From restaurants to bars, these are the best dining experiences in Dubai right now.
If you’re looking for the best restaurants in Dubai, we’re here to help. The eleventh FACT Dining Awards Dubai have taken place. The restaurant industry gathered, the nominations were announced, and the awards were handed out. Held on 13 November 2025 at Hilton Dubai Jumeirah, the event was a sensational success.
Categories spanned everything from cafés to bars, and seafood to steakhouses. The winners were selected based on public votes and the opinions of critics. Each category has two awards: Best and Favourite. The latter is the result of a popular vote, while the former is the critics’ choice.
Congratulations to all of the nominees and winners.
Restaurant of the Year in Abu Dhabi 2025
Manāo
While the name of the restaurant means ‘lime’ in Thai, Chefs Abhiraj Khatwani and Mohamad Orfali build a marvellous menu around citrus, rice and coconut at Manāo. Expect memorable plates, superb service and a casual dining room. The standout dish is the Lobster Khanom Krok, which flips a familiar Thai street snack from sweet to savoury, serving tamarind‑brushed grilled lobster on a coconut‑rich fermented rice custard, so compelling that you might ask for seconds.
GO: Visit https://manao.ae for more information.
Newcomer in Dubai 2025
Best: Three Bros
Orfali Bros has been hitting the headlines and winning awards for its creative cuisine. Now, the three brothers from Syria have created a new concept, Three Bros. The playful 22-seat diner that channels their culinary heritage with a dash of nostalgia. Highlights include Croquettes enriched with 18-month Comté and truffle mayo, Beef Cecina atop pan con tomate, a marvellous Morel Chawanmushi, and buttery slices of Otoro tuna on toasted sourdough. The OB cheeseburger, featuring a Wagyu patty inside a soft Hokkaido bun, is already a signature.
GO: Follow @threebros_kitchen on Instagram for more information.
Favourite: INÁ
Dubai’s dining scene is heating up! INÁ, which means “fire” and “flame” in Nigerian Yoruba, boasts the largest open-fire grill in Dubai. The restaurant in J1 Beach features open-fire cooking, transitions seamlessly from dining to dancing and aims to embody the values of warmth and unity. Under the expert guidance of Chef Glen Ballis, the menu highlights fresh, seasonal ingredients that are sustainably and locally sourced. Diners can indulge in a masterfully crafted selection of flame-grilled fish, meats, and vegetables. Don’t miss the Japanese Tuna Toro or Westholme Beef Tartare.
GO: Follow @ina.dubai on Instagram for more information.
Homegrown Restaurant in Dubai in 2025
Best: Orfali Bros
Once Orfali Bros opened in March 2021, it quickly gained a cult following. Mohamad, Wassim and Omar are the Orfali brothers behind the homegrown success story, which takes inspiration from their travels. The family works closely with local farmers and suppliers to serve local ingredients of the highest quality in their contemporary take on Middle Eastern dishes. The small restaurant offers several stunning dishes, from the Caviar Bun and Corn Bomb to the exceptional Umami Éclair. However, it’s the playfully named Come With Me To Aleppo that keeps us returning to this homegrown hotspot. A tender wagyu beef kebab served with sour cherry, pine nuts, and cinnamon is a textural marvel, a sweet and savoury sensation.
GO: Visit https://orfalibros.com for more information.
Favourite: Moonrise
There has been much fanfare surrounding Moonrise and its young chef, Solemann Haddad. Located on the rooftop of Eden House on Sheikh Zayed Road, Moonrise features seasonally changing tasting menus that span Middle Eastern flavours, ingredients and cooking techniques. Chef Solemann, who was born and raised in Dubai, draws inspiration from his own multicultural background, capturing Dubai’s diversity through his carefully crafted dishes such as 90’s Alfredo, Fattoush Nam Jim and a superb twist on a Grilled Cheese. Exclusivity is the name of this game, as only two seatings are available each night.
GO: Visit www.moon-rise.xyz for more information.
Chef’s Table/Tasting Menu in Dubai in 2025
Best: FZN by Björn Frantzén
Recently awarded three MICHELIN stars, FZN at Atlantis, The Palm offers a 27-seat fine dining experience. This space includes 13 seats around the open kitchen and a view of the chefs at work. The restaurant from acclaimed chef Björn Frantzén showcases a modern European tasting menu with Japanese as well as Nordic influences. Highlight dishes include Chawanmushi with smoked beef broth, Duck BBQ with yuzu, and Kampot Pepper with foie gras. Plus, the soundtrack features 300 songs curated by Björn himself and ranges from Guns N’ Roses to The Smiths.
GO: Visit www.sevenrooms.com for more information.
Favourite: Row on 45
Row on 45, the two-Michelin-starred restaurant from British Chef Jason Atherton, offers an exceptional experience crafted for just 22 discerning guests per seating. The 17-course haute cuisine menu features Amaebi (sweet shrimp served with Amela tomato jelly), Frøya Scallops and a delightful duck dish. Presented in three acts, this memorable meal begins in the Champagne Lounge and ends in the Chef’s Library of this penthouse-inspired restaurant. The name of the restaurant draws its inspiration from Savile Row in London, which is famous for its tailored suits. What sets the concept apart is that it offers a truly tailored experience for each guest.
GO: Follow @rowon45dubai on Instagram for more information.
Brunch in Dubai 2025
Best: Zuma
When the words “Zuma” and “brunch” are in the same sentence, our mouths water. The FACT favourite excels at whatever it turns its chopsticks to, which is why we can’t help falling in love with its Saturday brunch. A must-visit in Dubai, the restaurant serves main dishes straight to your table, including the famous Miso Marinated Black Cod. Plus, it takes the traditional buffet and turns it into a foodie’s dream.
GO: Visit https://zumarestaurant.com for more information.
Favourite: Sexy Fish
Between its resident DJs, opulent interiors, and a diverse menu inspired by the seas of Asia, Sexy Fish has won rave reviews since its London debut in 2015. In Dubai, you can experience a vibrant brunch atmosphere complete with live music, DJs, and sea-inspired performances set against Damien Hirst’s iconic artworks. The menu features a fantastic feast: Beef Tartare with truffle and pear, Fried Chicken Bao Buns, Nigiri and Maki Rolls, Black Cod, Salmon Teriyaki and Spicy Beef Tenderloin. Finish strong with the Banana Soft Serve, Peanut and Miso Caramel Bar, and Strawberry and Matcha Japanese Roll Cake.
GO: Visit https://sexyfish.com for more information.
Party Brunch in Dubai 2025
Best: Gallery 7/40
Art and food go together like Vincent Van Gogh and the night sky. Dubai’s restaurant Gallery 7/40 is an art lover’s paradise. The concept draws its inspiration from the Catalan artist and architect, Antoni Gaudí. The Big Fat Greek Brunch pairs generous Mediterranean plates with live entertainment. Expect meze to share, grilled seafood, and classic mains, paced over three hours with music, dancing, and (of course) plate smashing. The setting is pure Palm Jumeirah glamour, with indoor theatrics and beachside views rolling into an afterparty that keeps the celebration going.
GO: Visit https://gallery740.com for more information.
Favourite: Akira Back Dubai
Akira Back’s brunch brings the chef’s playful Japanese-Korean flair to a lively weekend spread. Expect signatures like AB Tuna Pizza, Wagyu Tacos, and Yellowtail Jalapeño alongside artful Sushi, crisp Tempura, and Robata Skewers fresh from the grill. Platters arrive to share, balancing spice, citrus, and umami with clean, modern presentation. DJs set an upbeat mood as skyline and sea views frame the dining room and terrace, as you’d expect from the city’s scene stealers, Candypants.
GO: Visit https://www.akirabackdubai.com for more information.
Dinner Show in Dubai 2025
Best: Q’s Bar & Lounge
If you want to party like the FACT Editor-in-Chief, then head down to Q’s Bar & Lounge. Pass through the soundproofed doors and into what feels like a basement New Orleans jazz bar. The late-night venue showcases performances from emerging artists handpicked by Quincy Jones. Known for its intimate ambience, unmatched acoustics, and innovative cocktails, it is unlike any other music venue in the city.
GO: Visit www.palazzoversace.ae for more information.
Favourite: The Theater Dubai
At Fairmont Dubai, The Theater is here to satisfy all your diverse cravings. We’re talking about a thrilling mix of vocalists, musicians, dancers, and even aerialists, all coming together to whisk you away on a musical adventure. The show is directed by the Middle East’s very own showman, Lebanese-Armenian musician, composer and pianist, Guy Manoukian. The production draws inspiration from various themes, ranging from Alice in Wonderland to the disco era. The menu leans luxurious, opening with Oysters, Caviar-topped bites and bright Crudo before moving to Sushi and Sashimi, Truffle Flatbread and Wagyu Tartare.
GO: Visit www.thetheaterdubai.com for more information.
Japanese Fine Dining in Dubai 2025
Best: TakaHisa Japanese Restaurant
TakaHisa Japanese Restaurant has raised the standard when it comes to the cuisine. The passion and precision are what set the dining experience apart. Take a seat at the counter and watch Chef Taka and Chef Hisa compose courses that pivot from pristine sashimi to lustrous nigiri crowned with ultra fatty tuna. A5 Kobe beef arrives with a glossy sear, while Hokkaido uni brings a saline sweetness. The menu offers premium seafood from one of Japan’s biggest fish markets, Toyosu Market, while service is poised without fuss.
GO: Visit https://takahisa.ae for more information.
Favourite: Zuma
Zuma Dubai remains the city’s gold standard for contemporary Japanese dining, where energy and elegance share the same room. The space hums with a cosmopolitan crowd, a flicker of robata flames and a soundtrack that never overpowers the conversation. Start with razor-sharp sashimi, then the signature Miso Black Cod that flakes at a touch. The robata delivers smoky Tiger Prawns and the signature Spicy Beef Tenderloin. Service is slick, confident and intuitive, keeping the tempo effortlessly from first pour to last.
GO: Visit https://zumarestaurant.com for more information.
Japanese Casual Dining in Dubai 2025
Best: Reif Japanese Kushiyaki
Reif Japanese Kushiyaki in Dubai Hills captures Chef Reif Othman’s playful precision in a room that blends concrete cool with warm timber. We love the restaurant for its appealing list of sushi, ramen, kushiyaki (skewers) and arguably one of the best sando interpretations in the city. The menu is paced around smoke and char, including Wagyu skewers slick with rendered fat. Casual, clever, and irresistible.
GO: Visit https://reifkushiyaki.com for more information.
Favourite: Kokoro Hand Roll Bar
Kokoro in Alserkal Avenue distils the joy of temaki into a crisp, counter-led ritual. Rice lands warm and seasoned, and fillings arrive pristine, from bluefin tuna to sweet scallop. The room echoes with gallery cool and soft house, service gliding between stools with calm precision. Order à la minute, watch chefs swipe wasabi, then roll with quick hands to preserve heat and crunch.
GO: Visit https://eatkokoro.xyz for more information.
Indian Restaurant in Dubai 2025
Best: Trèsind Studio
Trèsind Studio is one of Dubai’s most critically acclaimed restaurants, and was named Restaurant of the Year at the FACT Dining Awards Dubai in 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2024. The restaurant at St. Regis Gardens is Dubai’s most intimate culinary stage, a 20-seat room where Chef Himanshu Saini turns memory and spice into meticulous theatre. Each seasonal “chapter” moves with quiet precision, from playful Pani Puri to Chaat and Duck Haleem with foie gras toast to Lobster Tail with smoked chilli jam and tomato moilee. The pacing is meditative, service reads the table, resulting in a meal of modern Indian cuisine at its most exacting and emotional.
GO: Visit https://tresindstudio.com for more information.
Favourite: Jamavar Dubai
Taking its name from the intricate 16th-century lace shawls of Kashmir, Jamavar is known for its luxurious pan-Indian cuisine. Drawing from more than 22 years of experience, Culinary Director Surender Mohan’s vibrant pan-Indian flavours use only the finest ingredients, ensuring the aromatic curries and grills offer a harmonious blend of spice and texture. The Jamavar menu pays homage to the subcontinent, showcasing dishes from the royal kitchens, such as Kid Goat Shami Kebab, Prawns Peera and Leela’s Lobster Neeruli.
GO: Visit https://jamavarrestaurants.com for reservations and more information.
Italian Fine Dining Restaurant in Dubai 2025
Best: L’Amo Bistro del Mare
L’Amo Bistro del Mare brings a slice of southern Italy to Dubai. Set on the water at Dubai Harbour, the restaurant pairs a breezy terrace with a bright, nautical dining room. Seafood is the star with a market display of daily catch, shimmering crudi and oysters. The extensive Italian menu from Head Chef Alessandro Salvatico features beautiful pasta dishes, offering diners a true taste of the Italian coast, complemented by a smart Italian wine list heavy on coastal whites. Service is polished but relaxed, making it ideal for a long lunch or sunset dinner with marina views. Save room for classic tiramisu or gelato.
GO: Visit www.lamorestaurant.com for more information.
Favourite: Il Gattopardo
Inspired by the novel The Leopard, Il Gattopardo draws inspiration from Milan and Venice. Chef Massimo Pasquarelli, who was born and raised in Southern Italy, leads the kitchen, serving a menu of Italian classics with a modern twist. Highlights include Bufala with buffalo mozzarella and heirloom tomatoes, and Tartufo with truffle mascarpone, caramelised onions, and truffle shavings. Pastas include Astice with lobster and linguine, and Sorrentina with potato gnocchi, mozzarella, and tomato. Whether you’re after a long lunch or a late-night spot, the sky-high spot offers a day-to-night experience with entertainment from resident DJs.
GO: Visit https://gattopardo.restaurant for more information.
Italian Casual Dining Restaurant in Dubai 2025
Best: Blu Pizzeriá
Blu Pizzeriá brings a slice of Naples to Dubai with long-fermented dough, a blistering wood-fired oven, and a menu that keeps the focus on quality ingredients. Expect leopard-spotted crusts and soft yet structured bases on time-honoured favourites such as Burrata and Spicy Pepperoni. For diners keen to explore, there are inventive choices that showcase Blu’s flair. The Short Ribs pizza is a standout, pairing Black Angus short ribs with caramelised onions and a truffle white sauce. The Musakhan channels beloved Levantine flavours, topped with chicken, cheese and a sour cream sauce.
GO: Follow @blupizzeria on Instagram for more information.
Favourite: Cucina
Cucina has become an unexpected hit, all terracotta tiles and olive-green booths. Located in Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, it prides itself on creating Italian dishes. The welcoming venue has a relaxed vibe and includes an open kitchen and ice cream shop. Diners can choose from artisanal pizzas to handmade pastas. Service is bright and attentive, steering Italian wines and a textbook Negroni. Finish with a cloud-light tiramisu and a seaside sunset stroll.
GO: Visit www.cucinadubai.com for more information.
French Restaurant in Dubai 2025
Best: La Petite Maison Dubai
Whenever we visit the multiple FACT Dining Award winner La Petite Maison, it’s a masterclass in French fine dining. The restaurant distils the Côte d’Azur into a bright, buzzing room of white linen, modern art and lemons waiting on every table. The cooking is light, precise and anchored in olive oil. Highlights include Burrata and heritage tomatoes, Warm prawns with lemon, Lamb Cutlets with smoky aubergine and a silky Vanilla Cheesecake and lemon tart. The brand has foodie fans across the world, and has picked up FACT Dining Awards in Abu Dhabi, London and Riyadh.
GO: Visit https://lpmrestaurants.com for more information.
Favourite: Eugène Eugène
Eugène Eugène brings a Parisian garden brasserie vibe to Dubai, wrapped in a lush, greenhouse-style space with soaring ceilings, rattan chairs and a scatter of citrus trees. The menu leans fresh and elegant with Hand-cut Beef Tartare and Whole Fish baked simply with lemon and herbs. Vegetables get star billing, from Roasted Cauliflower to Seasonal Salads, while desserts stay classic with île Flottante and a glossy Mille-Feuille. A smart French-leaning wine list and attentive, unhurried service make it a handsome pick for long lunches and romantic dinners. Weekday business lunches also deliver.
GO: Visit https://eugeneeugene.ae for more information.
Pan Asian Restaurant in Dubai 2025
Best: Harummanis
Harummanis at Wasl 51 brings the warmth of Malaysian home cooking to Jumeirah. The compact, light-filled dining room pairs rattan textures with batik accents and an open kitchen, scenting the room with coconut, lemongrass and smoky chilli. Signatures from Chef Akmal Anuar include Satay with chunky peanut sauce, aromatic Nasi Lemak, and a deep, slow-cooked Beef Rendang. One dish that caught us off guard was the Beef Lungs, carefully prepared for a tender yet slightly chewy texture. The skewered meat is lightly charcoal-grilled for a smoky char that deepens its earthy richness. Service is friendly and unfussy, prices are fair, and portions invite sharing, making it a dependable neighbourhood spot.
GO: Follow @harummanis.51 on Instagram for more information.
Favourite: Jun’s
Chef Kelvin Cheung is behind Jun’s, a fine-dining Asian experience. The third-culture chef has fused his Canadian and Cantonese heritage, telling a story through his food. The restaurant has achieved critical success, winning several FACT Dining Awards and a place on the MENA 50 Best Restaurant list. The Heirloom Carrots remain a firm FACT favourite and one of the restaurant’s best dishes. It features a row of smoked heirloom carrots lacquered with soy, honey butter and placed over a pert mound of smoked labneh.
GO: Visit www.junsdubai.com for more information.
Greek Restaurant in Dubai 2025
Best: Sirene by Gaia
Chef Izu Ani has done it again. As one of Dubai’s most well-respected chefs, Sirene by Gaia has fast become a firm favourite on Dubai’s dining scene. The Greek-inspired menu aims to bring the simplicity of home cooking to a restaurant environment via its salads, seafood and more. The restaurant is a sun-splashed ode to the Mediterranean, all chalk-white timber and raffia shades, while holding the title of the world’s biggest beach club. If you order one thing, make it the Seabream Carpaccio. Not content with just the UAE, GAIA has recently expanded to London, Marbella, Miami, and Monaco – there’s no stopping Chef Izu.
GO: Visit https://gaia-restaurants.com for more information.
Favourite: Opa Dubai
Opa throws a joyous Aegean party wrapped in whitewashed walls, cobalt accents, and bougainvillaea blooms. The room hums with live music, napkins whirl, and plates meet the floor with a grin. Start with creamy Taramasalata and warm pita, then Octopus kissed by charcoal and a bright Greek Salad. Cocktails riff on ouzo and citrus, while the wine list leans Mediterranean. Service is upbeat and assured, guiding the revelry without fuss. End with honeyed loukoumades and a gleeful shout of “Opa.”
GO: Visit https://opaworld.com for more information.
European restaurant in Dubai 2025
Best: Tasca by José Avillez
Celebrity chef José Avillez is passionate about the history and traditions of Portuguese cooking, and he shows off all that affection at Tasca by José Avillez. Located on the sixth floor of Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai, the menu keeps improving. The team give traditional Portuguese dishes a modern twist, and the restaurant boasts the largest selection of Portuguese grapes in Dubai. Come for the skyline views and stay for the signature dishes, including the Avocado Tempura and Josper-roasted Lamb Shank.
GO: Visit www.mandarinoriental.com for more information.
Favourite: Gigi Rigolatto Dubai
Located at J1 Beach, Gigi Rigolatto brings Riviera mischief to Dubai through a sun-soaked playground of rattan chairs, olive trees and striped parasols swaying to a Balearic beat. The menu leans indulgent and coastal with glistening Crudo with citrus, a golden Fritto Misto, and wood-fired Seabass dressed in Amalfi lemon. Handmade Mafaldine tangled with lobster is rich yet bright, while service is fast on the refill. Cocktails chase the shoreline with spritzes and a faultless Negroni. Come for the sea breeze, stay for the dolce vita and a sunset that lingers.
GO: Visit https://gigi-restaurant.com for more information.
Seafood restaurant in Dubai in 2025
Best: Alici
Located on Bluewaters Island, Alici is your passport to the vibrant flavours of Southern Italy. Ensuring the finest, sustainably sourced seafood, your dining experience will be filled with an array of tempting options. Don’t miss the delectable Risotto ai funghi e tartufo nero and Tagliata di Wagyu as your gaze is treated to mesmerising sea views complemented by exquisite Italian artworks.
GO: Visit https://alici.com for more information.
Favourite: Ibn AlBahr
Ibn AlBahr is Dubai’s seaside Levantine postcard, where the day’s catch glistens on ice and the grill smokes from noon to night. Begin with Fattoush, tarator-draped Calamari, and Batata Harra that crackle with heat. Choose your fish from the counter, including Hamour or Sultan Ibrahim, then take it charcoal-grilled, fried, or bathed in samke harra. Sayadieh arrives plush with caramelised onions and spiced rice. End with knafeh and mint tea, in the sand.
GO: Visit https://www.ibnalbahr.me for more information.
Middle Eastern & North African Restaurant in Dubai 2025
Best: Berenjak
Berenjak first opened in London, where it was awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand. In 2023, it expanded to the UAE and opened in Dubai and Sharjah. The restaurant focuses on Persian dishes, with a specialisation in small mezze-style sharing plates and charcoal-grilled kebabs. Dishes include crispy fried potatoes served with kordi sauce and Rezet yoghurt, and a Shirazi salad made from cucumber, tomato, onion, and mint, also makes for a refreshing delight.
GO: Visit https://berenjakuae.com for more information.
Favourite: Sufret Maryam
A meal at Sufret Maryam feels like being welcomed into a family dining room, all sunlit tiles, embroidered cushions and the scent of cardamom drifting from the kitchen. Plates arrive generous and heartfelt with silky Hummus, smoky Mutabal, crisp Fattoush and warm bread straight from the oven. Grills land juicy, and there is comfort in every clay pot, from slow-cooked stews to roast chicken with Lemon and Sumac. Service is warm and attentive.
GO: Visit https://sufretmaryam.com for more information.
Turkish Restaurant in Dubai 2025
Best: Sirali Dubai
While Sirali is rooted in tradition, it has elevated Turkish cuisine. Located in Al Habtoor City, it is a hidden gem. Carnivores will love the menu, which has more than 20 different types of kebabs and moreish meat dishes. The desserts include Kunafah and Katmer with Turkish ice cream and Mud of Heaven.
GO: Follow @siralikebapdubai on Instagram for more information.
Favourite: Blue Door
The beautiful Blue Door opens onto the shoreline with a breeze and a palette of chalk white, sea blue and warm timber. Begin with briny Oysters and a bright Crudo dressed in olive oil. Wood fire turns out pillowy flatbreads, blistered peppers and a whole Seabass. Lamb Chops carry rosemary smoke, while a Tomato and Stracciatella salad tastes of sunshine. Spritzes and icy martinis keep time with the tide, while the mood is Riviera casual, polished where it matters.
GO: Visit https://delanohotels.com for more information.
Steakhouse in Dubai 2025
Best: Leña Dubai
With locations in Madrid, Marbella and soon, Miami, Leña made its mark with its opening in Dubai. Leña means “wood” in Spanish and is a fitting name for the superb steak restaurant. The menu showcases robataka yaki, fire-grilled steaks, sharing dishes and sides. The chefs show the power of cooking over hot embers. It is part steakhouse and part Spanish haute cuisine with a cosmopolitan touch. Plus, the restaurant offers a sultry, sophisticated space with indoor and outdoor seating.
GO: Visit https://grupodanigarcia.com for more information.
Favourite: Three Cuts
Three Cuts offers a sleek perch for carnivores on the West Rooftop of Nakheel Mall, all low lighting, marble counters and a skyline that glitters over the Palm. The premise is pleasingly simple, nd, as the name suggests, it specialises in three cuts of meat. If you struggle with long menus, you’ll be pleased to hear that Three Cuts keeps things simple yet sophisticated. The one-page menu takes you back to basics, offering three cuts of meat: sirloin, tenderloin, and ribeye. The chef’s selections range from Porterhouse steaks to Tomahawks. Additionally, there is a raw bar featuring oysters, salmon tartare, and more. Come hungry, leave plotting your next cut.
GO: Follow @threecutsdxb on Instagram for more information.
Latin American Restaurant in Dubai 2025
Best: LILA Wood-Fired Taqueria
Shaw Lash is the founder of the Lila brand. She was born and raised in Austin, Texas, where she learned about the history of Mexican cuisine. Over her career, she has specialised in Mexican food and opened restaurants across Chicago and New York. Located on Jumeirah Beach Road, LILA Wood-Fired Taqueria serves spit-roasted lamb tacos’ al pastor’, chipotle-honey glazed grilled shrimp, wood-grilled shareable entrées, and Mexican classics.
GO: Follow @lilataqueria on Instagram for more information.
Favourite: Amelia
Inspired by Amelia Earhart, this Downtown dining destination channels a sultry art deco airship, all burnished brass, riveted curves and amber light. The kitchen flies the Nikkei flag with Seabass Ceviche bright with yuzu leche de tigre, Yellowtail Tiradito cut razor thin, and Wagyu Gyoza that burst with umami. Robata skewers bring charcoal perfume, while a lacquered Miso Black Cod flakes at the touch. Sushi is tight and balanced, while cocktails provided theatricality, from a smoky Old Fashioned to a tart Passionfruit Pisco Sour. A DJ keeps the room pulsing without drowning conversation.
GO: Visit https://amelialounge.com for more information.
North American & Caribbean Restaurant in Dubai 2025
Best: Miss Lily’s
Miss Lily’s is a technicolour slice of Kingston, all neon glow, wood panelling and basslines that warm the room. Start with Pepper Shrimp and flaky Beef Patties, then a bright Escovitch Fish with pickled peppers. The Jerk Chicken is smoky with rice and peas that hum with coconut. Chris Brown, Kanye West, Kevin Hart, Ne-Yo, Rihanna and FACT’s Editor-in-Chief love this Caribbean hotspot. The concept is famous for its island cuisine and effortlessly cool staff. The pumping tunes encompass the best of Afro, Caribbean, hip-hop and R&B.
GO: Visit www.misslilys.com for more information.
Favourite: Claw BBQ
A firm favourite, Claw BBQ is a raucous slice of Americana by the beach, equal parts crab shack and good time saloon. Pull on a bib and dive into steaming Crab buckets, Smoked Brisket and Sticky Ribs. Wings bring proper heat, Mac and Cheese is molten, while Burgers are tall and messy in the best way. Frozen margaritas and oversized cocktails keep spirits high, complemented by playful service. Come hungry!
GO: Visit www.clawbbq.com for more information.
Chinese Restaurant in Dubai 2025
Best: Mott 32
Mott 32 Dubai brings Hong Kong glamour to JBR. Located on the 73rd floor of the luxury hotel Address Beach Resort, expect lacquered woods, copper glow and low slung banquettes framing the shoreline. We recommend the flaky Wagyu Puff and Crispy Sugar-coated Charcoal Lamb Buns, which were so good we ordered them twice. The restaurant includes indoor dining and an open-air balcony terrace with views of JBR, Palm Jumeirah, and Ain Dubai. The restaurant takes the title of Best Chinese restaurant in Dubai for the fourth year in a row. Book late, linger longer, watch JBR glitter.
GO: Visit https://mott32dubai.com for more information.
Favourite: MiMi Mei Fair
A FACT award winner in both London and Dubai, MiMi Mei Fair feels like stepping into a lacquered townhouse, all peacock hues, carved screens and candlelit glamour. The menu travels China with finesse through delicate Xiao Long Bao that arrive steaming and a glossy Peking Duck carved with ceremony. Wok Fried Black Pepper Beef is punchy yet balanced, while steamed Seabass with ginger and spring onion has become a firm FACT favourite. Cocktails bloom with lychee and jasmine, and the tea service is quietly meticulous. Book a late table and linger.
GO: Visit https://mimimeifair.com for more information.
Thai restaurant in Dubai 2025
Best: Manāo
Manāo is Dubai’s buzzed-about Thai-inspired restaurant at Wasl Vita. Led by Chefs Abhiraj Khatwani and Mohamad Orfali, it earned a MICHELIN Star in 2025. The experience centres on an 11-course tasting menu that keeps flavours bright and balanced, with coconut-smoked short ribs and duck mochi. Fermentation-led, zero-proof pairings keep flavours brisk and balanced.
GO: Visit https://manao.ae for more information.
Favourite: Sticky Rice
Sticky Rice is one of the UAE’s great homegrown success stories. In 2023, it expanded from Dubai to Abu Dhabi and is spreading its Thai flavours across the country. The cult Thai canteen offers a cheerful room lined with rubber ducks and the scent of lemongrass and charcoal. Start with Som Tum Thai (Thai Papaya Salad), Spicy Kaeng Keaw Wan (Thai Green Curry), and Pad See Ew Pak (Stir-Fried Thick Flat Rice Noodles), before ending the meal with Mango Sticky Rice. Service is sunny, prices are fair, and the cooking carries real family soul. Expect comfort, character and consistency always.
GO: Visit www.stickyrice.ae for more information.
British Restaurant in Dubai 2025
Best: Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
Atlantis The Royal let the celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal work his culinary charm, and was soon awarded a MICHELIN Star. Famous for his scientific and playful approach to cooking, he uses techniques from vacuum-packing to sous vide to create unique dishes. Drawing inspiration from the 14th century, a meal at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal feels like a history lesson in the form of food. Sample dishes from the royal chefs of King Richard II to Lewis Carroll’s flights of fancy. Come for the meat fruit and stay for the appropriately named tipsy cake – you can thank us later.
GO: Visit www.atlantis.com for more information.
Favourite: The Spaniel
The Spaniel is a modern pub with a mischievous British heart, all dark timber, tiled floors and canine motifs. Start with a golden Scotch Egg and Oysters dressed in sharp shallot vinegar. Fish and Chips arrive in crackling batter with pea purée and proper tartare, while a Sunday roast brings crisp potatoes and glossy gravy. Pints pour, cask ales rotate, and the cocktail list riffs on classics. Service is quick and bright. Grab a terrace table facing Ain Dubai.
GO: Visit www.thespanieldxb.com for more information.
Fusion Restaurant in Dubai 2025
Best: Soul Kitchen
True to its name, Soul Kitchen has been designed as a social space to feed the soul. It has disrupted the city’s culinary and music landscape. This restaurant bar concept is anchored in a food and drinks menu that fuses Levantine and Latin American flavours, accenting the culinary offerings with elements of alternative culture, art, and talent from the region. Signature dishes such as Burrata with Tequila Infused Peaches and Crispy Shawarma Empanadas highlight the longstanding exchange between both cultures.
GO: Follow @soulkitchendxb on Instagram for more information.
Favourite: Bâoli Dubai
Bâoli Dubai is a sultry shoreside hideaway where Riviera polish meets tropical ease. Rattan chairs, lush palms and low amber light set a languid mood that turns lively after dusk. Executive chef Omar Basiony has worked wonders, ensuring the legacy of the Bâoli brand runs through the culinary offering without carrying one dish over from the flagship venue in Cannes. The menu swims between Mediterranean freshness and Asian lift with a crisp King Crab Salad, a superb sushi selection and Sea Bream Carpaccio. Cocktails flirt with lychee, yuzu and thyme. Come for the sea breeze at the beach and stay for the after-dark sparkle.
GO: Visit baoli-restaurant.com for more information.
Outdoor Dining in Dubai 2025
Best: Bungalo34
Bungalo34 at Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai is one of the dreamiest places in Dubai. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, it offers a day-to-night dining experience that revolves around the quality we’ve come to expect from restaurateur Natasha Sideris. The modern twist on Mediterranean cuisine shines through in dishes like the decadent lobster roll and Le Seabass. Must-try options include the handmade Treccia and the Prawn Ritz with horseradish Marie Rose sauce.
GO: Visit www.bungalo34.com for more information.
Favourite: CÉ LA VI Dubai
The sky-high setting at CÉ LA VI pairs skyline drama with contemporary Asian polish. From the terrace, the Burj Khalifa fills the frame, while a DJ keeps the pulse soft and steady. Signature dishes include Burrata Salad, Miso Black Cod and Truffle ‘Sushi Rice’ Risotto. Cocktails lean sculptural and precise, perfect at golden hour. Come for sunset, stay for the glittering cityscape.
GO: Visit https://dxb.celavi.com for more information.
Bar in Dubai 2025
Best: Honeycomb Hi-Fi
Honeycomb Hi-Fi is alive with the sound of music. The chilled cool hangout opened in October 2022, and has a loyal fan in the form of FACT’s Editor-in-Chief. Located in Business Bay, the venue prides itself on being the region’s first listening bar, offering a vinyl-first hideaway where amber light, timber floors and record-lined walls set the hush before the needle drops. The sound is silk and precise, built for Japanese jazz, rare groove and selector-led sets that reward listening. The concept combines an izakaya experience with craft cocktails, where Highballs land frosty and exact, alongside sake and Japanese whiskies.
GO: Visit www.honeycombhifi.com for more information.
Favourite: Zuma
Zuma is the brainchild of restaurateur Rainer Becker. In 2002, he launched Zuma in London. In 2008, he launched Zuma in Dubai. Famous for its fine dining Japanese food, the team elevate an izakaya experience. Don’t miss the bar, however, which is where the restaurant’s pulse lives. A sleek island of granite, backlit bottles, and a soundtrack are complemented by bartenders who move with choreographed calm, stirring martinis and citric highballs scented with yuzu and shiso. Japanese whisky gets pride of place, alongside a deep sake list. Service is slick, discreet, and always a step ahead.
GO: Visit https://zumarestaurant.com for more information.
Outdoor Bar in Dubai 2025
Best: High Society
Acclaimed Chef Jean Imbert is behind High Society, located on the rooftop of The Lana – Dorchester Collection. With the Burj Khalifa and creative cocktails in the spotlight, it offers a daring take on drinks. The cocktail list is one of the most innovative we’ve seen in Dubai. The unusual ingredients range from feta cheese to onion. The signature cocktails come with epic names inspired by myths – Secret of Archipelago, anyone? The Qudrigo Sacrifice is sweet and powerful with mastiha and pear syrup. The Cleopatra’s Glow is floral and silky with cinnamon, hibiscus, oat milk, roasted red onion and vodka. The knowledgeable staff are on hand to help, providing backstories and warnings for that onion-y drink.
GO: Follow @highsocietyatthelana on Instagram for more information.
Favourite: February 30
This Beirurt-born concept has already notched up plenty of fans. With three bars, including a circular bar overlooking the sea, it’s a fantastic place to have a drink or three. The sun-kissed day to night playground boasts candy red parasols, striped loungers and offers a soundtrack that drifts from Balearic breeze to late-night pulse. Start with icy Oysters and a zingy Tuna Crudo before moving to wood-fired flatbreads and sushi rolls to complement the expansive beverage list.
GO: Visit www.february30dubai.com for more information.
Pub in Dubai 2025
Best: Goose Island Tap House
Goose Island Tap House is Dubai’s craft-beer clubhouse, with exposed brick and screens tuned to the game. The taps run deep with fresh pours of IPA, pilsner and seasonal experiments, with tasting paddles for the undecided. Bar food is dialled up from Hot Wings and Smash Burgers to fantastic portions of Fish and Chips. Service is quick, chatty and on-the-ball. Settle at the high tables, order another round, and let the playlist and hops carry you through.
GO: Visit www.gooseislanddubai.com for more information.
Favourite: Barasti
Love it or hate it, there’s no denying that it’s a rite of passage to visit Barasti when you come to Dubai. Barasti is Dubai’s original beach party, a tiered deck tumbling onto sand with the Marina skyline glittering beyond. Daytime drifts by on sun loungers, cold hops and spritzes in hand, while the kitchen turns out crowd-pleasing plates. As sunset hits, DJs lift the tempo and the screens switch to the match. The vibe is carefree, sand underfoot and sea breeze in your hair.
GO: Follow @barastibeach on Instagram for more information.
Restaurant in the Northern Emirates 2025
Best: Berenjak
Already a FACT award winner in Dubai and London, Berenjak in Sharjah reimagines the Persian kebab house with tiled walls and the aroma of charcoal drifting from the mangal. Dine on sensational skewers such as juicy Koobideh sprinkled with sumac, Saffron-joojeh blistered and fragrant, and tender Lamb Fillet kissed by smoke. Tahdig arrives golden and audibly crisp, while jewelled rice glints with pomegranate and pistachios. Service is warm and informed, making sharing feel celebratory and convivial.
GO: Visit https://berenjakuae.com for more information.
Favourite: Origami Sushi
The Sharjah outpost of Origami Sushi brings a clean, contemporary rhythm to the emirate’s buzziest enclave. The Japanese fusion menu includes a selection of items ranging from soup, small plates and salads to sushi, robata skewers and large plates. Signatures span small plates such as Japanese Tuna Pizza and Wagyu in Potato Chips. A selection of uramaki, maki, sashimi, and nigiri follows, featuring Soft Shell Crab and Black Cod Hoso Maki. Service is swift, unfussy and informed. Settle in and let rolls flow.
GO: Visit www.eatorigamisushi.com for more information.
Restaurant in Ras Al Khaimah in 2025
Best: Farmhouse by Syrco
Farmhouse by Syrco frames dune horizons with warm timber, saddle leather and a wood-smoke curl from the grill. The menu from Dutch chef Syrco Bakker is rooted and refined and features Garden Tomatoes with labneh and zaatar and Date Glazed Carrots that taste of the oasis. Lamb Saddle arrives rosy with thyme, while a bone-in Ribeye wears a perfect bark. The terrace is for sunset, where oryx roam and the fire pit glows. Cocktails lean herbaceous; the cellar favours bold reds.
GO: Visit www.ritzcarlton.com for more information.
Favourite: ULA
ULA is a sun-kissed escape of blond timber, rattan shades and a horizon that glows from afternoon to after dark. The menu leans coastal and Mediterranean with Oysters, Lamb Chops, Prawns and seasonal salads. Spritzes, cocktails and a focused rosé list keep time with the tide. Book a late table, sink into the sand side terrace and watch the Marjan Island shoreline turn gold.
GO: Visit https://ularasalkhaimah.com for more information.
Afternoon Tea in Dubai 2025
Best: The Gallery
The Gallery at The Lana – Dorchester Collection stages afternoon tea with cinematic poise. Sunlight pours across marble and soft linen, and the canal shimmers beyond tall glass. The procession from Chef Angelo Musa begins with finely cut sandwiches, followed by warm scones paired with cream and bright preserves. The patisserie course offers everything from glossy fruit tarts to a dark chocolate slice with clean snap. Trade in the tea for a signature hot chocolate, while views of Burj Khalifa and live piano music provide a serene city escape.
GO: Visit www.dorchestercollection.com for more information.
Favourite: The Royal Tearoom with Christophe Devoille
The Royal Tearoom at Atlantis The Royal offers afternoon indulgence with marble sheen, soft gold and a grand hotel lobby. Christophe Devoille’s patisserie serves up warm scones split neatly, clotted cream and jewel-bright preserves, then dainty finger sandwiches trimmed to precision. Pastries show balance and craft, from feather-light choux to glossy tarts that build texture and clean flavour. A curated tea list moves from delicate white to malty black; a flute of Champagne at sunset feels entirely right. Settle by the window and watch the Arabian Gulf glitter.
GO: Visit www.atlantis.com for more information.
Café in Dubai 2025
Best: bkry
If you love the smell of freshly baked bread, then head to bkry. Located in Alserkal Avenue, bkry is a flour-dusted workshop disguised as a café, all concrete cool, burlap sacks. Laminations are precise with layered Croissants, Pistachio Babka with a glossy twist and the FACT favourite PB&J Cruffin. Their viral Korean Tissue Bread recently earned them the royal stamp of approval from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum himself. Coffee is dialled in with short, bright espressos and easy batch brew. Arrive early and be prepared to queue!
GO: Follow @bkry.space on Instagram for more information.
Favourite: Lazy Cat
Lazy Cat is an easygoing pavilion of timber, glass and shade, where joggers, families and creatives drift in from the lakeside path in Al Quoz Pond Park. Mornings bring speciality coffee, flaky croissants and a neat Shakshuka with warm bread. Lunch turns light and bright with crisp Salads and Zaatar flatbread. For something sweet, order Cinnamon Roll Pancakes or the cult-favourite Crème Brûlée Japanese Pancakes. Cold brews and iced teas keep the heat at bay while service is cheerful and quick. Nab a terrace table and watch ducks trace loops on the water.
GO: Visit www.eatlazycat.com for more information.
Breakfast in Dubai 2025
Best: 21grams Urban Balkan Bistro
21grams comes FACT-recommended, as you may well spot the team remote working from the cool café. The café is loved for its quality dishes and drinks, and has a loyal fan base among locals and critics – it is a multiple FACT Dining Award winner, after all. We’d recommend coming for coffee but staying for the soul food. The menu is inspired by the Balkan Peninsula and serves dishes ranging from pljeskavica to breaded chicken schnitzel. The cosy restaurant brings soulful Balkan warmth to a sunlit corner of Meyan Mall scented with butter, smoke and fresh bread.
GO: Visit https://21grams.me for more information.
Favourite: Brunch & Cake
Brunch & Cake is Dubai’s boho breakfast favourite, all sunlit rattan, pastel tiles and greenery spilling over blond wood tables. Plates arrive generous and photogenic featuring Cloud Pancakes with maple butter, a Truffled Eggs Benedict on toasted brioche, and Avocado Toast piled high with seeds and feta. Bowls lean bright and clean, from açaí crowned with berries to quinoa with roasted veg and lemony tahini. Service is cheerful and swift, keeping families, freelancers and friends fuelled from morning to late afternoon.
GO: Visit https://brunchandcake.com for more information.
Family Friendly Restaurant in Dubai 2025
Best: Limonata
Limonata channels Amalfi ease in lemon yellow stripes, rattan chairs and the hush of the shoreline. The bright and beautiful space boasts indoor and outdoor seating across the terrace and beach, with sofas, sunbeds, and even child-sized ones. Begin with Burrata, Fritto Misto and blistered wood-fired pizzas, before moving on to Linguine alle Vongole. Settle on the terrace at golden hour, watch paddle boards drift past, and let dessert be Tiramisu. The venue attracts families, friends and pets.
GO: Visit www.limonatadubai.com for more information.
Favourite: Next Door Kitchen
Next Door Kitchen is a breezy neighbourhood bistro with a terrific terrace that frames the water and skyline. The menu features seasonal dishes such as Burrata with marinated tomatoes, Chicken with lemon and thyme, Charred Prawns with chilli and garlic, and a Striploin with pepper sauce. Coffee is essential, while service is sunny, swift and attentive.
GO: Follow @nextdoorkitchen on Instagram for more information.
Casual Restaurant in Dubai 2025
Best: Pitfire Pizza
Pitfire Pizza is often hailed by locals as creating the best pizza in Dubai, and we can certainly see why. The chewy dough, artisan cheese, and wide choice of toppings are just some of the ingredients that make its pizzas a success. The menu includes spicy salami primo, Hawaii five-oh, Margherita, buffalo chicken, and veggie primo. Plus, when it’s the FACT team’s go-to takeaway pizza, it has to be doing something right.
GO: Visit https://pitfirepizzabakers.com for more information.
Favourite: Rascals Deli
Rascals Deli is known for its statement sandwiches, which are made with thick pieces of bread and moreish fillings. A firm FACT favourite, this Dubai ode to the classic sandwich shop. Fillings are generous and tight, from peppery pastrami with sharp mustard to a cheesesteak that drips with onions and proper melt. With some of the friendliest staff in town, you’ll return time and again and may even buy some of the branded merch on your way out.
GO: Follow @rascalsdeli on Instagram for more information.
