Dubai is a city known for its luxurious lifestyle and world-class dining options. However, you don't need to break the bank to enjoy an incredible meal. We’ve gathered insights from some of Dubai’s top chefs to bring you the best budget restaurants in town. These culinary experts, who spend their days crafting exquisite dishes, know exactly where to go when they’re looking for a top-notch meal on a budget. Here’s a curated list of 32 restaurants that offer fantastic food at great value, as recommended by Dubai's finest chefs.
1. 3 Fils
- Recommended by: Craig Best (Sunset Hospitality Group) and Damien Duviau (Nobu Dubai)
- Location: Jumeirah Fishing Harbour
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Must-Order Dish: Otoro sushi with foie gras, African Powerhouse dessert
3 Fils is a hidden gem in Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, offering a laid-back environment with exceptional sushi and other creative dishes. The quality of the food here is incomparable, making it a favorite among chefs.
2. Allo Beirut
- Recommended by: Prashant Chipkar (Masti) and Fadi Naim (Couqley French Bistro & Bar)
- Location: Hessa Street
- Cuisine: Lebanese
- Must-Order Dish: Foul medames, shawarma
A go-to spot for authentic Lebanese street food, Allo Beirut serves consistently fresh and tasty dishes. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or enjoying a late-night meal, this place never disappoints.
3. Al Mallah
- Recommended by: Laura Said (Private Chef)
- Location: Satwa
- Cuisine: Lebanese
- Must-Order Dish: Shawarma, falafel
With more than 40 years of history, Al Mallah is an old-school Lebanese cafeteria known for its authentic street food. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone looking to experience Dubai’s culinary heritage.
4. Al Ustad Special Kabab
- Recommended by: Matthijs Stinnissen (Ennismore & 7Management) and Mostafa Chhoury (Iris Dubai)
- Location: Bur Dubai
- Cuisine: Iranian
- Must-Order Dish: Khorak barg, signature kebab
This long-standing Iranian restaurant is famous for its yoghurt-marinated chicken and mutton kebabs. With its affordable prices and flavorful dishes, it’s a beloved spot for many Dubai residents.
5. Betawi Café
- Recommended by: Kate Christou (LOWE)
- Location: Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT)
- Cuisine: Indonesian
- Must-Order Dish: Chilli crab
A family-run Indonesian restaurant, Betawi Café offers traditional dishes cooked with passion and authenticity. It’s a great place to enjoy spicy and flavorful Indonesian cuisine at reasonable prices.
6. Bombay Bungalow
- Recommended by: Grégoire Berger (Ossiano)
- Location: Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)
- Cuisine: Indian
- Must-Order Dish: Pani puri
Bombay Bungalow offers innovative and fun Indian dishes in a casual setting with stunning views of The Beach. It’s a great spot to explore the diverse flavors of Indian cuisine without breaking the bank.
7. Bosnian House
- Recommended by: Pawel Kazanowski (Zuma, Middle East and Turkey)
- Location: Al Barsha
- Cuisine: Bosnian
- Must-Order Dish: Bosnian kebab
This traditional Bosnian restaurant is one of the few places in Dubai where you can enjoy authentic Bosnian cuisine. The simple yet flavorful dishes, combined with a homely atmosphere, make it a favorite among those seeking comfort food.
8. Boston Lane
- Recommended by: Saradhi Dakara (New England Brasserie Company)
- Location: Al Quoz
- Cuisine: Australian
- Must-Order Dish: Turkish eggs
Boston Lane is a charming Aussie coffee shop nestled in the cool courtyard of Al Quoz. It’s a popular spot for breakfast, especially for those who appreciate soulful and simple dishes.
9. Bu Qtair
- Recommended by: João Filipe Martins Garcia (Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts)
-Location: Umm Suqeim
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Must-Order Dish: Freshly caught fish or prawns
Bu Qtair is a household name in Dubai, known for its affordable and fresh seafood dishes. The simplicity and flavor of the food make it a must-visit spot for seafood lovers.
10. Calicut Paragon
- Recommended by: Akmal Anuar (Goldfish Sushi & Yakitori and Osteria Funkcoolio)
- Location: Satwa
- Cuisine: Keralite
- Must-Order Dish: Appams, parathas
Located in the heart of Dubai’s “Curry Corridor,” Calicut Paragon is famed for its authentic Keralite dishes. It’s a budget-friendly spot that consistently delivers on taste and quality.
11. High Joint
- Recommended by: Luigi Vespero (Fairmont Hotels and Resorts)
- Location: Al Safa
- Cuisine: Burgers
- Must-Order Dish: The Smokey burger
High Joint is a small but wildly popular burger joint offering some of the best burgers in Dubai. With its fun atmosphere and delicious food, it’s a great place for a casual meal.
12. Homey Chinese Restaurant
- Recommended by: Giovanni Ledon (Akira Back)
- Location: JLT
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Must-Order Dish: Braised aubergine
This authentic Chinese restaurant in JLT serves Cantonese and Szechuan-style dishes at very affordable prices. It’s a favorite spot for those who love traditional Chinese cuisine
13. Jailbird
- Recommended by: Tom Arnel (EatX)
- Location: Al Quoz
- Cuisine: Fried Chicken
- Must-Order Dish: Nashville Sando
Jailbird is known for its incredible fried chicken, offering a range of flavors from truffle mayo to fiery Nashville spices. It’s a must-visit spot for fried chicken enthusiasts.
14. Khoori Special Kabab
- Recommended by: Solemann Haddad (Moonrise)
- Location: Bur Dubai
- Cuisine: Iranian
- Must-Order Dish: Loomi tikka
Khoori Special Kabab is famous for its perfectly grilled Iranian kebabs, seasoned with a secret blend of spices. It’s a great place to satisfy your carnivorous cravings.
15. Little Bali
- Recommended by: Reif Othman (Reif Japanese Kushiyaki)
- Location: JLT
- Cuisine: Indonesian
- Must-Order Dish: Ayam betutu
Little Bali offers authentic Indonesian dishes that are both flavorful and affordable. It’s a favorite spot for those seeking a taste of Asia in Dubai.
16. Mama’esh
- Recommended by: Colin Clague (Chef and Consultant)
- Location: Business Bay
- Cuisine: Palestinian
- Must-Order Dish: Manakeesh, wraps
Mama’esh is a homely bakery known for its delicious bread and manakeesh. With its fair prices and cozy atmosphere, it’s a perfect spot for a relaxed meal.
17. Maiz Tacos
- Recommended by: Alex Stumpf (BB Social Dining)
- Location: JLT and Dubai Hills
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Must-Order Dish: El Jefe taco
Maiz Tacos started as a food truck and quickly became a favorite among taco lovers. Its physical locations continue to serve up some of the best Mexican dishes in Dubai.
18. Maisan15
- Recommended by: Moritz Neumann (JW Marriott Marquis Dubai)
- Location: Al Barsha
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Must-Order Dish: Dips trio, Maisan tabouleh
Maisan15 is a quirky, hip spot that combines art and food in a laid-back setting. The Middle Eastern-inspired menu offers excellent value for money.
19. Masmat Baha Restaurant
- Recommended by: Hattem Mattar (Pitmaster and Restaurateur)
- Location: Al Barsha
- Cuisine: Egyptian
- Must-Order Dish: Mombar
Masmat Baha is an authentic Egyptian restaurant offering home-style dishes at unbeatable prices. It’s the perfect place for a taste of Egypt in Dubai.
20. Noodle Bowl
- Recommended by: Lily Hoa Nguyen (Vietnamese Foodies)
- Location: Satwa
- Cuisine: Malaysian
- Must-Order Dish: Laksa lemak
Noodle Bowl is a beloved noodle joint known for its generous portions and flavorful dishes. It’s a great spot for a casual and satisfying meal.
21. Ocean Basket
- Recommended by: Carmen Landsberg (Brunch & Cake)
- Location: Mirdif Mall
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Must-Order Dish: Seafood platter
Ocean Basket is a South African chain serving up fresh seafood in a casual setting. It’s a popular choice for those craving Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
22. Raju Omlet
- Recommended by: Luma Makhlouf (Maiz Tacos)
- Location: Al Karama
- Cuisine: Indian
- Must
-Order Dish: Tikka egg wraps
As the name suggests, Raju Omlet is all about eggs. From omelettes to egg curries, this place offers a wide variety of egg-centric dishes that are both delicious and affordable.
23. Saigon
- Recommended by: New Chaklang (Café Isan)
- Location: JLT
- Cuisine: Vietnamese
- Must-Order Dish: Banh xeo
Saigon is an authentic Vietnamese restaurant known for its fresh and light dishes. It’s a favorite among those who appreciate the delicate flavors of Vietnamese cuisine.
24. Sallet Al Sayed
- Recommended by: Stephen Flawith (Pickl)
- Location: Karama
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Must-Order Dish: Grilled shrimp with secret sauce
Sallet Al Sayed specializes in fresh seafood prepared in a simple, tasty way. It’s a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner in Karama.
25. Sticky Rice
- Recommended by: Nick Alvis (Executive Chef) and Andy Toh Chye Siong (Hakkasan Middle East)
- Location: Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)
- Cuisine: Thai
- Must-Order Dish: Chicken pad krapow
Sticky Rice is a family-run Thai restaurant known for its homely atmosphere and authentic dishes. It’s a popular spot for a taste of Thailand in Dubai.
26. Streetery Food Hall
- Recommended by: Urosh Mitrasinovic (Hospitality Consultant)
- Location: JLT
- Cuisine: Asian
- Must-Order Dish: Prawn curry with paratha
Streeter Food Hall offers a variety of Asian dishes in a market-style setting. It’s a great place to explore different flavors and cuisines at an affordable price.
27. Ravi Restaurant
- Recommended by Libor Dobis (ROKA)
- Location: Satwa
- Cuisine: Pakistani
- Must-Order Dish: Chicken peshawari, naan, roti
Ravi Restaurant is a Satwa institution, known for its pocket-friendly Pakistani dishes. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone looking for hearty, flavorful curries and biryanis.
28. Reif Japanese Kushiyaki
- Recommended by: Danilo Valla (Roberto’s)
- Location: Dar Wasl Mall, Jumeirah
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Must-Order Dish: 18-hour chicken ramen
Reif Japanese Kushiyaki is renowned for its delicious ramen and kushiyaki. It’s a great place for those who love Japanese street food without the fuss of fine dining.
29. Rossovivo Artisan Pizza
- Recommended by: Giuseppe Giampietro (GAL)
- Location: Business Bay
- Cuisine: Italian
- Must-Order Dish: Pizza Diavola
Rossovivo offers authentic Italian pizza with a variety of interesting toppings. It’s the perfect spot for those craving a taste of Italy in Dubai.
30. Texas Roadhouse
- Recommended by: Rifky Sadhakathullah (Dream Restaurant & Garden of Dream Dubai)
- Location: The Dubai Mall
- Cuisine: American
- Must-Order Dish: Smoked Buffalo wings
Texas Roadhouse is an all-American joint serving up hearty dishes in a casual setting. It’s a great place to refuel after a day of shopping.
31. Wokyo
- Recommended by: Jill Okkers (Tashas Group)
- Location: JLT
- Cuisine: Asian
- Must-Order Dish: Sapporo ramen
Wokyo is a casual noodle joint where you can build your own bowl with a variety of options. It’s a popular choice for a quick and satisfying meal.
32. Zagol
- Recommended by: Kelvin Cheung (Jun’s)
- Location: Karama
- Cuisine: Ethiopian
- Must-Order Dish: Beyaynet
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