The UAE isn’t just a land of futuristic skylines and golden deserts—it’s also one of the world’s most exciting culinary destinations. Whether you’re dining under the stars in the middle of the dunes or savoring truffle risotto in a sky-high restaurant, the UAE serves unforgettable flavors with a side of luxury.
Here’s a curated list of 10 must-visit restaurants across the UAE that promise more than just a meal—they offer an experience.
🌟 1. Ossiano – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai
Why Go: Underwater dining experience with floor-to-ceiling aquarium views
Cuisine: Seafood, Fine Dining
Ossiano redefines immersive dining. Watch sharks and stingrays swim by while you enjoy elegant seafood dishes crafted by Michelin-starred chefs.
🌴 2. Terra – Abu Dhabi
Why Go: Sustainability meets fine dining
Cuisine: Plant-based, Organic
Located in The Ritz-Carlton Grand Canal, Terra blends innovative techniques with locally sourced ingredients, offering a guilt-free gourmet journey.
🔥 3. BB Social Dining – DIFC, Dubai
Why Go: Modern, East-meets-West flavors in a buzzing social space
Cuisine: Asian, Middle Eastern fusion
Small plates, big flavor. BB is perfect for foodies looking to share and explore a menu filled with bao, bites, and bowls.
🏝️ 4. Saltbae Burger – Dubai & Abu Dhabi
Why Go: Viral, juicy, over-the-top burger creations
Cuisine: Gourmet Burgers
Brought to fame by internet sensation Nusret Gökçe (Salt Bae), this spot combines Instagram-worthy dishes with bold flavors.
🕌 5. Al Fanar Restaurant – Multiple Locations
Why Go: Authentic Emirati food in a nostalgic setting
Cuisine: Traditional Emirati
Step back in time with dishes like machboos, harees, and luqaimat, all served in a setting inspired by 1960s Dubai.
🌇 6. Ce La Vi – Address Sky View, Dubai
Why Go: Rooftop dining with jaw-dropping Burj Khalifa views
Cuisine: Modern Asian
Enjoy bold Asian flavors with a backdrop so stunning, it competes with the food. Perfect for date nights and special occasions.
🍷 7. Hakkasan – Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi
Why Go: Glamorous setting, award-winning Chinese cuisine
Cuisine: Cantonese, Fine Dining
Hakkasan blends tradition with innovation. Think Peking duck, dim sum, and modern mixology in a luxurious palace setting.
🐪 8. Sonara Camp – Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
Why Go: Luxury dining in the heart of the desert
Cuisine: Mediterranean & International
With live entertainment, stargazing, and gourmet food, Sonara Camp is more than dinner—it’s an unforgettable desert escape.
🌊 9. Fish Beach Taverna – Le Méridien, Dubai
Why Go: Seaside charm with Greek-inspired flavors
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Seafood
Think whitewashed walls, fairy lights, and seafood so fresh you’ll think you’re on a Greek island.
✨ 10. Torno Subito – W Dubai – The Palm
Why Go: Michelin-starred chef Massimo Bottura’s playful take on Italian classics
Cuisine: Italian
This retro-inspired restaurant blends fine dining with fun. Expect bright colors, beach views, and food that’s both nostalgic and avant-garde.
🍽️ Final Bite: More Than Just a Meal
From the buzz of modern Dubai to the serene charm of Abu Dhabi and the vast beauty of the desert, the UAE’s dining scene is diverse, dynamic, and downright delicious. Whether you’re after tradition, innovation, or just something unforgettable, these restaurants are where memories—and masterpieces—are made.