To put it simply, Dubai has distinguished itself for its luxury dining, but you do not need to have a very deep pocket to enjoy great food. At the Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards 2025, the best affordable eateries with their fantastic meals at affordable prices were highlighted.
Winner: Dampa Seafood Grill 🏆
Dampa Seafood Grill retook the crown of Dubai’s best budget restaurant after reopening early 2024 after a fire. The signature seafood dump, is a combination of mussels, shrimp, and squid in Cajun sauce, for three people for Dhs176.
📍 Baniyas Road, Port Saeed | 📞 04 299 0884
Highly Commended
Calicut Paragon – A beloved Keralan restaurant serving spicy curries, fish tikka, and fresh naan.
📍 Karama | 📞 04 335 8700
San Wan Hand Pulled Noodles – Known for authentic Northern Chinese noodles and juicy wontons.
📍 JLT | 📞 050 759 9584
Other Top Budget Restaurants
- Allo Beirut – 24/7 Lebanese street food spot famous for shawarma and hummus. (Hessa Street)
- Betawi – Serving classic Indonesian dishes like mie goreng and nasi padang. (JLT)
- Dhaba Lane – A vibrant Indian eatery with biryanis and street food classics. (JLT)
- A cozy Lebanese eatery with grilled meats, fatteh, named Dukkan El Baba. (Barsha Heights)
- Hanoi Naturally – A top spot for Vietnamese pho and fresh salads. (JLT)
- Mama’esh – Famous for Palestinian manakish and hummus. (Al Manara)
- Has a Specializing in Balinese cuisine, including satay platters; The Little Bali. (JLT)
The fact proves that great food in Dubai doesn’t have to cost as much as you think. Where will you dine next? 🍽️
