The best restaurants in Dubai are the ones that get people talking – so what’s everybody loving right now? For a hot-right-now guide to dining in Dubai, here are some culinary gems that should be on your radar.
1. Ramusake Dubai
Fusing authentic Japanese traditions with modern vibes, Ramusake Dubai is a fine-dining restaurant in Dubai like no other. An innovative and funky hotspot blending together creative Japanese fusion dishes, a Sake bar and lounge, and a unique outdoor gastropub overlooking the beach, it’s impossibly trendy.
Price: You’ll spend around AED 150 for bites and a cocktail
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton, JBR
insydo tip: Expect to have a two-hour limit on dinner tables for popular nights like Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.
2. Black Tap
Via Facebook | @blacktapdubai
Famous for their burgers and crazy shakes, Black Tap is a NYC institution with a menu that almost feels like it’s been designed for your social media snaps. Purely for the indulgent, this gourmet American escape is larger-than-life delicious.
Price: You’ll spend around AED 150
Location: Jumeirah Al Naseem, Madinat Jumeirah
insydo tip: For a tangy dessert, try the Sour Power shake that features sour gummi poppers and candy.
3. Il Faro
Via Facebook | @ilfarodxb
Waterfront dining at its finest, Il Faro, Trattoria & Lounge is a hidden gem that’s completely charming – from the gorgeous location to the Italian hospitality. With sublime views of the Burj Al Arab, it’s the ultimate romantic hideaway.
Price: You’ll spend around AED 200 for two people
Location: Azure Residences, Palm Jumeirah
insydo tip: The restaurant is split into two sections; one with a limited menu and the other with more upscale a la carte options.
4. Ruya
Via Facebook | @ruyadubai
Named after the Turkish word for ‘dream’, Ruya is an upscale, traditional Anatolian restaurant and lounge that brings a slice of multi-cultural Istanbul to Dubai Marina’s Grosvenor House. With celebrity chef Colin Clague at the helm, diners can expect a fusion of East meets West across the menu.
Price: You’ll pay around AED 150
Location: The Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina
insydo tip: If you’re looking for an intimate night out, you may be distracted by families with young children.
5. INKA
Via Facebook | @inkadubai
INKA is a modern, elegant Peruvian eatery and lounge that offers jaw-dropping views of the Burj Khalifa. Embark on a culinary journey through Peru where you’ll enjoy hand-crafted cocktails and authentic dishes along the way. If you’re looking for a buzzing spot to spice up your weekends, this is it.
Price: You’ll spend AED 140 for bites and a cocktail
Location: Hotel Sofitel Downtown Dubai, Downtown Dubai
insydo tip: If you’re looking for something a little different, check out the lounge’s Bongo Night held every Thursday.
6. The Maine Oyster Bar & Grill
Via Facebook | @themaindxb
A hip, home-grown, seaside brasserie, The Maine Oyster Bar & Grill oozes all things New England with typical Dubai flair, of course. Indulge in seafood and classic American comfort foods ranging from Clam Chowder to Key Lime Pie. You’ll also love the speakeasy feel with its retro, leather interiors and obscure low-key entrance.
Price: You’ll spend around AED 250
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton, JBR
insydo tip: The restaurant is cozy and the bar is tiny; it fills up fast in the evenings so expect uncomfortably heavy crowds.
7. Catch
Via Facebook | @catchdxb
Chic and trendy in style, Catch brings a taste of New York City to Dubai. Serving up fresh, contemporary American seafood with a side of Big Apple hospitality, this fine-dining restuarant makes for a very sociable dining experience with plenty of culinary surprises.
Price: You’ll spend around AED 300
Location: Fairmont Dubai, SZR
insydo tip: Bear in mind that the starter portion sizes are quite small; you’ll need two or three per person.
Discover more amazing dining experiences at our favourite seafood spots around town.