Experience Dubai’s best Emirati-owned restaurants, the ones that have defined Dubai’s culinary scene and continue to be on the ‘must-visit’ list for visitors and residents alike.
With a plethora of home-grown talent, businesses and concepts in the city, we showcase some of the most-loved Emirati-owned restaurants that can be experienced by foodies all year round. From caviar covered sushi to authentic homely flavours, this homegrown list has the perfect weekend treats to indulge in.
3 Fils
3 Fils used to be a hidden gem that was neatly tucked away at Jumeirah Fishing Harbour. However, after achieving a sought-after spot on the MENA 50 Best Collection list, this delightful little spot is packed with customers that keep coming back for more. 3 Fils is the brainchild of enthusiastic Emirati co-founders Abdulhakim and Adnan Ali, with Singapore-born chef Akmal Anuar being the creator behind all the magnificent dishes. Together they cooked up a strategy that has won hearts and awards, with Asian inspired dishes that include Hokkaido scallops, wagyu truffle burger, spicy beef tartar and volcano salmon rolls.
Where to find it: Shop 02, Fishing Harbour, JUMEIRAH 1. Dubai.
Mitts & Trays
Known as the first Emirati female to ever own her own restaurant, Amna Al Hashemi founded Mitts & Trays by blending traditional and modern styles to create gourmet quality cooking with a homely approach. This menu takes care of breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, for an all-day dining experience that uses locally sourced ingredients. With an array of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options, the menu truly caters for all kinds of cravings, supplying creamy pasta, fresh salads and sandwiches, grilled chicken and seared seabass, soups and desserts.
Where to find it: Bluewaters Island/ City Walk Phase 2/ Dubai Hills Mall
Mamafri
Co-founded by cousins Rashed Belhoul and Saif Al Romaithi, Mamafri was created from their joint passion for Asian cuisine. It started as a tiny restaurant with just five tables, growing and expanding with additional branches over the past two years. Now, this Dubai-born concept is famed for its upscale South-East Asian cuisine and is designed with neutral tones and natural materials for a relaxing and soothing ambience. The Asian menu includes dishes such as hoisin chicken bao buns, katsu ramen, Malaysian vegetable curry and parmesan fries.
Where to find it: Jumeirah 3, Beach Road/ Gate Avenue, DIFCi.
Menagerie Eatery
A wholesome eatery created by Hind Bin Dhaher and led by a team who are passionate about nutrition, health and wellness, Menagerie Eatery is known for its shockingly delicious take on nutritious food. This menu has a range of beautifully presented dishes; expect to experience wild mushroom & artichoke flatbread, salmon with chermoula, buckwheat pancakes and our personal favourite rainbow chia parfait. The parfait consists of colourful layers infused with homemade almond milk chia pudding, probiotic-rich homemade cashew yoghurt, tahini mango turmeric custard, and seasonal berry mousse topped with gluten-free, sugar-free gingerbread granola! Oh my!
Where to find it: Mirdif 45 mall
