Anything is possible in the desert-warmed melting pot that is Dubai – not just in terms of the choice of globally inspired restaurants, but also in the fusions produced by an enthusiastically experimental dining scene. Expats from the Philippines, Pakistan, and everywhere in between, flock to markets and neighbourhood restaurants for local interpretations of their national dishes, while branches of Michelin-starred empires and popular global franchises offer menus that are every bit as ambitious as the landmark hotels they occupy.
What’s more, Dubai’s summer heat gives way to balmy, pleasant temperatures from November to February – making it the perfect destination for those wishing to
escape the European winter chill.
Where to eat in Dubai
Trèsind Studio
St. Regis Gardens, The Palm Jumeirah
Set on the rooftop of the exclusive Nakheel Mall at The Palm Jumeirah, this 20-seat fine-dining venue is the only Indian 3 Michelin-starred restaurant in the UAE. Currently ranked #27 on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants for 2025, it was also awarded the title of Best Restaurant in the Middle East.
REIF Japanese Kushiyaki
Dar Wasl Mall, Shopping Entrance 3, Al Wasl Road
Chef Reif Othman’s Al Wasl restaurant (which has siblings in Dubai Hills and at the Time Out Market Dubai) has been a runaway hit since opening in 2019 – it also earned itself a Bib Gourmand. The Wagyu katsu sando steals the (Instagram) show, but we also love his take on kushiyaki – traditional Japanese skewered meats.
Ossiano
Atlantis The Palm, Crescent Road, The Palm Jumeriah
While its floor-to-ceiling windows looking into Atlantis The Palm’s aquarium continue to steal the show, the recent return of head chef Grégoire Berger and his perfectly executed 10-course menu has elevated the culinary offering of this Michelin-starred staple to new heights.
Hōseki
Bulgari Resort Dubai hotel, 4th Floor, Jumeirah Bay Island, Jumeirah 2
Within the elegant confines of Bulgari Dubai lies this Michelin-starred gem. Widely considered to offer the city’s most authentic sushi experience, the intimate nine-seat restaurant delivers an extraordinary omakase menu, delivered by your own private chef.
Sucre
Podium Level, Gate Village 05, Dubai Internatinal Finance Centre (DFIC)
Chef Fernando Trocca’s first UAE branch brings Argentine flair to DIFC, with a perfect-for-sharing menu that combines traditional Latin American open-fire techniques with the fiery spirit of Buenos Aires and international influences.
Amazónico
DIFC Pavilion
Part restaurant, part rainforest, Amazónico’s Dubai restaurant mirrors the wildly successful concept of its Madrid original and London sibling by transporting diners to lush climes – and the cooking is on point too, with the zingy flavours of Latin America meeting the precision and punch of East Asia.
Clap
Gate Village 11, DIFC
Sitting on the rooftop of a DIFC building with brilliant views of Dubai’s skyline, this multisensory Japanese restaurant serves dishes from sashimi, nigiri, and sushi rolls to robata- or Jospercooked mains. Put your trust in the chefs’ hands by ordering the omakase menu.
COYA Dubai
Restaurant Village Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah 2
Find your inner Inca at the Dubai outlet of the global Peruvian hit. Located within the Four Seasons Resort, the restaurant draws a party crowd with live music, pisco infusions, and a menu packed with vibrant flavours in the shape of ceviches, tacos, tiraditos, and more.
