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Food & Drink

Top Lebanese and Levantine restaurants in Dubai

Sun, June 12, 2022

Find the most authentic plates and new fusion favourites at these popular eateries in Dubai

Find the most authentic plates and new fusion favourites at these popular eateries in Dubai

1

Em Sherif Cafe

Em Sherif Café in Dubai

The Dubai outpost of this popular Beirut eatery has been winning accolades since it opened its doors. Its prime positioning, in the heart of Downtown Dubai, offers excellent sightseeing possibilities alongside superb Lebanese fare. Owner Mireille Hayek's recipes, from simple plates of hummus to more complicated concoctions, all have a stamp of authenticity. Its chic, minimal interiors and swift service are added bonuses.

2

Al Beiruti

Al Beiruti in Dubai

This popular Lebanese spot combines homely café culture with high-quality dishes. There’s a friendly vibe and all the dishes you’d expect are on the menu – and well-worth checking out – including zaatar hummus, meaty kibbeh, tasty manakish, Lebanese coffee and more. Definitely order the chicken shawarma while you’re there – one bite and you'll understand why there are always lines of people waiting for tables.

3

Orfali Bros Bistro

Jumeirah bistro Orfali Bros Dubai

It garnered the top spot at MENA's 50 Best Restaurants and while you'll find familiar flavours and ingredients at Orfali Bros Bistro, you won't recognise the incarnation they are presented in. Global influences permeate every dish though regional influences abound. Savour their take on Aleppo's sour cherry kebab, nutty muhammara and shish barak dumplings given a gyoza twist. Twoof the owners are noted pastry chefs so the sweet selection is noticeably elevated too.

4

Abd El Wahab

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Warm Lebanese hospitality is apparent at Abd El Wahab, named after the street where its original Beirut branch is located. Here in Dubai, diners have a choice of two venues with equally spectacular views. The Pier 7 outpost overlooks the yacht-filled Dubai Marina while the Souk Al Bahar spot has prime views of The Dubai Fountain and the Burj Khalifa. Expect all the usual favourites on the menu, plus traditional decor featuring brass ornaments, leather touches and intricate wall accents.

5

Al Nafoorah

Al Nafoorah

If you're looking for a restaurant that oozes Arabian Nights vibes then Al Nafoorah is the answer. From opulent Arabesque decor to traditional recipes and live music, this award-winning spot showcases chef Ali Fouad's delicious Lebanese food in a stunning setting. Perched waterside at Jumeirah Al Qasr hotel, you're sure to dine in luxury from the moment you take your seat at tables that surround the commanding olive tree centrepiece.

6

Al Mallah

al-mallahjpg

Considered something of an old-school Dubai institution, Al Mallah has been serving up casual street food style favourites – and more substantial Lebanese spreads – since it opened in Satwa in 1979. Their falafel and shawarmas are some of the best in the city, and don't forget to order a fresh fruit juice to accompany your very affordable feast. Al Mallah proved to be so popular that multiple branches have now sprouted up across the city. Another bonus is its late opening hours so it is ideal for satiating after-dark cravings.

7

Ibn AlBahr

Ibn Albahr Dubai

Putting the spotlight on the seafood aspect of Lebanese cuisine, Ibn AlBahr offers up fresh catches of the day, priced by the kilo, to its fans. Its pretty waterside location on Palm Jumeirah fits perfectly with its fish-based theme, with abundant mezze adding to the hearty mains. Pick what you want from the iced display, and specify how you'd like it cooked, before digging in. We suggest you also order the delicious cashew nut prawn curry.

8

Bait Maryam

Made in Dubai

There's a reason this is called the 'house of Maryam' – as the owner and chef's personal recipes are what makes this spot so special. Expect authentic recipes, executed with generosity and heart at this cosy little spot in the heart of Jumeirah Lakes Towers. From fattet to falafel, hummus to hearty stews, you'll be charmed by Maryam's signature dishes. There's a reason so many foodies make a bee-line to this Lebanese favourite, that feels like home.

9

Al Safadi

alsafadijpg

Dishes that taste like homemade food is the secret to Al Safadi's success. It has come a long way since it first opened on Deira's Rigga Road two decades ago, as it is now a fully-fledged chain with numerous outlets. You are guaranteed authentic plates, good-sized portions and wallet-friendly prices. Ideal for family get-togethers when you are hankering after Levantine favourites. Try their signature shish tawook chicken kebabs at The Pointe and other locations.

10

Wafi Gourmet

WAFI Gourmet

The fact that WAFI Gourmet is packed with Lebanese patrons eager to get a taste of home illustrates how good it is. Try more adventurous fare like kibbeh nayeh – a version of steak tartare – or tried-and-trusted favourites like mezze and meaty grills. You won't be disappointed in any of the plates, served with freshly-baked bread. Locals also stock up on their boxes of sweet treats and takeaway spices that add a touch of authenticity to meals at home.

11

Al Hallab

Al Hallab Restaurant Dubai
Head straight to Al Hallab for a taste of authentic Lebanese food and confectionery – some of the very best in Dubai. Greeting guests with a warm ambience, this hotspot is always bustling, day or night. It's the perfect choice for long, leisurely family lunches and casual dinners with friends, where those in the know always order the perfectly grilled shish tawook, falafel platter and creamy hummus. If you are keen to explore the much loved flavours of the region, there is no better place than Al Hallab.
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