Restaurants in the UAE that make us feel at home
When homesickness strikes, the team at What’s On turns to their favorite UAE restaurants that indulge not just their taste buds but also their fond memories. These eateries play a vital role in bringing a taste of home to those feeling nostalgic, making them the perfect go-to spots for comfort food. Let’s delve into the cravings that these culinary havens satisfy for the team as they share their go-to UAE restaurants when homesick hunger hits.
Liam Joyce, Editor
Portugal and South Africa
Dubai: Nando’s
When I crave flame-grilled chicken, there’s really only one destination: Nando’s. This South African-born, Afro-Portuguese chain has garnered fans all over the globe, but for me, there’s something uniquely comforting about enjoying a plate of peri-peri chicken right here in Dubai. Perhaps it’s the various spice levels, from lemon and herb to extra hot, or the memories of my late Portuguese grandmother, who adored their bread. For me, it’s not just food; it’s a casual yet satisfying experience that consistently delivers comfort.
Location: Multiple locations across Dubai, including Marina Walk and The Greens
Abu Dhabi: Tashas
There’s something exceptionally inviting about Tashas that makes it feel like home, the Abu Dhabi location included. The menu thoughtfully balances wholesome comfort food with indulgent dishes you’ll find yourself ordering time and time again. Its charm is reminiscent of the Tashas I frequented in Umhlanga, Durban, and the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, characterized by the warmth of South African hospitality without pretense.
Location: Unit B02, Marsa Al Bateen
Madie Murphy, Deputy Editor
Ireland
Dubai: Fibber Magee
Fibber Magee’s on Sheikh Zayed Road is undoubtedly one of my favorite pubs in Dubai. Stepping inside transports you to a cozy rural Irish pub, complete with Irish football on the television. The food tastes just like home, and the Guinness is always on point. You’ll easily strike up a conversation, reminiscent of friendly chats back in the Emerald Isle.
Location: Saeed Tower 1, Sheikh Zayed Road, Trade Centre
Abu Dhabi: MaBuckley’s
Admittedly, I might be biased, but Irish cuisine offers me immense comfort when homesickness kicks in. MaBuckley’s serves amazing food and is proudly Irish owned and managed. They even hold the Guinness World Record for the Most Pints of Guinness Poured in an Hour at a Single Venue. Be sure to try the Irish Spice Bag or a 4 in 1 dish; close your eyes and you might just hear the rain outside.
Location: Souk Qaryat Al Beri, Al Khor Street
Aarti Saundalkar, Arts & Culture Features Editor
India
Dubai: Tresind
Indian cuisine is beloved worldwide, and it’s easy to see why. Brimming with flavor and a broad spectrum of spice levels, it caters to every palate. While various Indian restaurants dot the city, Tresind stands out for its innovative approach to traditional Indian dishes. Recognized in the Dubai Michelin Guide and as one of MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants, it effectively highlights the richness of Indian flavors and techniques.
Location: One&Only Royal Mirage, Dubai Marina
Abu Dhabi: Asha’s
Asha’s, run by the iconic Indian singer and actress Asha Bhosle, opened its doors in 2002 at WAFI in Dubai. The award-winning restaurant features an impressive menu, showcasing authentic Indian dishes like biryani, prawn masala, palak chaat, and the classic yellow dhal.
Location: The Galleria Al Maryah Island
Leoni Wagner, Features Editor
South Africa
Dubai: Dave’s Hot Chicken
It’s often said that stereotypes exist for a reason, and as a South African with a well-known passion for fried chicken, I found it amusing when my first day at What’s On was marked by a visit to Dave’s Hot Chicken. It brought back the comforting flavors of home. Sharing a meal is sacred; it transcends just eating. It’s about the connections made over a table, turning colleagues into family.
Locations: JBR The Walk, Dubai Mall, Motor City
Abu Dhabi: Zeera by Buddha-Bar
Growing up in South Africa, I was immersed in food that’s rich in spice and flavor, with Indian cuisine close to our hearts. We celebrate it in gatherings, often debating who makes the best biryani. Dining at Zeera, the Indian restaurant at Yas Bay, felt like déjà vu as the first bite of samosa chaat took me back to delightful celebrations with friends and family.
Location: The Pier, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island
Lana Du, Online Reporter
Palestine
Dubai: Musakhan Pretzel at Yava
At Yava, the take on Palestine’s traditional musakhan features a delightful twist: the musakhan pretzel. Tender, sumac-spiced chicken, caramelized onions, and pine nuts are enveloped in a golden, crispy pretzel roll and served with creamy yogurt. It’s not only rich and comforting but also a standout dish on their Mediterranean fusion menu, best enjoyed in Yava’s relaxed, homey environment.
Location: Yava, 51 Al Wasl Rd, Jumeirah 1, Dubai
Abu Dhabi: Maqluba at Jarousha
For the classic Palestinian dish maqluba, meaning “upside down,” you might have come across viral videos showcasing the flipping of various versions. The authentic dish layers spiced rice, meat, eggplant, and cauliflower, creating a delightful tower that, when inverted, reveals a fragrant, hearty meal. Jarousha excels at this dish, offering warmth and comfort reminiscent of home.
Location: Millennium Al Rawdah Hotel, Al Rawdah, W68, Abu Dhabi
Sammi Barnard, Junior Reporter
South Africa
Dubai: Hyperama
If you’re South African or know one, chances are you’ve heard about Woolworths. It’s a quintessential retailer and a final stop before departing South Africa. Thankfully, you don’t need a boarding pass to indulge, as Hyperama in Dubai offers Woolworths products, allowing you to enjoy home comforts right here. My must-have? Woolworths Chuckles—which are like Maltesers, but even better—and they also have a restaurant serving authentic South African comfort food.
Location: Al Shafar Investment, Al Quoz
Abu Dhabi: Lekker Meat Shop
In South Africa, we take our meat seriously, coining our own term for barbecue: braai. It goes beyond just cooking; it’s a ritual, a social experience, woven into our culture. There’s something undeniably lekker (Afrikaans for “good”) about freshly cooked meat. The selection at Lekker Meat Shop is impressive, catering to every braai aficionado.
Location: Central Mall, Khalifa City