Time Out Dubai restaurants have become the go-to reference for foodies looking to explore the diverse culinary landscape of Dubai. Whether you’re a resident, a traveler, or just someone who loves good food, Time Out’s curated selections offer some of the finest dining experiences the city has to offer. From authentic Emirati dishes to Michelin-level global cuisine, Dubai is truly a paradise for food lovers.
In this guide, we take a deep dive into the best restaurants featured by Time Out Dubai in 2025. Whether you’re craving street food or fine dining, you’ll find something worth trying.
Why Trust Time Out Dubai for Restaurant Recommendations?
Time Out Dubai is a respected voice in the city’s dining and entertainment scene. Their editorial team, made up of seasoned food critics and passionate locals, visits and reviews every restaurant before it makes the list. Restaurants are judged not just on taste, but also ambiance, service, creativity, and overall experience.
Every year, Time Out Dubai updates its list to include fresh finds, emerging chefs, and newly opened spots so you always get the most current and trustworthy recommendations.
Top Categories of Time Out Dubai Restaurants in 2025
To make it easier for you to choose where to eat, here’s a breakdown of Time Out Dubai’s top restaurant categories for 2025:
- Best Fine Dining Restaurants
- Best Casual and Family Friendly Restaurants
- Best Street Food and Budget Eats
- Best Romantic Restaurants
- Best Vegan and Vegetarian Options
- Best New Restaurants in 2025
Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Dubai (2025)
Fine dining in Dubai is an art, and Time Out Dubai restaurants in this category bring world class experiences. Here are a few you should consider:
Trèsind Studio – Al Sufouh
Cuisine: Indian Progressive
Why it’s special: This place turns Indian food into an artistic journey. With a chef’s table concept, diners get an intimate experience.
Time Out’s Verdict: Bold flavors, artistic presentation, and unforgettable service.
Ossiano – Atlantis, The Palm
Cuisine: Seafood
Why it’s special: Dine underwater surrounded by an aquarium. It’s romantic and magical.
Awards: Frequently featured in the Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards.
Il Ristorante Niko Romito (Bvlgari Resort Dubai)
Cuisine: Italian
Why it’s special: Michelin-starred excellence with authentic Italian flavors and luxury service.
Best Casual and Family Friendly Time Out Dubai Restaurants
Not every dining experience has to be fine dining. Time Out Dubai restaurants also celebrate spots that are laid back and perfect for families.
Reif Japanese Kushiyaki – Dar Wasl Mall
Cuisine: Japanese Street Style
Why it’s popular: Fun, energetic, and creative. Think of it as Japan meets Dubai in the most delicious way.
Must try: Wagyu Sando.
Black Tap – Jumeirah Al Naseem
Cuisine: American
Perfect for: Families, burger lovers, and anyone with a sweet tooth. The milkshakes are Instagram worthy.
Common Grounds – Mall of the Emirates
Cuisine: Café / Healthy Eats
Why families love it: Kid friendly menu, relaxed ambiance, and hearty, healthy meals.
Best Street Food and Budget Eats
Time Out Dubai restaurants aren’t only about high end dining. The editors also know the value of a good shawarma or biryani under 30 AED.
Ravi Restaurant – Satwa
Cuisine: Pakistani
What makes it iconic: A Dubai institution. Simple, flavorful, and incredibly affordable.
Must try: Chicken Handi and freshly baked naan.
Al Ustad Special Kebab – Al Mankhool
Cuisine: Iranian
Why it’s legendary: A favorite among locals for decades. Affordable and deeply flavorful kebabs.
Zaroob – Sheikh Zayed Road
Cuisine: Levantine street food
Popular dish: Musakhan wraps and falafel sandwiches.
Best Romantic Restaurants in Dubai
Planning a date night or celebrating a special occasion? Time Out Dubai restaurants offer unforgettable romantic settings.
Pierchic – Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah
Why it’s romantic: A wooden pier with stunning sea views and the Burj Al Arab in the background.
Cuisine: Mediterranean seafood.
Thiptara – Palace Downtown
Cuisine: Thai
Perfect for: Watching the Dubai Fountain light up while you enjoy authentic Thai cuisine.
The Bay – Mandarin Oriental
Ambience: Beachfront dining with candlelight and calm waves.
Best Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurants in Dubai
The vegan scene in Dubai is growing rapidly. Time Out Dubai restaurants are leading the charge by spotlighting these meat free marvels.
Wild and The Moon – Alserkal Avenue
Vibe: Hip, artsy, and fully plant based
Menu Highlights: Acai bowls, smoothies, vegan wraps.
Comptoir 102 – Jumeirah Beach Road
Cuisine: Organic, healthy, and full of flavor
Notable for: Wellness focused dishes and trendy setting.
SEVA Table – Jumeirah 1
Ambience: Peaceful garden café with yoga and wellness events
Popular dish: Raw zucchini noodles with pesto.
Best New Time Out Dubai Restaurants in 2025
Every year, Time Out Dubai highlights the best new entries to the food scene. Here are the ones that made waves in 2025:
Gohan – DIFC
Cuisine: Japanese
Why it stands out: A speakeasy style sushi bar tucked behind a hidden door at La Cantine du Faubourg.
La Niña – ICD Brookfield Place
Cuisine: Latin European fusion
Buzz factor: High end décor, open kitchen, and fresh ingredients from Spain and Latin America.
Jun’s – Downtown Dubai
Cuisine: Asian American fusion
Chef Spotlight: Led by award winning chef Kelvin Cheung.
Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards – What Do They Mean?
Each year, the Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards bring together the city’s best restaurants under one spotlight. Categories include:
- Best Restaurant
- Best Chef
- Best Newcomer
- Hidden Gem
- Best Bar Food
- Best Brunch
These awards are like the Oscars for Dubai’s food scene. Winning or even being nominated gives a restaurant major credibility.
Tips for Dining Out in Dubai
Here are some practical tips when exploring Time Out Dubai restaurants:
- Book in advance, especially for weekend nights and fine dining spots
- Dress codes apply at upscale restaurants. Smart casual is usually safe
- Dining hours are usually late. Many restaurants open around noon and stay open until midnight or later
- Check for deals. Time Out often lists happy hours, brunches, and set menus that offer great value
- Use the Time Out app for reservations, reviews, and exclusive deals
Conclusion: Your Next Culinary Adventure Starts with Time Out Dubai Restaurants
Dubai’s dining scene is as diverse as its skyline, and Time Out Dubai restaurants are the perfect guide to navigate it. From high end luxury meals to street food gems, there’s a restaurant for every taste, mood, and budget.
Whether you’re a lifelong foodie or a casual diner looking for your next favorite meal, trust Time Out Dubai to point you in the right direction.
So next time hunger strikes, don’t waste time scrolling endlessly. Bookmark this guide and explore the best of what Time Out Dubai restaurants have to offer.
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