Dubai, a bustling metropolis, is not just a hub for luxury dining, but also a paradise for food enthusiasts looking for authentic and affordable culinary experiences. That’s where the best street food restaurants in Dubai come into play. From the heartwarming spices of Middle Eastern cuisine to the rich, diverse flavours of the Subcontinent, the city offers an array of cheaper dining options that cater to all tastes.
Each restaurant brings its own unique taste to the table, whether it’s the Iranian kebabs at Al Ustad Special Kabab, the Lebanese delights at Al Mallah, or the traditional Syrian cuisine at Aroos Damascus. These establishments provide a glimpse into the culinary heritage of their respective cultures, contributing to Dubai’s vibrant food scene.
Additionally, for those planning holidays to Dubai, finding affordable stays is just as important as discovering great places to eat. This is where Holiday Swap comes in. Offering cheap hotel apartments in Dubai, Holiday Swap is an excellent platform for travellers looking to save on accommodation while indulging in the culinary delights the city has to offer.
Dive into our list of the 10 best street food restaurants in Dubai and prepare to embark on a gastronomic journey that is as affordable as it is delicious.
1) Al Ustad Special Kebab Dubai
Nestled in the heart of Al Mankhool district, Al Ustad Special Kabab restaurant is a cornerstone of Iranian cuisine in Dubai. Established in 1978, it’s celebrated for its authentic Persian kebabs, becoming a must-visit for both locals and tourists. The restaurant offers generous portions at great prices, making it a hit among meat lovers. Steps away from Al Seef and Al Fahidi Cultural Neighbourhood, this family-run local welcomes guests with a cosy vibe, a friendly service and a unique décor filled with thousands of photos.
Cuisine Styles: Iranian and Persian (Middle Eastern, Barbecue, Halal)
Recommended dishes: Mix Kebab, Mix Grill Platter for Two, Chicken Soup, Saffron Rice, Hummus Plate
Average price per person: $14-25
Location: Al Mussallah Road, Ground Floor Bahwan Plaza
Nearby places: Dubai Creek, Museum of Illusions
Ratings: 4.5/5.0 on TripAdvisor
Mix kebab at Al Ustad Special Kebab
2) Al Mallah Restaurant Dubai
Al Mallah, celebrated as the best Lebanese restaurant in Dubai among its visitors, offers affordable and traditional Eastern Mediterranean delights. Since 1979, located in the bustling Satwa neighbourhood, it has charmed both tourists and residents with its famous shawarmas and manakeesh. Paired with signature fresh juices, whether you’re craving quick bites or a lavish meal, Al Mallah’s menu is a feast of authentic Lebanese cuisine.
Cuisine Styles: Lebanese (Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Halal, Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly)
Recommended dishes: Falafel Plate Hummus Dip, Arabic Shawarma
Average price per person: $3-13
Location: Al Dhiyafa Road, Al Hudaiba
Nearby places: Sheikh Zayed Road
Ratings: 4.0/5.0 on TripAdvisor
Lebanese food at Al Mallah restaurant
3) Nukkad Pe Bhukkad Restaurant Dubai
Considered the best Indian restaurant in Dubai, Nukkad Pe Bhukkad is nestled in the heart of Al Karama. Known for the best Momos in town, this cosy spot is a hidden gem. Everything is freshly made, promising authentic Indo-Chinese street food with a delightful Delhi twist.
Cuisine Styles: Indian, Chinese (Traditional Delhi cuisine, Café, Vegetarian and Vegan friendly)
Recommended dishes: Veg Momos, Street Style Chowmein, Schezwan Fried Momos, Chinese Bhel, Chicken Momos, Pav Bhaji
Average price per person: $4-14
Location: 9a Street, Belhasa Building 6,Al Karama
Nearby places: Dubai Creek
Ratings: 5.0/5.0 on TripAdvisor
Asian vegetarian momos at Nukkad Pe Bhukkad Dubai
4) Aaraamam Restaurant Dubai Karama
Another great Indian restaurant in Dubai, Aaraamam stands out with its wide array of traditional Kerala cuisine. From vegetarian delights to succulent meat dishes, Aaraamam restaurant prides itself on using fresh, local ingredients, ensuring each dish is a burst of amazing flavours. This unique dining experience provides an authentic taste of both coastal and regional specialties, where the delicious flavours of Kerala come to life.
Cuisine Styles: Indian (Traditional Kerala food, Halal, Vegetarian Friendly)
Recommended dishes: Fish curry meals, Tender Chicken Fry, Kerala cuisine
Average price per person: $2-14
Location: Belhasa Building, Al Karama
Nearby places: Karama Fish Market
Ratings: 4.0/5.0 on TripAdvisor
Traditional Indian meal at Aaraamam restaurant
5) Samad Al Iraqi Restaurant Dubai
Samad Al Iraqi Restaurant stands out as a premier seafood restaurant in Dubai, offering a taste of traditional Iraqi food. This culinary haven celebrates the local cuisine with dishes that reflect Iraq’s rich agricultural heritage. The decor and ambiance, featuring waiters in traditional attire, enhance the dining experience, making Al Iraqi Restaurant an exceptional journey into Iraq’s culinary traditions.
Cuisine Styles: Middle Eastern (Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly, Seafood, Barbecue, Halal)
Recommended dishes: Iraqi Mix Grill, Maskoof Fish, Lamb Shoulder with Rice
Average price per person: $25-45
Location: Jumeirah Road, Beach Park Plaza
Nearby places: Jumeirah Beach, Dubai Water Canal
Ratings: 4.5/5.0 on TripAdvisor
Delicious Iraqi cuisine at Samad Al Iraqi restaurant Dubai
6) Mama’esh Al Manara Dubai
Mama’esh Restaurant offers top-quality Palestinian traditional food at modest prices, being one of the best places where you can enjoy affordable Arabic dishes in Dubai. Their menu, leaning towards healthier options with no fried food and an extensive vegetarian selection, ensures a wholesome Arabic dining experience in the city.
Cuisine Styles: Middle Eastern (Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly, Halal)
Recommended dishes: The Fatayer (Palestinian za’atar and cheese), Mazkawi, Palestinian Foul Medammas, Akkawi, Nabulsi cheese with leaf Za’atar, Eggplant Mutabbal, Lentil Soup
Average price per person: $14-27
Location: Al Wasl Road, Villa 1081, Al Manara
Nearby places: Ayur Mandala Ayurveda Center
Ratings: 4.5/5.0 on TripAdvisor
Palestinian pide served at Mama’esh Al Manara
7) Bosnian House Dubai
Enjoy perfectly cooked kebabs, including the signature Bosnian kebabs, known as ćevapi, paired with traditional Bosnian bread and ajvar sauce. With a great service experience, and a cosy atmosphere, Bosnian House restaurant is a culinary gem and an affordable place where you can eat in Dubai.
Cuisine Styles: Eastern European (Barbecue, Halal)
Recommended dishes: Regular Bosnian Kebab Platter,Kafta, Begova Corba Bosnian Royal Soup with Traditional Bosnian Pita
Average price per person: $14-27
Location: Jumeirah Road, Umm Suqeim 2
Nearby places: The Dubai Fountain
Ratings: 3.5/5.0 on TripAdvisor
Cevapi Bosnian sausages at Bosnian House Dubai
8) Bu Qtair Restaurant Dubai
Discover Bu Qtair Restaurant, one of the best street food restaurants in Dubai with seafood, where you can enjoy affordable Mediterranean food, including freshly caught and cooked fish. After savouring steaming hot dishes, you can take a stroll to Sunset Beach. This seaside spot offers a rustic, open-air experience. Bring your own drinks, relish the fresh ingredients, and immerse yourself in the charm of a deserted fishery.
Cuisine Styles: Seafood (Halal)
Recommended dishes: Sherry Fried Fish, Fry Prawns, Masala Fish, Curry Sauce
Average price per person: $12-18
Location: Old 32B Street, Fishing Harbour 2
Nearby places: Sunset Beach, Nemo Watersports Jetski & Flyboard in Dubai
Ratings: 4.0/5.0 on TripAdvisor
Fried fish and prawns at Bu Qtair restaurant
9) Al Habasha Restaurant Dubai
As the first Ethiopian restaurant in the region, Al Habasha Restaurant offers a genuine taste of Ethiopian cuisine with an exotic mix of spicy vegetables, slow-cooked stews, and sautés. Each dish, bursting with unique spices, brings Ethiopia’s rich culinary traditions to life. Al Habasha it’s a go-to street food place in Dubai, offering fair prices and an exotic savoury experience.
Cuisine Styles: Ethiopian (Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly)
Recommended dishes: Misto Firfir and Menchet Red, Ethiopian Coffee and Popcorn, Doro Wot and Kitfo
Average price per person: $14-27
Location: Al Murar 24sk, Deira
Nearby places: Dubai Creek, The Old Souks
Ratings: 4.5/5.0 on TripAdvisor
Meat and vegetable stew at Al Habasha restaurant
10) Aroos Damascus Restaurant Dubai
Aroos Damascus restaurant offers a taste of Syrian cuisine in Dubai, serving up the city’s most delectable Arabic delicacies. With spacious indoor and outdoor seatings, this bustling spot stays lively until the early hours. Begin with a variety of hot and cold mezzes, then indulge in succulent grilled meats, shawarmas, and kebabs, all prepared with fresh ingredients and aromatic spices.
Cuisine Styles: Syrian (Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly, Halal, Gluten Free Options)
Recommended dishes: Mixed Grill Platter, Hummus with Beef, Fattoush Salad
Average price per person: $6-22
Location: Al Muraqqabat Road, Deira
Nearby places: Dubai Mall, Al Ghurair Centre
Ratings: 4.5/5.0 on TripAdvisor
Mixed grill platter with hummus and muhammara at Aroos Damascus
Affordable Adventures and Culinary Delights with Holiday Swap
As we wrap up our culinary journey through Dubai, it’s clear that this vibrant city caters to food lovers of all types, offering a rich array of affordable dining experiences. Each spot proves that delicious meals don’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Whether you’re craving Middle Eastern, Indian, or Mediterranean dishes, the best street food restaurants in Dubai have something for everyone.
With platforms like Holiday Swap, planning your culinary adventure in Dubai is more accessible and affordable than ever. Our innovative platform allows travellers to discover cheap holiday homes and hotel apartments in Dubai, making it easier to extend your holidays without stretching your budget. So, pack your bags and prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable journey through the flavours of Dubai!
