Why Amritsr Restaurant is the Best Indian Restaurant in JLT Cluster X2 Dubai
Dubai is a city known for its rich culinary diversity, and when it comes to aut...
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19
Dec
Dubai is one of the world’s most exciting culinary destinations, bringing together flavors from every corner of the globe. Among all international cuisines, Indian food holds a special and lasting place in Dubai’s dining culture. With a large Indian population, millions of tourists, and a deep appreciation for spices and bold flavors, Indian cuisine continues to thrive across the city.
From comforting North Indian gravies and tandoori specialties to wholesome vegetarian thalis and Indian street food, Dubai offers something for every Indian food lover. However, with hundreds of Indian restaurants across the city, finding places that truly deliver authentic taste, consistency, and quality can be challenging.
This in-depth guide to the best Indian restaurants in Dubai is carefully curated to help you discover restaurants known for genuine Indian flavors, strong customer loyalty, and memorable dining experiences. Whether you are a resident, a tourist, or simply craving the taste of home, this list will help you choose with confidence.
Quick Comparison: Best Indian Restaurants in Dubai
| Restaurant Name | Cuisine Type | Area | Veg / Non-Veg | Timings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amritsr Restaurant | North Indian | Al Attar Center | Both | 24 Hours |
| Barbeque Nation | Indian BBQ | Karama | Both | Lunch & Dinner |
| Dhaba Lane | North Indian | Karama | Both | Lunch & Dinner |
| Lucknowee | Mughlai / Awadhi | Karama | Non-Veg Focus | Lunch & Dinner |
| Maharaja Bhog | Rajasthani & Gujarati | Karama | Veg Only | Fixed Hours |
| My Govinda’s | Sattvic Vegetarian | Karama | Veg Only | Lunch & Dinner |
| Rasoi Ghar | Gujarati & Rajasthani | Karama | Veg Only | Fixed Hours |
| Sthan | North-West Frontier | Karama | Non-Veg Focus | All Day |
| Rajdhani Street | Indian Street Food | Karama | Veg Focus | All Day |
| Once Upon A Bite | Indian Street Food | Karama | Both | All Day |
Why Indian Cuisine Is So Popular in Dubai
Indian cuisine has become an integral part of Dubai’s food landscape for several reasons. First, the city is home to a large Indian community that values traditional food and familiar flavors. Second, Indian food appeals to a wide audience because of its variety — from vegetarian and vegan dishes to rich meat-based curries and grilled delicacies.
Another reason Indian food thrives in Dubai is its adaptability. Whether someone prefers mild, aromatic dishes or bold, spicy flavors, Indian cuisine caters to every palate. The balance between comfort food, festive meals, and everyday dining makes Indian restaurants a frequent choice for families, office lunches, and late-night dining.
Dubai’s strict food safety standards also ensure that Indian street food and traditional dishes are prepared hygienically, allowing diners to enjoy familiar flavors with confidence.
Top Indian Restaurants to Enjoy Delicious Food in Dubai
1. Amritsr Restaurant – Authentic North Indian Food in Dubai
Location: Al Attar Center, Dubai
Cuisine: North India
Phone Numbers: +971 4 327 8622
Address: Al Attar Center – 318-836 – Al Karama – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Specialties: Amritsari Kulcha, Chole, Dal Makhani, Punjabi Street Food
Timings: Open 24 Hours
Amritsr Restaurant is widely recognized as one of the best Indian restaurants in Dubai, especially for those seeking authentic North Indian and Punjabi cuisine. Inspired by the rich food culture of Amritsar, the restaurant focuses on traditional recipes, bold flavors, and generous portions.
What truly distinguishes Amritsr Restaurant is its commitment to authenticity. From freshly baked Amritsari kulchas cooked to perfection to slow-cooked dals and flavorful curries, every dish reflects traditional North Indian cooking methods. The food is hearty, comforting, and deeply satisfying — just like it is meant to be.
One of the biggest advantages of Amritsr Restaurant is its 24-hour service, making it a popular destination for late-night diners, travelers, and shift workers. Whether it’s an early breakfast, a family dinner, or a midnight craving, the restaurant remains a reliable choice.
The welcoming ambiance, consistent quality, and strong word-of-mouth reputation have made Amritsr Restaurant a favorite among Indian families, tourists, and food enthusiasts looking for authentic Indian food in Dubai.
Best For:
• Authentic North Indian food
• Family dining
• Late-night Indian meals
2. Barbeque Nation – A Popular Indian Buffet Experience
Location: Karama, Dubai
Cuisine: Indian BBQ & Buffet
Barbeque Nation is a well-known name for diners who enjoy variety and interactive dining. Famous for its live grill concept, the restaurant offers an extensive selection of Indian starters, main courses, and desserts.
While it leans more toward a modern buffet experience than traditional Indian dining, Barbeque Nation remains one of the most visited Indian restaurants in Dubai due to its consistency, service quality, and family-friendly atmosphere.
3. Dhaba Lane – Rustic Dhaba-Style Indian Food
Location: 2B Street, Al Karama, Dubai
Specialty: North Indian Thali, rustic dhaba-style ambiance
Timings: 12 PM – 3:30 PM, 6:30 PM – 12 AM
Dhaba Lane recreates the charm of Indian roadside dhabas with colorful interiors and comforting food. The menu focuses on classic North Indian dishes served with generous portions and creative presentation.
It is especially popular among diners who enjoy casual dining with bold flavors and a relaxed atmosphere.
4. Lucknowee – Awadhi & Mughlai Specialties
Location: 28th Street, Al Karama, Dubai
Specialty: Tundey Kebab, Mughlai delicacies
Timings: 12 PM – 3:30 PM, 7 PM – 12 AM
Lucknowee is a niche restaurant that celebrates the refined culinary heritage of Lucknow. Known for its tender kebabs and slow-cooked gravies, the restaurant attracts diners who appreciate traditional Mughlai flavors.
The elegant presentation and focused menu make it a great choice for those seeking something different from everyday Indian food.
5. Maharaja Bhog – Royal Rajasthani & Gujarati Thali
Location: Hamsah Building Block A, Zabeel Street, Al Karama, Dubai
Specialty: Rajasthani & Gujarati Thali
Timings: 12 PM – 3:30 PM, 7 PM – 11:30 PM
Maharaja Bhog offers a traditional Indian thali experience inspired by royal Indian hospitality. The rotating menu ensures variety, while the unlimited servings make it popular among vegetarian diners.
6. My Govinda’s – Sattvic & Ayurvedic Indian Cuisine
Location: Ground Floor, City Building, Street 4 A, Al Karama, Dubai
Specialty: Sattvic vegetarian food, Ayurvedic meals
Timings: 12 PM – 3:30 PM, 7 PM – 12 AM
My Govinda’s is ideal for health-conscious diners looking for light, nourishing meals prepared without onion or garlic. The focus on sattvic cooking and balanced flavors makes it a unique addition to Dubai’s Indian food scene.
7. Rasoi Ghar – Homestyle Vegetarian Indian Food
Location: Zainal Mohebi Plaza, Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Road, Al Karama, Dubai
Specialty: Rajasthani & Gujarati vegetarian platters
Timings: 12 PM – 3 PM, 7 PM – 11:30 PM
Rasoi Ghar is known for its warm hospitality and rotating vegetarian menus. The food is simple, authentic, and comforting, making it popular with families and long-term residents.
8. Sthan – Bold North-West Frontier Flavors
Location: Shop 2 & 3, Al Wasl Building, Zabeel Road, Al Karama, Dubai
Specialty: Tandoori, North-West Asian cuisine
Timings: 12 PM – 11:55 PM
Sthan focuses on tandoori and grilled dishes inspired by the North-West Frontier region. The open kitchen concept and smoky aromas create an engaging dining experience for meat lovers.
9. Once Upon A Bite
Location: Shop 4, Ground Floor, Wasl Opal, Street 26, Al Karama, Dubai
Specialty: Spicy Indian street food
Timings: 12 PM – 11 PM
Once Upon A Bite is a hidden gem for those who love Indian street food. With a cozy ambiance and nostalgic flavors, this restaurant transports you straight to the streets of India.
10. Rajdhani Street
Location: Zainal Mohebi Plaza, Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Road, Al Karama, Dubai
Specialty: Fusion Indian street food
Timings: 11 AM – 11 PM
Rajdhani Street offers a vibrant and colorful dining experience inspired by Indian street stalls. Their live chaat station and diverse menu make it a hotspot for street food lovers.
Best Indian Restaurants in Dubai by Category
- Best North Indian Restaurant: Amritsr Restaurant
- Best Vegetarian Indian Restaurant: Maharaja Bhog
- Best Indian Buffet: Barbeque Nation
- Best Late-Night Indian Restaurant: Amritsr Restaurant
How to Choose the Right Indian Restaurant in Dubai?
When selecting an Indian restaurant in Dubai, consider factors such as cuisine type (North Indian, South Indian, vegetarian), dining purpose (family meal, casual dining, celebration), and timing. Some restaurants focus on authenticity, while others emphasize variety or ambiance.
Understanding what you’re craving will help you choose a restaurant that delivers the best experience.
FAQs – Indian Restaurants & Indian Food in Dubai (Detailed Guide)
Which is the best Indian restaurant in Dubai?
The best Indian restaurant in Dubai depends on what kind of cuisine you prefer. For authentic North Indian food with traditional flavors, Amritsr Restaurant is often considered a top choice due to its consistency, wide menu, and 24-hour service. Other restaurants specialize in vegetarian thalis, buffet dining, or Mughlai cuisine, making Dubai a city with options for every Indian food lover.
Why is Indian food so popular in Dubai?
Indian food is extremely popular in Dubai because of the city’s large Indian population and the growing number of tourists who enjoy Indian cuisine. The variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, use of aromatic spices, and comfort-style cooking make Indian food appealing to people from different cultures. Indian cuisine also adapts well to Dubai’s multicultural dining preferences.
Is Indian food easily available across Dubai?
Yes, Indian food is widely available across Dubai. Areas such as Karama, Bur Dubai, Deira, and Al Barsha are especially known for having a high concentration of Indian restaurants. From casual eateries to fine dining restaurants, Indian cuisine is accessible throughout the city.
Are Indian restaurants in Dubai expensive?
Indian restaurants in Dubai cater to all budgets. You can find affordable Indian meals similar to street-style food as well as premium dining experiences. Many restaurants offer thalis, combo meals, and lunch specials that make Indian food reasonably priced compared to other international cuisines.
Are Indian restaurants in Dubai halal?
Most Indian restaurants in Dubai follow halal guidelines, especially those serving non-vegetarian food. Dubai has strict food regulations, and restaurants usually comply with halal standards. However, if halal certification is important to you, it is always best to confirm directly with the restaurant staff.
Which Indian restaurant in Dubai is open 24 hours?
Very few Indian restaurants in Dubai operate round-the-clock. Amritsr Restaurant is known for being open 24 hours, making it a convenient choice for late-night dining, early breakfasts, and travelers arriving at odd hours.
Are there vegetarian Indian restaurants in Dubai?
Yes, Dubai has several excellent vegetarian Indian restaurants. Places like Maharaja Bhog, Rasoi Ghar, and My Govinda’s specialize in vegetarian meals, offering traditional thalis, sattvic food, and regional Indian vegetarian cuisine.
Do Indian restaurants in Dubai serve Jain food?
Some Indian restaurants in Dubai offer Jain-friendly options or can customize dishes upon request. Vegetarian-focused restaurants are more likely to accommodate Jain dietary requirements, such as avoiding onion and garlic. It is recommended to inform the restaurant in advance.
Which area in Dubai has the most Indian restaurants?
Karama and Bur Dubai are known as hubs for Indian cuisine in Dubai. These areas have a wide range of Indian restaurants serving North Indian, South Indian, vegetarian, and street-style food, making them popular among residents and tourists alike.
Is Indian street food safe to eat in Dubai?
Yes, Indian street food served in established restaurants in Dubai is generally safe to eat. Dubai has strict hygiene and food safety regulations, and most Indian restaurants maintain high cleanliness standards while serving popular street food dishes.
What are the most popular Indian dishes in Dubai?
Some of the most popular Indian dishes in Dubai include butter chicken, dal makhani, paneer dishes, biryani, tandoori kebabs, and Amritsari kulcha. Vegetarian thalis and chaat items are also widely loved
Can tourists easily find Indian food in Dubai?
Absolutely. Indian food is one of the easiest cuisines to find in Dubai. Many hotels, malls, and tourist areas have Indian restaurants, making it convenient for visitors who want familiar flavors during their stay.
Are Indian restaurants in Dubai family-friendly?
Most Indian restaurants in Dubai are family-friendly and suitable for group dining. Many restaurants have spacious seating, comfortable ambiance, and menus that cater to both adults and children.
Do Indian restaurants in Dubai offer takeaway and delivery?
Yes, most Indian restaurants in Dubai offer takeaway and delivery services. Food delivery apps and direct restaurant services make it easy to enjoy Indian food at home or at work.
Is North Indian food more popular than South Indian food in Dubai?
North Indian food is more commonly found across Dubai, especially in casual and family dining restaurants. However, South Indian food also has a strong presence, with dedicated restaurants serving dosa, idli, and traditional South Indian meals.
Can I find authentic Punjabi food in Dubai?
Yes, authentic Punjabi food is available in Dubai. Restaurants like Amritsr Restaurant specialize in Punjabi and North Indian cuisine, offering traditional dishes prepared using authentic cooking styles and spices.
Are Indian restaurants in Dubai suitable for office lunches?
Indian restaurants are a popular choice for office lunches in Dubai. Many offer quick service, lunch specials, and thali options that make them convenient and satisfying for working professionals.
Is Indian food in Dubai spicy?
Indian restaurants in Dubai usually adjust spice levels to suit a diverse audience. Most places allow you to request mild, medium, or spicy dishes depending on your preference.
Do Indian restaurants in Dubai serve fusion food?
Yes, some Indian restaurants in Dubai serve fusion dishes that blend Indian flavors with modern cooking styles. However, many diners still prefer restaurants that focus on traditional and authentic Indian cuisine.
Are Indian restaurants in Dubai good for celebrations?
Indian restaurants are popular venues for birthdays, family gatherings, and small celebrations. Buffet-style restaurants and thali restaurants are especially preferred for group dining.
Is Indian food healthy?
Indian food can be both healthy and indulgent depending on what you choose. Vegetarian dishes, lentils, grilled items, and sattvic meals are considered nutritious, while rich gravies and fried snacks are best enjoyed in moderation.
What makes an Indian restaurant authentic?
An authentic Indian restaurant focuses on traditional recipes, correct use of spices, regional cooking methods, and consistent taste. Restaurants that attract Indian families and repeat local customers are often a good indicator of authenticity.
How do I choose the best Indian restaurant in Dubai?
To choose the best Indian restaurant in Dubai, consider your cuisine preference, dining purpose, budget, and location. Reading customer reviews and observing repeat customer visits can also help you decide.
Are Indian restaurants in Dubai suitable for late-night dining?
Yes, some Indian restaurants cater to late-night diners, especially in busy areas. Restaurants operating late or 24 hours are popular among travelers and night-shift workers.
Can I find Indian sweets in Dubai?
Many Indian restaurants and sweet shops in Dubai offer traditional Indian sweets such as gulab jamun, rasgulla, and jalebi, especially during festivals.
Do Indian restaurants in Dubai follow hygiene standards?
Dubai has strict food safety regulations, and Indian restaurants are required to comply with these standards. Reputed restaurants maintain good hygiene and cleanliness.
Why do locals recommend Indian restaurants in Dubai?
Locals often recommend Indian restaurants because of consistent quality, generous portions, familiar flavors, and value for money. Indian cuisine is considered comforting and satisfying, making it a frequent choice.
