Dubai doesn't do things in half-measures; like its skyline, its food scene follows suit. Every dish feels like it's trying to outdo the last, and the city isn't shy about showcasing its culinary prowess. But beneath all the imported truffles, edible gold leaf, and menus longer than furniture assembly instructions, there's one undeniable truth: this city knows how to eat.
Whether you're spending your rent money on a tasting menu or scraping coins together for a late-night shawarma, Dubai delivers. First stop: Ginger Moon at W Hotel Mina Seyahi. It calls itself a 'no-beach beach club,' probably because it overlooks an infinity pool rather than the beach. But said view stretches from Ain Dubai to Dubai Harbour, so yes, you'll want a table outside.
The menu leans pan-Asian, but honestly, it's more like global tapas with a tan. The salmon on crispy rice from the sushi menu is exactly as advertised. Crispy rice, fresh fish, zero complaints. The sweet potato fries are the kind of addictive where you start politely sharing and end up speeding up so you can eat more than your hungry companions.
Next, we've got OIA Greek Restaurant at JA Ocean View Hotel, which is a true sanctuary for those seeking the essence of Greece in Dubai. If you've ever fantasized about a Greek island vacation but your bank account said 'not today,' OIA is your consolation prize. It's all white-washed and blue decor, featuring an unreasonable amount of feta. Many dishes are inspired by the Blue Zones, regions known for their residents' longevity, such as the island of Ikaria.
The watermelon and feta salad is one of those dishes you order thinking it's a light starter, only to spend five minutes whispering, 'Why is this so good?' The sweetness of the watermelon paired with the saltiness of the feta just works. You'll soon find no meal is complete without fries for the table, and the ones here are drizzled with lemon and sprinkled with feta, with feta dip on the side. Too much feta? Other times yes, but not this time.
The Greek meatballs are another hit—juicy, well-seasoned, and lazily lounging in marinara sauce, served in portions large enough to have you cursing your appetite because why can't you indulge? A taste of Italy can be found at Franky's Pizzeria, known as the cool kid who studied abroad and came back with stories. Located in JLT, Franky's is a rooftop hangout with interiors reminiscent of Karachi's Loco combined with Café Flo.
For starters, we went with Franky's signature stracciatella service—a chaotic but delicious mix of bresaola, olives wrapped in melon, pickles, rocket, basil pesto, confit garlic, and fermented chili. There's even a table-side performance where someone expertly mixes the pesto right in front of you.
For mains, the clear standout was the Chorizo Pizza: smoky chorizo, honey drizzled, and Parmigiano creating the kind of sweet-savoury combo. Close behind was the Black Truffle and Mushroom Pizza, rich and earthy. The Margherita, though technically excellent, felt like the well-behaved child overshadowed by chaotic geniuses. Thankfully, dessert stayed true to classic Italian roots with tiramisu and, more intriguingly, donut holes filled with white and dark chocolate.
For those craving tradition, Al Fanar Restaurant & Café offers less flashiness but delicious food. It revives memories of old Dubai as the town developed along the coast. Here, visitors find comfort dining outside, seated around trees with walls decorated with Arabian paraphernalia from the past. The beef kafta is tender and perfectly seasoned, complementing rice dishes reminiscent of grandma's cooking. Yet, the fresh salad, dressed with what can only be described as magic, unexpectedly steals the show.
Technically not solely focused on food, ARTE Museum Dubai at Dubai Mall delivers immersive experiences where dining meets art. Covering 2,800 square meters, the space is divided under the theme 'Eternal Nature', showcasing digital forests and atmospheric soundscapes straight out of luxury meditation dreams. At the end, visitors are treated to the ARTE Tea Bar for dessert, featuring cheesecake shaped like the cartoonish wedge Jerry would scheme to steal from Tom—light, creamy, and perfectly balanced.
Every detail leans heavily on the experience. When dessert arrives, the table lights up, glowing floral wreaths encircle the dish, making for Instagram-worthy moments. This theatricality is entirely on-brand for Dubai, where dining isn't just about food—it's about performance art!
Dubai's culinary scene beautifully intertwines opulence, nostalgia, and innovation, encouraging locals and tourists alike to indulge and explore. Whether it’s exquisite dining or cozy traditional restaurants, the city offers something for everyone.