Food & Drink
Dubai's best fine dining restaurants
Mon, September 19, 2022
When only the best will do, book a table at these top restaurants in Dubai.
When only the best will do, book a table at these top restaurants in Dubai.
Modern European fare at folly

Homegrown heroes in Dubai’s culinary scene, chefs Nick Alvis and Scott Price were not afraid to innovate when setting up folly. The protégés of celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay helped put Dubai on the world foodie map and its legacy continues with executive chef Bojan Cirjanic. The restaurant at Madinat Jumeirah has it all, including waterway views, expansive terraces and a menu of contemporary dishes that champion creativity, such as the lamb saddle with whipped pine nuts and salsa, and monkfish cheeks with paprika and lemon.
Fine Japanese with a South American twist at Nobu

The talented culinary icon Nobuyuki ‘Nobu’ Matsuhisa continues to earn praise for his restaurant in Dubai’s five-star Atlantis, The Palm resort. From the brilliant decor and friendly service to the contemporary Japanese menu, it’s all a vibrant showcase of creativity. As expected, the sushi served at Nobu is in a league of its own, while the black cod with buttery miso and a hint of yuzu citrus is utterly addictive.
Contemporary Peruvian plates at COYA

Every once in a while, a restaurant comes along and exceeds every expectation – COYA is one of them. One of London’s most popular restaurants, COYA's Dubai outpost instantly made its mark on the city’s culinary scene with its inspired Peruvian plates – think refreshing ceviches, delightful tiraditos and flavour-packed anticuchos skewers. Nestled in the Restaurant Village by Four Seasons Resort, this is the place to go to for fine cuisine in a stunning setting, complemented by slick service.
World-famous fusion Japanese at Zuma

Innovative Indian flair at Trèsind Studio

Fresh Italian bites at Il Borro Tuscan Bistro

If you're on the hunt for a delicious meal in opulent surroundings, Il Borro is your table. This award-winning Italian restaurant based at Jumeirah Al Naseem delivers authentic flavours using seasonal, ethically-sourced ingredients, many brought in from the restaurant's own farm in Italy. Complete with olive trees and gentle folk music playing in the background, you can't help but feel like you've been transported to a charming corner of Tuscany.
French classics at LPM Restaurant

A name whispered in awe by gourmands in the city, LPM at Dubai International Financial Centre remains a firm favourite. Setting the mood with slick marble, bright artwork and welcoming vibes, the restaurant impresses on every level. The Niçoise restaurant presents fine French Mediterranean cuisine. Try signatures such as the creamy burrata salad, roast baby chicken marinated in lemon, and roasted rib of beef to taste the difference at this Dubai culinary gem.
Expert Eastern flavours at 3Fils

A homegrown favourite that topped MENA's 50 Best restaurants list, this unassuming casual eatery serves up stunning Asian plates with a strong Japanese accent. Its insider location at the Jumeirah Fishing Harbour adds to the charm, while the no-reservations policy adds to the egalitarian allure. The sushi selection is strong; crispy eel is paired with foie gras for richness, while wasabi mayo adds a kick to spicy tuna. There are also corn waffles, sticky lamb ribs and a must-try wagyu burger, all served in small plates to share.
Spectacular seafood menus at Ossiano

Enjoy a uniquely Dubai dining experience at the Michelin-starred Ossiano at Atlantis, The Palm. A rite of passage for the culinary crowd, chef Gregoire Berger serves up an immersive, multi-course menu in a grand gold and blue-hued setting. Specialising in seafood, the plates are as astounding as the surroundings. Perched under glistening chandeliers, watch more than 65,000 marine creatures swimming past your table. It is perfect for a romantic experience mixing fine European cuisine and an adventure into the sea.
Fusion Vietnamese delights at Indochine

One of the trendiest spots in DIFC, Indochine boasts tropical foliage and chic vibes. There’s a relaxed lounge area, a terrace and an elegant dining space. Set up in New York in 1984, the French-Vietnamese eatery opened in Dubai in late 2019 and has been a hit ever since. Dishes are adventurous, and their risks pay off. Don’t miss the kaffir lime and lemongrass-infused escargot, Vietnamese ravioli, the lamb char sui or the crunchy fried bananas for dessert.
Elevated French cuisine at STAY by Yannick Alleno

Middle Eastern magic at Ninive

Tokyo traditions abound at Hōseki

Seafood surprises at Ristorante L'Olivo Al Mahara

Italian signatures at Il Ristorante Niko Romito

Fine Italian cuisine is at the heart of Il Ristorante - Niko Romito – one of the proud two Michelin-star winners in Dubai. The restaurant, located at the Bulgari Hotel & Resorts, was conceptualised to showcase traditional culture through its cooking. From Parmigiano Reggiano soup to roasted langoustines salad and spaghetti with sea urchins, this eatery serves up favourites that will transport you to the scenic Italian countryside. Seafood fans will not be disappointed with the variety on offer, with the oven-baked black cod being a showstopper.
Shoreside favourites at Twiggy by La Cantine
