When flavours compete: Dubai’s dining scene is not only delicious but also full of meaning

Dubai doesn’t do things in half-measures— like its skyline is a bold statement, its food scene follows suit. Every dish feels like it’s trying to outdo the last, and the city isn’t shy about showcasing its culinary chops.

But beneath all the imported truffles, edible gold leaf, and menus longer than furniture assembly instructions, there’s one undeniable truth: this city knows how to eat. Whether you’re spending your rent money on a tasting menu or scraping coins together for a late-night shawarma, Dubai delivers.

Tapas with a tan

First stop: Ginger Moon at W Hotel Mina Seyahi. It calls itself a ‘no-beach beach club,’ probably because it overlooks an infinity pool rather than the beach, but said view stretches from Ain Dubai to Dubai Harbour, so yes, you’ll want a table outside.

The menu leans pan-Asian, but honestly, it’s more like global tapas with a tan. The salmon on crispy rice from the sushi menu is exactly as advertised. Crispy rice, fresh fish, zero complaints. The sweet potato fries are the kind of addictive where you start politely sharing and end up speeding up so you can eat more than your hungry companions.

Next, we’ve got OIA Greek Restaurant at JA Ocean View Hotel which is a true sanctuary for those seeking the essence of Greece in Dubai. If you’ve ever fantasised about a Greek island vacation but your bank account said “not today,” OIA is your consolation prize. It’s all white-washed and blue decor and an unreasonable amount of feta. Many dishes are inspired by the Blue Zones, regions known for their residents’ longevity, such as the island of Ikaria.

The watermelon and feta salad is one of those dishes you order thinking it’s a light starter, only to spend five minutes whispering, “Why is this so good?” The sweetness of the watermelon paired with the saltiness of the feta is what works. You’ll soon find that no meal is complete without fries for the table, and the ones here were drizzled with lemon and sprinkled with feta with a feta dip on the side. Too much feta? Other times yes, but not this time.

The Greek meatballs are another hit—juicy, well-seasoned, and lazily lounging in a marinara sauce, served in a portion size that immediately has you cursing your appetite because why can’t you indulge in several starters and an entire main course without popping a button?

A taste of Italy