The United Arab Emirates (UAE) sparkling jewel, Dubai, is renowned for its opulent shopping centres, tall skyscrapers, and diverse population. This city is a culinary lover’s paradise in addition to being a major destination for visitors, expats, and business travellers. Dubai’s food culture offers a blend of flavors from around the world and is just as diverse as its populace. Here are the top 10 meals you must try, as well as suggested places to visit if you’re thinking of taking a trip to this desert paradise.
Shawarma
Where to Try: Al Mallah, Al Dhiyafa Road
Shawarma, an iconic street dish from the Middle East, has become well-known worldwide. A vertical rotisserie roasts marinated thinly sliced meat, usually lamb or chicken, wrapped with soft flatbread, pickles, and veggies. This tasty snack is ideal for a quick bite to eat while strolling around Dubai’s busy streets.
Al Harees
Where to Try: Al Fanar Restaurant & Café, Dubai Festival City
Al Harees, a classic Emirati dish, consists of wheat, slow-cooked meat (typically lamb or chicken), and a dash of salt. Often consumed during Ramadan and special occasions, the end product is a filling dish that resembles porridge. For those who want to sample real Emirati food, this dish is a must-try due to its flavorful, rich ingredients.
Falafel
Where to Try: Operation: Falafel, The Beach at JBR
Falafel, a popular vegetarian dish in Dubai, combines ground chickpeas or fava beans with herbs and spices. These deep-fried balls or patties are typically served on pita bread, accompanied by pickles, salad, and tahini sauce. Falafel is a favorite among both locals and tourists because of its delicious blend of crispy and delicate textures.
Manakish
Where to Try: Zaroob, Sheikh Zayed Road
Manakish, sometimes called the Arabic pizza, is a multipurpose dish with a dough foundation topped with cheese, minced meat, or za’atar, a mixture of thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac. Perfectly baked to a golden brown, this flavorful pastry is a favorite for breakfast in Dubai and goes well with a cup of tea or coffee.
Machboos
Where to Try: Logma, Boxpark
The aromatic rice dish Machboos, sometimes referred to as Kabsa, highlights the deep flavors of the Arabian Gulf. Basmati rice, meat (such as chicken, lamb, or fish), and a mixture of spices, including cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, are the main ingredients. Often garnished with raisins, almonds, and fried onions, Machboos offers a visually and gastronomically captivating experience.
Luqaimat
Where to Try: Milas Restaurant, The Dubai Mall
Luqaimat, a popular delicacy among Emiratis, are sweet, deep-fried dumplings. These golden, bite-sized delights, made with a basic dough of flour, yeast, and sugar, typically topped with sesame seeds and drizzled with honey or date syrup. They are particularly well-liked during the holidays and Ramadan.
Stuffed Camel
Where to Try: Al Hadheerah, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa
Stuffed camel is a delicacy that the daring diner won’t want to miss. Typically served at weddings and other parties, this sumptuous meal involves stuffing a whole camel with rice, eggs, fish, and chicken. Even though it might not be easily accessible in every restaurant, making the effort to find this special dining experience is well worth it.
Hummus
Where to Try: Hummus House, Al Barsha
Blended chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic combine to make the creamy dip known as hummus. Middle Eastern cooking typically serves this mainstay with veggies, pita bread, or on a mezze platter. The tangy flavor and smooth texture of hummus make it a delicious appetizer.
Shish Tawook
Where to Try: Al Safadi, Sheikh Zayed Road
Marinated chicken cubes, skewered and cooked to luscious perfection, make up the popular grilled chicken dish shish tawook. The marinade, which usually consists of yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and a mixture of spices, makes the chicken juicy and tasty. Shish tawook, served with flatbread and garlic sauce, is a delicious main dish.
Kunafa
Where to Try: Firas Sweets, Deira
Kunafa, a classic Middle Eastern delicacy, is composed of cheese, shredded phyllo pastry, and a sweet syrup prepared with orange blossom or rose water. Kunafa, when baked until crispy and brown, commonly features crushed pistachios as a garnish. This dessert, with its blend of sweet and savory flavors, is the ideal way to round off a meal in Dubai.
Conclusion: A Culinary Journey Awaits
Dubai’s culinary scene reflects the city’s diversified population and dynamic culture. A gastronomic journey that will entice your taste buds is available in the city, with both popular Middle Eastern delicacies and traditional Emirati specialties. Pack your luggage, bring your appetite, and get ready to discover Dubai’s top ten culinary experiences. Every dish has a backstory, and when combined, they paint a mouthwatering picture of this vibrant desert city. Are you looking for the best brunch in Dubai?
