Restaurants
Exclusive Preparation At Zafran The brainchild of Michelin starred chef Atul Kochhar, Zafran sets itself apart by infusing classic Indian fare with contemporary, fine dining twists. The result works well, not only as an introduction to the flavours of the subcontinent for uninitiated palates, but also by bringing a fresh take on tried-and-tested dishes for regular diners.
With a kitchen team lead by executive chef Himanshu Saini, who was crowned ‘Best Young Chef’ at the 2014 Delhi Gourmet Club’s Top Chef Awards, Tresind serves up classic Indian flavours, elevated to levels of modern brilliance using molecular gastronomy. The “textures of mushroom” dish is truly out of this world. +971 4 308 0440
In 2001, Vineet Bhatia became the first Indian chef to earn a Michelin star for his restaurants in London and later Geneva. He lends his name to this Dubai-based outfit inside slick Grosvenor House, where he’s crafted a contemporary menu consisting of Indian dishes with Western influences. The smoked seas starter is the only way to kick off the meal; it includes honey-basted tandoori salmon, fennel scallops and chutney hammour. Make sure you save room for the refreshing desserts, including the rose petal and vanilla bean smoothie. +971 4 317 6000
Dhow Ka Aangan is a favourite in Dubai for its impeccably executed, modern north Indian fare. Located in the Grand Excelsior Hotel (formerly, the Dhow Palace Hotel), the restaurant’s menu spans more than a dozen pages. As a traditional Indian band plays for the enjoyment of dinner guests, you can choose from fragrant and tasty dishes such as lobster masala (fresh lobster, cooked with onions, tomatoes and a special spice blend) and meen moiley (a coconut milk fish stew with mustard seeds and curry leaves).
If you love Indian cuisine, Mint Leaf of London should be on your list of restaurants to try. Perched on the 15th floor of Emirates Financial Tower in Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the eatery boasts amazing views of Downtown Dubai and Burj Khalifa. Turning the attention back to the menu of contemporary fine dining cuisine, it is guaranteed to impress. Try the Kadai Spiced Crispy Soft Shell Crab, Adraki Lamb Chops or Duck Pepper Fry. Telephone +971 [0] 4 706 0900 Email reservations@mintleafdubai.com
The name of this restaurant is taken from the handi, a deep, narrow-mouthed cooking vessel used in northern India, Pakistan and Bengal. The aim of Handi is to take you on a culinary journey and offers a collection of curries, dal and biryani, all flavoured with spices from the North of India. Menu highlights include tandoor baked kebabs and an extensive selection of spicy vegetarian dishes. Telephone +971 [0] 4 223 2222
Enjoy a taste of North India courtesy of Indian celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor, whose eatery Khazana is situated just behind Al Nasr Leisureland in Oud Metha. Try the grilled tandoori seafood and gravy-based dishes, as well as the kebabs and Anglo-Indian novelties, such as British Raj railroad curry. You’ll be privy to a dose of culinary artistry, with chefs mixing the usual fare with Anglo-Indian novelties. Telephone +971 [0] 4 336 0061 Email info@khanakhazanadubai.net
Taste International Cuisine At Senses Set in the Mercure Gold Hotel in Satwa, Senses offers a relaxing contrast to the bustle of nearby streets. The a la carte menu offers pizzas and pastas, while the modest buffet changes theme each evening, the most popular being the carvery night and ongoing Indian-themed cuisine. Enjoy live music each evening, and be sure to plan your next group event here, as the restaurant remains family friendly and reasonably priced.
Venture Out For A Meal At Masala Few things beat a romantic, serene evening with a view of the setting sun, and Masala, situated in the luxurious hotel getaway Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa, ticks all the boxes. Savour flavourful, spicy vegetarian and non-vegetarian Indian curries, grills and freshly made breads, all highlighting the history of Indian culture in the Middle East. Be sure to book on a night where artists perform live music using classical instruments.
