These are the best menu items to savour across the GCC.
Restaurants come and go in the Middle East, but FACT’s unwavering passion for dining remains unchanged. The team can be found across the region, sampling the good, the bad and the exceptional. We eat at every kind of restaurant and experience every type of meal, from flash-in-the-pan novelties to iconic institutions. To spare you the guesswork, here are the best dishes we ate in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Riyadh this month.
April 2025
Brie Cheesecake with Caviar at TERO in Dubai
At Reig Othman’s TERO, the cheesecake is anything but ordinary. This indulgent dessert offers an imaginative take on a classic, marrying the savoury notes of Brie with the smoothness of cream cheese, creating a luxurious base that feels both familiar and elevated. The addition of white chocolate lends a gentle sweetness, while a hint of yuzu adds a delicate citrus brightness, cutting through the velvety texture. In a playful yet sophisticated twist, a generous dollop of caviar brings the entire dish together. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Duck Leg Confit Salad at Duo Gastrobar in Dubai
Located within Dubai Hills Estate, Duo Gastrobar may be an intimate venue, but its culinary game is anything but small. The Duck Leg Confit Salad is a standout on the menu here. The dish is hearty without being heavy, striking a perfect balance between freshness and meaty goodness. The leafy greens with generous, tender strips of duck meat make every bite a textural explosion. If you’re in the mood for a duck salad that feels like comfort food without the post-meal slump, this is the one. — Shaheera Anwar, Staff Writer.
Fried Chicken Tenders at Kew’s in Abu Dhabi
Kews, the latest venture within Sticky Rice at Yas Mall, brings a crispy, comforting twist to fried chicken. These tenders are cooked in beef tallow, giving them an extra dose of rich, juicy flavour. Paired with a secret spicy sauce, each bite is juicy, crunchy, and addictively good. As someone who grew up with kebabs grilled in tallow, this was a winning combo. — Shaheera Anwar, Staff Writer.
Japanese Tuna Toro at INÁ in Dubai
The final piece of the J1 Beach puzzle may be firmly in place, but a raw dish at Chef Glen Ballis’ INÁ captured our attention despite the focus being on seasonal flame-grilled cuisine. This delicacy features thin slices of premium tuna belly, renowned for its rich, buttery texture, paired with a vibrant passion fruit sauce that adds a tangy contrast. While the presentation is minimalist, the quality of the ingredients is allowed to shine. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Mutton Nashef at Al Fanar Restaurant in Abu Dhabi
If you’re craving traditional Emirati cuisine, Al Fanar is where you need to go. The Mutton Nashef features tender, boneless chunks of mutton and soft potato cubes cooked in a thick, spiced gravy. Scoop it up with warm bread and savour the rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s guaranteed to satisfy your appetite. — Shaheera Anwar, Staff Writer.
Potato Mochi at Maison Dali in Dubai
Set within the surreal, Dali-inspired interiors of The Opus in Business Bay, Chef Tristin Farmer’s signature potato mochi stands out as a testament to the inventive fusion of Mediterranean and Japanese cuisines at Maison Dali. This vegetarian dish combines the creamy richness of Vacherin Mont d’Or with the bold flavours of black truffle and the classic Roman cacio e pepe. This dish may resemble gnocchi, but it is actually encased in a delicate, chewy exterior reminiscent of Japanese mochi. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Spicy Chicken Ramen at Konjiki Hototogisu in Dubai
Located on the top floor of the Mall of the Emirates, just opposite the cinema, this FACT-nominated ramen joint serves comfort in a bowl. The Spicy Chicken Ramen is loaded with flavour — a rich Japanese dashi base elevated by spicy sesame oil, perfectly balanced to deliver heat without overwhelming your senses. The chicken is tender and well-seasoned, and the oil ratio is perfectly calibrated, adding richness without irritating the throat. — Shaheera Anwar, Staff Writer.
Spicy Kaki Pizza at KONA in Dubai
It’s two for two this month as Reif Othman has turned his hand to pizza with the opening of KONA in The Link. Meaning “flour” in Japanese, the causal dining concept marries Italian tradition with Japanese flair. This bold pizzeria offers more than just the familiar Margherita and Pepperoni. The Signature Spicy Kaki pizza is topped with beef nduja and sweet persimmon, offering a beguiling blend of sweet and savoury flavours upon a beautifully blistered crust. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Steak Tartare Mille-Feuille at The Cullinan in Dubai
The Steak Tartare Mille-Feuille at The Cullinan is both playful and precise. Tenderloin, hand-chopped to preserve its integrity, is layered with impossibly thin mille-feuille potato sheets, adding texture and depth. Truffle mayo and truffle caviar double down on the opulence, while gold leaf and cucumber pearls lend the plate a jewelled finish. It’s luxurious but grounded by the rich, almost nostalgic notes of the creamy demi-glace and the sharpness of pickled onion. It’s no surprise that this sophisticated steakhouse at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab recently captured the attention of Dubai’s Crown Prince. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
March 2025
Chicken Berry Biryani at Kinara by Vikas Khanna in Dubai
If you’re a biryani connoisseur — which, let’s be honest, almost every South Asian is — you need to make your way to Kinara by Vikas Khanna for their Chicken Berry Biryani. As someone who firmly believes that no restaurant biryani can ever outshine my mother’s, I approached this dish with caution – but thankfully, Kinara is not trying to compete with home-cooked nostalgia. These pieces of tender chicken mixed with a slight kick of tangy flavour — courtesy of the berries — create an unexpected yet harmonious balance of flavours. This innovative take on a classic is easily one of the best dishes in Dubai right now. — Shaheera Anwar, Staff Writer.
Himalayan Jhol Momos at Daftar in Dubai
I’m on a mission to try as many momos and dumplings as possible across the region, and let’s just say the Himalayan Jhol Momo at Daftar has earned a top spot on my list. These steaming-hot dumplings are drenched in a velvety, creamy curry. The first mouthful yields a well-seasoned, generous filling that’s complemented by the pink pepper curry coating on top. The tingly and almost citrusy spice lingers long enough to make you shove another one in your mouth. — Shaheera Anwar, Staff Writer.
Karak Brioche at Kira in Dubai
The newly opened Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is a hotel packed with surprises. However, away from the Burj Al Arab views and its super-yacht-inspired facade, the dining destinations are the real draw. The Karak Brioche at Kira is a comforting dessert that blends local flavour with French-inspired finesse. Soft, pillowy brioche is soaked in rich karak tea, allowing the beverage to be absorbed deeply into the dough. The essence of Dubai’s beloved spiced tea is infused throughout, offering bold notes of cardamom and saffron in every bite. Served warm with a scoop of Hokkaido Milk Ice cream, which is flown into the restaurant twice weekly from Japan, this dessert is enough to draw your eyes away from the view. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Manchego cheesecake at Lola Taberna Española in Dubai
At Lola Taberna Española, the Manchego Cheesecake is a comforting dessert that captures the essence of modern Spanish comfort food. This indulgent creation incorporates Manchego cheese, known for its rich, nutty flavour, while reimagining the classic cheesecake with a distinctly Iberian twist. Creamy and smooth, the slab of cheesecake is delicately balanced with just the right hint of sweetness. A crumbly, buttery base adds texture to a dish served in an inviting, rustic style that mirrors Lola Taberna’s warm ambience. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Wagyu Scotch Egg at Revolver Dubai
When a restaurant takes its name from a firearm, expectations are naturally loaded. Revolver, a dining import from Singapore, arrives in Dubai’s Business Bay with a bang, bringing a high-calibre approach to dining. The Wagyu Scotch Egg with Caviar is a signature showstopper (and easily one of the restaurant’s best dishes) that elevates the British picnic classic. Expect wagyu beef encasing a soft, golden yolk, topped with caviar for an indulgent finishing touch. The dish offers a subtle warmth that grows with each bite, like the embers flickering to life in the open kitchen’s hearth. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
February 2025
Beef Tartare at Zuma Dubai
I always order the same things when I visit Zuma (hello, chu toro tartar and sliced yellowtail), but a recent DIFC lunch introduced me to the Japanese juggernaut’s take on Beef Tartare, a dish that has gone from a seasonal special to a permanent fixture on the menu. The tartare is prepared with finely chopped premium beef and seasoned with red yuzu kosho. Accompanying the meat are crisp tapioca crackers, offering a delightful textural contrast while serving as an ideal vessel for the marvellous meaty mixture. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Crispy Duck Salad at MUSOU by Okku
Dubai has plenty of spots serving duck, but not all of them do it justice. One that absolutely does is MUSOU by Okku. As part of their Teppanyaki menu, this crispy shredded duck is slow-cooked for 48 hours, visually almost resembling caramelised fried onions, and is served in a bowl-shaped lettuce leaf for a taco-style bite. The contrast of crunchiness and chewiness, with hints of nuttiness and a smoky depth, makes every bite flavourful. If you love duck, this is easily one of the best dishes on the menu at MUSOU by Okku. — Shaheera Anwar, Staff Writer.
Date Bonbons at A Normal Day in Dubai
It’s not often that I get hyped about a bread course, but A Normal Day elevates breakfast with its menu of creative culinary options. The Date Bonbons offer pieces of toasted brioche arranged like an elaborate game of Jenga. Served with striped “bonbons” made from Medjool dates and French butter, which should be placed on top and devoured, it’s a delicious opener and a must-order dish at this hip hangout. Although it may be visually gimmicky, the taste is a testament to the culinary prowess of Chef Illia and his kitchen team. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Fix Chocolatier at DXB Terminal 3 in Dubai
I know this isn’t a restaurant, but given the demand for Fix Chocolatier, I wouldn’t be surprised if it opened a café. After interviewing Sarah Hamouda, the founder, for FACT Magazine, I picked up some of the beautiful bars – each handmade and covered in colourful splatters that would make Jackson Pollock proud. The snap of the Can’t Get Knafeh Of It bar, which oozes a greeny goodness, has launched a thousand TikToks. The milky, nutty and FOMO-inducing taste can’t be summed up in an ASMR reel, but it can be by eating it for yourself. Forget about the fakes, get the OG. Orders are available daily from 2pm and 5pm through Deliveroo. Do believe the hype– Kohinoor Sahota, London Editor.
Fluffy Japanese Pancakes at Lazy Cat in Dubai
Lazy Cat, a cosy café originally from Kuwait, has brought its delightful offerings to Dubai’s Al Quoz Pond Park. Despite having to queue for a table, it’s well worth the wait, especially if the Fluffy Japanese Pancakes are your order of choice. These mini pancakes are renowned for their light, airy texture, achieved through a meticulous preparation process that takes approximately 40 minutes. Each bite is soft and pillowy, while fresh berries, banana slices and a generous drizzle of pure maple syrup complete the Insta-worthy dish. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Hunan Crispy Sea Bass at MiMi Mei Fair Dubai
The name “mì mì” may translate to “secret” in Mandarin, but the word is definitely out on the London import. MiMi Mei Fair Dubai. The menu is a treasure trove of culinary delights, paying homage to the culinary traditions of Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Singapore. However, it’s the Hunan Crispy Atlantic Sea Bass that keeps me returning time and again! Each mouthful hums with heat as the fish is opened out into crisp, pullable pieces, like the famed bloomin’ onion from Outback Steakhouse. It’s comfort food at its most elevated and easily one of the best dishes we’ve eaten in recent months. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Parmesan Croquetas at Duck & Waffle Dubai
Duck & Waffle has finally landed in Dubai, bringing its signature menu from London. Located in DIFC, with a teasing view of the Burj Khalifa, this spot is known for its signature Duck & Waffle. But for me, the real star of the menu was the Parmesan Croquetas. These golden, crisp bites with a soft crunch on the outside and an irresistibly creamy, cheesy centre were a cheese lover’s dream in one perfect bite. Warm, well-seasoned, and with textures that melt into each other like soulmates, these croquetas stand out as one of the best dishes on the menu. — Shaheera Anwar, Staff Writer.
Wagyu Nigiri at Studio Frantzén in Dubai
Björn Frantzén is a name associated with Nordic brilliance. He has conquered palates from Stockholm to Singapore before bringing his harmonious blend of Nordic and Asian influences to Atlantis, The Palm. The Wagyu Nigiri is a terrific bite, where the A5 Wagyu, its richness tempered by the earthy notes of mushroom miso, rests atop superbly seasoned rice. The addition of enoki mushrooms provides a delicate crunch, adding another dimension to a superb piece of sushi that feels both decadent and disciplined. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
January 2025
A.O.K Pancakes at A.O.K Kitchen in Riyadh
There are pancakes, and then there are A.O.K Pancakes — the kind that make you pause after the first bite just to fully take in how good they are. Served at FACT award-winning A.O.K Kitchen in KAFD, these beauties were fluffy, light and indulgent, like biting into a sweet, buttery cloud. The warm, caramelised apples added a nice richness, while the golden crumble provided the perfect crunch. And with some of the friendliest staff in town making sure you’re well taken care of, it’s one of the best dishes available and one that instantly puts you in a good mood. — Shaheera Anwar, Staff Writer.
Beef Lung Skewers at Harummanis in Dubai
A good friend invited me to Chef Akmal Anuar’s new Wasl 51 restaurant earlier this month. Showcasing Singaporean Malay cuisine inspired by generational recipes—many from Chef Akmal’s mother—Harummanis features street food classics and traditional Malay dishes. One, however, caught us off guard. Beef lungs wouldn’t usually be my pick, but this bold dish invites adventurous diners to try a rare delicacy. Carefully prepared for a tender yet slightly chewy texture, the skewered meat is lightly charcoal-grilled for a smoky char that deepens its earthy richness. Yet it’s the fiery and tangy Sambal Belado that takes the dish to the next level. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Black Lemon Lamb Kebab at Al Naqa Kebab in Dubai
At Al Naqa Kebab, Chef Aphisith Phongsavanh brings a taste of Laos to the Neighbourhood Food Hall in Motor City. The fragrant Lao Black Lemon Lamb Kebab is easily one of the best dishes available in the entire hall, skewered and grilled over charcoal. The juicy meat is infused with lemongrass, Kaffir lime leaf and fresh herbs, creating a vibrant balance of citrusy, earthy, and smoky flavours where each bite offers a fragrant punch, complemented by the slight heat of Laotian spices. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Crispy Golden Langoustine at MiMi Mei Fair Dubai
At the newly opened MiMi Mei Fair Dubai, indulgence takes centre stage with the Crispy Golden Langoustine with Black Truffle—a dish that blends luxury and precision. Wrapped in delicate kataifi pastry, the langoustine is fried to a golden crisp, creating a delightful contrast between its crunchy exterior and the succulent seafood within. Elevating the decadence, a generous dollop of caviar crowns the dish, adding briny depth to the delicate shellfish. The finishing touch? A hint of black truffle infuses the dish with earthy opulence, surpassing the Apple Wood-Fired Roasted Peking Duck as my favourite among MiMi Mei Fair Dubai’s best dishes. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Crushed Milk Chocolate Cookies at NAC Abu Dhabi
Anyone who knows me will tell you that I don’t have much of a sweet tooth. I’d much prefer a cheese plate or even another superb starter rather than dessert. However, a recent visit to NAC in Marina Mall Abu Dhabi introduced me to the Crushed Milk Chocolate Cookies. These moreish morsels are gloriously gooey, served warm so that the chocolate chips have begun to melt and topped with a fantastic Frosties soft serve ice cream. It’s a dessert that takes the childhood nostalgia of cookies and a glass of milk and elevates it a notch. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Ravioli del Plin at L’Amo Bistro del Mare in Dubai
Sat on the breezy terrace at L’Amo Bistro del Mare overlooking the bobbing boats in Dubai Harbour, it’s difficult not to feel like you’re on the Amalfi coast. With a new menu from Head Chef Alessandro Salvatico, seasonal ingredients are reimagined with a modern, artistic touch, and the Ravioli del Plin is a highlight. These delicate, handmade ravioli—named “Plin” after the Italian word for “pinch”—are crafted in-house and filled with slow-braised beef, creating a rich and deeply satisfying bite. Bathed in a simple yet luxurious sauce of butter and sage, the dish lets the quality of the ingredients shine, resulting in one of our best dishes of the month. – David Tapley, Editor-in-Chief.
Salmon & Sumac at Café Boulud Riyadh
You’d never expect an Arabian spice like sumac to appear in a dish at a French restaurant, but Café Boulud in Riyadh is all about surprising you. The restaurant’s Salmon & Sumac is as strikingly tasteful as it is visually appealing. This perfectly pink grilled salmon fillet, with a generous sprinkle of even brighter pink sumac, is a visual treat. The spice adds a kick, cutting through the fish’s rich, buttery texture. Pine nuts and raisins are scattered on top, providing a contrast of crunch and chewiness that elevates the dish’s texture. With a side of quinoa, this dish strikes a balance between lightness and satisfaction, feeling both indulgent and healthy. — Shaheera Anwar, Staff Writer.
