40 Restaurants Love In The UAE

Here at What’s On, we believe we have the best jobs in the UAE. We get to dine at some of the coolest places in the country – and we get paid for it. Needless to say, we’ve discovered a few favourites along the way. To mark our 40th birthday, here are 40 restaurants in Dubai and Abu Dhabi that have found a special place in our hearts – and bellies. See if you agree...

01 Ruya

A shrug of the shoulders. That’s what you would have seen if you’d have asked me what Anatolian food was three years ago. Legendary chef Colin Clague fixed all that when he opened Ruya at the Grosvenor Hotel. It’s predominantly Turkish cuisine where highlights include the glorious cheese pide served with a runny egg, the beef steak lathered in a Turkish coffee rub, and the moreish simit-coated baby squid. In fact, that’s the beginning of my order right there…

ruyadubai.com

02 21 Grams

With Serbian native Stasha Toncev at the helm, there’s no need to question the authenticity of this brilliant Balkan café near Umm Suqeim park. Stop by for the komplet eggs – a free-range egg in homemade flatbread with cheese and beef jus, or dig into a selection of dips like the white bean hummus, red pepper relish or baked feta cheese. If you can tear your eyes away from your immaculate meal, look around, and appreciate the stunning interior design.

21grams.me

03 The Maine Oyster Bar & Grill

Spearheaded by top restaurateur Joey Ghazal and outfitted with a large shucking counter, it’s hardly a stretch to assume that this brasserie would focus on fresh seafood. While the menu isn’t without whole lobsters, seafood towers, and fresh oysters, there’s so much more to it than that. Surprising highlights including the brussels sprouts side dish, a stellar mushroom and truffle pizza, and the 48-hour short rib.

themaine.ae

04 STREETERY

One of Dubai’s best restaurants is this casual Asian food hall started by Nicky Ramchandani. Come for the piping-hot xiao long bao dumplings, which easily rival Din Tai Fung, and stay for extra portions of the honey-glazed scallion pancakes. q@streetery