Street food gems you need to try in Dubai

Ravi, named after the river that flows through both India and Pakistan, may look unassuming on the outside, but it offers one of the city’s best interpretations of traditional Pakistani fare – it was even certified by the late Anthony Bourdain. Grab a seat outside in the evening and let the waiters recommend dishes off the menu ranging from the dhal fry, Peshawari mutton and the well-loved traditional biryani. Don't skip on a side of naan – crispy on the outside and soft in the middle, it’s the perfect way to mop up every drop of delicious sauce.

Al Mallah is well regarded as one of the city’s best Lebanese restaurants – not just for the shawarmas (wraps) and manakish (flatbreads) – but for its front row seats to people-watching along 2nd December Street. A word of warning: their shawarmas and manakish are addictive, so you’d better order more than just one. Those in a hurry (and with a car) can park out front and place their takeaway order with an attentive waiter, but we recommend dining in. The hearty mixed grill kofta, washed down with a fresh juice, is best experienced amid the local action.