Hungry in Dubai? Here’s where to book this weekend

As the weekend approaches in Dubai, the culinary scene flourishes with enticing options that beckon food lovers. The vibrant city offers a rich tapestry of flavors from around the globe, making it the perfect time to explore. For those looking to indulge their taste buds this weekend, we’ve curated a list of four of the best restaurants in Dubai. Whether you’re searching for traditional dishes, modern gastronomy, or refreshing beverages, this article highlights some must-visit dining spots in Dubai.

Rang Mahal

Located on the fourth floor of JW Marriott Marquis, Rang Mahal is a premier destination in Dubai for exquisite Indian cuisine. The ambiance is captivating—with towering columns, intimate lighting, and stunning artwork gracing the walls—but it’s the menu that truly commands your attention. You can explore a culinary journey featuring North and South Indian delicacies, ranging from ghee-roasted prawns to fragrant lamb kebabs and an impressive baked whole lamb leg. The tandoor grill is a must-try: indulge in chicken tikka, peppered lamb chops, or succulent jumbo prawns paired with hot naan fresh from the oven. For mains, the richly flavored lamb rogan josh and the creamy sea bass moilee stand out. As for dessert, savor the masala chai brûlée, saffron rasmalai, or the house-made sassata kulfi. For a memorable experience, request a table by the glass to enjoy breathtaking views of the Dubai Canal, especially at sunset.

Location: JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, Business Bay

Times: Daily from 6 PM to 12 AM

Cost: This summer, Rang Mahal is offering three dining options:

  • Early Bird Dinner: Three-course Indian menu for Dhs 145 per person (food only) | Daily, 6 PM to 7:30 PM
  • Limitless Monday: Unlimited starters, mains, and desserts for Dhs 195 (food only) or Dhs 300 with house drinks | Mondays, 6 PM to 10 PM
  • Masti Mahal: Two hours of free-flowing drinks plus 25% off à la carte, Dhs 145 per person | Daily from 6 PM to 10 PM

Contact: (0)4 414 3000 | @rangmahaldubai

Bab El Bahr

With a captivating redesign, Bab El Bahr merges Lebanese coastal elegance with a modern twist in Downtown Dubai. This market-style seafood restaurant invites guests to select their fresh catch of the day, from Gulf shrimp to tantalizing Omani lobster, prepared with Mediterranean and Lebanese influences. Begin your meal with an array of mezze such as mutabbal, baba ghanouj, and crispy batata harra. The luxurious lobster bisque paired with the grilled arayes makes for the perfect starter. When it comes to dessert, indulge in baklava ice cream or choose the nostalgic ghazel el banat with ice cream for a sweet treat.

Location: Boulevard 29, Mohamed Bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai

Times: Daily, 11 AM–1 AM

Contact: (0)4 456 2881 | @babelbahr.alhallab

MINA Brasserie

This Michelin-selected brasserie in DIFC presents a delightful summer menu filled with fresh flavors and refreshing drinks. Start with chicory salad, crispy panko prawn burger, or delightful Andaluz gazpacho to beat the heat. Main highlights include the luxurious grilled picanha served with hokkaido pumpkin and black garlic aioli. You can also refresh yourself with their limited-edition summer highballs, which can be ordered as mocktails, designed to evoke the essence of each moment from dawn to dusk.

Location: MINA Brasserie, Four Seasons DIFC

Times: Daily from 7 AM to 1 AM

Contact: (0)4 506 0100 | @minabrasseriedubai

ALBA

ALBA showcases a fusion of Japanese and grill cuisines, focusing on high-quality wagyu prepared with precision. Here, the menu features innovative rolls, A5 wagyu options, and delectable seafood. Start your meal with a selection of fresh maki rolls before indulging in signature wagyu dishes such as the wagyu roll with truffle or the deeply satisfying deep-fried A5 wagyu katsu. The robata grill presents an unforgettable taste experience with dishes like A5 ribeye and seasonal seafood. Wrap up your dining experience with ALBA’s syrups or a special Japanese dessert, perfect for easing into the evening.

Location: ALBA, Dubai Opera District, Downtown Dubai

Times: Mon–Fri 4 PM–1 AM; Sat–Sun 12 PM–1 AM

Contact: (0)58 587 3590 | @albadubai