shish barak a la gyoza” (ravioli-style dumplings in yogurt sauce) is a standout.
- Must-Try: Wagyu kebab and pistachio flatbread.
- Location: Wasl 51, Jumeirah.
- Price: AED 200-350 per person.
- Reservation Tip: Walk-ins available, but reservations recommended.
4. Moonrise – Michelin One Star
A hidden gem in Eden House, Moonrise offers a 12-course tasting menu inspired by Dubai’s multicultural roots. Chef Solemann Haddad’s dishes, like smoked eel with date molasses, are both bold and refined.
- Must-Try: The full tasting menu with beverage pairing.
- Location: Eden House, Al Satwa.
- Price: AED 500-700 per person.
- Reservation Tip: Book early due to limited seating.
5. 11 Woodfire – Michelin One Star
For a more casual yet sophisticated vibe, 11 Woodfire in Jumeirah uses open-flame cooking to elevate dishes like smoked octopus and wagyu ribeye. The rustic ambiance complements the bold flavors.
- Must-Try: Woodfire-grilled lamb chops.
- Location: Jumeirah 2.
- Price: AED 250-400 per person.
- Reservation Tip: Outdoor seating is popular; reserve for sunset views.
Tips for Exploring Dubai’s Food Scene
- Timing: Street food stalls are busiest in the evenings, especially in cooler months (October to April). Michelin-starred restaurants often require advance bookings, so plan ahead.
- Budget: Street food is wallet-friendly (AED 5-50), while Michelin dining can range from AED 200-900 per person.
- Dress Code: Casual attire works for street food, but Michelin restaurants often require smart-casual or formal dress.
- Transportation: Use the Dubai Metro for areas like Karama and Deira, or ride-hailing apps like Careem for restaurant visits.
- Cultural Tip: Respect local customs by avoiding eating in public during Ramadan’s fasting hours (sunrise to sunset).
Why Dubai’s Food Scene Stands Out
Dubai’s culinary landscape is unique because it seamlessly blends affordability with luxury. You can savor a AED 7 shawarma one day and indulge in a AED 700 tasting menu the next. The city’s diversity—home to over 200 nationalities—ensures an ever-evolving food scene that caters to every taste.
Whether you’re craving the smoky aroma of street-side kebabs or the refined elegance of a Michelin-starred dish, Dubai delivers unforgettable flavors. So, grab a karak tea, book a table, and dive into this foodie paradise!