Dubai never lacks, especially in flavour. With an array of fine dining restaurants that excel in gastronomic excellence, the emirate has one place where food connoisseurs gather which trumps all others: Dubai International Financial Centre, better known as DIFC.

While the city of gold never rests, these selections of eateries are sprinkled with finesse that will surely fill your week to the brim.

From interiors inspired by French elegance to exotic delicacies freshly plated at your table, here’s the GRAZIA guide to the best restaurants in DIFC.

Uchi

Dubai has no shortage of Japanese cuisine, but nestled in the heart of DIFC is Uchi, a melting pot of exquisite tastes that celebrate Japanese culture. From classic sashimi and nigiri to mains featuring A5 wagyu and exotic seafood, Uchi serves up a soulful menu that delights the palate.

LPM Restaurant & bar

A cornerstone of Dubai’s dining scene, LPM Restaurant & Bar offers the finest in French cuisine. The chic yet cosy ambience perfectly complements an array of exemplary dishes. From the divine Gateau au Fromage Frais to the irresistible creamy burrata, each bite promises gastronomic excellence and an unforgettable dining experience.

Sucre Dubai

Rich in flavour, ambience and interiors, an evening at Sucre Dubai is always one to remember. Founded by restaurateur Fernando Trocca over two decades ago in Buenos Aires, Sucre made its way from the Argentinian capital to Dubai in 2022. The lively Latin American restaurant boasts an extensive menu specialising in Argentinian flavours, with hero dishes including the Red Prawn Carpaccio, Braised Beef Cheek and Padron Peppers. And if you want to make the night last even longer, head to the restaurant’s after-hours bar, Alma.

GAIA

Spearheaded by acclaimed Chef Izu Ani, Gaia is a renowned hotspot on the DIFC dining scene. Known to be frequented by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, the restaurant is known for its seamless Mediterranean cuisine which encompasses the core elements of Greek culture.

La Niña

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Taking a bite out of this restaurant’s Frango Piri Piri won’t just ooze in the sublime taste of its coriander and guindilla seasoning, but expect to take a journey to the vibrant fiesta of the Iberian peninsula. Melting the Latin-Iberian cultures into one eclectic-style restaurant, La Nina is for the adventurous tastemakers who are keen to experience Dubai’s world-class cuisine.

The Guild

When Paris and New York feel too far out of reach, fear not – this restaurant effortlessly channels its essence, transporting you to the heart of both cities without leaving your table. The Guild fuses its European and American-inspired menu for Dubai’s food connoisseurs. Whether you’re into French dishes or famished for a New York-style brasserie, The Guild houses many culinary concepts to fulfill your yearnings.

Avli by Tashas

Nestled in DIFC’s vibrant heart, Avli by Tashas epitomises the Epicurean culture. This sophisticated haven invites guests to indulge in the sweet aroma of its Mediterranean-inspired interior while savouring the delights of Greek cuisine. Each visit ensures a dining experience brimming with elegance and culinary mastery.

Clap Dubai

An innovative hub for Japanese cuisine, Clap Dubai indulges all six senses for an immersive experience. Hailing from Beirut, the quirky interior features a central bra which offers a delightful array of meticulously crafted drinks. As the summer heat burgeons, its vibrant indoor nightlife is a must-try – and when winter returns, the outdoor terrace is a sight to behold.

The Nice Guy

Making its way to Dubai all the way from Hollywood just last year, The Nice Guy has become a firm favourite on the DIFC nightlife scene.  While modern aesthetics have its proud list of restaurants, The Nice Guy rewinds to the past with its wooden panelling and vintage-style interiors. Start with an aperitif such as the house’s signature spicy Sienna, then move on to an American-Italian menu that tantalises with grilled dishes. And for some after dinner fun, make sure you head to the Hush Hush lounge.

ALAYA

Alaya brings the vibrant flavours of the Mediterranean with the rich heartiness of Middle Eastern cuisine straight to the heart of DIFC. The menu is a culinary journey (highlights include the shish wagyu, spiced carrot salad, kunafa and – quite possibly – the best pistachio ice cream in the world) while the opulent, Art Deco-inspired setting perfectly complements the sophisticated dishes.

La Cantine du Faubourg

La Cantine du Faubourg is one of the OG restaurants on the DIFC dining scene. Having opened its doors over 10 years ago, the hotspot brings some of the best French cuisine to the emirate. Offering decadent signature Parisian dishes like foie gras terrine and escargot de bourgogne, this eatery elevates the typical to a new level.

Zuma

Renowned for its modern take on Japanese cuisine, Zuma consistently stands out by redefining classic dishes with unparalleled finesse. Whether it’s the melt-in-your-mouth sashimi or the signature dishes that tantalise the taste buds, Zuma remains the ultimate destination for exquisite Japanese dining in Dubai.

Mina Brasserie

Founded by award-winning Chef Michael Mina, Mina Brasserie offers an all-year-round haute cuisine experience. The restaurant’s lush, green ambience and air-conditioned terrace provide the perfect setting to enjoy an array of elaborate dishes and traditional aperitifs. With a menu that delights every palate, Mina Brasserie stands as a testament to culinary excellence in Dubai.