A city where tradition and modernity exist in perfect harmony, Dubai offers foodies and travellers the best of both worlds with an array of both opulent and budget-friendly experiences.
The bustling souks of Old Dubai, with their aromatic spices, shimmering gold, and intricate textiles, offer a taste of nostalgia and heritage with mouthwatering traditional Emirati dishes.
In contrast, the futuristic skyline of Downtown Dubai, dominated by architectural marvels like Burj Khalifa and towering skyscrapers, is a playground for foodies with a world of gourmet dining, innovative concepts, and lavish brunches.
Planning a trip to this vibrant Arabian melting pot, or making a quick stop on your global journey? Whatever brings you to Dubai, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that’s both sophisticated and surprisingly accessible—perfect for every food enthusiast.
In this article, we invite you on a journey of discovery, exploring global flavours, extraordinary stays, and one-of-a-kind landmarks.
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Day 1 – Dazzling Downtown Discovery
Morning
Your trip starts in the vibrant Downtown area of Dubai, where record-breaking skyscrapers shine in a dynamic neighbourhood. Nestled among the towers is the stylish, MICHELIN-selected Dubai EDITION hotel. This tastefully designed hotel is ideally located near all of Downtown’s must-visit spots, such as Dubai Mall and The Dubai Fountain, as well as the iconic Burj Khalifa – the world’s tallest tower.More hotels in Downtown Dubai
Brunch
After you’ve settled in, it’s time to enjoy a tasty brunch only a few minutes away on the bustling Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid boulevard. MICHELIN-selected Jun’s menu boasts dishes blending chef Kelvin Cheung’s Chinese heritage and Canadian/American upbringing. Bold and compelling flavour combinations decorate the plates, from its inventive heirloom rainbow carrots to its hearty wagyu beef potstickers.
Afternoon
Feeling a little full? Take the time to digest with a walk along Downtown’s iconic boulevard. Stretching 3.5 km, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd is home to awe-inspiring towers, lavish hotels, contemporary galleries, delicious restaurants and of course, Dubai Mall.Pop in for some retail therapy and browse the latest collections from world-renowned designers and luxury brands at Fashion Avenue. For families, Dubai Mall is packed with adventures for all ages. Dive into the underwater wonder of The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, lace up your skates at the Olympic-sized Dubai Ice Rink, or let the little ones unleash their creativity at the children’s ‘edutainment’ haven, Kidzania.
Evening
A day of delightful discoveries calls for a night of glamourous eats. After freshening up at the hotel, head back to the now-glistening Boulevard for a dazzling dinner at iconically located MICHELIN-selected, Fouquet's. Feast on French classics, such as onion soup and bœuf à la Bourguignonne. We recommend taking a table on the terrace for impressive views of Burj Khalifa’s light show and The Dubai Fountain show.As you taste the last few bites of your French dessert, it’s time to wrap up day one in Dubai. Make your way back to your hotel room and rest up for the day of cultural exploration ahead.
More restaurants in Downtown Dubai
Day 2 – Venturing Into the Old
Morning
After a good night’s rest, grab a coffee by the pool and head to Old Dubai. Start your day exploring the Old Souk, where all five senses are awakened for the ultimate cultural experience. Here, you’ll be able to smell local aromas, gaze at glimmering jewellery, feel a plethora of silks and fabrics, listen to the sounds of local merchants bartering with visitors, and taste fresh and exotic spices to warm up your appetite.RELEVANT: Discover Dubai's best breakfast spots
Lunch
Lunchtime is just around the corner, and there’s no better way to immerse yourself in Emirati culture than by indulging in traditional cuisine. Bib Gourmand restaurant Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant is the perfect place to do just that. Take your pick of authentic plates such as chicken machboos or lamb madfoon, among many others and make sure to sweeten the experience with the addictive luqaimat.More restaurants in Old Dubai
Afternoon
Once you’ve polished off your lunch and refuelled with a cup of aromatic karak chai, take a step back in time at the nearby Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. This charming district offers a glimpse into 19th-century Dubai, where history unfolds along narrow, twisting alleyways framed by striking wind towers, telling tales of the city’s rich history.As you wander through its winding paths, you’ll uncover a treasure trove of cultural gems including the House of Calligraphy (Dar Al Khatt), where every stroke of ink tells a tale of heritage and artistry. Nearby, the Dubai Municipality House stands as a marvel of traditional Emirati architecture, with its intricate designs offering a snapshot of the bygone era.
Evening
Make sure to save time for one last culinary delight. Wrap up your second day with a memorable dinner at MICHELIN-selected Brasserie Boulud. Steeped in French elegance, located in Wafi City, the menu is a treasure trove of classic French favourites, from indulgent beef tartare to the perfectly caramelised tarte tatin. For the ultimate dining experience, secure a spot on the terrace and soak in Dubai’s glittering night skies – a perfect end to your two exceptional days in Dubai.
And that’s a wrap! With so much to offer, this guide is merely a glimpse of the countless ways to immerse yourself in both the new and old Dubai – a place where the food is just as vibrant as its rich heritage.
