Exploring the UAE’s food culture is more than just dining it’s discovering heritage through spices, stories, and star-worthy bites. Whether you want to indulge in fine-dining or hunt for street-side gems, this guide curates the top Emirati food spots you shouldn’t miss.
1.Erth – Abu Dhabi’s Michelin-Starred Emirati Masterpiece
Step into a refined Emirati dining experience rooted in culture and tradition. Erth beautifully blends local ingredients with modern culinary techniques, set against the backdrop of the historic Qasr Al Hosn. Every dish tells a story elevating heritage food to Michelin-star level.
Location: Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi
Price: ~AED 215 for two; salmon crudo AED 75, ravioli AED 65
Ideal for: Culture lovers, couples, heritage seekers
What Makes It Unique: First Emirati restaurant to earn a Michelin star; sustainable, farm‑sourced ingredients
Must‑Try Dishes: Salmon crudo, bzar‑marinated beef short ribs, margooga ravioli
What’s Special: Scenic dining overlooking historic architecture with immersive storytelling through food
2. Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant – A Cultural Courtyard Experience
Experience the warmth of Emirati hospitality in this courtyard-style eatery located in Al Fahidi’s heritage quarter. The live-cooking stations and traditional ambiance bring Emirati home dining to life.
Location: Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Dubai
Price: ~AED 120 per person
Ideal for: Families, tourists, cultural explorers
What Makes It Unique: Authentic architecture, heritage décor, live cooking stations
Must‑Try Dishes: Machboos lamb, Harees, Luqaimat, Arabic tea with milk
What’s Special: Live oud music, henna painting and cultural attire enhance the immersive atmosphere
3. Logma – A Modern Twist on Khaleeji Street Food
Blending contemporary design with traditional recipes, Logma offers a fresh take on Emirati comfort food in modern urban settings. It’s the perfect stop for those craving local flavors with a twist.
Location: Boxpark, Al Wasl Road, Dubai
Price: ~AED 80–110 per person
Ideal for: Youth, foodies, digital nomads
What Makes It Unique: Fusion Emirati menu with stylish presentation
Must‑Try Dishes: Khaleeji wings, Chebab pancakes, Emirati-style biryani, Karak frappé
What’s Special: Vibrant interiors, outdoor seating ideal for casual hangouts and social media-worthy moments
4. Al Fanar Restaurant – Step Back Into 1960s Dubai
Travel back in time to an era of traditional Emirati homes and community spirit. Al Fanar recreates that nostalgia through its décor and homestyle cooking, offering a heartwarming culinary experience.
Location: Al Seef, Dubai Creek; also in Al Barsha & Sharjah
Price: AED 100–130 per person
Ideal for: Tourists, nostalgia lovers, family groups
What Makes It Unique: Vintage décor, storytelling menus, immersive Emirati ambiance
Must‑Try Dishes: Chicken machboos, Samak (grilled fish), Balaleet (sweet vermicelli & egg)
What’s Special: Themed setup feels like an old souk great for families and photo ops
5. Hum Yum – Street Flavors With a Café Vibe
Combining tasty Emirati street-style dishes with modern café flair, Hum Yum transforms traditional snacks into Instagram-worthy food art perfect for young, urban diners.
Location: Mirdif and Jumeirah, Dubai
Price: AED 80–110 per person
Ideal for: Teenagers, casual diners, late-night snackers
What Makes It Unique: Museum-quality branding meets local flavor creativity
Must‑Try Dishes: Chebab, Regag wraps, Chocolate Luqaimat with Lotus, Emirati fries
What’s Special: Neon interiors and seasonal collabs make it a vibrant, fun dining spot
6. Al Bait Alqadeem – Where Old Dubai Meets Modern Sharjah
Set in a beautifully restored heritage home in Sharjah, this charming restaurant serves traditional Emirati–Persian dishes in an atmospheric, culturally rich environment.
Location: Sharjah Heritage District
Price: AED 60–90 per person
Ideal for: Day-trippers, food historians, traditionalists
What Makes It Unique: Hidden in a 100-year-old house, blends Emirati and Persian influence
Must‑Try Dishes: Majboos, grilled meats, rice with loomi, seafood salona
What’s Special: Views of souks, cultural exhibitions nearby offers an immersive old-world feel
Savoring the True Flavors of Emirati Cuisine: A Culinary Journey to Remember
Exploring authentic Emirati cuisine through these exceptional restaurants offers a rich journey into the UAE’s culture and heritage. Whether you seek Michelin-starred elegance, nostalgic vibes, or modern street-food twists, each place delivers unique flavors and memorable experiences. These dining spots not only satisfy your taste buds but also deepen your connection to the traditions and stories that make Emirati food truly special. So next time you crave local delights, these gems are the perfect destinations to discover and enjoy.
