With so many incredible dining options in Dubai, deciding where to eat can be an adventure in itself. From glitzy new openings to cozy hidden gems, the city’s food scene is constantly evolving—and Jasmina Rucic, author of From Tapas to Towers, has tried more than her fair share. Over time, certain spots have earned a permanent place on her list: the ones she returns to time and again for their flawless dishes, laid-back vibe, or simply that special something that keeps drawing her back.
Here’s a curated selection of Jasmina’s most-loved restaurants in Dubai—a mix of elegant dining and relaxed favorites, each one chosen with the same care and curiosity she brings to every journey.
Koko Bay: Your Tropical Getaway in Dubai (Palm West Beach)
Koko Bay is a Bali-inspired beachfront in Palm West Beach which blends laid-back luxury with breathtaking views. With hammocks swaying in the breeze, bamboo cabanas, and low dinner tables where you can sink into sofas on the sand, the vibe is laid-back but stylish. By day, it’s the perfect Dubai beachside retreat, with crystal-clear waters and golden sands just steps away. As the sun sets, the atmosphere turns mesmerising, and by night, the twinkling skyline makes it feel almost surreal.
And the food? Simply incredible. The crispy sea bream with Thai coconut & young peppercorn sauce is an absolute must – perfectly golden, packed with flavour, and one of my all-time favourites. The black cod is wow, the ceviches are bursting with freshness, the satays are grilled to perfection, and the whole grilled sea bass is a seafood lover’s dream. Every dish delivers, making Koko Bay a place to return to time and time again.
As the sun dips below the horizon, Koko Bay is pure magic. The hammocks along the waterline, cosy beachside seating, and endless sea views make it the ultimate spot to sip, savour, and soak as the sunsets over Dubai.
Learn more about it HERE.
Sirene by GAIA: Dubai’s Seaside Oasis (J1 Beach)
Ooooh, how I love this one! From the moment you sit down, the experience is pure Mediterranean perfection. The complimentary bread? Absolutely the best ever. Soft, warm, and addictive. And then comes the food… I am obsessed with their moussaka, perfectly spiced with a hint of cinnamon – just wow wow wow! The half chicken is incredible, juicy, and full of flavour – one of the best I’ve ever had. And if that wasn’t enough, their fresh Croatian truffles take everything to the next level.
And then, the Greek yoghurt dessert with honey and caramelised nuts – a simple yet heavenly way to finish the meal. With a beautifully designed interior that feels effortlessly chic, Sirene by GAIA is the kind of place that keeps calling me back.
Learn more about it HERE.
Maison Revka: Authentic Russian Cuisine (Delano Hotel, Bluewaters)
A place that feels like stepping into another world, Maison Revka is the perfect blend of French and Russian fusion, both in its elegant cuisine and effortlessly chic interior. Every corner is filled with intricate details, making it impossible to stop looking around.
And then there’s the mirrored hallway to the lavatory – a maze-like experience with stunning art that turns even a simple stroll into something magical. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet playful, with a certain je ne sais quoi that makes it truly unique.
The menu is just as stunning. I love their crab avocado tartlet – fresh & delicate – and the truffle pizzetta, which is just the right mix of indulgence and crisp perfection. The surf & turf is another standout, perfectly cooked and packed with rich, bold flavours. And if you want to finish with a bang, go for the huge pavlova, an absolute showstopper that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Beyond the restaurant, the pool area is just as stunning. By day, Maison Revka a serene Dubai escape, offering fabulous food in a setting that feels exclusive and beautifully designed – every element carefully curated to make the space feel apart from anything else.
Learn more about it HERE.
The Guild: Cozy Refined Dining (DIFC)
The Guild is one of those places that feels like a scene straight out of a movie – especially on Sundays when their Sunday roast makes it even more special. The warm, inviting atmosphere, grand chandeliers, lush greenery, and elegant table settings create an ambience that’s both sophisticated and effortlessly cosy.
The open kitchen adds to the charm, where chefs in tall white hats work with precision, bringing a sense of calm to a space that’s often buzzing with energy. The restaurant is designed with multiple zones, each with its own distinct character and personality, making every visit feel like a new experience.
The menu is a celebration of fine meats and fresh seafood, featuring an excellent selection of grilled dishes. I absolutely love the Chilean sea bass – perfectly cooked and bursting with rich, smoky flavour. The lobster mac and cheese? Pure indulgence. And if you’re a fan of beautifully grilled meats and seafood, this place will never disappoint.
The atmosphere is just as impressive as the food, with a playlist of funk and jazz that adds to the stylish yet laid-back vibe. Whether it’s a Sunday roast, a romantic dinner, or a business meal, The Guild delivers an experience that’s refined yet welcoming, making it a true jewel in the heart of Dubai.
Learn more about it HERE.
Clay: A Culinary Journey to Peru (Bluewaters)
With its moody, dark setting and elegant atmosphere, Clay is a place that feels both intimate and dramatic. Whenever I go, I prefer to sit on the terrace, soaking in the stunning Ain Dubai views whilst enjoying the impeccable service – always so warm and attentive.
The menu is vast, and every time I’m there, I find myself struggling to choose because everything looks so good! One of my absolute favourites is the Ebi Coconut Maki, a sushi roll with crispy prawn and a delicious coconut twist – light, crunchy, and full of flavour. I’m also obsessed with their ceviches and crudos, each one bursting with freshness. And then there’s the chifa pic (fried rice) – simple, but seriously addictive!
The presentation is just as impressive as the flavours, with dishes arriving in beautifully plated arrangements. They even serve sushi on a golden Ferris wheel – such a cute touch! And just when you think the meal can’t get any better, dessert arrives. Their Lucuma Lava Cake with cinnamon ice cream is an absolute showstopper – warm, rich, and perfectly spiced, creating the ultimate sweet ending. WOW!
Every detail here is thoughtfully designed, making Clay not just a meal, but wonderful dining experience in Dubai.
Learn more about it HERE.
Pai Thai: Authentic Thai Dining Experience (Jumeirah)
An award-winning Thai gem, Pai Thai is one of those places that feels like a little escape within Dubai. Tucked away along the peaceful waterways of Madinat Jumeirah, it boasts a tranquil, almost magical setting – especially if you sit outside by the water (which I always prefer).
This is actually where I first discovered just how amazing a green papaya salad can be – fresh, zesty, with the perfect balance of crunch and spice. Their chicken satay skewers are another must-try, so simple yet full of that rich, nutty flavour. And then, of course, there’s their pad thai and curries, both consistently delicious and packed with bold Thai flavours. And let’s talk about dessert – I’m an absolute fan of their mango sticky rice. The perfect way to finish the meal – sweet, creamy, and just pure comfort on a plate.
Between the stunning setting, the authentic flavours, and the warm hospitality, Pai Thai is a place I’ll happily return to time and time again.
Learn more about it HERE.
Maison De La Plage: French Riviera Chic (Palm West Beach)
A little slice of the South of France in Dubai, Maison De La Plage is all about laid-back Riviera vibes, colourful Mediterranean accents, and an effortlessly chic atmosphere. The whitewashed walls, soft pastels, and elegant beachside setting make it feel like you’ve stepped into a dreamy seaside escape.
And then, there’s the food – mais oui! Let’s talk about the Izu Burger, which is truly one of my favourite burgers in the world. It’s not your usual beef patty; instead, thinly sliced wagyu beef layered to perfection. Juicy, flavourful, and just ridiculously good. You can choose between a brioche bun or a baguette, but even the baguette has that soft, buttery touch, almost like a brioche itself. Pure indulgence!
Another obsession? The truffle carpaccio, topped with crunchy little breadcrumbs add the perfect bite. But honestly, the entire menu is full of winners – these are just my current favourites.
A little tip: In the weekend, it’s better to sit inside. The outdoor terrace is stunning, but with all the surrounding beach clubs pumping up the music, the sound can clash. However, the interiors are charming and a great place for a relaxed meal in Dubai.
Learn more about it HERE.
Cipriani: Classic Italian Elegance (DIFC)
There’s something about Cipriani that makes every visit feel like a timeless affair. With its iconic blue-and-white interiors, polished wood accents, crisp linen, and impeccable service, the place exudes old-money elegance – chic, classic, and effortlessly sophisticated.
And whilst the vibe is pure Dolce Vita glamour, the food is just as show-stopping. I’m absolutely in love with their truffle pizza with burrata, the perfect combination of rich, creamy goodness and delicate truffle aroma. Their saffron pappardelle with veal bacon is silky and indulgent. Cipriani is the ideal place to go in Dubai for luxury comfort food.
Of course, dessert is a must at Cipriani. Their famous vanilla meringue cake is legendary, a cloud-like masterpiece that’s as delicious as it is iconic. And whilst it doesn’t always get the same hype, their tiramisu is also absolutely top-tier – light, creamy, and just the right balance of espresso-soaked goodness.
Everything about Cipriani is refined yet inviting, the kind of place where you can dress up, settle in, and savour every bite in true Italian style.
Learn more about it HERE.
Zuma Dubai: Award-Winning Japanese Izakaya Dining (DIFC)
Zuma is effortlessly cool, sleek, and always buzzing – a place that has mastered the balance between high-energy dining and refined Japanese cuisine. The low lighting, contemporary design, and stylish crowd create a chic vibe. Whether you’re here for dinner or just drinks at the bar, the energy at Zuma is always electric.
The food? Absolutely love it. The star of the Zuma menu is a sliced yellowtail with green chilli relish, ponzu, and pickled garlic. It’s pure perfection. Light, fresh, and packed with just the right amount of flavour. And then there’s the robata grill, which has so many amazing options that it’s hard to choose just one dish – fish, meat, veg, or sometimes just everything! The skewers from the grill are always a favourite, and I love the roasted lobster with shiso ponzu butter!
The vibe really depends on the night. On weekdays, it’s more relaxed and the perfect place to enjoy a great meal in a stylish setting. But at the weekend, Zuma is lively with big crowds and a high energy that is electric. It depends on what you prefer, however personally, I love Zuma best on a weekday when it’s a little more chilled.
A Dubai institution for a reason – flawless food, incredible atmosphere, and always a great experience.
Learn more about it HERE.
Nobu Dubai: World-Class Japanese (Atlantis, The Palm)
Nobu is one of those places that never gets old – it’s sleek, subtly glamorous, and always delivers. Now perched high on the 22nd floor of Atlantis The Palm, it boasts breathtaking views that make the whole experience even better. The dining room is elegant yet lively, with its low lighting, dark wood interiors, and buzzing energy, but I especially love sitting on the terrace – a perfect spot to take in the Dubai skyline whilst enjoying an incredible meal.
The menu is huge, with so many incredible dishes to choose from, but a few stand out for me, and I find myself ordering them again and again. Their world-famous black cod is just as good as everyone says – buttery, flaky, and packed with that signature miso flavour. The spicy edamame here is next level – I don’t know what magic they put in it, but it’s unlike any other I’ve had. And then there are the wagyu dumplings with spicy butter ponzu – rich, juicy, and full of bold flavours that make them completely addictive.
With its stunning setting, impeccable food, and flawless service, Nobu is a refined place to enjoy Japanese cuisine in Dubai.
Learn more about it HERE.
Blume: Stylish Dining (Dubai Marina)
Blume is a chic, stylish, and effortlessly elegant place to eat in Dubai. Fully decorated in Dior from top to bottom, it makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a fashionable Parisian dream with a Dubai Marina view. The beautiful, spacious terrace is perfect for soaking in the surroundings, but even inside, the interiors and bar area are just as stunning.
Opening early at 7 am, it is a great place for breakfast in Dubai. The food is delicious with standout dishes such as the slow cooked lamb shoulder with rice. And the truffle mashed potatoes? Absolute heaven, and I order it with everything! Their menu is super varied, so what I eat completely depends on the time of day—whether it’s a light breakfast, a big lunch, or just a tea break to soak in the atmosphere. Even just sitting there, sipping tea, feels amazing.
And if you’re planning to stay late, there are two restaurants upstairs, both with stunning Dubai Marina views—so technically, you could spend the whole day here. Blume is the kind of place that’s as much about the experience as it is about the food—elegant, always welcoming, and absolutely worth coming back to.
And good news—Blume recently opened a second location in Dubai Mall, bringing its signature style and charm right into the heart of the city.
Learn more about it HERE.
French Riviera: A Taste of the Côte d’Azur in Dubai (Jumeirah)
I fell in love with this place because of its simplicity. It’s not big, it’s not over the top – iit’s just quietly beautiful and undeniably cute, in the loveliest way. With its boho-chic aesthetic and Mykonos-style vibes, French Riviera feels laid-back yet elegant, the kind of place that makes you want to linger for hours.
The best part is the location, right on the beach at the Jumeirah Beach Resort. You can enjoy your lunch with your feet in the sand, surrounded by the stunning Jumeirah shoreline, with the pier on one side, and the Burj Al Arab on the other. It’s a setting that feels calm, luxurious, and a little bit like a secret escape.
The food is just as special. They start you off with the most delicate amuse-bouche – an ultra-thin truffle pizzetta that’s light, crispy, and packed with flavour. And their special carpaccio with Espelette sauce? Amazing! A perfect mix of delicate, fresh, and just the right amount of spicy.
It’s also perfect place for breakfast, making it a great spot no matter the time of day. Whether for a relaxed beachside lunch or a slow morning with a view, French Riviera always feels like a little getaway in the city.
Learn more about it HERE.
Oats & Co: Healthy and Delicious (Dubai Marina)
I never really hear people talking about Oats & Co, but for me, it’s a little gem by the Dubai Marina that I love escaping to. Its all-pink and mint-green terrace feels fresh, stylish, and their food is cuteness on a plate. There’s no indoor seating—just a cute outdoor space overlooking the Marina area in Dubai, where there’s always a lively buzz, so it never feels dull.
It’s the kind of spot where I can sit for hours with my laptop, ordering one adorable drink after another. The menu is full of eggs, avocados, and beautifully plated dishes, and when you scan the QR code and see the pictures, you immediately want everything. Their juices come in the cutest glasses, shaped like birds or shells, and the tea arrives in elegant teacups with gold accents, making every order feel extra special.
And it’s the little details that make it even more special. When you order food, they serve you a pink rose, and as you leave, they gift you a tiny, shiny box of their homemade granola. It’s a relaxed cafe in Dubai where the experience feels extra thoughtful.
It’s one of those places that just makes you happy—a quiet Marina favorite of mine, perfect for long, slow mornings, endless tea refills, and a little bit of pink happiness.
Learn more about it HERE.
21 Grams: A Taste of the Balkans in Dubai (Umm Suqueim)
A traditional Balkan eatery in the heart of Dubai, 21 Grams is one of those places that feels cosy, unpretentious, and full of heart. The place itself is simple—no fuss, no flash—but the food is absolutely delicious.
I love their burnt aubergine hummus, which is smoky, creamy, and just really delicious. Their signature filo pie with cherry is a total dream, flaky, slightly tart, and impossible to stop eating. And of course, if you love Balkan food, the sarma is a must – rich, hearty, and exactly how it should be.
Everything here feels homey and familiar but with its own little twist. Just good food, no fuss, and a warm, welcoming vibe. A homely Balkan restaurant in Dubai that I would return to in an instant.
Learn more about it HERE.
Mehzcla: Where the Med Meets Marrakech, with a View (JBR)
MMehzcla is one of those rare beachside gems that feels like a little escape within the city. With stunning views of the sea and a stylish vibe that blends Mediterranean flair with a Marrakech twist, it’s a place I keep coming back to. The venue is divided into 4 zones—Capri inside, Ibiza and Marrakech by the beach, and a serene Mykonos-inspired area near the entrance. On quiet days, I love sitting beachside with nothing but the open view in front of me. But when it gets busy (and the shisha crowd takes over), I prefer the Mykonos section—it’s shisha-free and has a more relaxed, family-friendly vibe. Although I don’t smoke shisha myself, I have to say—what I see there is pure entertainment. Ladies lounging with giant lipstick-shaped shishas, VIP shisha shows… it’s honestly a spectacle, and such a fun one to watch.
What also makes Mehzcla stand out is the menu. It’s refreshingly different from the usual Dubai spots: the Spanish-style grilled octopus is divine, the paella brings back Marbella memories, and the meat briwats are just delicious. I’m also a bit obsessed with their Specialita Siciliana drinks—rose & lemon or coconut & lime, both equally dreamy. And as a little bonus: they can print your photo on your cappuccino. Yes, really. It’s also one of those places where I can happily spend hours working on my laptop, nibbling on great food and sipping cute drinks.
Learn more about it HERE.
