Dubai’s food scene is like an open invitation for Pakistani food lovers to step out of their biryani comfort zone. Sure, we all love a good plate of rice and spice, but this city is packed with places that promise to surprise your taste buds, and your Instagram feed, in all the best ways.

Take Sufret Maryam, for instance. Tucked away at Wasl 51, Jumeirah, this cosy gem feels like a warm hug from the Levant. Chef Salam Daqqaq, who proudly holds a Michelin Bib Gourmand, serves up flavours from Jordan, Syria, Palestine, and Lebanon, each dish more comforting than the last. Imagine starting with a creamy lebna dip, moving on to perfectly grilled lamb chops, and wrapping up with coconut ice cream so good you’ll be licking the bowl. Don’t forget to sip on a calming herbal tea for that ‘just like back home’ finish, but with Dubai’s signature flair.


Then there’s Wavehouse, where it’s all about burgers, wings, and laid-back vibes. Nothing hits the spot like a pile of honey-spiced chicken wings, BBQ bites, crispy mozzarella sticks, and juicy beef burgers. Add peach iced tea, people-watching, and surfers riding the waves, and you’ve got the perfect post-waterpark hangout.


When the city lights come on, there’s no better place than CÉ LA VI to soak up Dubai’s skyline in style. Perched 220 metres above Downtown Dubai at Address Sky View Hotel, this MICHELIN Guide favourite pairs killer rooftop views with contemporary Asian plates that wow. The avocado maki is a stunner, the Korean chicken crackles with flavour, and the grilled salmon is melt-in-your-mouth good. End on a sweet note with a kadak chai brûlée, trust us, your dessert game will never be the same.

Craving a pan-Asian fix that doesn’t hold back on umami? Fifth Flavor in Wasl Square hits the mark. Founded by two Emirati sisters, this spot has become a magnet for foodies looking for fun Asian bites with a twist. From addictive Nori potato sticks to juicy beef bao buns and dynamite prawns, every plate packs a punch. And if you love surprises, keep an eye on their specials — you might just find your new obsession.

For a bite of burger heaven with a side of sea breeze, SALT at Dubai Mall is the place to be. What started as a UAE pop-up now has fans from Qatar to the UK, but there’s something special about the Dubai branch’s laid-back beachy vibe. Think melt-in-your-mouth beef burgers, popcorn chicken, and mango ice cream that screams Dubai summer. Families, friends, or solo adventurers, everyone ends up chilling together. It’s the kind of easy-going meal you’ll want on repeat.

Finally, Revelry in Dubai Hills Estate gives classic desi dishes an experimental twist. Brought to you by the team behind Michelin-starred AVATARA, it’s a bite-sized Indian adventure that packs big flavours. The Punjabi-style paneer khurchan taco and Chettinad chicken leg take you straight to the streets of India. Pair them with papadom and chutneys, snack on spicy peanuts, and dive into creative mains like butter chicken tart or lamb sukka kallapam. Just save room for the butterscotch sundae or aamras cheesecake, your sweet tooth will thank you.

So, next time you’re in Dubai, remember, there’s a whole world beyond biryani waiting to be devoured. And these spots? They’re just the beginning.