In a city known for its luxury dining and global cuisine, it’s not easy for a restaurant to stand out—especially if it’s fully vegetarian. But Tum Tum Asia in Dubai does just that. Located in the busy Oud Metha area, this vibrant eatery brings a unique twist to Asian street food—offering bold, exciting dishes without a single trace of meat.
Yes, you read that right. Tum Tum Asia is entirely vegetarian. But don’t let that fool you. Even the biggest meat lovers might find themselves surprised by the explosion of flavours this spot offers. From Indian chaats to Japanese sushi, from Chinese dumplings to Thai curries—this place has it all, with a quirky twist.
What Makes Tum Tum Asia Different?
First things first, let’s talk about the vibe. As soon as you walk into Tum Tum Asia, you’re welcomed by a burst of colour, funky artwork, and a fun, casual atmosphere. It’s clear from the moment you enter that this isn’t your average Asian restaurant. The interiors are lively and youthful, making it a great spot for casual dinners, family lunches, or even a fun night out with friends.
But the real magic, of course, is on the menu.
Founded by celebrity chef Akshay Nayyar, Tum Tum Asia was created with a bold idea in mind—to bring together popular dishes from across Asia and give them a vegetarian makeover. It sounds simple, but pulling it off isn’t easy. Yet somehow, this place manages to create vegetarian versions of famous dishes that taste just as good (if not better) than the originals.
The Menu: A Journey Across Asia
Tum Tum Asia’s menu is like a trip across Asia—without leaving your table. The dishes are inspired by street food from India, China, Japan, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and more. It’s an exciting journey for your taste buds, and the best part? Everything is 100% vegetarian and even Jain-friendly on request.
One of the top crowd favourites is the crispy bao. Imagine soft, fluffy buns filled with crunchy veggies and delicious sauces—it’s comfort food at its finest. Then there’s the sushi, made entirely without seafood. Yes, that’s right—vegetarian sushi that still manages to be full of flavour, thanks to ingredients like avocado, cream cheese, and crunchy tempura.
Another standout is their dimsums. These little parcels of goodness are packed with mushrooms, corn, and spicy sauces, making them just as satisfying as their meaty counterparts.
And if you’re into Indian flavours, the chaat section will win you over. The pani puri comes with flavoured water options like mint, mango, and even beetroot. It’s a playful twist on a beloved Indian street snack. Their Tandoori Momos are another must-try, where classic dumplings get a smoky, grilled upgrade.
The restaurant also offers full main-course options like Thai green curry, Indo-Chinese noodles, and saucy Malaysian-style dishes—all vegetarian and rich in authentic taste.
Dessert with a Twist
No meal is complete without dessert, and Tum Tum Asia doesn’t hold back. Their Lotus Biscoff Cheesecake is a showstopper. Rich, creamy, and full of that caramel-cookie flavour everyone loves. The Mango Sticky Rice and Chocolate Spring Rolls also bring something fun and different to the table, balancing sweetness with just the right textures.
Who Is It For?
One of the best things about Tum Tum Asia is how inclusive it is. It’s perfect for vegetarians, of course, but even non-vegetarians will find plenty to enjoy here. The dishes are made in a way that you don’t miss the meat—you just enjoy the flavours. It’s also a great option for people with dietary restrictions. Jain food options, vegan dishes, and gluten-free meals can all be arranged upon request.
Families with kids will appreciate the fun, colourful setting and the variety of mild and spicy dishes. Young adults love it for the trendy vibe and Instagram-worthy plating. And foodies? They love it for the creativity.
A Chef With a Vision
Chef Akshay Nayyar is no stranger to the spotlight. Known for his appearances on various food shows and for running several successful restaurants, he brings his experience and innovation into every dish at Tum Tum Asia. His goal was clear from the beginning—to prove that vegetarian food can be just as exciting and satisfying as any other cuisine. And judging by the loyal fanbase this restaurant has built in Dubai, he’s succeeded.
He once said in an interview, “Food should never be boring, no matter the restrictions.” That philosophy runs deep through Tum Tum Asia’s menu. There’s nothing dull or plain about the food here—it’s bold, colourful, and packed with personality.
The Verdict
Tum Tum Asia isn’t just another Asian restaurant in Dubai—it’s a celebration of creativity, flavour, and inclusivity. It breaks all the rules of what people expect from vegetarian food and shows that with a little imagination, meat-free dishes can be just as fun and satisfying.
Whether you’re a lifelong vegetarian, trying to eat less meat, or just in the mood for something different, this is one place that should be on your list. The variety, the creativity, and the sheer deliciousness of the food make it worth the visit.
Plus, it’s always nice to find a spot where you can enjoy an entire menu without having to ask, “Is there chicken in this?”
Also read: Nourish Restaurant Dubai: A Dining Experience Like No Other
