Top Restaurants in Dubai with a Rich History and Delicious Food

If you’ve ever wondered where to eat in Dubai and actually feel the city’s history, you’re not alone. With every new skyscraper and fancy food hall opening, it’s easy to forget some Dubai restaurants have been serving locals and travelers for decades—long before brunches and Instagram menus took over.

Ask a Dubai resident about memorable meals and you’ll hear about places tucked away in Al Fahidi, the Deira souks, or along the old creek. These spots aren’t just about food; they’re part of the UAE’s story, with family recipes handed down, regulars who know the staff by name, and dishes that have outlasted food trends. But finding these gems isn’t always easy if you’re scanning ‘best of’ lists that forget to look beyond glitzy new openings.

This guide is for the curious eater who wants more than just another fusion burger or overpriced meal with a skyline view. I’m talking about restaurants where the walls have seen everything—business deals, family milestones, and probably a sheikh or two at lunch. You’ll learn about iconic dishes, get tips on what to order (and when to book), and understand why some foods just taste different when they come with a side of history. Ready to eat like a Dubai local who actually remembers what came before?

• Dining in Dubai: Where History Meets Taste
• The Oldest Eats: Hidden Gems from Old Dubai
• Landmark Venues with Culinary Stories
• Homegrown Legends and Family-Owned Favorites
• Classic Dishes You Need to Try
• Tips for Booking and Exploring Dubai’s Historic Restaurants

Dining in Dubai: Where History Meets Taste

Eating in Dubai goes far beyond the latest food trends. You’ll find Dubai restaurants that offer a whole timeline of the city’s culture, with kitchens that have survived everything from the days of trading dhows along the creek to the real estate boom of the 2000s. Walk into some of these spots and you’ll see old-school cash registers, classic Arabic calligraphy on the walls, and regulars who’ve been coming for decades. These aren’t places that chase every new trend—instead, they stick with what works, often serving recipes unchanged since the 1970s or 80s.

Take Al Ustad Special Kabab in Bur Dubai—it’s been a favorite since 1978, long before the city became known for its luxury dining scene. It’s the kind of place where you leave smelling like kebabs but honestly don’t care because the food is that good. Then there’s Al Mallah on 2nd December Street, where shawarma and fresh juices have been fueling late-night gatherings for over four decades. If you want Emirati home cooking, head to Al Fanar, famous for its nostalgic décor and authentic machboos and luqaimat. These restaurants don’t just serve food—they preserve Dubai’s food culture.

Eating in historic Dubai areas like Al Fahidi or Deira’s old souks means getting a side of history with your meal. Sometimes the family who opened the restaurant is still serving, or you’ll spot photos on the wall showing the city before the skyline changed. Each of these places tells a piece of Dubai’s story, not just through what’s on the plate but through the atmosphere and the people working there. So next time you’re planning a dinner out, try one of these icons. You’ll taste the past—and maybe understand why those who grew up in Dubai keep them close to the heart.

The Oldest Eats: Hidden Gems from Old Dubai

When people think of Dubai restaurants, it’s easy to picture the shiny towers and futuristic décor, but some of the city’s best-loved spots have been quietly serving the same old-school recipes for years—long before the big malls showed up. These places are tucked into older neighborhoods like Al Fahidi and Deira, away from the downtown crowds and global chains.

Al Ustad Special Kabab, for example, is a real legend. Open since 1978 and still run by the same Iranian family, it’s proof that good food and word-of-mouth are all you really need to survive here. The place isn’t fancy, but regulars swear by their marinated kebabs and saffron rice. You’ll spot family photos everywhere and the mismatched chairs are part of the charm. According to Mariam BinHendi from the Emirati Gastronomy Association,

“These long-standing restaurants play a huge part in preserving Dubai’s food culture. Locals will always trust a place that’s stood the test of time.”

If you want the Old Dubai breakfast experience, go early to Al Muraqqabat’s Al Ahmadiya Cafeteria. It’s famous for its crispy samosas and spicy karak chai. Don’t be fooled by the name—‘cafeteria’ here means a bustling, humble spot that probably hasn’t changed much since it opened.

Another spot you can’t miss is Bayt Al Wakeel, right on Dubai Creek in a building from 1935. It’s got balcony tables where you watch abras putter by, and the menu sticks to Gulf classics—think grilled hammour and machboos. The setting honestly can’t be beat for that authentic, heritage Dubai energy.

Quick tip: These hidden gems can get packed during weekends and on public holidays, so it’s smart to call ahead or visit during off-peak hours—early lunch or late dinner usually means less waiting. And don’t expect digital menus or online bookings everywhere; some of these places still do things the old-fashioned way.

For anyone living in Dubai or just visiting, eating at one of these timeless eateries is a fast way to get what really makes the city tick. Skip the usual malls for a night—you might find your new favorite ritual tucked into a quiet backstreet in Bur Dubai.

Landmark Venues with Culinary Stories

Not every restaurant in Dubai is new or flashy. Some places have survived decades of crazy growth, keeping traditions alive and making people come back, year after year. These landmark venues have real stories behind them—ask the staff, and you’ll hear about celebrities who popped by, marriage proposals, and people who visit for the same dish every time they’re in town.

Dubai restaurants like Al Ustad Special Kabab, built in the 1970s, still pack tables with both locals and expats. Tucked in Bur Dubai, this family-run spot feels like a time capsule, leaving the original wall photos and classic plastic chairs untouched. Their Iranian-style kebabs are a staple, and on weekends, the line out the door speaks for itself. Ask the owner about famous guests—rumor has it, Bollywood stars and even royalty have tried their famous yogurt-marinated mutton kabab.

Then there’s Ravi Restaurant in Satwa. Since 1978, this Pakistani joint has been the unofficial canteen for everyone from taxi drivers to CEOs. Their chicken tikka and mutton curry have legendary status, and you can’t miss their fresh bread, made all day. Even Chef Gordon Ramsay and footballer Paul Pogba have squeezed into the tight benches for a plate.

Heading to the heart of old Dubai, Al Mallah on 2nd December Street has served Lebanese street food since the mid-70s. Shawarma here is fast, fresh, and unbeatable after midnight. It’s one of those places that’s always buzzing, and you can sit outside to watch old Dubai roll past while digging into manakish or a fatoush salad.

Need a fancier spot with a story? Try The Boardwalk at Dubai Creek, open since 1996. Back in the day, folks used to come here after boat rides, and the waterside views haven’t changed much. Their seafood platters are still a go-to for family celebrations or long Friday lunches.

Here’s a quick table with the most well-known historic Dubai restaurants, their locations, opening years, and what they’re famous for:

If you’re planning to visit any of these spots, remember:

• Some don’t take reservations, especially the older eateries—just turn up early, especially at dinner.
• Dress is casual at all the above—no need for anything fancy.
• Cash is king in places like Al Ustad and Ravi, though cards are slowly becoming more accepted.

Trying these landmarks gives you more than just a meal—you end up being part of Dubai’s history, one plate at a time.

Homegrown Legends and Family-Owned Favorites

Dubai is full of legendary family-run restaurants that have survived the city’s wild growth by sticking to what they do best: honest food with roots. If you ask older residents about a spot that feels like home, they’ll mention no-frills cafés tucked behind markets or busy streets—places where regulars still line up for the same dishes as 20 years ago.

Ravi Restaurant in Satwa is practically an institution. Since the late 1970s, Ravi has served up Pakistani classics like chicken handi and spicy daal with fresh naan. It doesn’t matter if you’re a construction worker, a local celebrity, or just landed at Dubai International—everyone shows up for a casual dinner at Ravi. No bookings, no pressure. The menu barely changes and, let’s be honest, nobody wants it to.

Switching it up, Special Ostadi in Bur Dubai has been run by the same Iranian family since 1978. Walk in and you’ll spot photos with everyone from Bollywood stars to Emirati royals. Try the chelo kebab or juicy lamb chops—these plates keep generations of diners coming back. Don’t be surprised if the owner himself chats you up or recommends what’s best that day.

Then there’s Al Ustad Special Kabab, another real local favorite. Since the late 1970s, this place has drawn crowds with grilled meats that actually taste like someone’s father is cooking in the kitchen. It’s one of those rare places where the decor hasn’t changed much because people show up for the food, not the Instagram shot.

• Dubai restaurants with true staying power don’t rely on slick marketing. They count on recipes handed down for generations, word-of-mouth, and regulars who show up every week.
• Many of these spots close for Friday prayers and fill up after sunset during Ramadan, so time your visit right if you want a table.
• Don’t expect fancy menus—you might order by pointing or asking what’s fresh. Listen to the regulars. That’s where the magic is.

If you want a taste of Dubai before international chains rolled in, skip the malls for a night and eat where the city’s real food stories are still being served.

Classic Dishes You Need to Try

When you’re eating out at Dubai restaurants with a real backstory, don’t stick to fries or international standards. Some classic Emirati and regional dishes absolutely should be on your table—not only do they taste good, but they also give you a sense of Dubai’s blend of cultures.

First up, Machbous is basically the Emirati answer to biryani. Think spiced rice with lamb, chicken, or fish, slow-cooked with dried lemon (loomi) and a tag team of Gulf spices. It’s at every big family event, and you’ll find it on the menu at spots like Al Fanar or Al Tawasol. Pro tip: always eat it with your right hand at a traditional place—it’s how locals do it.

Another must-try is Harees, a real Ramadan staple. Imagine cracked wheat and meat cooked until it’s as soft as porridge. It might not look fancy, but it’s super filling and very old-school. Finding good Harees outside Ramadan is rare, but Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant keeps it on their year-round menu.

If you want street food vibes, go for Shawarma. Rolls of thinly sliced meat, straight off the spit, with all the usual garlic sauce and pickles. You’ll see lines at Al Mallah in Satwa or Automatic Restaurant on Beach Road most nights. Get extra toum (garlic sauce) and you’re set.

And don’t leave without trying Luqaimat—sweet, crisp dough balls drizzled with date syrup or honey. Street-side stalls like the Creekside Market or even the Dubai Food Festival stands make them fresh. They disappear fast, so order double if you’re with friends.

Last tip: if you're heading out during weekends or holidays, try booking a table because these places get packed with everyone from local families to curious foodies. Also, don’t be shy—ask the staff for their favorite classic dish. Chances are, they know what’s good better than any online review.

Tips for Booking and Exploring Dubai’s Historic Restaurants

Eating at historic restaurants in Dubai sounds fun until you realize some don’t even have a website, and calling for a reservation can feel like a secret mission. Here’s how to skip the guesswork and actually enjoy the best of Dubai restaurants with a bit of local know-how.

First off, timing is everything. Most old favorites in Al Seef, Deira, and Bur Dubai get slammed right after sunset, especially during Ramadan, weekends, and public holidays. If you want a quieter meal (or a shot at getting a table by the creek), show up for lunch or book early in the week. Don’t be surprised if you need to leave your name at the door and take a stroll through the souk while you wait—these spots were around before reservation apps took over.

Not sure how to book? Here are a few options that actually work for Dubai’s classic spots:

• Call ahead—phones still matter, especially for family-run places like Al Ustad Special Kabab or Ravi Restaurant. English is widely spoken, but if you know a little Arabic, it never hurts.
• Ask your hotel concierge, or hit up a Dubai local on social media for advice. They often know who to talk to or if walk-ins are fine.
• Use popular delivery apps like Zomato and Talabat to check opening hours and menus, even if you want to eat in. Some old-school places list their number there.
• If you’re planning a group dinner (especially more than 6 people), book at least two days ahead. Smaller places sometimes need time to prep for big orders.

If you want the full vibe—think old creek views, dhow boats puttering by, and street sounds—pick places like Bayt Al Wakeel or Al Bait Alqadeem. These restaurants have been open since the 1930s and serve both Emirati and Arab dishes. Don’t dress up too much; casual, comfy clothes are best, and for outdoor spots, bring a light jacket even in winter months.

Cash is still king at a few of these places. Double-check before going, as card machines can be unreliable in older districts. And if you’re driving, parking in Deira or Bur Dubai is chaos after 6 PM, so take the Metro or a taxi when you can.

Finally, try chatting with the staff—they love sharing the story behind the place or recommending their favorite dish. You might just learn why a simple bowl of harees or a fresh paratha has stayed popular for half a century. Eating at Dubai’s historic restaurants isn’t just about food; it’s about connecting with the city in a way all those shiny new places can’t offer.