The Best Street Food Spots in Dubai

San Wan Hand-Pulled Noodles is a small, tucked-away spot in Dubai that draws a crowd for its fresh, hand-pulled noodles. You can watch the chefs at work in an intimate setting with only a few seats. Despite the tight space, many say it’s worth the wait.

Recommended by

Liam Collens

Writer @itsliamcollens

You know you’re coming back before you leave. Another small, hard-to-find space in JLT with less than 20 seats and a line out the door. San Wan Hand Pulled Noodles sells more than just that, but it’s the reason you should come. Get the traditional biang biang noodles (with gamey beef) laced with a generous splash of their homemade cumin chilli oil, the homemade spicy wontons in black vinegar and the cooling-but-spiked chilli cucumber salad. Prices are reasonable. Be prepared to wait for a table.

Read more

Big T BBQ Kitchen is a laid-back barbecue spot in Dubai that opens Friday to Sunday. Many people mention there can be a wait, but they also say the food is worth it. It’s a straightforward place for anyone looking for a relaxed meal without the fuss.

Recommended by

Hani AlMalki

Writer @BedouinFoodie

BBQ Pastrami, Brisket and Rib This is where we go for BBQ in Dubai. It is open Friday to Sunday and on most times there is a wait. The food is excellent. My favorite there is the rib, the pastrami, the brisket and the fries.

Read more

Chaat Bazaar is a small, unassuming spot in Dubai that draws a loyal following for its street-food-inspired snacks. The skilled staff has spent years perfecting their craft, giving the place a warm, personal touch.

Recommended by

Liam Collens

Writer @itsliamcollens

The definition of a hole-in-the-wall. You may come to Chaat Bazaar for many things, but you must come for the pani puri served individually, by hand, from people who’ve spent their Gladwellian 10,000 hours churning out perhaps the most loved Indian chaat dish.

Read more

Daikan is a relaxed ramen spot tucked away in the back of a residential tower in Dubai. People often say it serves some of the tastiest ramen around. It’s a welcoming place to drop by for a comforting meal in a casual setting.

Recommended by

Liam Collens

Writer @itsliamcollens

A low-key, casual ramen spot in the back of a residential tower. Daikan cooks some of Dubai’s best ramen in my opinion particularly the spicy chef’s special and a rich, creamy shoyu ramen. Other dishes like the miso aubergine and the chicken katsu bao with kimchi are worth ordering. I have to limit myself to eating here no more than once a week!

Read more

Shawarma Al Farooj – Dubai is a casual spot that focuses on a single, well-loved specialty. Regulars say the food is consistently prepared and easy to enjoy. Its simple approach and friendly service make it a welcoming place for a quick meal in the city.

Recommended by

Hani AlMalki

Writer @BedouinFoodie

Excellent Shawarma in Dubai Heres a place that only serves shawarma. You can get meat, chicken or spicy chicken they call Mexican. I highly recommend it. Ask them to make the chicken well done and crispy!

Read more

Streetery JLT is a relaxed Asian spot in Dubai offering street-style food inspired by Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and more. Visitors appreciate the variety of dishes that keeps things interesting on each visit. It’s a comfortable place to explore different flavors in a casual setting.

Recommended by

Pallavi Sangtani

Foodie

Fav casual Asian spot in Dubai. Authentic and true street style food from Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and more. You will not get tired of sampling their menu options!

Read more