Phil Dubai Directory

Best International Restaurants in Dubai | A Journey Through Unique Global Flavors

Dubai has long been recognized as one of the world’s culinary capitals — a city where cultural diversity, luxury, and a passion for unique experiences come together to create a true paradise for food lovers. Within this glittering metropolis lie restaurants that are not just places to eat, but stages where culinary artistry, creative innovation, and flawless hospitality take center stage. From modern Scandinavian fare to authentic Japanese flavors and reinterpretations of historical British cuisine, Dubai brings the world’s finest tastes together for an unforgettable dining experience.

In this blog post by Phil, we’ve curated a selection of the best international restaurants in Dubai — each one a destination in its own right. If you're seeking more than just a meal — an experience that blends flavor, emotion, art, and culture — then this guide is exactly what you need to read.

Note: The restaurants featured in this article are among the most luxurious international dining venues in the UAE. Many require advance reservations and fall into the high-end price category.


1. FZN Restaurant Dubai (by Chef Björn Frantzén)

The brainchild of Michelin-starred chef Björn Frantzén, FZN brings his extraordinary culinary vision to Dubai: a multi-course tasting menu that fuses modern European cuisine with Japanese influences. Set in an elegant yet unpretentious space, the experience reflects a refined sense of luxury expressed through simplicity.

Expect a remarkable selection of dishes combining Scandinavian and Asian influences, crafted with the finest ingredients such as shellfish from the Norwegian Sea and turbot from Brittany. The culinary team’s precision and skill shine through each course, offering a perfect harmony of flavor and texture.

  • Location: Atlantis The Palm, Jumeirah
  • Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 7:00 PM – 1:00 AM
  • Note: Guests must be 13 years or older
FZN-Restaurant-Dubai-



2. Trèsind Studio

Trèsind Studio offers a uniquely captivating dining experience that challenges conventional perceptions of Indian cuisine, presenting familiar and unfamiliar flavors through a deeply creative lens. The studio emphasizes the transformation and elevation of humble ingredients, sourced locally from organic and sustainable farms across the UAE.

The restaurant’s philosophy is rooted in the Indian saying “Atithi Devo Bhava”, meaning “Guest is God.” This guest-centric approach has earned Trèsind Studio wide acclaim in the region, including the “Art of Hospitality” award at the inaugural MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants 2022 by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants.

Trèsind Studio received its third Michelin star in the 2025 Michelin Guide and currently ranks 11th on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024 list.

  • Location: Palm Jumeirah
  • Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Trèsind-Studio.



3. Row on 45

Located within Grosvenor House, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Dubai, Row on 45 offers a two-Michelin-star fine dining journey led by celebrated chef Jason Atherton. This is a rare and opulent experience unlike any other — one that’s both theatrical and personal.

Here, the culinary team takes center stage from start to finish. Dishes are prepared before your eyes with creativity and precision in a sleek, contemporary setting.

Prepare to enjoy world-class international cuisine, exceptional drinks, and breathtaking views of Bluewaters Island and Palm Jumeirah — all in the company of fellow fine dining enthusiasts.

  • Location: Grosvenor House, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Dubai
  • Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 7:00 PM – 1:00 AM
    (Last seating at 8:30 PM)
Row-on-45



4. Il Ristorante – Niko Romito

Inspired by the elegant and authentic design of the Bvlgari Hotel in Milan, Il Ristorante – Niko Romito at Bvlgari Resort Dubai is a tribute to Italy’s rich culinary heritage. Every element of this refined space has been carefully selected to offer a flawless dining experience. Elevated seating platforms provide guests with panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf, while the striking black ceiling evokes the feeling of dining under a starlit sky.

Michelin-starred Italian chef Niko Romito, who collaborates exclusively with Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts, has created a unique menu that fuses classic and contemporary Italian culinary traditions. While operating his three-star restaurant in Italy, Romito works closely with his personally trained chef stationed at the Dubai location to ensure every dish captures the essence of Italian culture at its finest.

Since 2022, Il Ristorante – Niko Romito has been awarded two Michelin stars for three consecutive years in the Michelin Guide Dubai.

  • Location: Bvlgari Resort, Jumeirah, Dubai
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 7:00 PM – 12:00 AM (Last seating at 10:30 PM)
Il-Ristorante



5. STAY by Yannick Alléno

Tucked away at the tip of Palm Jumeirah, STAY by Yannick Alléno is housed in an architectural masterpiece featuring dramatic design, lush tropical gardens, and a private marina — creating an atmosphere as extraordinary as the dining itself.

The interiors are luxurious and visually striking without being overly formal. Service is equally impressive — delivered by a professional, detail-oriented team with a warm and welcoming touch.

The cuisine is innovative and compelling, blending the essence of traditional French gastronomy with cutting-edge techniques. Whether you choose from the à la carte offerings or the bespoke tasting menus, the harmony of flavors and artfully plated dishes ensure an unforgettable culinary experience.

  • Location: One&Only The Palm Hotel, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
  • Opening Hours:
    Tuesday to Sunday: 6:30 PM – 12:00 AM
    Saturday Lunch: 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
  • Note: Guests must be 9 years or older. A deposit of AED 500 per person is required upon reservation.
STAY-by-Yannick-Alléno.



6. Hōseki

In Japanese, Hōseki means "jewel," and this minimalist restaurant truly lives up to its name — a hidden gem offering a one-of-a-kind dining experience curated by master chef Masahiro Sugiyama.

With just 17 seats, dining at Hōseki is an authentic Omakase experience — the most traditional form of Japanese dining, where guests entrust the entire meal to the chef. Upon entering through the Tokonoma, a symbolic Japanese entryway, diners are invited to surrender their choices and allow the chef to craft a personalized journey using only the freshest seasonal ingredients.

No two meals at Hōseki are ever the same. Each is a singular exploration into the heart of Japanese culinary tradition, shaped by the chef’s intuition and the day’s premium ingredients. Guests also enjoy a breathtaking view of Dubai’s skyline, and for groups, a private dining room is available for up to 12 people.

Located on the fourth floor of the resort, Hōseki is open for both lunch and dinner. Advance reservation is required.

Since 2022, Hōseki has earned one Michelin star for four consecutive years and ranked #26 in the 2023 list of the 50 Best Restaurants – Middle East & North Africa, solidifying its place among the top fine dining destinations in Dubai.

  • Location: Bvlgari Resort, Jumeirah, Dubai
  • Opening Hours:
    Lunch:
    Thursday to Sunday from 1:00 PM
    Dinner: Wednesday to Sunday at 6:00 PM and 8:30 PM
Hōseki.



7. Dinner by Heston Blumenthal

Located within the opulent Atlantis The Royal, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal is a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a modern reinterpretation of historic British cuisine, with roots tracing back to the 14th century.

With sweeping views of Dubai’s skyline, this dining experience takes guests on a journey through the culinary fascinations of Chef Heston Blumenthal. The menu features iconic dishes such as the playful Meat Fruit and the indulgent Tipsy Cake, inspired by recipes from as early as 1810.

  • Location: Atlantis The Royal, Dubai
  • Opening Hours:
    Monday to Saturday: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
    Sunday: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Dinner-by-Heston-Blumenthal



8. Tasca by José Avillez

Perched on the sixth floor of the luxurious Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Tasca by José Avillez is a vibrant yet relaxed restaurant centered around an open kitchen. Its terrace features an infinity pool and offers spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai’s dazzling skyline.

With a professional and attentive service team, Tasca delivers a well-paced and enjoyable dining experience. Chef José Avillez and his team infuse every dish with a deep respect for high-quality ingredients and a heartfelt love for Portuguese culinary traditions.

The menu is bursting with personality — a contemporary twist on authentic Portuguese flavors — and is complemented by one of Dubai’s most extensive collections of Portuguese wines and a tempting selection of signature cocktails.

Whether you choose to dine indoors or on the sea-facing terrace, Tasca offers a feast for the senses. Live music on Fridays and Saturdays adds to the vibrant ambiance.

  • Location: Jumeirah Beach, Dubai
  • Opening Hours:
    Lunch:
    Sunday to Friday, 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM
    Brunch: Saturday, 12:30 PM – 4:00 PM
    Dinner: Daily, 6:30 PM – 11:00 PM
Tasca-by-José-Avillez.



9. La Dame de Pic Dubai

Discover the art of haute cuisine at La Dame de Pic Dubai, a refined French dining destination meticulously crafted by Anne-Sophie Pic, the most Michelin-starred female chef in the world.

With an astonishing twelve Michelin stars globally — including a historic three-star restaurant in Valence, France — Anne-Sophie Pic brings her culinary mastery to Dubai with a signature flair.

La Dame de Pic reflects her distinctive style, where contrasts and harmonies are elegantly balanced. The interior is a sophisticated blend of soft hues and delicate metallic details, with embossed peony motifs on the walls, evoking a sense of absolute luxury.

At the heart of the restaurant lies its dramatic open kitchen, immersing diners in a captivating gastronomic journey. The space exudes strength and charisma while maintaining an atmosphere of grace, femininity, and poise.

  • Location: One Za'abeel, Dubai
  • Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 12:30 PM – 12:00 AM
La-Dame-de-Pic-Dubai


10. Hakkasan Dubai

Located within Atlantis The Palm, the Dubai outpost of the ever-expanding global brand Hakkasan offers everything you need for a vibrant and unforgettable night out. The atmosphere is moody and sophisticated, featuring soft lighting, upbeat music, professional service, and intricately latticed partitions for added privacy.

The best seats in the house are the semi-private booths near the lounge, adjacent to the striking blue-lit bar. The menu features reimagined Chinese dishes, including all the classic Hakkasan signatures alongside Dubai-exclusive creations — such as Lychee Lobster with Yuzu Pearl.

For those seeking a spicy kick, the Assam Seafood Toban is a must-try.

Each dish is crafted using premium ingredients and presented with bold colors, vibrant energy, and powerful, layered flavors.

And whatever you do, be sure to save room for one of Hakkasan’s uniquely creative desserts — a perfect way to end an extraordinary evening.

  • Location: Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Hakkasan-Dubai



A Guide to Choosing the Right International Restaurant in Dubai Based on Your Taste

Choosing the best international restaurant in Dubai becomes much easier when you understand the style and ambiance of each venue. Below, we’ve matched the restaurants featured in this article with the kind of dining experience you might be looking for:

  • If you're seeking an intimate and serene setting:
    Hōseki offers a personal and peaceful omakase-style dining experience with only 17 seats — perfect for romantic evenings and special occasions. For more cozy spots, check out our article on the best cafés in Dubai.
  • If a breathtaking view matters to you:
    Row on 45 and Tasca both deliver stunning vistas of the sea and city — ideal for savoring fine cuisine with a view.
  • If you're into creative and artistic flavors:
    Trèsind Studio and STAY present innovative and adventurous tasting menus — perfect for culinary explorers.
  • If you're a fan of authentic Italian cuisine:
    Il Ristorante – Niko Romito offers a luxurious atmosphere with a refined menu rooted in classic Italian traditions.
  • If you're intrigued by historical culinary stories:
    Dinner by Heston Blumenthal brings medieval British recipes back to life in a modern, culturally rich setting.
  • If you prefer a high-end, refined ambiance:
    FZN Restaurant Dubai impresses with its Scandinavian-Japanese tasting concept and minimalist elegance.
  • If you're passionate about Portuguese flavors with a modern twist:
    Tasca by José Avillez blends tradition and innovation in a vibrant, sea-facing venue.
  • If you crave refined French cuisine with a touch of poetry:
    La Dame de Pic Dubai reflects the elegance of modern French gastronomy in a delicately designed space.
  • If you love bold, modern Chinese flavors:
    Hakkasan Dubai delivers energetic, flavor-packed dishes in a stylish setting with atmospheric lighting.


Conclusion

Dubai isn’t just famous for its skyscrapers, shopping malls, and beaches — it’s also home to some of the world’s most celebrated chefs and redefines global culinary standards through unforgettable dining experiences.

As this guide has shown, each restaurant on this list tells a unique culinary story — from traditional Japanese omakase and passionate Portuguese flavors to poetic French finesse.

So if you're ready to explore tastes that transcend borders and discover Dubai through the lens of fine cuisine, be sure to visit these exceptional venues. And remember, Phil is always here to help you make the best and most reliable dining choices in the city.

Looking for Persian flavors instead? Don't miss our guide to the best Iranian restaurants in Dubai.

2024-01-23 11:31:56

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