The best things to eat in Dubai

"The hole-in-the-wall Al Ustad Special Kabab is a Dubai institution. You'd never guess that this unassuming restaurant in the Al Fahidi neighborhood of old Dubai has served its legendary kebabs to royals, athletes, diplomats, and celebrities."

"Go to Al Fanar Restaurant and Café for an Emirati feast. The interior is modeled on 1960s Dubai. There are mud-and-coral walls surrounding a central courtyard, traditional lamps, wooden doors, old photos, vintage memorabilia, and lifelike re-creations of souk and village scenes. The food is tasty and hearty, and the portions are big enough to share."

"Hidden away in the shaded courtyard of a traditional house in the historic district, the lovely Arabian Tea House is full of romantic charm, fun design touches, and mouthwatering food."

"This cozy, little focacceria is run by an Italian family that keeps things simple with just three menu categories: focaccia, burrata, and tiramisu. There are over 10 focaccia choices, featuring toppings such as black truffle, onions, San Marzano tomatoes, eggplant, salami, and zucchini. The burrata is served with figs, tomato salad, beef carpaccio, or gazpacho, and it's perfect for a summer afternoon."

"For a quick, tasty, and affordable meal, head to Zaatar w Zeit. There are various locations across Dubai that serve Lebanese street food such as toasted kaakeh sandwiches and wraps stuffed with chicken, beef, turkey, tuna, falafel, kebabs, or avocado."

"Join the locals at Kite Beach in the queue for Salt, one of Dubai's oldest and most popular burger chains. The Wagyu beef sliders with jalapeño and the fried-chicken sliders with Cheetos are intensely satisfying. The popular lotus-flavored shake or softy is also a must-try."

"This Emirati-owned bakery specializes in cakes, pastries, and other baked goods. In addition to Middle Eastern-inspired desserts, such as chocolate-pistachio kunafa and milk cake, it serves what could easily be Dubai's best cheesecake with a burnt top and soft center."

"With a fantastic waterfront location, authentic Greek food, and friendly service, Taverna Greek Kitchen is a safe choice for a good time. The restaurant is helmed by Greek chef Theo Rouvas, and the Greek salad, flaming cheese saganaki, sea bass carpaccio, wood-fire-grilled octopus, and kadaifi prawns won't disappoint."