Discover Dubai with the chef behind the Row on 45, which was awarded two MICHELIN stars in 2024. From humble beginnings as a dishwasher to helming acclaimed kitchens around the world, Jason Atherton’s career has spanned over 30 years. His connection to Dubai began in 2001 when he arrived with Gordon Ramsay to open Verre. Since then, he’s built a life and career here, splitting his time between London and the city he now considers his second home. In this article, he reveals his favourite spots and what makes Dubai so special.
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A comforting bowl of ramen from Bib Gourmand restaurant Kinoya. Image credit: Natalie Lines/Kinoya
For sharing with friends: Kinoya
“Kinoya is such an easy place to eat, with something on the menu for everyone. My kids absolutely love the ramen, and the atmosphere is always fun and lively. The price point is great, and it’s only 10 minutes up the road for us. Plus, it’s such an amazing homegrown story—just a fantastic addition to Dubai’s dining scene.”Bib Gourmand recipient Kinoya, located in The Onyx Tower 2 in The Greens, has quickly become a favoured spot for its authentic izakaya dining and buzzing atmosphere. Here, diners can choose from several seating options, including the ramen counter, chef’s table and the cosy tatami rooms for private dining. Elevating ramen to an art form, everything here is made in-house, from the noodles to the broths, following closely guarded recipes.
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Rascals is known for their wide selection of deli-style sandwiches. Image credit: Visit Dubai/Rascals
For on-the-go: Rascals
“If I’m on the go, driving through the city and happen to be near Rascals, I’ll stop by, grab a sandwich and crack on. I’m not into fast food chains; they’re just not my thing. My life revolves around passion, whether it’s for tailored clothes, watch collecting or food. Rascals is no exception—they put as much passion into their sandwiches as chefs put into crafting the perfect plate. My go-to would be ‘The Philly’.”Rascal’s is all about nailing the art of a great sandwich. With fresh ingredients and homemade sauces, their sandos are anything but ordinary. Swing by the lively Safa neighbourhood to try their signature creations, or order in—either way, you’re in for something seriously delicious.
Honeycomb Hi-Fi is hidden behind a vinyl record shop located in Downtown Dubai. Image credit: Honeycomb Hi-Fi
For a drink: Honeycomb Hi-Fi
“I’m a bit of a sucker for a good speakeasy, so when I spotted Honeycomb Hi-Fi on a list, I thought, ‘That sounds interesting, I’ll give it a try’. It didn’t disappoint—they’ve got great snacks, especially with a bit of a Japanese twist, and the vibe is more sophisticated than your average lounge. At 53, I’m at that stage where I don’t want to be somewhere overcrowded or queueing for a drink, but I’m still young enough to enjoy a lively atmosphere. Honeycomb Hi-Fi strikes the perfect balance—it’s the best of both worlds.”Honeycomb Hi-Fi is a hidden gem behind a secret door at Pullman Dubai Downtown. Blending the vibe of a Tokyo-style listening lounge with a Japanese izakaya-meets-speakeasy feel, it’s the perfect spot for great drinks and even better beats.
Enjoy traditional twists on Japanese favourites at MICHELIN-selected restaurant Mimi Kakushi. Image credit: Pavel Yarmolenka/Mimi Kakushi
For evening bites: Mimi Kakushi
“Mimi Kakushi is another spot I really like. The food is fantastic, but what stands out just as much is the design and the bar. My wife absolutely loves it too, and if I had to pick a favourite dish, it’s definitely the baked bone marrow.”This trendy MICHELIN-selected spot channels the charm of 1920s Osaka with its exotic décor and nostalgic jazz tunes. Inside, the warm wood accents, vintage art and touches of greenery create a cosy, inviting vibe. The open kitchen adds to the experience, where chefs craft beautifully plated dishes with playful twists on traditional Japanese favourites.
Bib Gourmand recipient Bait Maryam's home-style take on a cauliflower and tahini dish. Image credit: Mandy Toh/Bait Maryam
For a taste of the Levant: Bait Maryam and Sufret Maryam
“For traditional Arabic flavours, my favourite spot is Bait Maryam in JLT. I admire how chef Salam Dakkak created it as a cosy neighbourhood restaurant, pouring her heart into every dish while simply doing what she loves. Her other restaurant, Sufret Maryam, is also a fantastic choice for authentic, home-style cuisine.”Bib Gourmand recipient Bait Maryam, named after chef Salam Dakkak’s mother, feels like stepping into a warm family home, serving comforting, home-style Levantine dishes that celebrate the region’s rich diversity and culture. Meanwhile, her second venture, Sufret Maryam, located at the lively Wasl 51 in Jumeirah, brings a modern twist to traditional Levantine cuisine.
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A pocket-friendly feast perfect for sharing from Bib Gourmand restaurant Berenjak. Image credit: Berenjak
For traditional Persian flavours: Berenjak
“My love affair with Persian cuisine dates back to when I first came to Dubai—I just fell in love with the grilling techniques and the flavours. In Berenjak, you get to taste proper Persian cooking—the food has real depth of flavour.”You’ll find this Bib Gourmand restaurant nestled in Dar Wasl Mall, located in one of Dubai’s many bustling residential neighbourhoods. The Persian eatery boasts a variety of pocket-friendly favourites, ranging from the classic mast-o-khiar (a yogurt and cucumber starter dish) to the iconic koobideh (mixed meat kebab) and all complemented by taftoon bread, fragrant saffron rice and vegetables.
Old town Dubai is one of Jason Atherton's favourite neighbourhoods in the city. Image credit: Department of Economy and Tourism
For coffee: Arabian Tea House
"I also love the old coffee spot in Bur Dubai—Arabian Tea House. It’s really special to me because, back when I was the executive chef and my now-wife was a receptionist at a hotel... we’d meet there in the afternoons, have tea, coffee, a little snack, and just chat, get to know each other, and, eventually, fall in love. We still take our kids back there now—it’s such a meaningful place for us. We used to go at least two or three times a week back then."Located in the historic Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Arabian Tea House is a charming café that’s perfect for anyone wanting a taste of authentic Emirati cuisine. A favourite with tourists, it’s the spot to enjoy traditional Arabic coffee or explore their impressive menu of over 150 teas and drinks, like refreshing mint lemonade or their signature black tea blend with herbs and fruit.
Must-visit: Old town Dubai
“To be honest, I always try to spend a couple of hours down in the old town, exploring the souks and soaking up the culture and vibe. It’s so easy to get caught up in the glitzy, glamorous side of Dubai, but the old town feels different—it’s more nostalgic, almost like stepping back in time.My favourite spot to eat there is Al Ustad Special Kabab. You can get an old-fashioned platter with chicken, fish or a mix of everything, served under the bread with dips on the side. Anytime someone visits Dubai, I always take them there—it’s a must-visit.”
Al Ustad Special Kabab, a family-run gem in Bur Dubai, serves affordable and flavour-packed Iranian cuisine. Just steps from Al Seef and Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, it’s a favourite among locals, tourists and even celebrities, known for its generous platters of spiced kebabs, fragrant rice and salads.
This post is brought to you in partnership with Department of Economy and Tourism
