Dubai, a city known for its luxury and modernity, is also a haven for food lovers, especially those who enjoy the vibrant and aromatic flavors of Indian cuisine. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, Dubai offers an extensive range of Indian restaurants that cater to various tastes and budgets. From classic North Indian dishes to South Indian specialties, here are the top 10 Indian restaurants in Dubai that will leave your taste buds craving for more.
1. Kashkan Restaurants – Dubai Festival City
Traditional Indian Cuisine with a Homely Touch
Kashkan Restaurants, with locations in Dubai Festival City, offers a warm and inviting atmosphere combined with authentic Indian flavors. Known for its homestyle cooking and traditional recipes, Kashkan focuses on providing comfort food that resonates with the soul. The restaurant is perfect for both family gatherings and casual dining, and its menu offers a delightful range of Indian delicacies.
Signature Dishes:
Paneer Tikka: Marinated paneer grilled to perfection, a perfect vegetarian starter.
Kashmir Rogan Josh: A rich and aromatic lamb curry, featuring authentic Kashmiri spices.
Masala Dosa: A crispy, savory South Indian pancake filled with spiced potatoes.
Kashkan Restaurants pride themselves on creating a family-friendly environment while delivering authentic Indian flavors with every dish. Whether you’re craving North Indian or South Indian classics, Kashkan delivers an experience that feels like home.
2. Biryani Street – Business Bay
For the Love of Biryani
If you’re a biryani enthusiast, Biryani Street is the place to be. Located in Business Bay, this vibrant eatery specializes in different varieties of biryani, showcasing the rich diversity of Indian rice dishes. The restaurant’s modern, yet cozy decor sets the perfect atmosphere for a relaxed meal with friends and family.
Signature Dishes:
Hyderabadi Dum Biryani: Rich, fragrant, and layered with flavors, it’s a true classic.
Lucknowi Awadhi Biryani: For a taste of North India’s finest biryani, this dish is a must.
Biryani Street is a fantastic place for casual dining and exploring different biryani styles from across India.
3. Indego by Vineet – Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina
A Michelin Star Experience
Indego by Vineet is one of Dubai’s most renowned fine-dining Indian restaurants, located in the luxurious Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina. With a Michelin star under its belt, this restaurant offers a modern and innovative take on traditional Indian cuisine. Chef Vineet Bhatia’s artistry in food presentation and his ability to infuse new techniques into Indian cooking makes this one of the top choices for food connoisseurs.
Signature Dishes:
Tandoori Lobster: A deliciously smoky, flavorful lobster, cooked to perfection in the tandoor.
Pani Puri Trio: A modern twist on the traditional street food, served with unique fillings and flavored waters.
Indego provides a sophisticated dining experience that combines innovation with tradition, making it perfect for special occasions.
4. Rang Mahal – JW Marriott Marquis Hotel
Traditional Indian Flavors with a Contemporary Twist
Located at the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel, Rang Mahal offers a blend of traditional Indian flavors and contemporary dining. The restaurant’s sophisticated decor, with its mix of opulent gold and soft lighting, creates the perfect backdrop for a memorable meal. The chefs at Rang Mahal focus on using high-quality ingredients and authentic Indian spices to create dishes that are both flavorful and visually stunning.
Signature Dishes:
Paneer Lababdar: A rich, creamy paneer dish with a spicy gravy, perfect for vegetarians.
Butter Chicken: A classic, made with a velvety tomato-based sauce that will melt in your mouth.
Rang Mahal is a great choice for those looking to enjoy Indian classics in an elegant setting.
5. The Bombay Canteen – Downtown Dubai
Bringing Mumbai to Dubai
The Bombay Canteen brings the spirit of Mumbai street food to Dubai. Known for its creative interpretations of traditional Indian dishes, this restaurant focuses on fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a modern presentation. The laid-back ambiance makes it perfect for casual dinners, while the extensive menu ensures there’s something for everyone.
Signature Dishes:
Vada Pav: A Mumbai street food staple, served with spicy chutneys and crispy potato fritters.
Goan Prawn Curry: A tangy, coconut-based curry with succulent prawns.
The Bombay Canteen is the place to experience the hustle and bustle of Mumbai, served on a plate in Dubai.
6. Amala – Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
Royal Mughlai Dining Experience
If you’re looking for a royal Mughlai dining experience, look no further than Amala, located in the opulent Jumeirah Zabeel Saray. The elegant decor, with its intricate designs and luxurious finishes, provides the perfect setting for enjoying hearty Mughlai and North Indian cuisine. Amala’s refined menu and exceptional service make it one of the most sought-after Indian restaurants in Dubai.
Signature Dishes:
Lamb Shank Nihari: Tender lamb slow-cooked in a rich, spiced gravy.
Tandoori Murgh: Chicken marinated with yogurt and spices, then cooked in the tandoor.
Amala promises an experience that transports you to the royal courts of India.
7. Tresind – Burj Khalifa Area
Contemporary Indian Cuisine
Tresind is a trendy, modern Indian restaurant located near the iconic Burj Khalifa. Known for its creative approach to Indian cuisine, Tresind offers an avant-garde menu where traditional flavors meet cutting-edge culinary techniques. The restaurant’s sleek design and sophisticated atmosphere provide the perfect setting for a chic dining experience.
Signature Dishes:
Kasturi Tikka: Tender chicken marinated with spices and cooked in a traditional tandoor.
Molecular Chaat: A playful and experimental take on the classic Indian snack.
Tresind is a must-visit for food lovers who want to experience Indian cuisine with a contemporary twist.
8. Gharana – Dubai Creek
A Symphony of Flavors
Gharana, located in the beautiful Dubai Creek, offers a sophisticated dining experience with a strong focus on North Indian and Mughlai dishes. The restaurant’s decor is inspired by Indian heritage, with ornate details and an elegant ambiance. The extensive menu features a wide variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, all prepared with fresh ingredients and authentic spices.
Signature Dishes:
Raan-E-Gharana: A slow-cooked leg of lamb served with fragrant rice.
Tandoori Prawns: Prawns marinated in a blend of spices and cooked in the tandoor.
For a taste of true Indian royalty, Gharana is an excellent choice.
9. Saffron – Atlantis The Palm
A Seafood Lover’s Paradise
Located in the luxurious Atlantis The Palm, Saffron offers an all-you-can-eat buffet with an extensive selection of Indian dishes. Known for its seafood options, Saffron ensures that every guest experiences the rich and diverse culinary heritage of India. The ambiance is bright, lively, and perfect for group gatherings or family meals.
Signature Dishes:
Seafood Biryani: A flavorful biryani made with fresh seafood, rich in spices.
Lobster Masala: Lobster cooked in a rich, tangy masala sauce.
Saffron provides a relaxed yet indulgent dining experience with a wide variety of Indian flavors.
10. Al Nafoorah – Jumeirah Emirates Towers
A Royal Experience of Lebanese and Indian Fusion
Al Nafoorah, located in the heart of Dubai at Jumeirah Emirates Towers, offers an extraordinary dining experience combining Lebanese and Indian flavors. This restaurant is famous for its luxurious ambiance and high-end service. Offering a stunning view of the Dubai skyline, the restaurant provides a unique fusion menu, blending authentic Indian spices with Lebanese flair.
Signature Dishes:
Mutton Rogan Josh: A rich, flavorful curry with tender mutton cooked in a blend of spices.
Shahi Murgh Korma: Creamy and aromatic, this dish is a must-try for fans of Mughlai cuisine.
The ambiance, along with the excellent food, makes Al Nafoorah a popular destination for anyone craving premium Indian cuisine in Dubai.
Conclusion
Dubai’s culinary scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself, and the Indian restaurants listed above represent the best of what the city has to offer. Whether you’re craving a luxurious dining experience, a laid-back family meal, or an adventurous take on Indian street food, these restaurants promise a feast for your senses. Each of these eateries brings something unique to the table, allowing you to explore the rich and diverse flavors of Indian cuisine right in the heart of Dubai.
So, whether you’re a local or a visitor, don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in these gastronomic delights on your next trip to Dubai!
