Our favourite Dubai restaurants in 2021

Three brothers, one dream. At Orfali Bros ‘bistronomy’ the brothers are proud to serve up dishes that reflect their shared culinary passion. You’ll want to factor in repeat visits to try everything on the menu, including favourites such as the shish barak a la sgyoza (beef dumplings with a Middle Eastern twist), salmon with miso and creamy tahini, and Umm Salah torrijas (Spanish-style French toast with a touch of spice). They also support local farming, so look out for homegrown produce across the menu.

Located in Palm West Beach, Lucky Fish enjoys a dreamy shoreline setting that it shares with other dining hotspots such as the Bali-inspired Koko Bay and Mexican eatery Señor Pico. Lucky Fish stands out thanks to its coastal charm and complementary Mediterranean menu. As expected, the restaurant celebrates seafood but also works with local fisherman, showcasing the finest catches of the day on ice or as the star ingredient in enticing dishes. There's also a zero-plastic policy that we can all get behind.

If you're craving a juicy burger with all the trimmings, you're in luck as CZNBurak Burger is now open at The Dubai Mall. The Insta-famous chef Burak Özdemir is renowned for meaty creations in epic proportions, and has already generated a buzz with his fine dining namesake restaurant on Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard. At CZNBurak Burger however, the vibe is more laidback with a focus on perfectly-grilled, flavour-packed patties – and yes, there's also a 'giant' version.

Inspired by food districts around the world, Dishtrict at Wasl 51 in Jumeirah presents a culinary adventure to savour. The emphasis is on fusion flavours, and it's all done brilliantly well. Think shatta crab salad – a Middle Eastern twist to a traditional dish elevated by a kick of hot sauce – Thai-inspired arancini, popcorn-style button mushrooms with truffle and parmesan, and lamb galouti tacos where a softshell base is topped with spiced lamb kebab and mint sauce. It's inventive and irresistible – come hungry!

The Name at Dubai Design District is full of surprises. It combines restaurant and café offerings with co-working space and even a concept store filled with trendy gifts, many of which can be personalised. This is a place you’ll want to linger, complemented by a magical menu of Mediterranean and Levantine dishes – think flatbreads with spicy beef and labneh, smoked pastrami and cheddar sandwiches, and tasty potatoes with vegan cheese.

ALACA impresses at The Pointe, a sun-filled destination that’s home to an incredible array of restaurants. This new Mediterranean-inspired spot transports you to the ancient region of Anatolia for culinary discoveries filled with flavour. Try the kalamar tava (fried calamari with a special chef’s sauce), Alinazik (featuring lamb, spices, smoked eggplant infused milk and yoghurt), and karisik izgara (butcher’s selection of meat treats). There’s also brilliant breakfast dishes and freshly-baked pastries.

Enjoy the aromas and flavours of your favourite dishes from the streets of Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia at Sedap in Al Seef. Meaning 'tasty' in Malay, a few of the restaurant's bestsellers include the BBQ sambal seabass, black pepper crab, beef rendang and seafood laksa. Thanks to the friendly service, inviting vibes and a dedicated kids menu, Sedap Asian Street Kitchen is fast becoming a hit with hungry families.