Choosing where to eat in Dubai is almost a sport. The city has a way of mixing bold flavors with big personality, and every neighborhood seems to offer something completely different. One night you’re sitting by the water with fresh seafood, and the next you’re in a high-rise tasting menu that feels like a mini performance. This guide brings together the places that actually stand out right now, not just the ones everyone posts on Instagram. Whether you’re planning a date night, a family dinner, or just want to treat yourself, these restaurants deserve a spot on your list.
World-Arabia’s Take on Dubai’s Food Culture
Before we dive into the list, we want to take a moment to share how we approach Dubai’s food scene at World-Arabia. We spend a lot of time exploring the city through culture, fashion, art, wellness, and everyday life, and restaurants are a big part of that picture. Dubai isn’t just about big openings and glossy interiors. It’s about stories, influences, people, and moments that shape how this city eats, celebrates, and connects.
When we discover a place we genuinely like, whether it’s a rooftop spot with skyline views or a quiet corner serving regional flavors, we pay attention to the details that make it worth visiting. For us, food ties back to everything we cover across World-Arabia. It reflects the energy of the city, the mix of cultures, the ambition, and the constant movement. So as you go through this list, you’ll notice a range of places that each bring something different to the table. These aren’t just dining rooms to check off. They’re part of the larger Dubai experience we try to explore every day.
Top Restaurants in Dubai: A Curated Selection
Here’s a clear, organized list of standout dining spots across the city. No fluff, no hype, just straight descriptions of restaurants that offer something interesting in their own way. Whether you’re planning a night out with friends, a quiet dinner, or a weekend beach hangout, this list gives you a good starting point without overcomplicating things.
1. Trèsind Studio
Trèsind Studio is one of those places where everything feels carefully thought out. They take their time with each dish, paying attention to small details most diners probably wouldn’t even notice at first. The whole setup leans toward a tasting style experience, where the food comes in a sequence and each step builds on the last. It’s quiet, focused, and pretty intentional in how they guide you through the evening.
There’s not much noise or distraction inside, which makes the food the main thing you pay attention to. The team seems to work with a clear plan, and the atmosphere follows the same idea. It’s the sort of restaurant you go to when you want something a bit more serious and structured, instead of a casual dinner where everything is laid back.
Key Highlights:
- Focus on precision and presentation
- Calm, controlled dining environment
- Tasting-style experience with a clear structure
- Minimal distractions, food-first approach
Good Choice For:
- People who enjoy multi-course experiences
- Anyone who appreciates attention to detail
- Small groups wanting a quiet evening
- Diners who like structured, curated menus
Contacts:
- Website: tresindstudio.com
- Phone: +971 4 242 1666
- Email: tresindstudio@passionfandb.com
- Address: St. Regis Gardens Entrance B – Nakhlat Jumeira – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/tresindstudio
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/tresindstudio
2. Ninive
Ninive is all about Middle Eastern and North African flavors, but done in a way that feels modern without losing the original roots. They mix dishes from places like Morocco, Iraq, and Turkey, and present them in a setting inspired by a traditional majlis. It’s not overly fancy or loud, just a space where you can settle in and enjoy food that feels connected to the region’s history. The cooks bring back old flavors and pair them with updated techniques, which gives the menu a nice balance between familiar and fresh.
The vibe is what people talk about the most. The restaurant sits elevated, almost floating above the city, with views of the skyline. The cocktails follow the same regional approach, using ingredients like fig, turmeric, and cloves. Overall, it’s the kind of place where the atmosphere plays as big a role as the food, but never in an over-the-top way.
Key Highlights:
- Mix of Middle Eastern and North African dishes
- Traditional flavors revived with modern cooking
- Regional-inspired cocktails
- Scenic views from the elevated setting
- Majlis-style layout with warm, elegant touches
Good Choice For:
- People who like Middle Eastern food with a modern twist
- Couples or friends looking for a relaxed evening spot
- Visitors who want strong atmosphere without too much formality
- Groups interested in exploring regional dishes
Contacts:
- Website: ninive.ae
- Phone: 04 326 6105
- Email: book@ninive.ae
- Address: Emirates Towers Hotel, Dubai – UAE
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/ninivedubai
3. Mimi Kakushi
Mimi Kakushi blends Japanese food with a bit of Western influence, all tied back to a 1920s Osaka theme. The menu is built around sharing plates, so you’ll see plenty of sushi, sashimi, tempura, and gyoza coming to the table. They also have bigger dishes like wagyu and black cod that make it easy to turn the evening into a full meal. The food has a playful side, but still respects the basics of Japanese cooking.
The place has a strong personality. The design leans into the Osaka jazz era theme, with music and decor that give you that mix of old and new. It’s polished without feeling unapproachable, and the hours make it flexible for late dinners or weekend brunch. You can come for a long night or just drop in for a quick plate and a drink.
Key Highlights:
- Japanese classics with Western touches
- Wide range of sharing plates and larger mains
- Flexible menus including brunch and drinks
- Interior inspired by 1920s Osaka
- Open daily until late
Good Choice For:
- Japanese food fans who want a more modern feel
- Groups who like sharing plates
- Diners who enjoy variety
- Anyone looking for a spot that stays open late
Contacts:
- Website: mimikakushi.ae
- Phone: +971 4379 4811
- Email: book@mimikakushi.ae
- Address: Four Seasons Resort – 23A St – Jumeirah – Jumeirah 2 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/people/Mimi-Kakushi/100064251456210
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/mimikakushi
4. TakaHisa
TakaHisa is very centered on Japanese cuisine, and they take it seriously. Their whole concept is built around sourcing seafood directly from Toyosu Market and serving premium cuts of Wagyu, especially Ozaki beef. The chefs seem to work with strict discipline, focusing on omakase experiences where guests sit at the counter and watch each dish come together. The place leans into technique rather than theatrics, and you can tell that everything they do follows a specific method that they’ve refined over time.
The restaurant also blends sushi preparation with wagyu-focused cooking, which gives the dining experience two different perspectives under one roof. They bring in A5 Wagyu, offer robata dishes on the terrace, and keep the environment controlled and deliberate. It’s not the sort of place you rush through. Instead, it’s somewhere people go when they want a slow, thoughtful evening with dishes made right in front of them, without unnecessary fuss.
Key Highlights:
- Omakase-style service at sushi and wagyu counters
- Seafood imported directly from Toyosu Market in Japan
- Use of premium A5 Wagyu, including Ozaki beef
- Robata terrace experience with private rooms
- Strong focus on craftsmanship and controlled presentation
Good Choice For:
- Diners who enjoy omakase-style meals
- Anyone who wants both sushi and wagyu in one visit
- Small groups looking for a quiet, structured experience
- People who appreciate watching chefs work up close
Contacts:
- Website: takahisa.ae
- Phone: +971 4 556 6688
- Email: reservations@takahisa.ae
- Address: TakaHisa Japanese Restaurant, Banyan Tree Dubai, First Floor, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/takahisadubai
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/takahisa_dubai
5. CÉ LA VI Dubai
CÉ LA VI Dubai sits high above the city with a mix of dining, a bar, and a lounge in one space. The restaurant leans into modern Asian flavors and presents dishes in a setting that’s built for both food and atmosphere. The rooftop layout gives guests views of the skyline, and the indoor and outdoor spaces shift depending on the time of day. It’s not overly formal, but it does have a polished feel that makes it comfortable for evenings out.
The place is known for drawing a lively crowd thanks to its events schedule, themed nights, and a layout that blends dining with nightlife without making either side feel overwhelming. The menu sticks to Asian-influenced dishes, and the whole setup encourages longer evenings rather than quick meals. People come for the view, stay for the music, and move between the restaurant, skybar, and lounge pretty easily.
Key Highlights:
- Rooftop setting with skyline views
- Menu based on modern Asian flavors
- Multiple spaces including restaurant, skybar, and lounge
- Regular themed nights and social events
- Indoor and outdoor seating
Good Choice For:
- Groups who want dinner with a lively atmosphere
- People who enjoy rooftop dining
- Visitors looking for a mix of food and nightlife
- Dates or celebrations that call for a scenic spot
Contacts:
- Website: dxb.celavi.com
- Phone: +(971) 4 582 6111
- Email: reservation-dxb@celavi.com
- Address: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown, Dubai Tower 2, LEVEL 54
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/celavi
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/celavidubai
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/celavidubai
6. Tamoka
Tamoka brings Latin American flavors to a beachfront setting, with a focus on dishes inspired by the Caribbean and coastal regions. The restaurant feels relaxed and open, with a layout that fits its beachside location. The menu leans into grilled seafood, bold flavors, and regional influences, but does so without taking itself too seriously. The whole vibe is easygoing, reflecting the chef’s connection to his home cooking style.
Dining here feels more casual compared to high-rise restaurants, but it still has personality. The beachfront location near JBR gives it a laid-back energy, and you can sit outside while taking in the views of the water and nearby landmarks. The atmosphere is warm, social, and designed around long meals rather than quick visits. It’s a place where people come to unwind, share food, and enjoy the setting.
Key Highlights:
- Latin American coastal dishes
- Beachfront location at JBR with open-air seating
- Relaxed atmosphere with a social layout
- Menu built around seafood and regional flavors
- Chef with strong roots in Latin American cuisine
Good Choice For:
- People who enjoy relaxed, beachfront dining
- Families and groups wanting a social setting
- Visitors who prefer outdoor seating and sea views
- Diners who like bold, coastal flavors
Contacts:
- Website: www.tamokadubai.com
- Phone: +971 4 318 6099
- Email: reservations@tamokadubai.com
- Address: Al Mamsha Street The Walk, JBR PO Box 26525 Dubai, U.A.E
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/Tamokadubai
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/tamokadubai
7. CouCou Dubai
CouCou sits high above Palm Jumeirah, and most people come here for the view just as much as the food. The space mixes a Mediterranean menu with a rooftop setting that stays lively from the moment it opens. They have a few different spots within the venue, so you might end up in the restaurant, the rooftop area, or the lounge depending on the night. Each part has its own atmosphere, but the overall feel is social and pretty laid back for a place sitting 52 floors up.
The food leans Mediterranean, and the night usually unfolds at an easy pace. Some people come just to hang out with a drink and enjoy the skyline, while others settle into a booth for a longer dinner. The lounge brings in cocktails with a bit of personality, and the staff keep things moving without making it feel rushed. It’s the kind of spot where you can start slow and end up staying longer than you planned.
Key Highlights:
- Mediterranean dishes served in a rooftop setting
- 360 degree views of Palm Jumeirah and Dubai coastline
- Multiple areas including restaurant, rooftop, and lounge
- Casual, social atmosphere that picks up as the night goes on
- Open daily from evening until late
Good Choice For:
- Groups or couples looking for a scenic evening
- People who enjoy rooftop dining
- Visitors wanting a mix of food, drinks, and views
- Anyone who prefers a lively but still relaxed environment
Contacts:
- Website: coucou-dubai.com
- Phone: +971 4 565 3244
- Email: reservations@coucou-dubai.com
- Address: The Palm Tower, Level 52 St. Regis – The Palm Jumeirah – Dubai
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/coucourooftop
8. Prime68
Prime68 is a classic steakhouse at the JW Marriott Marquis, known for its straightforward approach. They focus on cuts of beef, cooked simply and well, without unnecessary extras. The restaurant sits on the 68th floor, so even before the food arrives, the views are part of the experience. Inside, it feels calm and organized, and everything moves at a steady pace that suits both lunch and dinner.
Guests usually mention the consistency here. The menu is built around steaks first, with a few sides and starters to round things out. The dining room is quiet enough for conversation, which makes it work for both small groups and business dinners. It’s not a flashy place, but it delivers exactly what people look for in a steakhouse: quality meat, cooked properly, served in a comfortable room high above the city.
Key Highlights:
- Steak focused menu with straightforward preparation
- Located on the 68th floor with city views
- Calm and structured dining atmosphere
- Suitable for both lunch and dinner
- Consistent service and classic steakhouse style
Good Choice For:
- Steak enthusiasts
- Business dinners and small groups
- Visitors who like quiet, organized dining spaces
- People looking for simple, well prepared cuts of meat
Contacts:
- Website: www.prime68dubai.com
- Phone: +97144143000
- Email: jwmmrr@marriott.com
- Address: JW Marriott Marquis Dubai – 68th – Sheikh Zayed Rd, Business Bay, Dubai, United Arab Emirates 121000
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/jwmarriottmarquisdubai
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/prime68dxb
9. Nusr-Et Dubai
Nusr-Et is all about meat, cooked in a bold and hearty style. The menu centers on steaks, sharing plates, grilled wagyu cuts, and the signature dishes people usually expect. Most items are prepared simply, then served with a bit of tableside attention. The dining room stays busy throughout the day, especially since the restaurant opens early and closes late.
The atmosphere has a bit more energy than a traditional steakhouse, with staff moving quickly and a steady rhythm from table to table. People come for larger cuts like Tomahawk steaks or wagyu tenderloin, but the menu also has a few lighter choices. Dessert, especially the baklava with ice cream, gets a lot of attention too. Overall, it’s a place where the food comes out fast, portions are generous, and the evening tends to feel lively from start to finish.
Key Highlights:
- Steak centered menu with wagyu and large sharing cuts
- Long daily opening hours
- Tableside preparation for several dishes
- Busy, energetic atmosphere
- Known for its baklava served with ice cream
Good Choice For:
- Meat lovers
- Groups looking for shareable cuts
- Diners who prefer a lively restaurant environment
- Visitors who enjoy theatrical touches at the table
Contacts:
- Website: www.nusr-et.com.tr
- Phone: +971 4 407 4100
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/wearenusret
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/wearenusret
10. DRIFT Beach Dubai
DRIFT Beach Dubai mixes a restaurant, beach club, and lounge space all in one spot at One&Only Royal Mirage. The vibe leans toward quiet luxury without feeling stiff. The restaurant follows a French direction, and the chef keeps the focus on clean flavors, simple preparation, and seasonal ingredients. It’s a place where the whole setup matters as much as the food, so you’re likely to spend time by the sea before or after you eat.
Guests often come here for the atmosphere just as much as the menu. The setting is right on the beach, with a calm energy during the day that gets a bit livelier on weekends. Even though the space looks polished, the service feels unhurried. People usually settle in for longer meals, or they move between the restaurant and the lounge depending on the mood. It’s a spot built for slow afternoons or relaxed dinners rather than quick visits.
Key Highlights:
- French influenced menu with simple, clean flavors
- Beachfront location at One&Only Royal Mirage
- Calm daytime atmosphere with more energy on weekends
- Seating options ranging from restaurant to lounge and beach areas
- Designed around long, relaxed visits
Good Choice For:
- People who enjoy seafront dining
- Couples looking for a slow, relaxed meal
- Groups who want food and beach access in one place
- Anyone who prefers a more peaceful atmosphere during the day
Contacts:
- Website: driftbeachdubai.com
- Phone: +971 50 189 5738
- Email: events@driftbeachdubai.com
- Address: One&Only Royal Mirage – Dubai United Arab Emirates
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/driftbeachdubai
11. SAN Beach
SAN Beach blends dining, a beach club, and a lounge-style environment along Palm West Beach. The design is simple and calming, and the space is spread out so guests can pick from regular tables, sunbeds, cabanas, or even private villas. The menu mixes global dishes, with seafood, salads, sushi, and wagyu options presented in an easygoing way. They also have a seafood counter where people can choose fresh items directly.
The atmosphere changes throughout the day. Mornings and afternoons feel peaceful, while evenings get busier with music and guests coming for dinner or drinks. The venue also hosts fitness classes, DJs, and small performances, so it naturally attracts a mixed crowd. Even with all the activity, the overall energy stays laid back, and most people treat it as a place to spend the full day instead of dropping by quickly.
Key Highlights:
- International menu with seafood, sushi, and wagyu options
- Beachfront seating with sunbeds, cabanas, and villas
- Peaceful daytime setting that gets livelier in the evening
- Mix of dining, beach club, and event activities
- Fresh seafood counter for custom selection
Good Choice For:
- People who enjoy all-day beachfront spaces
- Groups looking for a blend of food, music, and lounging
- Guests who like flexible seating options
- Visitors wanting a calm daytime spot with stronger evening energy
Contacts:
- Website: sanbeachdubai.com
- Phone: +971 4 458 0499
- Email: reservations@sanbeachdubai.com
- Address: The Club, Palm West Beach, The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai.
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/San-Beach-Dubai-101222835804475
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/sanbeach.dubai
12. Bâoli Dubai
Bâoli Dubai mixes a restaurant, lounge, and beach club into one spot at J1 La Mer. The food leans toward coastal French Mediterranean with touches of East Asian influence, which gives the menu range without making it confusing. The place carries an upbeat energy during the day and shifts into something louder and more nightlife focused after sunset. It’s the kind of venue where people come to eat, but they also stay for the music and the general vibe around the pool and restaurant area.
The space itself feels stylish without being too formal. You can tell that a lot of effort went into the layout, lighting, and overall mood, but nothing feels stiff or restrictive. Families come earlier in the day, while evenings bring in groups and people looking for a mix of dinner and socializing. The restaurant keeps things moving, and even though the menu draws inspiration from multiple regions, the dishes stay accessible and straightforward.
Key Highlights:
- French Mediterranean dishes with Asian touches
- Restaurant, lounge, and pool areas in one location
- Lively atmosphere that shifts throughout the day
- Good mix of indoor and outdoor seating
Good Choice For:
- Groups looking for a social dining spot
- Guests who want food and nightlife in the same venue
- People who enjoy mixed international dishes
- Visitors planning a beachside evening
Contacts:
- Website: baoli-restaurant.com
- Phone: +971 4 491 55 00
- Email: reservations@baoli-restaurant.com
- Address: Bâoli Dubai J1 Beach Dubai UAE
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/people/B%C3%A2oli-Dubai/61558488766534
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/baoli.dubai
13. Nobu By The Beach
Nobu By The Beach takes the Nobu philosophy and places it in a beachside setting at Atlantis The Royal. The restaurant keeps the Japanese and Peruvian influences that Nobu is known for, but the atmosphere is more relaxed because of the location. The dining space sits next to the pool, so the vibe is lighter during the day and more polished in the evening. The menu includes the usual Nobu favorites along with seafood and grill options that suit the beach atmosphere.
Visitors can move between the restaurant, bar, and pool area depending on how long they plan to stay. Some people come for lunch after the pool, while others choose it as a dinner spot to enjoy the setting. The service stays consistent, and the environment is comfortable without being too quiet or too loud. It works well for both groups and couples since the layout is open and the views add to the experience.
Key Highlights:
- Japanese Peruvian fusion in a beachside setting
- Located within Atlantis The Royal
- Open for lunch and dinner
- Restaurant, bar, and pool areas connected
- Calm daytime mood, more refined in the evening
Good Choice For:
- Fans of Japanese fusion cuisine
- Couples wanting a scenic dinner
- Groups spending the day at the pool
- Visitors looking for a relaxed luxury setting
Contacts:
- Website: www.nobudubai.com
- Phone: +97144261600
- Address: Nobu by the Beach, Atlantis The Royal, Crescent Road
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/nobubythebeach
14. February 30 Dubai
February 30 is a restaurant, lounge, and beach spot on Palm West Beach. The whole concept has a playful, slightly unconventional personality, and that shows in the decor, music, and crowd. The menu is a mix of international dishes with simple, modern touches, so there’s something for nearly every type of diner. The energy shifts depending on the hour, with brunch, dinner, and late night gatherings all happening in the same venue.
The lounge section hosts DJs and the beach side is often the more relaxed part of the venue. People come here for everything from daytime lounging to nighttime events. The restaurant itself stays lively, with music in the background and a crowd that tends to be social. Even with the energetic vibe, the staff keeps service organized and the food arrives quickly enough to handle busy periods.
Key Highlights:
- International menu with modern influences
- Restaurant, lounge, and beach areas combined
- Busy atmosphere with DJs and music
- Beachfront location on Palm West Beach
- Works for both casual and late night visits
Good Choice For:
- Groups wanting food plus a party atmosphere
- Diners looking for a lively beachfront spot
- Visitors who enjoy music and social vibes
- Anyone who wants a casual but fun dining setup
Contacts:
- Website: february30dubai.com
- Phone: +971 4 244 7200
- Email: reservation@february30dubai.com
- Address: West beach Palm, Jumeirah, Dubai
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/february30dubai
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/february30dubai
15. Rowley’s Restaurant
Rowley’s is a steakhouse in DIFC that keeps things simple: steak and frites done in a straightforward, classic style. The place has an old school feel without trying too hard, and the menu revolves around a few key dishes rather than a long list. Weekly specials run throughout the day, and the restaurant stays busy during lunch thanks to the DIFC crowd. Evenings draw in more relaxed groups, and the timing extends late into the night most days, which makes it flexible for different schedules.
The setting itself is approachable. You walk into a space that feels like a mix between a neighborhood spot and a business district restaurant. People drop by for lunch, early dinners, or even breakfast depending on the day. They offer different menus across the week, which keeps things interesting without overcomplicating anything. The service runs at a steady pace, and the layout works well for small gatherings, casual meetings, or a quiet meal on your own.
Key Highlights:
- Steak and frites centered menu
- Located in Central Park Towers, DIFC
- Weekly offerings with different set menus
- Long opening hours across most days
- Casual and approachable dining atmosphere
Good Choice For:
- People who enjoy classic steakhouse dishes
- DIFC visitors looking for a reliable meal
- Groups wanting a casual, straightforward restaurant
- Anyone who prefers simple menus without too many choices
Contacts:
- Website: rowleysrestaurants.com
- Phone: +971 4 257 4754
- Email: info@rowleysrestaurants.com
- Address: Level P3, Central Park Towers, DIFC
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/rowleysrestaurant
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/rowleys.uae
Wrapping It Up
Eating your way through Dubai is almost like exploring a collection of different worlds packed into one city. No two places feel the same, and that’s part of the fun. From quiet counters where chefs work right in front of you to rooftops with music spilling into the night, every restaurant offers its own version of what dining in Dubai can be. You’ll find simple spots, louder ones, and everything in between.
If there’s one thing this list shows, it’s that there’s no single “right” way to experience food here. It depends on what you’re in the mood for, who you’re with, and how long you want to stay. Use this guide as a starting point, try what speaks to you, and don’t be afraid to explore beyond it. In Dubai, the next great meal is usually just around the corner.