Did you know that more than half of the UAE population consists of Indians? With Indians comprising a majority of the population, you can find several influences on India here. One of the major areas where there is a lot of Indian influence in the restaurants of the place. UAE, especially Dubai and Abu Dhabi, is home to several Indian restaurants that serve titillating Indian cuisines.
Indian cuisine cannot be restricted to a few basic ingredients or dishes. The cuisine of the place is as diverse as the nation. In Dubai, you would find restaurants with varieties of Indian dishes. From the aromatic dishes of the North to the spicy curries of the South, the Indian restaurants in Dubai have something for every Indian palate.
1. Delhi Darbar
If you want to enjoy a delicious spread of Punjabi dishes for a casual get-together with friends and family, Delhi Darbar is the perfect place for you. Simple in decor as well as in taste, Delhi Darbar is quite affordable. However, simple taste does not make the dishes any less authentic or lesser than one served in bigger restaurants. Right from the starters to the dessert, every course would give you something that you would not be able to forget. Apart from the North Indian dishes, the menu also has a small section for Chinese dishes. Some of the dishes you must try while eating at this restaurant are Chicken Tikka Masala, Butter Chicken, Palak Paneer, Malai Kofta, etc.
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2. Indego by Vineet
Indego is a restaurant that matches Dubai’s grandeur and opulence. Tastefully done, the interior of the place is elegant and appealing. Owned by Michelir star Chef Vineet Bhatia, this restaurant is located in the Grosvenor House Hotel at Dubai Marina. While the decor provides a stunning ambiance, the highlight of the place is surely the food served here. The food served here are some of the popular Indian dishes with a twist, which is the style of Chef Bhatia. This is the perfect place to be if you want to taste contemporary Indian cuisine. Some of the variety dishes from Indego’s menu are Burani Prawns, Black Gold, Kolhapuri Seabass, Rogan Lamb Shank, Edamame Koftas, Chicken Xacuti, Lamb Gucci Korma, Kerala Prawn Pulao, Tadka Boondi Dahi, etc.
3. Calicut Paragon
Calicut Paragon is a restaurant in Kerala, India, which is famous for its spiced, Malabar Biriyani. But now you do not have to travel to Kerala to taste this delicious dish. Located in the street food side in Karama, this is small joint perfect for those who want to spend time with family and friends while having a lovely meal. While the Malabar Biriyani is the most famed dish of this place, do try the soups, chutneys, sauces, salads, and starters offered by the place. Other than the chicken biriyani, the fish curry served here is also to die for. If you love spicy Indian food, Calicut Paragon is a place you would surely love.
4. House of Curry
If you are anywhere near JBR Walk in Dubai and have the sudden urge to have an Indian meal, head to House of Curry. The menu of this restaurant is influenced from all over India, right from East to West and North to South. The starters served by this restaurant include veg samosas, fish koliwada, mini prawns koliwada, assorted pakoras, stuffed mushroom, etc. There is also a whole range of salads, seafood curries and tandoor, mutton curries and tandoor, chicken curries and tandoor, vegetarian dishes, a variety of rice and breads, mouth-watering desserts, and numerous traditional and non-traditional drinks. Whatever you choose to eat, you would definitely return with a full stomach and a happy heart.
5. Aangan
Aangan is the ideal Indian restaurant in Dubai because it not only serves the most delicious food but also has the perfect Indian ambiance. Right from the furniture to the paintings and the overall decor, everything about Aangan screams India. Located in the Dhow Palace Hotel, the specialty of this place is the soulful Indian music played by the live music band of the restaurant. So while you listen to the beautiful Hindi songs, you can taste the most delicious Indian dishes like Dal Makhni, Masala Chicken, Tiger Prawns, Saffron, and Pistachio Kulfi, etc. Moreover, make sure that you go there with an empty stomach because the restaurant has an array of mouth-watering dishes that you must surely try.
6. Options by Sanjeev Kapoor
Owned by the famous Indian Chef Sanjeev Kapoor, Options is a restaurant that is opulent not only in its decor but also in the food that it serves. The luxury and hospitality that you find in this restaurant reflect that of the city of Dubai. The menu offers a wide range of Indian foods including appetizers, main courses, chef’s specials, and desserts. Other than this, the Bar offers an array of wines, cocktails, liquors, beers, mocktails, etc. Once you are done drinking and dining, you can relax with your friends at the Lounge where you can listen to some happening music. Option is a great place to hold events like wedding receptions, birthdays, anniversaries, business meetings, etc.
7. Dakshin
To get the authentic South Indian taste, head to Dakshin at Lotus Hotel which reflects South India to its core. Right from the decor to the ambiance, Dakshin is reminiscent of the southern side of India. While the yummy masala dosas, koondal porichathu, onion pakora, egg masala apam, etc. would satisfy your tummy, the classical music in the background would give you the whole South Indian effect. Overall, a must-visit for people who love veg South Indian dishes. On the other hand, the menu of Dakshin offers some luscious non vegetarian dishes too.
Some other Indian restaurants in Dubai that you should try are Amala, India Palace, Antique Bazaar, Ashiana, iZ, Zaika, Spice Lounge, etc. These are the places where you would find some of the popular things to eat in Dubai right now. Depending on your tastes and interests, you would find a restaurant that is perfect for you. The Indian restaurants in Dubai reflect India not only in their food but also in their decor and style while retaining the essence of Dubai.
8. Trèsind
Trèsind offers you an extraordinary Indian culinary experience with a modern twist. This spectacular fine-dining restaurant brings you exceptional flavors from the Indian Subcontinent and proudly calls itself the birthplace of ‘Innovative Indian cuisine.’ It overlooks the famous Sheikh Zayed Road and only serves twenty guests per dinner service. You will indeed be treated to warm hospitality, excellent service, and carefully curated appetizing food here.
9. Kinara by Vikas Khanna
Kinara is one of the most iconic restaurants of the acclaimed Michelin star chef – Vikas Khanna. You will be taken on a delightful gastronomical journey of senses and flavors. The restaurant plays homage to Indian home cooking with a contemporary twist. You will be surprised by the use of unique ingredients, and the menu also has plenty of options for vegetarians. Some of the must-try dishes include tandoori lemon salmon, dahi ke kebab, sesame-crusted scallops with a coconut mango sauce and brown butter, paneer with green mango reduction and kumquat ginger marmalade, and shakarkandi ki chaat, among others.
10. Farzi Cafe
Farzi Cafe is a popular chain in India specializing in taking Indian dishes and presenting them with a unique twist. The Dubai branch gives an exciting spin to the local dishes using molecular gastronomy and cutting-edge cooking techniques. Some of the popular dishes here include the shawarma biryani, dal chawal arancini, tempura fried prawns with lemon chili foam, mini-rolled pappadams deconstructed shepherd’s pie.
11. Bombay Brasserie
Located at the Taj Dubai, Bombay Brasserie combines elements of classic and contemporary Indian cooking. The ambiance is exceptionally vibrant and colorful and comes with a live open kitchen. The menu is inspired by street food in Bombay and presented with a lot of drama and innovation. One of the signature dishes is the Cochin lobster curry which is highly recommended. The botanical bar feature is a big hit with all the guests.
12. Khyber
Khyber is a multi-award-winning restaurant located in the plush neighborhood of Palm Jumeirah. The interiors are done up in warm earthy colors, rich tapestries, and ornate Mughal style. You can enjoy lip-smacking north Indian food at the restaurant or on the outdoor terrace while enjoying stunning views of the Dubai Marina. Khyber’s highly acclaimed cuisine has caught the fancy of international celebrities such as Demi Moore, Richard Gere, and Paul McCartney.
13. Gharana
Gharana takes you on a journey of India’s complete rich culture and heritage. You can relish some delicious Indian food and enjoy your dining experience along with entertainment such as ghazals, Bollywood music, and top-notch hospitality. A significant highlight of this place is the ‘Maharaja and Maharani tables’ that will make you feel like Royalty. You can select from various cuisines, including Rajasthani, Lucknowi, Punjabi, Hyderabadi, etc.
14. Armani Amal
Armani Amal brings you innovative regional Indian cuisine with authentic flavors. It boasts a carefully crafted menu that caters to both vegetarians and meat lovers. The menu features mouthwatering exotic curries, refreshing beverages, and signature teas. The floor-to-ceiling glass walls and soothing classical music adds to the fantastic ambiance and enhances your dining experience. Located in the imposing Burj Khalifa, you can enjoy a nice romantic dinner with your partner or a family dinner while enjoying stunning views of the Dubai Fountain.
15. Mint Leaf of London
Mint Leaf of London is one of the finest Indian restaurants with the original branch in London. It is divided between a private dining room, main dining room, a lounge area, open kitchen, and licensed bar and terrace. Located in the city’s trendiest area overlooking downtown Dubai and the majestic Burj Khalifa, the restaurant serves contemporary food with international influences. Classic Indian flavors are given a makeover to suit modern palates.
Conclusion
Along with these restaurants, you will also find some most amazing bars in Dubai that serve awesome drinks and food. So, the next time you are in Dubai looking to savor some delectable Indian food, you know where to head.
