Gourmet Flavours

2026

United Arab Emirates

Dubai

The city's best tables, markets and bars, chosen by the writers who live there.

Street foodWhere Dubai actually eats — the Deira cafeterias, the Kerala mess halls, the Pakistani grill rooms and the Filipino bakeries where the city's workforce lines up. The real food city behind the Michelin stars, where a meal still costs less than a taxi ride.

Markets

  1. MarketsIn Dubai's Old Souks, the Trade Still Sets the PriceWalking route through Dubai's traditional souks.
  2. MarketsOne Dirham Across the Water: The Dubai Creek the Skyscrapers Never ReachedFocus on Dubai Creek souks and cafés.

Street food

  1. Street foodWhere Dubai actually eats — the Deira cafeterias, the Kerala mess halls, the Pakistani grill rooms and the Filipino bakeries where the city's workforce lines up. The real food city behind the Michelin stars, where a meal still costs less than a taxi ride.Authentic Dubai food scene beyond Michelin stars.

Tables

  1. TablesDubai's Friday Brunch Has Become a Full-Contact SportComprehensive guide to Dubai's Friday brunch scene.
  2. TablesLunch on the Water Around Dubai's Palm JumeirahLunch cruises and waterfront dining around Palm Jumeirah
  3. TablesThe Warehouse of Ideas: Alserkal Avenue and the Dubai That Doesn't ShoutCultural hub with galleries and cooks in Dubai.

Bars

  1. BarsA Night Drive Down Dubai's Supercar BoulevardsNightlife and late-night food in Dubai.
  2. BarsDubai's Desert Comes Alive After the Sun DropsEvening desert venues and dining experiences.

Where to sleep in Dubai: the Dubai hotel directory

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