Top 10 Restaurants in Dubai for Every Budget (Locals and Tourists Approved)

Dubai is a global culinary destination where opulent fine dining meets flavorful street eats. Whether you’re a tourist craving authentic Middle Eastern flavors or a local looking for a cozy brunch spot, the top restaurants in Dubai cater to every palate and pocket. With over 13,000 restaurants across the emirate and a steady 6% annual growth in the F&B industry, dining out in Dubai is more than just a meal—it’s a cultural experience.

But with so many options, how do you find the perfect restaurant that balances taste, ambiance, and affordability? We’ve curated a list of the best restaurants in Dubai for tourists and locals, covering everything from budget-friendly food to romantic fine dining.

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1. Al Ustad Special Kebab

• Location: Al Mankhool, Bur Dubai
  
• Best For: Affordable Persian BBQ
  
• Open Hours: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM
  
• Type of Cuisine: Iranian, Middle Eastern
  
• Booking: Walk-in preferred, no reservations
  

A legendary local restaurant in Dubai, Al Ustad Special Kebab is known for its juicy kebabs, cultural vibes, and wallet-friendly prices. It’s one of the top 10 affordable restaurants in Dubai 2025, perfect for casual diners and budget travelers.

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2. Ravi Restaurant

• Location: Al Satwa, Dubai
  
• Best For: Dubai street food experience
  
• Open Hours: 5:00 AM – 2:00 AM
  
• Type of Cuisine: Pakistani
  
• Booking: No bookings, first-come-first-serve
  

Ravi is an iconic spot for locals, known for its flavorful curries and naan. It’s a staple for those looking for budget-friendly food in Dubai that’s full of flavor and authenticity.

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3. Arabian Tea House

• Location: Al Fahidi Historical District
  
• Best For: Traditional Emirati dining
  
• Open Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
  
• Type of Cuisine: Emirati, Arabic
  
• Booking: Available online and via call
  

A charming place in Old Dubai, this restaurant offers authentic Emirati cuisine in a peaceful garden setting. It’s a must-try restaurant in Dubai for tourists exploring heritage sites.

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4. Tom&Serg

• Location: Al Quoz
  
• Best For: Casual dining and breakfast lovers
  
• Open Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  
• Type of Cuisine: International, Café
  
• Booking: Walk-ins and reservations both available
  

Tom&Serg delivers a casual dining experience in Dubai with a hip vibe. Their all-day breakfast and wholesome bowls make it a favorite among both locals and digital nomads.

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5. Bu Qtair

• Location: Fishing Harbour 2, Umm Suqeim
  
• Best For: Fresh seafood by the beach
  
• Open Hours: 1:00 PM – 11:30 PM
  
• Type of Cuisine: Indian, Seafood
  
• Booking: No bookings
  

Popular among expats and foodies, Bu Qtair offers a simple yet memorable Dubai street food spot with fish caught fresh daily. It’s a go-to for budget-conscious seafood lovers.

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6. Orfali Bros Bistro

• Location: Wasl 51, Jumeirah 1
  
• Best For: Creative fine dining
  
• Open Hours: 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM
  
• Type of Cuisine: Modern Middle Eastern
  
• Booking: Recommended via website
  

Run by Syrian chefs, Orfali Bros is a hidden gem offering some of the best fine dining in Dubai. It merges molecular gastronomy with Arabic flavors—ideal for foodies seeking unique experiences.

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7. Fi’lia Dubai

• Location: SLS Dubai Hotel, Business Bay
  
• Best For: Family dining with a view
  
• Open Hours: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
  
• Type of Cuisine: Italian
  
• Booking: Via hotel website or phone
  

Run by an all-female team, Fi’lia is a family-friendly spot with heartwarming food and skyline views. A great choice for family restaurants in Dubai looking for a mid-range meal with ambiance.

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8. Reif Japanese Kushiyaki

• Location: Dar Wasl Mall, Al Wasl Road
  
• Best For: Affordable Japanese fine-dining
  
• Open Hours: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
  
• Type of Cuisine: Japanese, Fusion
  
• Booking: Strongly recommended
  

This Dubai-born concept is an affordable fine-dining experience serving skewers, ramen, and sushi with bold flavors. Locals love it for the quality at fair prices.

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9. Zuma Dubai

• Location: DIFC
  
• Best For: Upscale business lunches and dinners
  
• Open Hours: 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM, 7:00 PM – 12:00 AM
  
• Type of Cuisine: Japanese
  
• Booking: Required via website or call
  

A staple in the luxury scene, Zuma is consistently ranked among the top restaurants in Dubai. While on the pricier side, it’s perfect for romantic restaurants in Dubai or high-end celebrations.

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10. Pierchic

• Location: Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah
  
• Best For: Romantic waterfront dining
  
• Open Hours: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
  
• Type of Cuisine: Seafood, Mediterranean
  
• Booking: Mandatory; book weeks in advance
  

Pierchic offers a premium dining experience on a private pier overlooking the Arabian Gulf. While pricey, it’s one of the best fine dining in Dubai venues—ideal for anniversaries or proposals.

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Why Choosing the Right Restaurant in Dubai Can Be Tricky

Many tourists and residents are overwhelmed by the sheer volume of choices, often ending up in overpriced tourist traps or missing out on authentic local eateries. Additionally, some high-rated restaurants may require weeks of advance booking, especially during peak tourist season or weekends.

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Conclusion: Something for Every Palate and Pocket

Dubai’s food scene is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. Whether you crave affordable restaurants in Dubai like Ravi, family dining at Fi’lia, or romantic fine dining at Pierchic, this list ensures every diner finds their perfect match. No matter your budget or taste, the must-try restaurants in Dubai make the city a true foodie paradise.