A Trip to Dubai is often on the bucket list of many. But, even if you're a frequent visitor, you can't say no to some of the best local cuisines Dubai has to offer.
From vegetarian cuisines to non-veg delicacies, Dubai has a lot to offer to travelers with exotic taste buds.
So, what are only a few specific dishes you must try out of the hundreds of local delicacies? Well, we love to prioritize, and here are the top mouth-watering delicacies you must try once you're in Dubai.
7 Best Dubai Cuisines to Try From
We have only the best recommendations, with just seven cuisines to choose your favorite from. I loved tasting Al Machboos. Let me know what's your favorite.
1. Manousheh
You just arrived in Dubai and want to try out a fulfilling appetizer. Say no more. Manousheh, the local Pizza of Dubai, is just the perfect thing you must try out.
It's a popular Levantine flatbread dish that's often referred to as the Pizza of Dubai. Yes, no kidding. It's got a preparation process that's similar to how you prepare pizza.
The locals also consume it like you consume pizza. It's a dough-based food topped with cheese, za'atar, or meat. It's a good choice for breakfast, brunch, or even lunch.
Fun fact: it's a popular local street food you'll find on almost every corner of Dubai streets. So, there is no need to look around too much.
2. Iranian Sangak
Are you in the mood for something authentically Persian? Well, try the Iranian Sangak. It's flatbread. But what makes it interesting is the preparation process. They bake these flatbreads on top of a bed of pebbles prepared on top of their special oven.
The baking process of Sangak gives it a unique texture and flavor that's irresistibly mouth-watering. In fact, it's a popular choice among Dubai citizens when they're in the mood for Persian cuisine.
On top of that, if you want, there's a gluten-free option. So, if you're a health-conscious nomad, you'll enjoy these once you're in Dubai.
3. Chelo Kebab
Chelo Kebab is a Dubai cuisine consisting of grilled kebabs and steamed rice. Keeping fulfilling appetizers like Manousheh aside, when you want something heavy, this is a go-to cuisine you must try.
This dish is quite popular among Indians visiting Dubai. Bot, what's Chelo Keban anyway? Well, it's Basmati rice with the irresistible aroma of saffron coming from it, along with juicy kebabs.
Chelo kebab is a Dubai classic. This scrumptious non-veg dish must be on the list of top Dubai cuisines.
4. Al Harees
Here comes Dubai's tradition of being served hot to those who love mouth-watering non-veg items for dinner or lunch.
Al Harees is a cuisine consisting of wheat, meat, and a little bit of salt. Well, that's the oversimplification of masterful baking it requires to prepare this delicacy. If you're visiting Dubai during Ramadan, Eid festival, or attending a wedding, you're likely to encounter this Dubai cuisine.
In fact, this staple for festivals and unions is a sign of their hospitality. Go ahead and ask a local where to find Al Harees. You'll be amazed at what awaits you.
5. Al Machboos
I was contacting different private jet companies in dubai during my business trip to Dubai last year. Although I tried the most common local delicacies already, I forgot to taste Al Machboos.
However, as the last dish I tasted there, Al Machboos was surely the best cuisine saved for last.
It's cooked simply. But, the combination of onions, rice, meat seasoned with different spices, and dried lemon, Al Machboos never disappoints anyone. Don't get discouraged by its simple look. With the zesty flavor it has, Al Machboos can surprise you. As you dig in, don't forget to take their raita and salad on the side.
6. Mandi
A Dubai traditional cuisine that's a treat to your mouth! Well, I think you're talking about Mandi. It's a mix of rice and meat with different spices.
The surprising thing about this cuisine is that it tastes nothing like ordinary cuisine.
The cuisine takes a very thorough and lengthy preparation. The meat and the chicken must go on the stove for long enough to be ready to serve hot. It's a traditional platter you'll find in the old city of Dubai.
7. Kousa Mahshi
Not all fun should be for non-veg lovers, right? There are some great veg Dubai cuisines to try, and Kousa Manshi is just the dish you're looking for if you want to try out Zucchini.
A Lebanese stuffed Zucchini, Kousa Manshi is a popular dish in the Middle East. It's also a widely loved and admired dish in Dubai.
It features Zucchini that's hollowed out so that a mixture of rice, meat, and different species can go in. Then, they simmer it in a broth based on tomato sauce. '
You'll love the flavor and aroma of this vegetarian dish. Yes, you'll get it as a main course. But, sometimes, it's also often part of a larger Middle Eastern meal.
Blending Cultures in Cuisines!
Dubai has been blending different cultures in its cuisines. From Middle Eastern to Indian, Persian, and Asian influences, Dubai has made many dishes of its own. But this blend and adoption only goes to show the heartwarming hospitality the locals can extend.
Once you visit the streets of Dubai, don't forget to taste the cuisines we've mentioned in this article. Also, try shawarma, falafel, and hummus. I'm sure you'll love them.
