Memorable eats that don’t break the bank
Dubai is a city renowned for its culinary excellence and innovation, and sometimes the best places are unassuming spots that don’t cost a fortune. If you’re looking to enjoy a meal that also offers value for your money, we’ve identified some of the best locations where you don’t have to compromise on taste or price. From hole-in-the-wall restaurants to more refined and upscale places, Dubai offers many options within a reasonable price range.
Daikan
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Daikan is a hidden hole-in-the-wall that offers a casual dining experience to enjoy a hearty bowl of ramen. The atmosphere at its JLT branch is laid-back, with metal barstool seating and simple interiors, but the star is its rich ramen selection. We recommend trying their Savoury Gyoza (AED 24) to start, followed by the chef’s special Daikan (AED 70). In cooler months, grab an outdoor seat to enjoy the fresh air.
DUO Gastrobar
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Duo Gastrobar has a chic and open atmosphere with a Mediterranean-inspired look, which is a confluence of white, grey, and soft beige with blue accents. This elevated dining experience combines a relaxing ambience with refined service. Their extensive menu features reasonably priced dishes like Salmon Steak with tomato, eggplant, and taggiasche olives (AED 95) and Atlantic Cod served with asparagus and potato cream (AED 85). After dinner, you can enjoy a cocktail from their extensive bar menu.
Fusion Ceviche
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Fusion Ceviche is a hidden homegrown gem in JLT that serves the best of authentic Peruvian cuisine and offers a relaxing atmosphere for a laid-back lunch. The intimate space features homages to colorful Peruvian history, immersing you in a lively atmosphere with bright neon lights and Peruvian artifacts. The menu offers an array of generous portions of ceviche dishes that can be shared. We’d recommend trying the Clásico Ceviche (AED 90) to get a taste of this beloved South American staple. Make sure to reserve in advance because this cozy spot gets busy quickly.
Kishmish
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Kishmish is a beautiful location to grab an authentic Afghan meal. The restaurant is decorated with rich burgundy carpets, vibrant clothing items, earthy tones, and a pop of colour with green accents. The fabrics and textiles colourfully hanging in the place complement the array of Afghan dishes offered at a value price point. Kishmish recently added Dopiyaza (AED 85), slow-cooked lamb served on freshly made bread with spices and lentils, to their menu, which is a must-try dish.
Kokoro
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Kokoro is inviting with its minimalist wood and metal design, where bright Japanese art complements the neutral beige space. The hand-rolled sushi takes center stage at this cozy spot, where you can grab a seat at the highly sought-after bar counter to watch the chefs prepare your dish in real time. Try their handroll set of three – sake, hamachi, and spicy tuna (AED 95) – to get a good taste of their specialty dishes. This popular restaurant accepts walk-ins only, so be prepared to wait in line.
Kooya Filipino Eatery
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Since opening its doors in March 2022 under the helm of renowned chef JP Anglo, Kooya has become a loved restaurant for its homemade-style Filipino food and friendly servers. The cozy green interiors with wooden chairs and warm golden lighting create a relaxed ambiance where you can enjoy a selection of affordable dishes. The vintage pictures of the Philippines and a curated menu showcasing the best of Filipino cuisine make this a great place to relax while enjoying a hearty meal. Everything on the menu is conveniently priced below AED 78. We’d recommend ordering their Chicken Sisig (AED 43) and finishing with their special 16-ingredient Halo-Halo (AED 32).
Lila Molino
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Lila Molino is a playful, experiential concept store that offers a taste of Mexico in Dubai. Think vibrant Mexican murals, a collection of handmade clay creations, and a curated selection of books at the entrance. When you step upstairs, you’re brought into a lively, buzzing restaurant with greenery and colourful Mexican-style art hanging on the walls. The artsy vibe and value-for-your-money dishes make this a worthwhile visit. Lila Molino offers an expansive menu of price-friendly Mexican delicacies. Don’t miss out on their weekend special of slow-roasted lamb Barbacoa Tacos (AED 70)
Revelry
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Revelry is a chic Indian tapas restaurant, which received a MICHELIN Guide mention, that exudes sophistication with its mahogany countertops and tabletops decorated with gold accents, designed to give off vintage charm. You can enjoy a selection of budget-friendly Indian dishes with modern flair and an expansive cocktail selection. Make sure to stop by after work on Tuesdays for their ‘Sassy Queens Night’, which offers three house beverages, two starters, and a main course (AED 135).
Sirali
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Sirali is a place you can visit for both aesthetics and the food. The restaurant has a ceiling covered in foliage, eccentric tableware with colorful Turkish patterns, and bold illustrations on the walls, creating a lively atmosphere. It feels like taking a step into Turkey with the cuisine and decor available. Don’t miss their Turkish Pide with cubed meat (AED 109), freshly made in a stone oven. Another bonus of this cost-friendly yet chic restaurant is the expansive wine and cocktail menu on offer.
Sufret Maryam
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This MICHELIN-starred restaurant features an elegant design with white marble tabletops and floral pieces, complemented by touches of Levantine history through illustrations on the walls. The sage green and olive design pays homage to the chefs’ roots, and this casual dining spot is the perfect mix of elegant yet homey, ideal for special occasions or lunchtime meals. We’d suggest trying the popular Shish Tawook (AED 62) and making sure to have the Muhalabiya Knafeh (AED49) for dessert.
Image credit: @daikanramen_ae on Instagram
