While the cultures and walks of life Dubai celebrates is vast, they also hold the Emirati culture and tradition in high regard – and these restaurants prove it.
From perfectly seasoned teas and coffees to the rich and hearty chicken and rice dishes, each meal unveils a new side of the vast nation’s heritage.
Whether you’re looking to add a new culinary adventure to your arsenal or simply want expand your Emirati exploration, these Dubai restaurants supply you with appetizing options.
Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant Cafe
With cobble stones, wall art and an open courtyard seating, this Emirati restaurant takes a slightly laidback approach. From a choice of lamb or chicken Machboos to eggs benedict with an Emirati twist, each dish at Al Khayma is entrenched in an amalgamation of flavour and spice. Filled with warm lighting and greenery, sip on a spicy hot cups of Gahwa (Arabic coffee) upon entrance with this option.
Gerbou
Centring their efforts around a farm to table concept and sustainability-first attitude, this Emirati culinary experience is an elevated and exclusive one. One of Dubai’s many supper clubs, Gerbou is spearheaded by Michelin-level head chef Ionel Catau, offering a gratifying eight-course tasting menu. Punctuated with a warm homemade broth of ginger, chili and saffron, you welcomed and bid farewell with traditional Arab comfort. The permanent Gerbou restaurant is set to open in a few months.
Smat Resto-Café
Located in D3, this resto-café offers intriguing and cool design elements while maintaining a laidback atmosphere. Bringing contemporary ideas to heritage Emirati cuisine, SMAT offers dishes like Karak French Toast and Jasheed Tacos within their open concept space.
Arabian Tea House Restaurant & Cafe
While some of the Emirati restaurants in Dubai reflect the city’s modernised nature, this one gives you a glimpse at its past. From its turquoise benches to its lace curtain each faceted design and cuisine holds the nation’s DNA. With locations across Jumeirah, Sharjah and beyond, this 1997-founded restaurant has garnered the attention of internationally acclaimed industry leaders and stars.
AnA Restaurant
Manifesting one-of-a-kind memories in the world’s most-visited Dubai Mall isn’t a hard task, and this restaurant extends that quest. Offering fountain views from an elevated distance, step into modern yet unintimidating open space at Ana’s. Tailored to you, they offer light or decedent Emirati dishes that ranging spice, sweetness and flavour. From prawn samosas, hazelnut fondant, satisfy any craving at Ana.
