Most popular Emirati restaurants to enjoy the delectable Emirati cuisine in Dubai
Most popular Emirati restaurants to enjoy the delectable Emirati cuisine in Dubai
Being a melting pot of cultures, Dubai offers some of the best international culinary experiences. Amidst these cuisines, the local Emirati cuisine stands out with its rich culture and vibrant flavours. Here is a list of the finest Emirati restaurants where you can enjoy the authentic Emirate dining experience in Dubai.
1. Al Fanar Restaurant & Café
Symbolizing a feature of the Emirati culture, the lantern, the inspiration behind Al Fanar Restaurant & Café is showcasing the wonderful Emirati culture to the world through its delicious and authentic cuisine. It has four branches in Dubai; Dubai Festival City, Al Seef, Al Barsha and Expo City Dubai. A top place to try Emirati seafood, some specialities include Jesheed (shredded baby shark), Aseeda Al Tamor (date pudding), Emirati Breakfast tray, Balaleet and the special Al Fanaar salad.
Average cost: AED 225 for a meal for 2
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2. Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant
Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant offers a unique and pure Emirati eating experience by serving the finest of the cuisine. As the name suggests, not only do they serve amazing Emirati food, they use the restaurant as a platform to introduce their guest to the warm and regal Emirati culture, hospitality and experiences in a rustic traditional décor. Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant offers services like oasis camps, vintage desert safari, breakfast cooking classes, horse riding, desert camp breakfast and more. Their Lamb Machboos and Luqaimat are highly recommended.
Average cost: AED 225 for a meal for 2
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3. Arabian Tea House Archaeological Site
If you want to experience how Emiratis prefer to relax and chill in their domestic setting, you cannot miss out on experiencing Arabian Tea House. It is one of the top places to taste the Emirati food in its most authentic form. Although its menu is quite elaborate, ranging from appetizers to breakfast to a full course menu, tasting the Gahwa and other traditional beverages in the traditional ambiance based in the historical Al Fahidi neighborhood is a one-of-a-kind experience. Some highly recommended specialities include the stuffed Regag Bread with honey, Kunafa and Khabisah.
Average cost: AED 230 for a meal for 2
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4. Al Jawareh
Based in Al Qusais area of Old Dubai, Al Jawareh is a classic Emirati restaurant that offers a dining experience in the traditional Emirati setting. The highly recommended majlis seating is something every visitor must try to experience eating in the traditional Emirati way. It also offers private dining areas with tables for families. Some of the most recommended Emirati food items from its menu are Chebab also known as the Emirati pancakes- stuffed with tomato and eggs and the very delicious Balaleet.
Average cost: AED 140 for a meal for 2
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5. Siraj
Siraj is a Michelin-star restaurant located in the premier location of Souk al Bahar in Downtown Dubai. It offers a fusion of Emirati-Levantine cuisine. The menu is an interesting mix of Yemeni, Persian, Levantine, Indian and Emirati spices and flavors. Its objective is to give a modern pinch to Middle-Eastern cuisine. Eating at Siraj gives the guests a trip to Dubai’s history through its ambiance. The décor features stunning Arabic calligraphy on the walls and HH Sheikh Mohammed’s poetry. There is a symbolic representation of the seven emirates through seven stone arches and the resilience of Dubai’s culture through an assortment of golden horses. Its camel tenderloin and saffron lobster are highly recommended.
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It is important to mention that this list comprises a few of the many other excellent Emirati restaurants. Dubai has a lot more to offer for experiencing the unique Emirati dining experience in a traditional setting and enjoying Emirati hospitality with a modern twist. If you are a local, expat or a tourist visiting Dubai, these restaurants are great avenues to savor the authentic flavors of Emirati cuisine.
