9 beloved Dubai eateries that are making their mark internationally
From importers of global culinary brands to exporters of home-grown favorites
With one of the most vibrant food scenes in the Middle East, it’s perhaps no surprise that Dubai’s home-grown restaurants are now finally having their moment under the sun. And for good reason; I personally feel everyone in the world should have the chance to try Pickl’s Chicken Sando (and I don’t even normally like chicken burgers!)
Here’s a look at 9 ‘Made in Dubai’ establishments that are taking on the world:
1. Wok Boyz
Known for its bold flavors inspired by Asian street food, Wok Boyz expanded to Ghana and Oman, along with its first Canadian outpost earlier this year. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a comfort-food dinner with friends, Wok Boyz never disappoints.
2. GAIA
Anything and everything that is the brainchild of Chef Izu is bound to be a winner. A DIFC hotspot, GAIA’s first foray into the international market from Dubai was Monte Carlo, quickly followed by Doha, Miami, Marbella and London. We’re still dreaming about THAT filo pastry.
3. Saddle
The equestrian themed cafe has come a long way from its coffee truck glory days. Its rise first took it to Abu Dhabi, then London, Riyadh, and most recently, Cannes. With a focus on artisanal coffee, delectable pastries and hearty meals, the cafe offers a cozy retreat from the hustle and bustle of busy city life.
4. The Maine
Easily one of the best restaurants in Dubai if you’re looking for a decadent dinner, paired with live music and dancing, The Maine has been a monster success since inception. After making its way to Ibiza and London, the restaurant has now opened doors to its latest location in Bodrum just last month.
5. FiLLi Cafe
FiLLi Cafe is a success story like no other. For a tea cafe to experience such mammoth hit in a market dominated by coffee lovers is a heartwarming tale. What started as a humble cafeteria has now spread across 11 countries, including UK, USA, India and Pakistan, among others, and they’re only just getting started.
6. Ammos
If you’ve spent time at Ammos, you know the atmosphere and food is something worthy of expansion. The eatery opened its doors at the iconic Ushuaïa Beach Hotel in Ibiza last summer, followed by two more locations in Marbella and Doha. All venues are going strong, pairing European vibes with Dubai’s hospitality.
Speaking of Greek restaurants…
7. OPA
Known for its authentic Greek grub and fun-loving staff, OPA has found new homes and fans in St. Tropez, Bahrain and Mumbai, even doing a pop-up in Riyadh! Gear up for some plate-smashing, napkin-waving and a whole lot of delicious food.
8. Pickl
Using high-quality, fresh ingredients, Pickl is worth the hype, and then some. The burger joint has already made its way to Bahrain and Qatar and is eyeing Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Kuwait in the near future. Run, don’t walk to your nearest outlet (they have 17 across the UAE!) if you haven’t already tried it.
9. Kinoya
What started as a supper club in 2017 and eventually culminated into an unfussy ramen bar in Dubai (even bagging a Bib Gourmand) made its way to the swankiest department store in London last year, and Harrod’s is lucky for it.
We recommend their signature bowl, Shio Paitan and the Miso Aubergine and Wagyu Tskune as starters. Trust me when I say, ramen doesn’t get more soulful than this.
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