What To Know
- With views of the Creek and a menu built on recipes passed down through generations, this long-standing restaurant is known for its mezze and flavour-packed kebabs.
- If you’re exploring Old Dubai, shopping at the Gold Souk, or strolling along the Creek, these Deira restaurants deserve a spot on your list.
- While technically in the historic Al Fahidi district across the Creek, Arabian Tea House remains a must-visit when exploring Old Dubai and Deira.
Deira is one of Dubai’s most historic neighbourhoods — once the city’s commercial heartbeat long before DIFC and Downtown rose to prominence. Located across the Creek from Bur Dubai, this vibrant district blends old-world charm with modern life, offering bustling souks, traditional dhows, and a food scene shaped by decades of global influence.
If you’re exploring Old Dubai, shopping at the Gold Souk, or strolling along the Creek, these Deira restaurants deserve a spot on your list. From Filipino seafood feasts to authentic Iranian kababs, here are 12 must-try restaurants in Deira that locals genuinely love.
1. Al Dawaar Revolving Restaurant
For dinner with a constantly changing view, Al Dawaar Revolving Restaurant delivers a unique dining experience. Located on the 25th floor of Hyatt Regency Dubai, it’s the city’s only revolving restaurant.
Over 90 minutes, you’ll enjoy uninterrupted 360-degree views of Deira and beyond while indulging in a classic international buffet. It’s a spot worth visiting at least once — especially for sunset or evening skyline views.
Location: Hyatt Regency Dubai, Deira Corniche
Timings: Mon–Fri 6.30pm–11.30pm; Sat–Sun 12.30pm–4pm, 6.30pm–11.30pm
2. Al Ustad Special Kabab
A Dubai institution since 1978, Al Ustad Special Kabab is one of the city’s oldest Iranian restaurants. Famous for its yoghurt-marinated chicken and mutton skewers, this family-run spot continues to draw loyal crowds.
The interiors are covered with thousands of celebrity photos and memorabilia, adding to its nostalgic charm. Don’t miss the “Special Kebab,” served with fragrant Iranian rice.
Location: Al Mussallah Road, Deira
Timings: Sat–Thu 11am–1am; Fri 6pm–1am
3. Arabian Tea House Café
While technically in the historic Al Fahidi district across the Creek, Arabian Tea House remains a must-visit when exploring Old Dubai and Deira.
Set in a charming courtyard, it offers more than 100 varieties of tea alongside traditional Emirati dishes. The Emirati breakfast is especially popular with visitors looking for an authentic local experience.
Location: Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
Timings: Daily 7am–11pm
4. Calicut Paragon
If you’re craving authentic Keralan cuisine in Dubai, Calicut Paragon is a standout. Known for Southern Indian flavours, this long-running favourite is praised for its spice-packed dishes.
Popular orders include chicken Malabari, fish moilee, masala mushrooms, and fresh naan. It’s widely considered one of the best budget-friendly Indian restaurants in Dubai.
Timings: Daily 7am–midnight
5. Dampa Seafood Grill
For a hands-on Filipino dining experience, Dampa Seafood Grill in Deira is always buzzing. Inspired by the traditional “boodle fight,” seafood is served in generous portions meant to be enjoyed without cutlery.
Expect piles of crab, prawns, mussels and more, perfect for sharing. It’s messy, lively, and full of flavour.
Location: Baniyas Road, Port Saeed
Timings: Daily noon–11pm
6. Golden Dragon
Founded in 1976, Golden Dragon was the UAE’s first Chinese restaurant. Known for Szechuan and Cantonese cuisine, it remains a favourite among old-school Chinese food lovers.
Dim sum and wok-fried dishes are highlights, alongside a menu that spans multiple Asian influences.
Location: Oud Metha Building, Umm Hurrair
Timings: Mon–Sat noon–midnight; Sun noon–11pm
7. Miyako
Operating since 1987, Miyako is one of Dubai’s earliest Japanese restaurants. It maintains a strict focus on authentic Japanese cuisine without mixing in other Asian styles.
With a serene atmosphere and traditional preparation methods, it’s a go-to for sushi, tempura and classic Japanese dishes.
Location: Hyatt Regency Dubai, Deira
Timings: Daily 12.30pm–3pm, 6pm–11.30pm
8. Erode Amman Mess
For bold Tamil Nadu flavours, Erode Amman Mess delivers Chettinad-style dishes that pack serious heat. While vegetarian options are available, the meaty specialties are what draw loyal diners.
Brain fry and mutton marrow gravy are standout dishes, best paired with soft porottas.
Location: Port Saeed
Timings: Daily 11.30am–4pm, 6.30pm–11.30pm
9. Shabestan
Located at Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek, Shabestan has been serving authentic Iranian cuisine since 1984.
With views of the Creek and a menu built on recipes passed down through generations, this long-standing restaurant is known for its mezze and flavour-packed kebabs.
Location: Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek
Timings: Daily noon–11pm
10. The Boardwalk
A Dubai classic since 1994, The Boardwalk offers Mediterranean cuisine with scenic Creek views.
The seafood selection is a highlight, allowing guests to choose fresh fish prepared to preference. Combined with sunset views and a relaxed atmosphere, it remains one of Dubai’s iconic dining spots.
Location: Dubai Creek Resort, Deira
Timings: Daily noon–midnight
11. The Permit Room
This Indian resto-lounge offers dishes inspired by India’s diverse culinary traditions. Seafood features prominently, with fish curry, prawn fry, crab masala and lobster biryani among popular options.
The venue blends old-world design with modern touches and operates late into the night.
Location: Majestic City Retreat Hotel
Timings: Daily noon–4am
12. The Thai Kitchen
Overlooking Dubai Creek at Park Hyatt Dubai, The Thai Kitchen combines open show kitchens with authentic Thai flavours.
Spice levels can be adjusted to preference, and dishes range from curries to satay and stir-fries. The terrace is especially popular during cooler months.
Location: Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira
Timings: Sun–Fri 6pm–midnight; Sat 12.30pm–4pm, 6pm–midnight
Bonus: XVA Café
Tucked inside XVA Art Hotel in Al Fahidi, this vegetarian-friendly café is ideal for a quiet coffee stop after exploring Deira and Old Dubai.
Surrounded by art and courtyard greenery, it offers a relaxed break from the busy streets nearby.
Location: XVA Art Hotel, Bur Dubai
Timings: Daily 7am–9.30pm
Final Word
From long-standing Iranian kabab houses to lively Filipino seafood spots and elegant waterfront dining, Deira’s restaurant scene reflects Dubai’s multicultural roots.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or rediscovering Old Dubai, these Deira restaurants prove that some of the city’s best dining experiences are found in its most historic neighbourhood.
