The Top 5 Traditional Middle Eastern Restaurants In Dubai

Middle Eastern Cuisine has a multitude of origins, dating back to 550 BCE. The concept of merging fruits with meats has become widely popular in the 21st century with many cultures adopting this technique of cooking. Any famished travelers out there can look no further, as we have compiled a list of five of the top traditional Middle Eastern restaurants in Dubai.

1. Na3 Na3

Restaurant, Seafood, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean

Na3Na3 comprises of an enviable blend of Middle Eastern hospitality and authentic Arabic recipes, enhanced by traditional ingredients and seasonings. One can identify the ambiance as being warm and homey with a touch of poignant simplicity. Appreciate the sensation of watching your meal be prepared at the live kitchen while feasting on wholesome breads, fresh from the oven. This restaurant offers all day dining, boasting a large and impressive buffet selection for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Na3Na3 also hosts theme nights throughout the week to attract clientele, along with a delectable a la carte menu and Saturday brunches. Children can indulge in a carefully assembled buffet just for them while adults can be entertained by the upbeat melodies echoing in the background that are typical of the Middle East.

Watch out for: Hot and cold mezze, kebabs
Price: Mid-range

Shayan

Explore the undeniably tantalizing tastes of Persia at Shayan, situated the Rayaan Hotel, where you are promised a traditional and unforgettable dining experience. Treat yourself to an authentic cup of steaming Iranian tea infused with rose blossoms while having the pleasure of watching your meal cook in a naan oven. Opt for a semi-private seating arrangement behind an intricate partition, ideal for any intimate occasion. Immediately upon being seated, sample a widely popular drink, exclusive to Persia, doogh. Made from yogurt, mint, salt and sparkling water, this refreshing beverage is sure to tease your palate and indoctrinate your taste buds into a unique but conventional menu. Enjoy the zereshk polo (dried barberries in steamed rice) coupled with a lamb kebab soltani to gratify your hunger. The ornate interiors are what lure you in, but the marvelous cuisine is what will make come return for more.

Address & telephone number: Al Ghurair Rayhaan by Rotana Hotel, Al Rigga Road, Al Muraqqabat, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, (+971) 4 293 3000

Watch out for: Doogh beverage

2. Levantine

Restaurant, Middle Eastern

Be transported to the Middle East in the comfort of Levantine which can be found at the Atlantis Hotel when you sample some of the most ingenious creations of Levantine cuisine that are on offer. If you want a simple but satisfying dinner with a show, this is the perfect venue, as it hosts regular belly dancing entertainment. Appreciate the skilled and elegant dancers and scour the menu for its signature treats including the fried halloumi, spiced potatoes or the famous seafood grill and fish taginethanks to the specialist chefs. Embrace the aroma of pungent spices blended with the shisha and let the warm undertones of the restaurant engulf your mind and soul. Whether you’re on the terrace or seated indoors, Levantine will serve you to the best of its abilities.

Price: Fine dining
Watch out for: Belly dancing shows

Olea

From the Bilad ash-Sham, or Land of the North, Olea presents its version of traditional Arabian cuisine with dishes with roots in Syria, Jordan, Palestine, Turkey and Lebanon. Adopting a sophisticated and contemporary decor, Olea offers clientele top-class comfort amalgamated with the most sumptuous dishes to please even the most discerning of palates. Treat yourself to a harraq osbao (a spicy blend of of lentil stew laced with pomegranate and olive oil) while admiring the impressive foliage that decorates the interiors of the restaurant. Sample a signature baba ghanoush (fire roasted eggplant with fresh vegetables and pomegranate) and save an irresistible dessert such as the layali lubnan (semolina topped with caramel and banana) for the ideal finish to an amazing experience.

Price: Mid-range
Address & telephone number: Sheikh Zayed Road | Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, Dubai 120679, United Arab Emirates, 97144095111
Watch out for: Kunafa dessert

Shabestan

A creative blend of exotic spices fills the interiors of Shabestan while its traditional Persian menu is guaranteed to flirt with your five senses. The restaurant’s use of fresh fruits in bespoke dishes enhances the flavor of the meal. Situated by the Dubai Creek, Shabestan endeavors to present unforgettable recipes such as the Persepolis (a succulent platter of chicken and lamb) in a comfortable dining space, designed to put you at ease. Don’t forget to sample the bastani akbar mashi (traditional Iranian ice cream), an ingenious take on a much-loved classic. Let the troubles of your day melt away with the help of beautiful Persian instrumental melodies playing in the background and let Shabestan take your taste buds on a journey around Persia.

Price: Fine dining

Address & telephone number: Radisson Blu Hotel, Creek Deira | Baniyas Road, Deira,Dubai 476, United Arab Emirates, +971 4 222 7171

Watch out for: Chelo kebab-e-soltani (mouthwatering selection of lamb kebabs)

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