Dubai is a city that knows how to eat well. From sleek fine-dining restaurants to humble street-side shawarma joints, there’s no shortage of flavour, creativity, and culinary surprises on offer. Every week, new dishes appear on menus across the city, and sometimes, a few of them stand out so much they become the talk of the town.
This week, we’ve hunted down three dishes creating a buzz in Dubai’s vibrant dining scene — and trust us, you’ll want to get a taste of them before the week’s out. Whether you’re craving rich Middle Eastern flavours, experimental Asian fusion, or a classic comfort dish with a twist, these plates promise to deliver big on taste and experience.
So if you’ve been asking yourself what to eat in Dubai this week, here’s your answer.
The Lobster Khaleeji Risotto at Al Nafoorah
Some dishes are so indulgent, they practically redefine luxury. This week, the Lobster Khaleeji Risotto at Al Nafoorah is making waves for all the right reasons. Known for its refined take on traditional Lebanese and Khaleeji flavours, the restaurant has put a bold spin on a classic Italian risotto.
Expect tender chunks of lobster, perfectly cooked to retain their sweetness, nestled in a rich, creamy risotto base. But it’s the Khaleeji spice blend that takes this dish to another level — fragrant hints of saffron, dried lime, and subtle notes of cardamom transform this European staple into something distinctly regional and unforgettable.
Every bite is a balance of textures and bold flavours: the silkiness of the rice, the brininess of the lobster, and the warming spices that linger just enough to make you crave another mouthful. Served with a garnish of crispy shallots and micro herbs, this isn’t just a meal — it’s an experience.
Perfect for a weekend dinner treat or a special date night, this dish proves how seamlessly Middle Eastern and European flavours can coexist on a single, stunning plate.
Wagyu Beef Bao at Street XO
Asian fusion is having a serious moment in Dubai right now, and no one’s doing it quite like Street XO. Known for its edgy décor, open kitchen drama, and a menu packed with bold, unapologetic flavours, this restaurant is a haven for adventurous food lovers.
At the top of everyone’s must-try list this week is the Wagyu Beef Bao. It’s everything you didn’t know you needed in a dish — rich, tender Wagyu beef slow-cooked to absolute perfection, tucked inside a pillowy-soft bao bun. The beef is braised with a sticky, spiced glaze that hints at soy, star anise, and black vinegar, striking a gorgeous balance between sweet, savoury, and umami.
But it doesn’t stop there. The bao is finished with pickled cucumber, a generous sprinkling of crispy shallots, and a spicy Sriracha mayo that adds just the right kick. Every bite offers a burst of flavours and textures, making it impossible to eat just one.
What makes this dish a winner is how it manages to feel both comforting and exciting. It’s street food, elevated. The kind of dish you’ll find yourself telling friends about long after the meal is over.
Pistachio Milk Cake at Orfali Bros Bistro
No roundup of Dubai’s must-try dishes would be complete without something sweet — and this week, dessert lovers are flocking to Orfali Bros Bistro for their Pistachio Milk Cake. A modern take on the classic tres leches cake, this dessert is winning hearts for its impeccable balance of richness and lightness.
The cake itself is a delicate sponge, soaked in a creamy pistachio-infused milk mixture that keeps it irresistibly moist. It’s topped with a cloud-like whipped cream and a scattering of crushed pistachios for added crunch. The flavour is subtly nutty, delicately sweet, and surprisingly refreshing, making it the perfect ending to a hearty meal.
What makes this dessert stand out is its simplicity done exceptionally well. It doesn’t rely on gimmicks or over-the-top presentation. Instead, it lets quality ingredients and flawless technique shine. It’s the kind of dish that feels nostalgic and new all at once — familiar yet exciting.
Best enjoyed with a strong Arabic coffee or a cup of green tea, this is a dessert worth making room for, even after a feast.
Why These Dishes Stand Out
Dubai’s dining scene is famously competitive, and for a dish to stand out here, it has to be special. These three dishes aren’t just good — they’re conversation-starters. Each one brings something fresh to the table, whether it’s a creative twist on tradition, an unexpected fusion of flavours, or a flawless execution of a classic.
The Lobster Khaleeji Risotto represents a beautiful marriage of cultures, transforming a beloved Italian dish with bold Middle Eastern spices. It’s a plate that feels indulgent and comforting, while still offering something unique.
The Wagyu Beef Bao ticks all the right boxes for those craving bold, punchy flavours and satisfying textures. It’s street food, reimagined for a fine dining crowd, proving that casual dishes can be just as memorable as haute cuisine.
And the Pistachio Milk Cake is a masterclass in dessert-making — light, flavourful, and elegantly simple. It’s proof that when done right, the classics don’t need reinventing, just a thoughtful touch.
Where to Head Next
Dubai’s ever-evolving culinary scene ensures that there’s always something new to try, but these three dishes have made an impression this week for a reason. Whether you’re in the mood for a lavish seafood indulgence, bold Asian flavours, or a dessert that feels like a warm hug, these plates deliver in spades.
If you’ve already tried these, consider it your excuse to revisit them. And if you haven’t — well, now you know what your weekend plans should involve.
Happy dining, and here’s to more unforgettable bites in the city of endless flavour.
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