12 Best Restaurants in Deira Locals Can’t Stop Talking About

Published On: February 26, 2026

12 Best Restaurants in Deira Locals Can’t Stop Talking About

From Filipino seafood feasts to flame-grilled Iranian kebabs

Deira is one of Dubai’s most historic neighbourhoods — a district that helped shape the city long before the rise of skyscrapers and financial hubs. Set along the banks of Dubai Creek and facing Bur Dubai across the water, this vibrant area blends old-world charm with modern energy.

While visitors flock to the gold and spice souks, abra rides and bustling markets, food lovers know Deira is equally famous for its diverse dining scene. Generations of traders, expats and residents have left their culinary mark here, resulting in a neighbourhood packed with authentic, time-tested restaurants.

Between exploring the alleyways and watching wooden dhows glide across the Creek, make sure you carve out time to eat your way through one of Dubai’s most characterful districts.

Here are 12 Deira restaurants that are absolutely worth a visit.

Al Dawaar Revolving Restaurant

If picking the best seat in a restaurant stresses you out, this one solves the problem for you. Located on the 25th floor of the Hyatt Regency Dubai, Al Dawaar is the city’s only revolving restaurant. Over the course of 90 minutes, the dining room completes a full rotation, giving you sweeping 360-degree views of Deira and beyond.

The buffet features international favourites and classic dishes, but it’s really the ever-changing skyline views that steal the show. Yes, the novelty eventually fades — but as a one-time Dubai dining experience, it’s hard to beat.

Al Ustad Special Kabab

Few restaurants in Dubai have the legacy of Al Ustad Special Kabab. Established in 1978, this family-run Iranian eatery has built a loyal following over decades.

Famous for its yoghurt-marinated chicken and mutton skewers, the restaurant’s signature “Special Kebab” is marinated for hours before being grilled to perfection and served with fragrant Iranian rice. The quirky interior — covered in thousands of photographs and memorabilia — adds to its charm. Affordable, authentic and full of character, it remains one of Dubai’s most beloved kebab houses.

Arabian Tea House Café

Tucked inside the historic Al Fahidi district, Arabian Tea House offers a peaceful escape from the city buzz. The airy courtyard, decorated in white and turquoise, feels traditional yet welcoming.

With more than 100 varieties of tea alongside Arabic coffee and Emirati dishes, it’s a great place to introduce visitors to local flavours. The Emirati breakfast is a standout, offering a true taste of heritage cuisine in a relaxed setting.

Calicut Paragon

When it comes to South Indian cuisine, Calicut Paragon has long been a favourite. Known for bold Keralan flavours and consistently excellent quality, it’s one of Dubai’s most reliable budget-friendly Indian restaurants.

Expect spice-packed curries, flaky parathas, seafood specialties and comforting classics like chicken Malabari and fish moilee. It’s busy, energetic and always worth the visit.

Dampa Seafood Grill

Come hungry — and don’t wear white. Inspired by the Filipino tradition of “boodle fights,” Dampa Seafood Grill serves generous piles of seafood laid directly onto the table for communal, hands-on dining.

From crab and prawns to mussels and corn, everything is drenched in rich, flavourful sauces. Designed for sharing, it’s messy, loud and incredibly fun — perfect for groups.

Golden Dragon

Opened in 1976, Golden Dragon holds the title of the UAE’s first Chinese restaurant. Decades later, it still draws loyal diners craving Szechuan and Cantonese classics.

Dim sum, wok-fried favourites and pan-Asian dishes fill the extensive menu. It’s old-school in the best way — comforting, nostalgic and consistently satisfying.

Miyako

One of Dubai’s earliest Japanese restaurants, Miyako has been serving authentic cuisine since 1987. The restaurant stays true to its roots, focusing solely on Japanese dishes without blending other Asian influences.

The serene setting complements beautifully presented sushi, sashimi and hot dishes. Small yet elegant, it continues to impress diners seeking traditional Japanese flavours.

Erode Amman Mess

For bold Tamil Nadu flavours, Erode Amman Mess delivers. Known for spicy Chettinad-style dishes, this unassuming spot serves both vegetarian favourites and rich meat curries.

Adventurous diners can try brain fry or mutton marrow gravy, best enjoyed with soft porottas. It’s hearty, unapologetically flavourful and deeply authentic.

Shabestan

A long-standing Iranian restaurant at Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek, Shabestan has been welcoming guests since 1984. The menu celebrates traditional Persian recipes passed down through generations.

From mezze and soups to perfectly grilled kebabs, every dish is rooted in authenticity. Add in stunning Creek views, and you’ve got a restaurant that balances atmosphere with heritage cooking.

The Boardwalk

Open since 1994, The Boardwalk remains one of Dubai’s most iconic waterfront restaurants. Overlooking Dubai Creek, it’s particularly popular at sunset.

The Mediterranean-inspired menu features pizzas, fresh seafood and market-style fish selections prepared to your liking. With its relaxed terrace setting and sweeping water views, it’s easy to see why it has stood the test of time.

The Permit Room

This lively Indian resto-lounge brings playful energy to Deira’s dining scene. Celebrating India’s diverse culinary traditions, the menu spans everything from idli-sambar to seafood curries and lobster biryani.

Open late into the night, it’s a great option whether you’re after a full meal or flavour-packed bites with creative drinks. The décor blends nostalgic touches with modern flair.

The Thai Kitchen

Set within Park Hyatt Dubai, The Thai Kitchen offers open show kitchens and a beautiful terrace overlooking the Creek. It’s a serene spot at the northern edge of the city.

Authentic curries, satay and stir-fries are tailored to your preferred spice level, while Thai-inspired drinks complete the experience. It’s refined yet relaxed — ideal for a leisurely evening meal.

XVA Café

Hidden within the artistic XVA Art Hotel in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, this vegetarian-friendly café is a quiet retreat from the crowds.

Surrounded by contemporary Middle Eastern art and shaded by a courtyard tree, it’s perfect for coffee, light bites and relaxed conversation. It’s less about flash and more about atmosphere — and that’s exactly its charm.

FAQs

Some of the best restaurants in Deira include Al Dawaar Revolving Restaurant, Al Ustad Special Kabab, Shabestan, The Boardwalk and Dampa Seafood Grill, offering everything from Iranian kebabs to fresh seafood.

For authentic Iranian cuisine, visit Al Ustad Special Kabab or Shabestan. Both are long-standing favourites known for traditional kebabs, fragrant rice dishes and classic Persian flavours.

Yes, Deira has plenty of affordable dining options. Spots like Calicut Paragon, Erode Amman Mess and Dampa Seafood Grill offer generous portions and flavourful dishes at reasonable prices.

Deira is known for its diverse food scene, including Iranian, Indian, Filipino, Chinese, Japanese and Emirati cuisine, reflecting the neighbourhood’s multicultural history.

Yes, restaurants like The Boardwalk and Shabestan offer beautiful views of Dubai Creek, making them popular choices for scenic dining experiences.