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Updated 16 June 2021

Dubai is certainly among the world’s finest places to eat in, thanks to the vast repertoire of international cuisines as well as its very own authentic Arabian delights. By enlisting the services of some of the world’s most celebrated chefs — the likes of Gordon Ramsay, Guy Fieri and Heston Blumenthal among others, Dubai has truly become a city where restaurants, cafes and other eateries thrive.

With its international appeal as a haven for holidaymakers and foodies alike, dining in Dubai means availing yourself to an unforgettable gastronomic experience involving exquisite food, breathtaking views and stunning mise-en-scene.

 

The Dubai Assured stamp

Image © gulfnews.com

If you have any concerns regarding safety and hygiene during the pandemic, please take comfort in the fact that as Dubai borders are reopened to visitors, the Dubai authorities have launched the Dubai Assured stamp for every hotel, restaurant, retail outlet and attraction as a prerequisite to resuming their businesses. The Dubai Assured stamp is granted only to establishments that are compliant to the strict safety and hygiene measures in-force within the UAE.

With that out of the way, let us whet our appetite on these following seven best Dubai restaurants that are open now.

Chuan Restaurant, the Pointe Palm Jumeirah

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For some authentic Chinese food with some serious pedigree, may we recommend Chuan Restaurant? Along with the stunning waterfront view perfect for a sundowner, Chuan’s Peking Roast Duck promises a lip-smacking delight as the cook skillfully serves thin, crisp skin and cuts of meat right in front of your eyes. Served with spring onion and rolled pancakes with fillings, this mouth-watering fowl masterpiece will leave you feeling both elated and moreish at the same time.

Pro tip: request for the Peking Duck while making your reservation, as it has a 90-minute prep time and a daily serving limit.

 

Zaroob, Sheikh Zayed Road  

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If you’re not versed in Arabian street cooking, Zaroob just might be your best bet in experiencing the local cuisine. The menu is inspired by the various street food trucks across the Middle East peddling all sorts of tongue-tingling delights originating from Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt and many others. On your visit, there are items on the menu that you simply must sample; the Manakish (baked cheese) along with the delicious creamy hummus are particularly tasty.

Additionally, the Kushari, an Egyptian specialty made from rice, lentils and chickpeas; and finally the Kenafeh, a puff pastry filled with melted cheese and dipped in syrup are ever the crowd-pleasers.  

 

Al Hadheerah, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort and Spa

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How does dining under the desert stars sound? Like a scene from the Thousand and One Nights, Al Hadheerah at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa is the perfect place to experience authentic Arabian hospitality and culture in all its glory. The Al Hadheerah desert oasis is nestled in the dunes, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city center.

The restaurant allows you to discover Middle Eastern cuisine, in particular ancient and authentic recipes. Some dishes are prepared before your eyes in wood-fired ovens or rotisseries. So expect to eat lamb, chicken kebabs and shawarma among numerous others. After having your fill, you may proceed to enjoy the spectacles of the alluring belly dancers, experience an exotic camel ride and even a spectating a demonstration featuring horses and hawks.

 

Mythos Kouzina & Grill, Jumeirah Lake Towers

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Quite possibly the best Greek restaurant in town. The Mythos Kouzina & Grill is a taverna-styled establishment that’s warm, friendly and is always filled with people looking to share and discover exotic flavors and drinks.

Start off your dinner with the refreshing tzatziki, a yoghurt preparation with pieces of cucumber and garlic. Then continue on with the feta (white Greek cheese) followed by the tomato kefta, a traditional Greek recipe or the hearty Chicken Souvlaki.

 

Tom and Serg, Al Joud Center

Image © caterermiddleeast.com

Back in 2013, Tom Arnel a Melbourne chef met with the Spaniard Sergio Lopez, and they have since vowed to deliver only the best coffee in town and serve up affordable gourmet cuisine. The result is the Tom and Serg, arguably the most perfect place to have your breakfast or lunch in the city of Dubai. Technically more of a cafe than a restaurant, this open kitchen opens onto a spacious room with an industrial theme decor and has enjoyed city-wide fame as the go-to joint for having the best eggs benedict and grilled salmon.

The Tom and Serg burger is also a must-try due to its light and easy to digest properties. Coffee connoisseurs won’t want to miss the chance of ending their meal with a cup of exquisite coffee. Pro tip: Don’t ask for the wine list. Tom and Serg does not serve alcohol.

 

Babel La Mer

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The Lebanese restaurant with a focus on seafood has been a crowd favorite ever since its opening in 2018. The menu includes modern Middle-East dishes (hummus, knefeh, herb salads) and Mediterranean classics (lobster, grilled calamari). It is best to have a round of mezze for everyone first and then choose the main course at the huge fish counter. The dining room is dimly lit with dark designer furniture and antique vases dark yellow in color exquisitely displayed on stone display cases. If the weather allows, Babel La Mer also offers terrace dining.

 

Miss Lily’s, Sheraton Grand Hotel Dubai

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Tucked away in a hotel, Miss Lily’s is a Jamaican bar and restaurant allowing you to dive straight into the warm and welcoming Jamaican hospitality. With its well-crafted decor and the soft Caribbean tune playing in the background, it’s not that hard to imagine that you’re in the West Indies.

Miss Lily’s offers a revisited and modern Jamaican cuisine, a variety of sweet and spicy dishes with Caribbean notes. Don’t miss out on the desiccated chicken, chilli chops and red chilli shrimp while you’re there.