One of the many ways Dubai celebrates diversity is through its dining scene. In offering a large range of global flavours, the city cements itself as a multi-faceted destination, catering to the various backgrounds of its colourful collection of residents.
From elegant fine-dining experiences to casual eateries and street food from across the world, Dubai’s neighbourhoods extend the city’s celebration of diversity and cosmopolitan character through their own distinct stories and delectable tapestry.
In this article, MICHELIN inspectors pick their favourite spots across Dubai’s most iconic neighbourhoods.
DOWNTOWN
Downtown Dubai is home to some of the world’s most legendary landmarks, including Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain, and Dubai Mall. In a place where luxurious hotels meet world-class shopping, tourists and residents alike can experience delicious eats at every turn.At.mosphere
MICHELIN-selected, MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023
Cuisine: International/French-inspired
You’re guided to the lifts in the lobby of the Armani Hotel to get to the world’s highest restaurant, on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa. The vast à la carte menu offers modern, colourful dishes with a French heart. Expect caviar, Wagyu steak and sky-high views.
Inspector notes: “Take a seat on a table by the window and savour views of Downtown Dubai’s skyline, making it the perfect spot for either breakfast or afternoon tea.”
Siraj
MICHELIN-selected, MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023
Cuisine: Syrian with other Arabic and Levantine influences
Siraj has a stylish, modern look enhanced by numerous references to Arabic culture, and its casual terrace is the perfect spot to watch the nightly fountain show. The wide-ranging menu respects the traditions of Emirati and Levantine cuisines, whilst incorporating subtle modern influences.
Inspector notes: “Tuck into Shrimps Majboos and Logaymat as you enjoy uninterrupted views of the Dubai Fountain from your table on a floating raft in the lake."
DEIRA/OLD DUBAI
Known as Dubai’s historic neighbourhood, Deira or Old Dubai charms with its bustling markets and the gold souk. Located on the banks of Dubai Creek, visitors and locals can explore Dubai’s rich culture and get a feel for what the city was like before the rise of its towering skyscrapers.
Shabestan
Bib Gourmand, MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023
Cuisine: Persian
A family-run restaurant serving authentic Persian fare. It’s set on the second floor of the Radisson Blu Hotel and boasts views over the Creek and Old Dubai. The menu offers traditional Persian dishes along with a range of juicy, marinated meats at a good value.
Inspector notes: “The restaurant has been a staple since its opening in 1984. As guests arrive, they are greeted by a baker preparing traditional pancakes in a round terracotta oven. The range of tender, well-cooked and marinated varieties of meat had a magical scent and were full of spices.”
DUBAI INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE (DIFC)
State-of-the-art architecture meets renowned art galleries and a vibrant nightlife scene at Dubai’s prestigious financial hub. DIFC is the place to go for the latest fine-dining cuisine, business lunches and cosmopolitan nightlife.BOCA
MICHELIN Green Star, MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Enjoy a bright atmosphere with an extensive menu that careers around the Mediterranean and champions sustainable gastronomic practices. Here, diners can expect Spanish dishes, such as the green herb gazpacho, and an ambience perfect for a friendly get-together.
Inspector notes: “The restaurant offers a pleasant terrace and a menu that caters to everyone while also setting the benchmark for sustainability in its industry.”
Al Mandaloun
MICHELIN-selected, MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023
Cuisine: Lebanese
The traditionally styled main room spills out onto two terraces, providing plenty of space for the lunchtime, while those in a hurry can head to their takeaway area next door. The menu offers an extensive array of Lebanese dishes, including a wide selection of hot and cold mezze.
Inspector notes: “The queues at Al Mandaloun serve as an affirmation for the quality of food that can be found here. Tuck into traditional and authentic fare, and make sure to order the fried kibbeh as well as the Ghazal Beirut.”
JUMEIRAH
Jumeirah boasts pristine beaches, luxury five-star hotels, chic boutiques and a thriving coffee scene. With iconic landmarks such as the Burj Al Arab in proximity, this neighbourhood is the location for that latest Instagrammable trend, aesthetic venues and is popular with locals and residents in the know.folly
Bib Gourmand, MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023
Cuisine: Modern Cuisine
Tucked away in Souk Madinat, folly is known for its terrace bar to catch the sunset and kitchen counter where you can watch the chefs in action. The ingredient-led menu offers precise, modern dishes that are pared-back in style, with an appealing clarity of flavour at a good value.
Inspector notes: “The terrace provides the perfect setting for sundowner mocktails and offers stunning views of Souk Madinat. This is a must-visit for residents and visitors alike. Be sure to try their weekend brunch as well as their business lunch on weekdays. Additionally, the kitchen bar offers a tasting menu.”
3Fils
Bib Gourmand, MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023
Cuisine: Japanese
An open kitchen, a pared-back interior, and a laid-back vibe; grab a seat outside overlooking the Jumeirah Fishing Harbour. Their strapline is ‘making complex simple' and the Asian small plates deliver fresh, vibrant flavours with a strong nod to Japan; 3-4 per person is about right but be sure to be there early as they don’t take reservations and the wait for a table is a long one.
Inspector notes: “Be seated on the terrace, which overlooks the Jumeirah Fishing Harbour and make sure to leave room for dessert.”
Il Ristorante - Niko Romito
Two MICHELIN Stars, MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023
Cuisine: Italian
Located in the Bulgari Resort Dubai, diners are cossetted from the moment they step through the door by its all-Italian team. The design-led interior boasts an intimate lounge area where the walls are punctuated with black and white photos of Italian movie stars.
Experienced Italian chef Giacomo Amicucci’s menu puts forth modern Italian dishes. Many of the top-quality ingredients are flown in from Italy; fish dishes are a highlight, as is the pasta. For the full experience, opt for the ‘Degustazione’ menu.
Inspector notes: “This restaurant promises a delightful experience from start to finish, thanks to their culinary offerings and highly skilled staff.”
11 Woodfire
One MICHELIN Star, MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023
Cuisine: Modern Cuisine
On-trend industrial styling, intimate lighting and a laid-back feel are the hallmarks of this modern villa conversion in the residential suburb of Jumeirah – along with the huge open kitchen and grill, which gives chef Akmal Anuar’s restaurant its name.
High quality global ingredients include vegetables, seafood and meats grilled over oak, hickory or hay, each of which impart their own distinctive flavour. Dishes are skillfully cooked with well-judged seasoning. Delicious homemade kombuchas partner the dishes, and the relaxed yet professional service adds to the restaurant’s appeal.
Inspector notes: “Ordering from the Botanic Kingdom is a must. The vegetables and crispy duck were cooked to perfection, and sour fruits make for a refreshing finale.”
PALM JUMEIRAH
Dubai’s iconic palm-tree-shaped neighbourhood is renowned for its beachside living and luxurious hotels. This place is a prime tourist spot and go-to destination for both casual beach dining and world-class fine-dining with scenic rooftop views.Trèsind Studio
Two MICHELIN Stars, MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023
Cuisine: Indian
The surprise multi-course tasting menu is a masterpiece of originality, intrigue, and precision, featuring flavours and tastes from all four compass points of India. While the chefs work away with diligence in the open kitchen, the service team provides detailed explanations of each elegant creation. A little theatre here and there with each course adds to an unforgettable experience. With just 20 seats in its intimate rooftop setting, there’s something magical happening here.
Inspector notes: “The dishes are beautiful to behold and each one delivers a myriad of flavours, textures, and tastes.”
Torno Subito
One MICHELIN Star, MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023
Cuisine: Italian
Colourful and funky are the two words that come to mind when thinking of this Italian eatery located in W Hotel on the Palm. A product from the mind of legendary chef Massimo Bottura, the restaurant's menu boasts classic Italian dishes with a fun twist, and a team who's main objective is give guests a warm and friendly welcome throughout their dining experience.
Inspector's notes: "Fun, funky, in a great location. A real desire from the team to please. Looking forward to going back to try the pizza!! The quality shines through from the bread at the beginning to the coffee at the finish."
JUMEIRAH LAKES TOWERS (JLT)
Jumeirah Lakes Towers, more commonly known as JLT, is one of Dubai’s oldest and most diverse residential areas. Catering to pedestrians with its lakeside walkways and hidden parks, the neighbourhood offers a variety of authentic hotspots from around the world.Bait Maryam
Bib Gourmand, MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023
Cuisine: Levantine
Named after the chef-owner Salam Dakkak’s mother, this passionately run “home” offers a warm welcome and home-style Levantine dishes cooked with love. Sit in the cool, tranquil dining room or out on the glass-enclosed lakeside terrace. For a lunch experience that won't disappoint, choose the 'dish of the day & soup' followed by dessert.
Inspector Notes: “The Chicken Maqluba and Kunafa with Pistachio is a must-have.”
