Dubai’s list of hidden dining gems has been revealed and one thing is very clear, Dubai loves Asian and Middle Eastern food bursting with a whole range of flavours. No x-factor required, food is the real hero here.
Dubai’s top 10 hidden gems were announced on Saturday at swyp Beach Canteen, as part of Dubai Food Festival’s promotion in partnership with Zomato. Voted from among 40 shortlisted restaurants by the city’s residents, diners can try a special two-course meal priced at only Dhs 35 per person at these hidden gems from now until the festival ends on 9 March.
Before you start to plan the not-so-fancy dinner or lunch outings for the week, go through the list of top 10 hidden gems we know you will love to try:
1. Bait Al Mandi in Al Barsha
Enjoy the comforting taste of Madfoon, Mazbi and other authentic local delicacies at Bait Al Mandi, with options ranging from meat dishes to fresh seafood and other favourites from the region. The family-friendly Al Barsha branch is perfect for large groups to gather and share a delicious meal.
2. Socialicious in Jumeirah Village 2
Visit this cozy location in Jumeriah Village 2 to savour a selection of classic Asian dishes including chicken katsu curry, yellow Thai curry and golden-crusted tofu and enjoying drinks such as basil and galangal iced tea.
3. Cedar Tree in Motor City
Located at Motor City, Cedar Tree is a Lebanese food heaven. The recipes have been created by a Lebanese couple, brining traditional Lebanese dishes from the 1920s, to this part of Dubai.
4. MTR - 1924 in Al Karama
Mavalli Tiffin Rooms (MTR), popular in South India, serves tradition and authentic masala dosa, palya, veg sagu, curd rice as well as other dishes from South Indian. This restaurant in the heart of Karama is ideal for a weekend breakfast or a weekday lunch and evening snack.
5. Unforgettable Biryani in JLT
This stand out restaurant in Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT) serves a range of Pakistani and Filipino dishes. Each dish is cooked with local ingredients and are full of flavour. If you are craving homestyle Filipino and Pakistani food, then this place is ideal for you.
6. Dil Se Desi in Al Mankhool
Bengali dishes such as Bengali Pulao, Ruyi Kalia (fresh fish gravy) or Kancha Lanka Chicken (green chilli chicken curry) are on the menu at Dil Se Desi in Al Mankhool. These and other dishes from the unique style of Bengali food can be enjoyed.
7. Asian5 in Downtown Dubai
Named because it offers cuisines from five different asian countries, Asian5 is in Downtown Dubai brings a range of dishes from Thailand, China, Singapore, Vietnam and Indonesia.
8. The Desi Circle in Al Karama
Experience Indian street food in Karama at The Desi Circle. Try the dhaba-style butter chicken, palak paneer, hot grilled paratha, variety of chaats and a summer-favourite drink-mango lassi.
9. Sai Dham Vegetarian Restaurant in Oud Metha
This hidden gem in Oud Metha serves only vegetarian food and you should not miss the paneer dishes on the menu. Palak paneer is one of the very popular dishes served at this 100% vegetarian restaurant.
10. Khana Khazana in Al Hudaiba
If you love Mughlai kababs, nihari and biryani, you must try this restaurant in Al Hudaiba which offers Mughlai food with a tasty modern twist packed with yummy flavours. Khana Khazana means food treasure, and you can expect to find lots here.