Top 10 Indian Restaurants in Dubai
Top 10 Indian Restaurants in Dubai
Dubai is a city of dreams, luxury, and diversity. With over 3 million residents from across the globe, its culinary landscape reflects a melting pot of cultures — and Indian cuisine has always had a strong presence.
Top 10 Indian Restaurants in Dubai
Whether you’re a local foodie or a tourist craving a taste of home, Dubai boasts an incredible selection of Indian restaurants to satisfy every craving. To begin with, the city offers everything from humble street food stalls to high-end Michelin-starred establishments. For instance, you can savor crispy pani puri at bustling casual eateries or indulge in refined butter chicken at award-winning fine-dining venues. Moreover, the diversity of regional cuisines—from fiery Andhra curries to delicate Kashmiri wazwan—ensures there’s always something new to discover.
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Beyond authenticity, many restaurants innovate with modern twists, blending traditional spices with global techniques. In addition, Dubai’s Indian dining scene caters to all budgets, meaning you can enjoy a lavish thali one night and affordable biryani the next. Most importantly, the warm hospitality and vibrant atmospheres at these spots make every meal memorable. Ultimately, whether you seek nostalgia or novelty, Dubai’s Indian restaurants promise an unforgettable culinary journey.
This Top 10 Indian Restaurants in Dubai guide explores the top 10 Indian restaurants in Dubai, covering their specialties, ambiance, pricing, and must-try dishes. So let’s dive in to the spicy, aromatic world of Indian flavors in the heart of the UAE!
Location: Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai Marina
Cuisine Style: Modern Indian Fusion
Chef: Vineet Bhatia – the first Indian chef to receive a Michelin star.
Overview:
Indya by Vineet is a colourful and vibrant restaurant that masterfully blends the energy of Indian street food with the elegance of fine dining. Right from the moment you step inside, the interiors immediately captivate with a burst of colours, featuring kitschy décor, bold graffiti art, and playful Bollywood-style neon signs. Together, these elements create an immersive atmosphere that celebrates India’s chaotic charm. Furthermore, beyond the visuals, the menu elevates street-food classics with gourmet techniques. For instance, their signature chaat is reimagined with delicate edible flowers and artisanal chutneys. In addition, the lively ambiance, paired with attentive service, ensures a dining experience that’s as memorable as it is Instagram-worthy. Ultimately, Indya by Vineet isn’t just a meal; it’s a jubilant tribute to India’s culinary and cultural spirit.
Signature Dishes:
- Beetroot & Peanut Tikki with Chilli Mango Salsa
- Spicy Chaat Trolley Experience
- Tandoori Lamb Chops with Smoked Paprika
- Coconut Prawns with Curry Leaf Foam
Why Visit?
Chef Vineet’s creative take on traditional recipes makes this place a must-visit for foodies. Furthermore, the service is impeccable, and each dish tells a story of heritage with a twist.
Location: The Beach, JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence)
Cuisine Style: Coastal Indian with a Modern Touch
Overview:
Bombay Bungalow masterfully blends rustic Indian flavours with breezy, seaside elegance. Meanwhile nestled along the Persian Gulf, the restaurant welcomes guests with its charming blend of coastal tranquillity and vibrant Indian hospitality.
Step inside, and you’ll find cozy, earth-toned interiors adorned with vintage Bollywood posters and handwoven textiles—a nostalgic nod to India’s countryside. Meanwhile, the outdoor terrace, with its swaying palms and uninterrupted Gulf views, offers a serene escape under the stars.
Top 10 Indian Restaurants in Dubai
When it comes to the menu, expect hearty, homestyle dishes with a coastal twist—think spicy Goan prawn curry served with fluffy appams or creamy paneer tikka kissed by the grill. For brunch, their thali platters and masala chai French toast are crowd favorites, ideal for sharing with family. As the sun sets, the space transforms into an intimate retreat, where the sound of waves complements the aroma of sizzling tandoori spices. Ultimately, Bombay Bungalow strikes the perfect balance—casual yet refined, nostalgic yet fresh—making it ideal for everything from romantic dinners to leisurely weekend gatherings. In essence, it offers a versatile dining experience that caters to every mood and occasion.
Signature Dishes:
- Biryani Arancini Balls
- Butter Chicken Bao
- Goan Prawn Curry
- Jalebi Cheesecake
Why Visit?
It’s ideal for beach lovers who want a relaxed atmosphere and creative Indian cuisine with a view. The fusion desserts here are particularly famous.
- Masti – Cocktails & Cuisine
Location: The Dubai Edition Hotel, Downtown Dubai
Cuisine Style: Contemporary Indian Tapas
Overview:
Masti – where culinary playfulness meets global sophistication, truly embodying its Hindi namesake. Right from the moment you arrive, the restaurant sets a tone of whimsical elegance, with bold neon art, jewel-toned velvet lounges, and dramatic pendant lights casting a sultry glow over the space. Together, these elements create an atmosphere that feels both inviting and stylish, ensuring a unique dining experience from start to finish.
At the bar, mixologists shake up inventive cocktails like the “Masala Mule” with turmeric-infused vodka, while in the dining room, chefs present dishes that blur borders—imagine deconstructed samosas with harissa aioli or lamb kofta paired with tzatziki foam. What makes Masti special is its refusal to take itself too seriously: even the plating (think edible “confetti” made of pomegranate powder or gold-dusted gulab jamun) invites guests to snap a photo before digging in.
As the night progresses, the energy shifts seamlessly from after-work cocktails to a vibrant dinner scene, with a soundtrack of global beats tying it all together. By the time dessert arrives—perhaps a saffron panna cotta with cardamom soil—you’ll realize Masti’s genius: it’s a place where Mumbai’s street food spirit, Dubai’s glamour, and Mediterranean ease collide, leaving you grinning as widely as your Instagram followers. In essence, Masti effortlessly combines diverse influences to create a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Signature Dishes:
- Burrata with Tandoori Tomato Jam
- Pulled Lamb Roganjosh Tacos
- Black Bass Ceviche with Tamarind
- Truffle Kulcha
Why Visit?
If you’re looking for a vibrant, upscale spot for dinner with friends or a date night, Masti’s energetic vibe and bold dishes will not disappoint.
- Gazebo
Location: Multiple branches – including DIFC, BurJuman, Al Ghurair
Cuisine Style: Mughlai & Awadhi (North Indian)
Overview:
Gazebo reigns as Dubai’s beloved jewel of North Indian cuisine, where every detail—from the ornate Mughal arches to the fragrant steam rising from copper handis—effortlessly transports diners to the opulent era of Nawabi feasts. As you settle in, the plush velvet banquettes embrace you in comfort, while the ambiance gently whispers old-world grandeur. Meanwhile, intricate jaali work filters golden light across walls adorned with miniature paintings of royal hunts. Altogether, the experience is a seamless blend of regal charm and culinary excellence.
In the kitchen, generations of culinary wisdom bubble away – witness the dum pukht process where biryanis slow-cook in sealed dough vessels, or the rhythmic slapping of kulcha dough against tandoor walls. Your feast might begin with melt-in-the-mouth galouti kebabs (once reserved for toothless kings), crescendo to a rich, almond-laced korma, and climax with phirni so delicately spiced it feels like edible poetry.
What cements Gazebo’s legacy isn’t just authenticity, but consistency – whether you’re a homesick Delhiite craving that perfect dal makhani bite or a curious foodie exploring Lucknow’s royal cuisine, each dish arrives as an heirloom recipe untouched by time. As the last morsel vanishes, you’ll understand why this remains the benchmark for North Indian dining in Dubai – where history isn’t just served, but celebrated.
Signature Dishes:
- Dum Pukht Biryani
- Murg Mussallam
- Nihari Gosht
- Kesar Phirni
Why Visit?
Known for its slow-cooked biryanis and creamy curries, Gazebo is great for family meals and traditional dinners. Consistency and flavor are their strongest points.
- Avatara
Top 10 Indian Restaurants in Dubai
Location: Voco Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road
Cuisine Style: Modern Indian Vegetarian Fine Dining
Michelin Starred
Overview:
Breaking new ground as Dubai’s first Michelin-starred Indian vegetarian restaurant, Additionally, Avatara redefines plant-based dining through Chef Rahul Rana’s visionary approach. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a serene, minimalist space where floating brass vessels and organic textures beautifully mirror the restaurant’s philosophy of purity and balance. Moreover, the calming ambiance sets the tone for an elevated culinary experience.
At the chef’s counter, Rana’s seasonal tasting menus unfold like edible poetry—each course presenting a harmonious interplay of Ayurvedic wisdom and modernist technique. At one moment, you’re savoring a deconstructed paniyaram (fermented lentil dumplings) with coconut foam; the next, you’re indulging in jackfruit “tandoori” paired with charcoal-infused chutney powder. In essence, every bite reflects a thoughtful journey through tradition, innovation, and mindful artistry.
Particularly remarkable is how ancestral techniques like stone-grinding and slow fermentation elevate every component.
Beyond innovation, what makes Avatara extraordinary is its spiritual connection to food – where a humble sprouted moong bean receives the same reverence as truffles. By the final course (perhaps a saffron-phyllo interpretation of shrikhand), diners realize this isn’t just dining, but a transformative experience that honors India’s timeless vegetarian heritage while propelling it into the future.
Signature Experiences:
- 16-Course Tasting Menu
- Curry Leaf Sorbet
- Yam Kofta with Makhani Foam
- Jackfruit Biryani with Edible Flowers
Why Visit?
Even hardcore meat lovers will be impressed with the depth of flavor and innovation at Avatara. It’s a sensory journey perfect for a special occasion or gourmet food lovers.
- Kinara by Vikas Khanna
Location: JA Lake View Hotel, Jebel Ali
Cuisine Style: Progressive Indian
Top 10 Indian Restaurants in Dubai
Overview:
Kinara by Vikas Khanna invites diners to embark on a sensory voyage where India’s culinary heritage meets contemporary elegance. As you cross the threshold, the restaurant’s earthy ochre walls and woven-texture ceilings evoke the simple beauty of coastal villages, while glass jars overflowing with vibrant spices pay tribute to the country’s legendary spice routes.
At the heart of the space, the bustling open kitchen becomes a theatrical stage – chefs rhythmically shaping naans in the tandoor, while aromatic clouds of tempered spices billow from sizzling pans. On the menu, Chef Khanna’s signature dishes like lobster malai curry and jackfruit biryani showcase his philosophy: “modern strokes on a traditional canvas.”
What truly mesmerizes, above all, is how every element—from hand-thrown pottery serving vessels to the warm, cumin-scented towels presented post-meal—has been thoughtfully curated to celebrate India’s gastronomic soul. In addition, each detail serves a purpose, enhancing the overall sensory experience. As the evening progresses, the ambiance deepens, drawing you further into its charm. By evening’s end, you’ll fully understand why “Kinara” (meaning shore) perfectly embodies this dining experience: it’s where tradition and innovation meet like land and sea. Ultimately, each wave of flavor leaves a lasting impression, and consequently, the memory of the meal lingers long after the final bite.
Signature Dishes:
- Smoked Tandoori Broccoli
- Crab Mappas with Coconut Reduction
- Slow-Cooked Lamb Raan
- Mango Rasmalai
Why Visit?
Expect an immersive dining experience with subtle spice notes, modern presentation, and the hospitality that Vikas Khanna is known for globally.
- Bombay Borough
Location: DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre)
Cuisine Style: Indian Tapas & Fusion
Overview:
Bombay Borough reinvents Indian cuisine with a contemporary twist, offering trendy small plates inspired by diverse regional flavors. Not only, you enter, furthermore, the artful interiors—featuring sleek design accents and warm, inviting lighting—immediately set the stage for a sophisticated dining experience. Moreover, every detail contributes to an atmosphere that seamlessly blends modern elegance with traditional charm. Meanwhile, the carefully curated beverage menu, with its craft cocktails and premium spirits, perfectly complements the bold flavors of each dish. Whether you’re stopping by for a business lunch or an elegant evening out, the restaurant’s chic ambiance and innovative approach make it a standout choice. What’s more, the shareable plates encourage a communal dining style, ideal for both intimate gatherings and lively group outings. Ultimately, Bombay Borough strikes the perfect balance between modern flair and authentic Indian culinary heritage.
Signature Dishes:
- Kashmiri Lamb Chops
- Gunpowder Fries
- Naga Ghost Pepper Wings
- Rasmalai Tres Leches
Why Visit?
If you’re new to Indian cuisine, this is a great place to sample many flavours in one sitting. Each dish is crafted with premium ingredients and plated beautifully.
- Varq – Taj Exotica
Location: Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, The Palm Jumeirah
Cuisine Style: Indian Fine Dining with Artistic Presentation
Overview:
Varq, the crown jewel of Taj’s culinary empire, redefines luxury Indian dining through a masterful marriage of heritage and contemporary finesse. As you’re ushered past gilded archways, the restaurant gradually unveils its regal splendor—from hand-painted motifs echoing Mughal miniatures to tablescapes adorned with 24-karat gold leaf garnishes. At the same time, the oceanfront terrace presents Dubai’s glittering skyline as a breathtaking backdrop to your meal. What truly sets Varq apart, however, is its obsessive attention to detail: sommeliers pair rare vintages with complex spice profiles, while chefs reinterpret royal recipes using molecular techniques. Beyond the gastronomy, more importantly, each element—the handcrafted silverware, the curated thali presentations, and the staff’s encyclopedic knowledge—works together to create what can only be described as edible theater. In this rarefied atmosphere, every bite becomes a historical footnote, and likewise, every sip is a celebration of India’s gourmet renaissance.
Signature Dishes:
- Sea Bass Pollichathu
- Tamarind Sorbet
- Chicken Korma with Cashew Paste
- Pistachio Phirni
Why Visit?
Perfect for anniversaries or a luxurious night out, Varq takes Indian cuisine to a five-star level, offering opulent tastes and a majestic ambiance.
- Aamara
Location: VOCO Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road
Cuisine Style: Indo-Arabic Fusion
Award: Bib Gourmand – MICHELIN Guide 2023
Overview:
Aamara effortlessly whisks diners on a gastronomic journey along the ancient Silk Route, where Indian warmth, Persian sophistication, and Levantine zest collide in every dish. As you step inside, you’ll discover an ambiance echoing caravanserai charm—low lantern light casting shadows on hand-painted tiles. Meanwhile, on the other side, on your plate, history unfolds through succulent kebabs glazed with pomegranate molasses. Just when you think the experience peaks, dessert arrives – perhaps a delicate baklava reimagined with ghee and saffron. Its flaky layers whispering of spice traders’ secret recipes. What makes Aamara extraordinary isn’t just its fusion of Flavors. But how each bite tells a story – of merchant caravans, palace feasts, and generations of culinary wisdom simmered into one unforgettable dining experience.
Signature Dishes:
- Lamb Kibbeh Biryani
- Turkish-Spiced Prawns
- Date Syrup Halwa
- Grilled Harissa Paneer
Why Visit?
For an exotic twist on Indian cuisine that includes influences from the Middle East, Aamara is a hidden gem.
- Rang Mahal by Atul Kochhar
Location: JW Marriott Marquis, Business Bay
Cuisine Style: Gourmet Indian
Overview:
Rang Mahal (translated as ‘Palace of Colours’) is, in fact, the brainchild of culinary pioneer Atul Kochhar, who was the first Indian chef ever awarded a Michelin star. Right from the moment you enter, the restaurant immediately envelops you in its opulent embrace. Furthermore, its rich ambiance and attention to detail set the tone for an unforgettable dining experience. Moreover, the soaring ceilings effortlessly draw the eye upward, enhancing the grandeur of the space.
While jewel-toned interiors of sapphire blues and ruby reds evoke the grandeur of India’s royal courts.
On the plate, Chef Kochhar’s creations are equally mesmerizing—classic dishes reimagined with avant-garde precision. Eventually there smoky tandoori meats meet delicate foams and edible gold. At the same time, the curated wine pairings and inventive cocktails elevate the experience further, blending tradition with contemporary flair. By contrast, by the meal’s end, it’s clear that Rang Mahal isn’t just a restaurant. In addition, it’s a vibrant celebration of India’s culinary heritage, reinterpreted for the modern gourmand.
Signature Dishes:
- Tandoori Smoked Duck
- Green Mango Curry with Seabass
- Lamb Shank Nihari
- Spiced Chocolate Mousse
Why Visit?
If you want to enjoy traditional Indian recipes with modern flair in one of Dubai’s tallest hotels. Then, Rang Mahal is a top contender.
Final Thoughts: Tips Before You Dine
Here are a few helpful tips before planning your culinary journey:
- Make a reservation: Many of these restaurants, especially Michelin-starred ones, are booked weeks in advance.
- Check for dietary preferences: Most offer vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
- Expect varying price ranges: From budget-friendly to luxury fine dining — there’s something for every wallet.
- Lunch vs. Dinner: Lunch menus are often more affordable. For the best ambiance, visit during dinner time.
Conclusion
Whether you’re longing for buttery naan and smoky tandoori or want to explore avant-garde vegetarian cuisine. Dubai’s Indian food scene offers unmatched variety and quality. To begin with, these top 10 restaurants each bring something special to the table. Moreover, they blend tradition, creativity, and passion to deliver an exceptional dining experience.
✨ Hungry yet? Which one are you visiting first?
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