The Best Places to Eat in Dubai – Exploring the City's Exciting Restaurant Scene

A tiny restaurant that is easy to miss, Xiao Wei Yang Hotpot is located close to Twin Towers. The restaurant looks very humble from the outside but it is extremely popular among the locals and expats, so popular that you will probably have difficulty getting a table for yourself. That problem is compounded by the fact that they do not reserve a table for small groups. Forget about dropping by on Fridays as there is a long queue of people looking for a table. However, Xiao Wei Yang Hotpot is one of the best places to get your hands on authentic hotpot cuisine so a visit here is an absolute must! Just try to drop by during the off peak hours.

If you have not figured it out by the name, Bistro des Arts is a restaurant that specializes in French cuisine. While the meals taste great, the main selling point of Bistro des Arts is its location and ambience. Situated in Dubai Marina Promenade, the restaurant looks no different from a restaurant you would expect to see in the streets of Paris. They serve French Bistro meals and feature an extensive wine menu. You have an outdoor area while there is even a spot for kids to play around. Since it is located at the Dubai Marina, it is quite close to Dubai Hotel Apartments, the likes of Oaks Liwa Heights

Located in the affluent Club Vista Mare strip, Aji is a recently opened restaurant that serves a mix of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine that is commonly referred to as Nikkei. Situated right next to the Palm Jumeirah Beach, they are widely known as one of the best spots in Dubai for a great brunch. Pro tip; make sure to try out their ceviche and sushi which have scored high marks from anyone who has visited Aji.

Sometimes all you need is a few ol' British dishes. The brainchild of renowned British celebrity chef Gary Rhodes, Rhodes W1 is a charming restaurant located inside the Grosvenor House Dubai – the right hand tower to be specific. The restaurant gives off a vintage vibe and serves the best of English dishes. You can expect to find roasted Welsh lamb and monkfish scampi to name a few. Rhodes W1 also has a separate menu for afternoon tea but it is only available during the weekends.

Present in Pier 7 at the Dubai Marina, this hip eatery is located above the water, making for a unique experience. You would expect it to be pricey given the location, but Fümé has reasonable prices. They offer a simple no frills dining experience with none of the extravagance you might expect. This is not a complaint but rather a compliment. Simple dishes you would be hard pressed to find elsewhere make an appearance here, such as the good old mac and cheese!