Dubai is a city of contrast where Middle Eastern culture blends with ultra-modern luxury. Although the city is famous for pristine beaches, skyscrapers, and luxury shopping malls, the street food scene offers an authentic and down-to-earth experience. Street food in the city is a culinary melting port. It reflects the multi-cultural population from local Emirates specialties to Pakistani, Indian, Lebanese, and even Filipino street food.
For food lovers, looking to explore the culinary landscape street food in Dubai offers a delicious way to experience the mixture of cultures. This blog is all about the top 10 best street food spots in Dubai. Enjoy mouth-watering dishes at affordable prices and get a taste of the vibrant food culture of Dubai.
Al Mallah – Admire Lebanese Delight
Al Mallah is one of the iconic street food destinations in the City famous for Lebanese fare. It was established in the 1970s and quickly built a reputation for serving the best shawarmas in Dubai. The humble eatery is in the busy Satwa area. The long lines at Al Mallah are proof of its popularity but their service is fast and worth the wait.
Specialty dishes: You must try their chicken shawarma served in warm and freshly baked beta bread and filled with tender marinated chicken, pickle, fries, and garlic sauce. Along with the shawarma, the Falafel wraps are also delicious. You can also pair your meal with one of their freshly made juices.
Ambiance and vibe: Al Mallah has an old-school ambiance on the sidewalk that adds to the street food charm making it an ideal place to enjoy your meal.
Address: 2nd December Street, Al Dhiyafa Road, Satwa, Dubai
Bu Qtair- A Seafood Haven
Bu Qtair was a small shack near the beach but now it is one of the most popular seafood restaurants in Dubai. It is located near Jumeirah Beach offering a unique dining experience. You can select fresh fish or prawns and have them marinated in the signature spices. The place is loved by both tourists as well as locals.
Specialty dishes: The fried shrimp and fish are a must-try of Bu Qtair. The seafood is fresh and prepared with a blend of spices that has been passed through generations. All seafood dishes are served with rice and curry, making it a flavourful meal.
Ambiance and vibe: Bu Qtair has an outdoor sitting with a beautiful view of the sea. The place has retained its shack-like charm even after the expansion. The rustic atmosphere combines mouth-watering seafood, making it one of the hidden gems in the City.
Address: Umm Suqeim Fishing Harbour, Jumeirah, Dubai
Zaroob – Have a Slice of Laventine Food
Zaroob means small alley, bringing the flavors of Levantine street food. It is a trendy tree inspired by the alleys of Beirut, Damascus, and Amman. Contemporary and vibrant dishes are prepared with fresh ingredients. The lively ambiance and open kitchen allow you to watch the chefs in action.
Specialty dishes: You must try saj wraps made with thin and freshly baked flatbread filled with your choice of meat veggies and cheese. Another popular dish of Zaroob is manakish topped with cheese, minced meat, and a mixture of za’atar. You can also try their fresh kunafa for dessert.
Ambiance and Vibe: Zaroob has a hipster vibe with colorful decor and an open kitchen. The casual setting with the street art and music makes it one of the most lively spots in Dubai.
Address: Sheikh Zayed Road, Trade Centre Area, Dubai
Smart Café and Restaurant – Emirati Flavors
If you want traditional Emirati street food in Dubai, head towards Smat Café. Here you can enjoy a modern take on Emirati classics. Their menu offers the rich culinary heritage of the UAE. Smart Café and Restaurant are two of the ideal places in Dubai to enjoy a delicious meal while admiring the sights of Old Dubai.
Specialty dishes: You can try their machboos. It’s a traditional rice dish cooked with spices and served with land, chicken, or fish. Along with this, the maqam is a must-try for dessert.
Ambiance and vibe: Smat Café and Restaurant offers the perfect blend of traditional elements with modern design, making it visually appealing. The outdoor seating area overlooks the Creek for a relaxed dining experience.
Address: Al Seef, Dubai Creek, Dubai
Ravi Restaurant- A Pakistani Favorite
Ravi Restaurant is one of the popular establishments, famous for serving Pakistani food since 1917. It is one of the most famous places for its affordability and generous portions. Enjoy delicious and authentic South Asian street food at Ravi restaurant.
Specialty dishes: Never miss their mutton kebabs and chicken tikka, served with freshly baked naan. For a more delightful option try their rich Nihari on mutton karahi which is cooked slowly to Infuse the flavors of spices. Pair your delicious meal with chapati or naan and finish it with a cup of tea.
Ambiance and vibe: The Ravi Restaurant in Dubai is not fancy but simple which makes it more special. It has both indoor and outdoor settings with excellent service. You will see family workers or even celebrities enjoying their meals.
Address: Al Satwa Road, Satwa, Dubai
Dubai Fish Hut- Seafood Street Food
If you are craving authentic seafood, look no further than Dubai Fish Hut. The casual entry in Dubai offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes at an affordable price. You have the option to choose your fish which is then cooked grilled, fried, or steamed.
Specialty dishes: You must try their grilled hammour and prawns, marinated in a perfect blend of spices and served with fries or rice. However, for a traditional dish you can try their fish biryani.
Ambiance and vibe: Dubai Fish Hut has a casual eating with a simple ambiance. The service is friendly with generous portion size, making it great for seafood lovers on a budget.
Address: Oud Metha, Dubai
Operation: Falafel – Street Food with Modern Twist
Operation Falafel takes Middle Eastern street food and gives it a modern look. Its location at JBR makes this trendy place an affordable choice in a vibrant beachside setting. Their menu offers classic street food items making it popular among both locals and tourists.
Specialty dishes: The Falafel is a stand-out dish made with a blend of chickpeas and herbs. You can also try shawarma wraps packed with meat and served with garlic sauce. However, if you want to try something different choose their stuffed Falafel filled with a tangy mixture of tomatoes and sumac onions.
Ambiance and vibe: Operation Falafel has a modern and industrial chic ambiance with indoor and outdoor settings. The outdoor area offers stunning views of the beach making it an ideal place to enjoy sunset.
Address: The Beach, JBR, Dubai
Al Ustad Special Kabab- Persian Flavors
Al Ustad special Kabab is famous for its Persian flavors serving the best kebabs in the City. The restaurant has been serving succulent kebabs for over 40 years. It has built a loyal customer base. The location in Bar Dubai makes it close to other attractions making it the perfect spot to stop.
Specialty dishes: Their mutton kebabs are the star of the menu. Adding more, saffron chicken is also flavourful and tender. The dishes are served with Iranian rice and grilled tomatoes to complete the meal
Ambience and vibe: the ambiance of Al Ustad’s place is simple. The walls are covered in nostalgic photos. The service is quick, making it an ideal choice for authentic and affordable meals in Dubai. Moreover, the atmosphere adds charm with the smell of freshly grilled Kababs.
Address: 18th Street, Al Mankhool, Bur Dubai
Karachi Darbar- Pakistani street food
Karachi Darbar is another famous spot for Pakistani street food. It has several branches across the city famous for its busting atmosphere and mouth-watering dishes. Karachi Darbar offers flavourful biryanis, spicy curries, and grilled meat.
Specialty dishes: You must try their mutton biryani cooked with basmati rice, tender meat, and a blend of Spices. Chicken tikka is another must-try with Naan and chutney. Don’t forget to try their signature Chapli Kabab.
Ambiance and vibe: Karachi Darbar is a no-frills restaurant. It has a cafeteria-style ambiance. The portion is generous with quick service making it great for a meal on a budget.
Address: Oud Metha Road, Oud Metha, Dubai
Falafel Farm- Falafel Truck of Dreams
Falafel Farm is a popular food truck serving the best falafels in the City. The truck is located in Deira Dubai, making it a favorite among late-night crowds and budget-friendly travelers. Their Falafel is crispy on the outside and so on the inside.
Specialty dishes: The Falafel sandwich is the highlight of the truck stuffed with Falafel balls, vegetables, pickles, and Tahini sauce wrapped in pita bread. You can also try their Falafel plate with a side of bread, hummus, and baba ganoush.
Ambiance and vibe: Falafel Farm offers a true straight food experience in Dubai. Enjoy your meal on the go and sit at a nearby sitting area. The ambiance is relaxed and casual making it a great sport to grab a quick bite.
Address: Al Rigga Road, Deira, Dubai
Conclusion
The street food scene of Dubai is as diverse and dynamic as the population. From the smoky Kebabs to fresh seafood, there is something for every plate and budget. No matter if you are a local or tourist exploring the culinary offerings, the street food in Dubai will never disappoint you.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your appetite and hit the streets of Dubai. You’re in for a culinary adventure like no other.