How to eat like a local in Dubai - Fun for the foodies

Dubai has become a city known for the fusion of ancient cultures and modern-day design and living. It is a haven for anyone willing to indulge in state-of-the-art luxury. Dubai is now the pinnacle of the UAE in many ways, and part of what makes it so is the variety of cuisines available to explore if you are a foodie. While local cuisine in Dubai is to die for, with many choices available for visitors, a guide would be helpful to take you to the place that would best suit your taste. 

Image via Wikimedia Commons

Embracing the local within

To appreciate all the flavours Dubai has to offer, you will have to take a stroll around the city. Dubai is like a sizzling pot of cultures that is perfectly represented by the mix of cuisine it offers. To start the day off, you can head to any local cafe or small Asian restaurant in Dubai for an Emirati breakfast. One can indulge in a delicious plate of balaleet (a sweet and savoury dish of vermicelli noodles and eggs) or try some Emirati bread paired with a generous serving of honey and cheese. 

The heart of Old Dubai is the best spot for lunch time. A rich combination of spicey Indian Biriyani, paired with delectable Pakistani kebabs will really hit the spot. The streets of Meena Bazaar are usually packed with vendors and tourists alike. The street food in Old Dubai truly is a paradise for all the food lovers out there. Some of the bolder visitors in the bunch will top off all they've just had with a Shawarma wrap, which has become a very popular street food in recent years. 

As the sun gives off its last few rays of light, it's time to head over to wine and dine in pure luxury. What better place to indulge the senses than the enchanting Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort itself? The view from this magnificent resort is truly breathtaking. The golden sheen of the Dubai coastline paired with the architectural excellence of Palm Jumeirah is truly a sight to behold. Whatever accommodation you decide to choose, the food experience is going to be truly world-class. 

Hitting the local scene - Markets and Tours 

Another excellent way to really immerse oneself and truly understand what it is to eat like a local would be to hit the local markets and bazaars. There are a number of spice souks (markets) such as the colourful Deira Spice Souk. Many visitors are introduced to traditional Arabic coffee or qahwa at many of the stands along the street. Food tours can also be organised for anyone daring to explore the rich flavours and fusion cuisine of Dubai's culinary culture.

For the sweet tooth - Desserts galore  

You should never miss the Arabic sweets when eating like a local in Dubai. Many restaurants offer a wide variety of delicious pastries and dessert items. A local favourite among many is baklava which is a sweet meat made of intricate layers of filo pastry, paired with crushed nuts and honey. Another great dish is lugaimat, which is a deep-fried dumpling showered with a generous serving of date syrup and sesame seeds. 

To savour the culinary delights of Dubai like a local, you must embrace an adventurous palate and a willingness to explore new flavours. Get ready for a culinary trip you will never forget. Whether it's wandering the streets of Old Dubai or indulging in luxurious meals at a high-class hotel, you are truly in for a gastronomic journey you will never forget!