Where to Eat in Dubai: Best Food Spots & Markets
Let’s get one thing straight—Dubai knows how to eat. From sizzling street shawarmas to artfully plated dishes in rooftop restaurants, this city’s culinary scene is nothing short of extraordinary. And while the skyline might steal the spotlight, it’s what’s on the plate that’ll steal your heart.
Dubai isn’t just a city—it’s a global kitchen. Whether you’re a backpacker looking for budget bites, a family on a food mission, or a foodie with a fancy for Michelin stars, this city feeds every appetite, craving, and curiosity.
So let’s dive fork-first into the best places to eat in Dubai—starting where all great food stories begin: on the street.
Best Street Food Spots in Dubai
The heart and soul of any city’s food culture is often found not in fine-dining menus but in hand-held, paper-wrapped, freshly cooked bites. Dubai’s street food scene is a living, breathing mix of its multicultural community—bold, authentic, and wildly delicious.
Al Mallah:
There’s something deeply satisfying about ordering shawarma at Al Mallah on a warm evening, watching it get sliced straight off the rotisserie. Located right in the heart of Dubai, this place is more than a restaurant—it’s a late-night institution. Order a plate of manakish and some creamy hummus on the side, find a seat under the neon lights, and take in the buzz of the city around you.
Best for: Quick Arabic meals, vegetarian options, and people-watching on the fly.
Visit At: https://www.almallahuae.com/
Ravi Restaurant:
Ravi is the kind of place you hear about in travel blogs and food shows—and for good reason. It’s got no-frills decor but flavor that punches above its weight. From spicy biryanis to rich, comforting nihari, this legendary Satwa spot feels like eating at a family friend’s place—if that friend cooked like a five-star chef.
Pro tip: Go with friends and order family-style to sample more dishes. And yes, get the kebabs.
Visit At: https://www.instagram.com/ravirestaurantsuae
Bu Qtair:
Tucked away by the beach in Jumeirah, Bu Qtair is Dubai’s ultimate seafood secret. There’s no menu—just fresh catch of the day, marinated in their signature spice mix, then deep-fried and served with rice and curry. You’ll sit on plastic chairs, maybe share a table with strangers, and not care one bit because the fish melts in your mouth.
Vibe: Laid-back, no-fuss, and seriously good.
Visit At: https://www.buqtairrestaurant.com/
Popular Street Food Markets
You don’t always need walls to find a good meal—sometimes wheels do the trick. Dubai’s street food markets are lively, creative, and constantly changing. Here are two spots that always deliver:
Dubai Marina Walk:
Imagine grabbing a double cheeseburger, playing a game of table tennis, and catching the sunset over the marina. That’s Dubai Marina Walk in a nutshell. Food trucks here offer everything from gourmet fries to loaded hot dogs, all with a view that’ll make your Instagram glow.
Great for families, dates, or just a chill evening stroll.
Last Exit:
Located on highways like Jebel Ali and Al Qudra, Last Exit is a road tripper’s paradise. It’s more than just a pit stop—it’s a theme park for your stomach. Think creatively designed food trucks serving up pizzas, loaded fries, milkshakes, sliders, and even bubble tea.
Whether you’re headed to the desert or coming back from a beach day, Last Exit is worth the detour.
Food Markets and Souks
Dubai Spice Souk:
While most people come to these souks for shopping, real foodies know to arrive hungry. In between stalls filled with glittering gold and fragrant spices, you’ll find snack vendors selling local Emirati treats, samosas, and sweet dates stuffed with nuts.
It’s less about full meals and more about grazing and soaking up the flavors of old Dubai.
The Ripe Market & Global Village:
Both The Ripe Market and Global Village are seasonal outdoor markets where food and culture come together in the best way. From Thai street noodles to Mexican tacos, these markets feature pop-ups and food stalls from around the world, often run by passionate home chefs and artisan food brands.
Perfect for those who like to sample a little bit of everything.
Modern Food Halls
Time Out Market Dubai:
Located in Souk Al Bahar, just a short walk from the Burj Khalifa fountains, Time Out Market is where Dubai’s best chefs and concepts come under one roof. It’s not just a food hall—it’s a handpicked showcase of culinary talent.
Grab a Thai curry from Café Isan, nibble on Mediterranean bites at à la grecque, or try creative fusion dishes from BB Social Dining. The vibe? Energetic, artsy, and very Instagrammable.
This is where casual meets cool, and every bite comes with a side of atmosphere.
Visit At: https://www.timeoutmarket.com/dubai/
Tips for Enjoying Street Food in Dubai
- Evenings are prime time – cooler temps and bustling stalls make the night magical.
- Vegetarians, rejoice! Dishes like dosa, hummus, falafel, and vada pav are easy to find.
- Follow the crowd – high foot traffic usually means the food is safe, fresh, and fantastic.
- Hydrate smartly – bring a water bottle and avoid overly sweetened drinks if you’re hopping between stalls.
- Don’t be shy – chat with the vendors, ask questions, and try something new!
Conclusion
Dubai isn’t just one of the world’s most iconic skylines—it’s also one of the most exciting places to eat. Whether you’re chasing down the best shawarma in Satwa, lounging at a beachfront food truck, or dining in a luxury food hall overlooking the fountains, you’re never far from your next favorite bite.
So next time you’re in the city, ditch the hotel buffet and hit the streets, the trucks, and the markets. Your taste buds will thank you