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Al Shindagha. © Waleed Shah. Image courtesy the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.
Cultural food tours of Old Dubai
By Michael Webster
Briefly …
A cultural food tour of Old Dubai is a journey through the city’s oldest neighbourhoods, where flavours shaped by centuries of trade tell stories far richer than any skyline. This is Dubai at its most authentic … and best explored one bite at a time.
Embarking on a cultural food tour of Old Dubai has been recognised as one of Lonely Planet’s ‘Best in Travel’ experiences for 2026, spotlighting Dubai’s diverse and unique culinary scene. A city built upon heritage and traditions, Dubai is home to a variety of gastronomical experiences appealing to all budgets and preferences, influenced by the tastes of nearly 200 nationalities represented within its resident population.
In Dubai’s oldest neighbourhoods such as Bur Dubai and Deira, located along the historic Dubai Creek, restaurants favour local ingredients, value, and authenticity, making a food tour a must-do activity for residents and visitors alike.
Outdoor café seating along the historic Dubai Creek. Photographer: Kate Trysh | Unsplash.
“Our Best in Travel list for 2026 seeks out the top experiences that will stay with visitors long after they’ve returned home,” Tom Hall, Vice President of Lonely Planet, told The Solo Traveller. “Taking a cultural food tour of Old Dubai is the perfect example of this. Strolling through Dubai’s oldest neighbourhoods on a food and drink themed walking tour offers an insight into a historic side of Dubai, revealing what our writer describes as ‘a rich tapestry of flavours shaping the diverse cuisine scene that defines the city today’. We’re always looking to offer surprising and authentic experiences in the world’s top destinations, and there’s no doubt that eating, drinking and exploring your way through historic neighbourhoods and souks set along Dubai Creek is the perfect way to do that.”
Dining in Dubai. Photographer: Louie Alma.
Where to eat in Bur Dubai
One of Dubai's most historical and cultural districts, Bur Dubai features the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood with traditional architecture and museums, and the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) for cultural immersion.
Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant A restaurant and museum, Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant reflects the city’s rich culinary heritage and holds a Michelin Bib Gourmand (a Michelin Guide distinction for restaurants offering high-quality food at great value). The restaurant serves dishes that have a particular focus on Emirati flavours and culinary practices. Recommended: lamb machboos – lamb pieces marinated with Emirati machboos spices (most notably dried black limes [loomi], cardamom, and cinnamon), with saffron rice.
Al Ustad Special Kabab One of Dubai’s oldest restaurants, Al Ustad Special Kabab is known for its authentic Persian cuisine with generous portion sizes and incredible flavours. Recommended: kabab khas – special kebab chicken or mutton marinated in yogurt and barbecued.
Arabian Tea House. © The Cool Box Studio. Image courtesy the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.
Arabian Tea House Serving authentic Emirati and Arabic cuisine since 1997, diners can enjoy traditional dishes as well as many varieties of tea and drinks. With a setting reminiscent of an old Arabian home, the venue is not just a food destination, but also a key point of interest for people visiting the emirate. Recommended: biryani deyay/laham – fresh chicken or lamb cooked with rice and aromatic Gulf spices served with yoghurt.
Bayt Al Wakeel. Image courtesy the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.
Bayt Al Wakeel One of the country's oldest establishments (it opened in 1935), Bayt Al Wakeel on Dubai Creek provides stunning views while serving up authentic Arabic cuisine. Recommended: grilled hammour – white fish marinated and served with fries and vegetables.
Bhavna Vegetarian Delux Restaurant Having recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, Bhavna is long regarded as a gem of Old Dubai’s culinary scene. Serving Gujarati vegetarian fare, this quaint restaurant is the place to go for comfort food. Recommended: pani puri – hollow, crispy semolina or wheat shells filled with a mixture of spiced mashed potatoes, chickpeas, and tangy tamarind chutney.
Karachi Darbar This popular Pakistani restaurant is known for its authentic cuisine, including biryanis and tandooris. Recommended: Peshawari chicken karahi – served with coriander seeds, a rich tomato base, and green chili peppers, cilantro, and ginger.
Local House Restaurant A longtime favourite for residents and visitors alike, Local House has a menu featuring Emirati flavours and a range of seafood, starters, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and desserts, including camel ice cream. Recommended: camel burger – camel patty served in bun.
Mazmi Coffee & More Coffee is a central part of Dubai’s DNA and at Mazmi Coffee & More visitors experience the classic beverage with stunning views of Dubai Creek. Recommended: Arabic coffee infused with cardamom. Homemade ice creams featuring popular Gulf flavours including pistachio, dates, and saffron.
Nihal Restaurant Tucked into Meena Bazaar, Nihal Restaurant is a humble, beloved spot known for its hand-made parathas (flaky and layered unleavened flatbread). Recommended: koki paratha – a crisp, onion-studded variant enjoyed with a bowl of lentil daal and spicy pickles.
Pakora Lane – Hamad Khalfan Al Dalil and Al Shaab With a name coined by enthusiast street food lovers, Pakora Lane in Souk Al Kabeer consists of two Kerala eateries serving up a variety of deep-fried snacks. A necessary stop on any Old Dubai food tour, the alleyway is perfect for those seeking traditional and delicious food ideal to refuel on the go. Recommended: pakora – deep fried vegetable fritters.
Sangeetha Vegetarian Restaurant The south Indian eatery is the place to enjoy an array of traditional vegetarian dishes, packed with flavours in a casual but homely atmosphere. Recommended: dosa – a thin, savoury crepe which makes a great breakfast with coffee.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) At this popular centre in Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, visitors can enjoy cultural meals while learning about the UAE’s history and traditions through interactions with local hosts.
Sreeraj Lassi The experts in India’s favourite yoghurt based drink lassi, Sreeraj Lassi features a wide range of flavours and have perfected its offering since setting up in Bur Dubai from Bangalore in 1973. Recommended: matka lassi – yoghurt served in an earthenware pot.
Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Photographer: Zosia Szopka | Unsplash.
Where to eat in Deira
Located on the northern side of the Creek, Deira is one of the oldest parts of Dubai. Here, visitors can find everything from fine dining to affordable and delicious street food. Deira is also home to some of the city’s souks.
Al Bait Al Qadeem Located near the Gold Souk, Al Bait Al Qadeem offers authentic Arabic cuisine in a setting reminiscent of an old Arabian home. Recommended: shawarma – featuring thinly sliced meat wrapped in traditional khubz bread.
Al-Karmel Somali Restaurant A casual spot that brings authentic Somali flavours to Old Dubai. Recommended: Somali suqaar – tender cubed beef or lamb sautéed with onions, peppers, and aromatic spices.
Al Samadi Sweets Delicious Arabic desserts and treats. Recommended: ma’amoul – spiced date cookie.
Aroos Damascus Restaurant For Syrian delicacies, Aroos Damascus is popular with residents and visitors alike. Recommended: kebab orfali – meatball-style kebab served with rice.
Bait Al Mandi Follow in the footsteps of the late chef Anthony Bourdain and pay a visit to Bait Al Mandi. Recommended: mutton mandi – rice and mutton.
Delhi Restaurant Delighting diners since 1978 with its hearty North Indian and Pakistani fare, Delhi Restaurant is a go-to for authentic, flavour-packed meals. Recommended: beef nihari – slow-cooked to tender perfection in aromatic spices.
Falafel Ala Kaifak Offers a casual, street-food vibe that makes it a perfect stop for quick lunch or evening snack. Recommended: falafel – paired with hummus or spicy pepper sauce and served in warm pita with tahini, pickles, and crisp vegetables.
Jafer Biman Ali Cafeteria Located in the Spice Souk, and open for more than 65 years, Jafer Biman Ali Cafeteria is the perfect stop to grab a juice or a bite before browsing the spice stalls. Recommended: falooda – a popular ice cream dessert.
Kabab Erbil Iraqi Restaurant A taste of Iraqi cuisine with gracious hospitality. Recommended: masgouf – grilled river fish seasoned with tamarind and spices served with rice, fresh salad, and bread.
Sadaf Restaurant This beloved Persian establishment has served generations while staying true to its roots. From signature kebabs to flavourful desserts, Sadaf Restaurant is a must on any food tour. Recommended: falooda – cold dessert made with vermicelli.
Whether you opt for an organised tour with a certified guide, or choose to build your own itinerary, the experience not only entails culinary treasures, but also a journey through the heart of Dubai’s cultural centre.
Michael Webster is The Solo Traveller’s International Community Development Lead. This feature includes information provided by international news agencies and public relations representatives, published here with editorial oversight. You can read The Solo Traveller’s editorial policy regarding external sources here.