Abu Dhabi
Al Khayma brings authentic Emirati heritage and bedouin traditions to life through its cuisine and warm hospitality, set in the heart of Souq Al Jami near the Grand Mosque. A genuine taste of local culture with generous, traditional dishes perfect for families and groups.
Photo by Jones the Grocer, Al Mamoura (Abu Dhabi) (Google)Abu Dhabi
A beloved grocer and casual deli in Al Mamoura serving fresh food, quality groceries and hearty meals in a relaxed setting. Perfect for quick bites, light meals or picking up provisions with a warm neighbourhood vibe.
Photo by Shivani Rapolu (Google)Abu Dhabi
A beloved institution in Al Khalidiyah serving authentic Middle Eastern fare with genuine warmth. Locals flock here for generous, flavourful platters—expect honest, well-executed traditional cooking and the kind of hospitality that keeps families coming back.
Photo by Derwandi (Google)Abu Dhabi
A welcoming Lebanese restaurant and lounge serving authentic Levantine cuisine in a relaxed setting. Open until 2 a.m., it's perfect for late-night gatherings, casual dinners or a lively evening with friends.
Photo by Pappu Paya (Indian Restaurant) (Google)Abu Dhabi
Bombay's bold, no-nonsense cooking arrives in Abu Dhabi: slow-simmered Paya, hand-marinated Tandoor, and layered Biryani that sing of authenticity. Generous, unapologetic flavours and live Sigdi nights make this a serious contender for the city's best Indian cooking.
Photo by Zahrat Lebnan - Muroor (Google)Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi's iconic Lebanese restaurant since 1983, serving authentic levantine cuisine across seven locations. Fresh, flavourful dishes from mezze to grills—a locals' favourite for breakfast, family meals, and late-night eats.
Photo by Mijana (Google)Amman
Mijana is a beloved family restaurant in central Amman serving generous traditional Levantine fare in a relaxed, welcoming setting. A go-to spot for big family meals and sharing platters that locals keep returning to.
Amman
Habibah is Amman's iconic Eastern sweets institution since 1951, celebrated for authentic knafeh, baklava, maamoul and traditional Arabic confections. A must-visit for anyone seeking the real taste of the city's sweetest heritage.
Amman
Zalatimo Brothers is Amman's legendary sweet institution, renowned for handcrafted baklava, maamoul, and traditional confections that have delighted customers for generations. A must-visit for authentic Levantine sweets, perfect for gifts, celebrations, or indulging in the city's most iconic flavours.
Amman
Habib Beirut brings forty years of authentic Lebanese kitchen craft to Amman — charcoal-grilled mashawi, hand-rolled bread, and mezze ordered for the table's middle in true Lebanese style. Unhurried hospitality and family-sized platters make it perfect for gathering, whether a quiet dinner for two or a feast with the whole clan.
Amman
A celebrated Levantine institution on Jabal Amman, Fakhreldin serves traditional Lebanese cuisine with impeccable service and award-winning standards. Perfect for marking occasions with family or friends over authentic regional flavors.
Photo by Dana Hassan (Google)Amman
A heritage restaurant set within the Amman Citadel, serving traditional Jordanian cuisine in a restored historic setting. Intimate courtyard dining with views over the city makes it perfect for special occasions and a genuine taste of local food culture.
Aqaba
Elevated Lebanese fine dining by the Red Sea, serving contemporary Middle Eastern classics like tabbouleh, fatoush and ouzi in an elegant al fresco setting. Inspired by Kempinski's flagship Dead Sea restaurant, it brings refined regional flavours and a unique gastronomy experience to Aqaba's waterfront.
Photo by نادر محمد المكاوي (Google)Aqaba
A beloved local confectionery in Aqaba famous for traditional harissa and regional sweets that have earned a loyal following. Stop here for authentic, affordable treats that capture the flavour of the city's heritage.
Photo by mahmoud abeed (Google)Aqaba
A beloved fast-food spot on Faysal Street serving excellent shawarma and grilled meat wraps at honest prices. Quick, tasty, and exactly what locals queue for when hunger strikes.
Photo by ابو موسى (Google)Aqaba
Abu Mossa is a beloved local restaurant on Aqaba's Ovens Street, serving authentic Jordanian fare at wallet-friendly prices. A neighbourhood institution with strong community support, it's the kind of place locals bring visitors to taste real flavours.
Photo by منسفنا صح (Google)Aqaba
A beloved local institution serving mansaf and traditional Levantine platters in generous portions built for sharing. The high rating and steady crowd speak to authentic, warming food that captures what Aqaba eats.
Photo by XXXL XXXL (Google)Aqaba
A beloved local institution in Aqaba, Shinawi serves generous portions of traditional Jordanian and Levantine fare in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Whether you're after shawarma, grilled meats, or classic mezze, it's the kind of honest neighbourhood spot where locals send friends and family.
Photo by Al Khal Egyptian Restaurant (Google)Cairo
A beloved neighbourhood spot in Heliopolis serving authentic Egyptian classics—think koshari, fatta, and grilled meats cooked the traditional way. The high ratings and loyal local following confirm it's the real deal: honest food, fair prices, and the kind of place Cairenes take visitors to taste the city.
Photo by مطعم طشة توت - Tashet Tut Restaurant (Google)Cairo
A beloved Cairo institution famous for authentic Egyptian cuisine served in a warm, buzzing family atmosphere. Known for generous helpings and the kind of food locals have trusted for decades.
Photo by مطعم إيجيبت - Egypt Restaurant (Google)Cairo
A fine-dining spot in Zamalek celebrating Egyptian cuisine and heritage. Warm hospitality and attentive service make it ideal for special dinners or a taste of authentic local flavours.
Photo by Bayt Elmoazz.Resturant& Café (Google)Cairo
A beloved heritage restaurant and café in Old Cairo (Misr al-Qadima), Bayt Elmoazz serves traditional Egyptian fare in an atmospheric setting that captures the neighbourhood's soul. Locals and visitors alike gather here for authentic local dishes, coffee, and the unhurried rhythm of old Cairo.
Photo by كبدة الشرقاوي محكمة العبور الجديد ٢ (Google)Cairo
A legendary Cairo fast-food spot open 24/7 serving liver, offal and traditional diner fare with authentic local flair. Perfect for a quick, authentic bite any time of day or night.
Photo by Mohsen Hadid (Google)Cairo
A legendary Downtown Cairo bakery and confectionery institution, Latif Wassily has been serving locals and visitors with fresh pastries, sweets and baked goods since 1952. Stop by for authentic Egyptian treats, morning pastries or a sweet indulgence — a true taste of the city's heritage.
Photo by Tawlet Yvonne Doha (Google)Doha
Tawlet Yvonne brings Levantine home cooking to Doha with warmth and generous platters designed for sharing. A beloved neighbourhood spot where locals gather for authentic, unpretentious meals that taste like family.
Photo by Mohd ALShahabi (Google)Doha
Qatar's pioneering third-wave specialty coffee shop, founded in 2016 by locals who brought SCA-certified coffee culture to Doha. Great brews pair with seasonal breakfasts and lunch; each branch has its own menu and vibe.
Photo by Teatro Doha (Google)Doha
Teatro is an upscale Pan-Asian restaurant at City Centre Rotana serving sushi, sashimi, and signature Asian dishes with live sushi preparation and daily live music. Perfect for special evenings with its intimate private dining rooms, wine cellar, and vibrant theme nights like Sushi Matsuri and Asia Unplugged.
Doha
Abajour brings authentic Levantine street food to Doha with a menu spanning Lebanese breakfast classics (manakish, falafel, foul) and shareable mezze plates. Since 2014, they've built a loyal following for vibrant, homemade dishes that capture the spirit of Lebanese food culture.
Doha
La Mar Doha brings authentic Peruvian cuisine to the city's beachfront, with signature ceviches and charcoal-fired creations reflecting Peru's rich cultural blend. Perfect for a memorable evening by the water with refined flavours and an elegant setting.
Photo by Yousef Abdal (Google)Doha
A heritage restaurant in Katara Cultural Village serving traditional Gulf cuisine in an authentic setting. A beloved spot for families and those seeking genuine local flavours with cultural atmosphere.
Dubai
Legendary Turkish confectioner since 1864, renowned for handcrafted baklava, Turkish delight, and traditional Ottoman desserts made with premium pistachios and natural ingredients. A taste of centuries-old heritage, perfect for gifting or indulging in Dubai's most iconic sweet treats.
Dubai
A celebrated heritage restaurant in Al Fahidi serving authentic Emirati and Middle Eastern cuisine in a traditional setting that honours Bedouin culture. Perfect for families and those seeking genuine local flavours with a cultural backdrop.
Photo by Arabian Tea House Restaurant & Cafe - Jumeirah Public Beach, Dubai (Google)Dubai
Dubai's original Emirati restaurant since 1997, Arabian Tea House serves authentic Gulf cuisine and heritage breakfasts in a warm, culturally immersive setting. A beloved local institution where traditional flavours and genuine hospitality transport you through Emirati culinary history.
Photo by Gerbou (Google)Dubai
Gerbou is a contemporary Emirati fine-dining restaurant in the heritage neighbourhood of Nad Al Sheba, celebrating UAE culture through thoughtfully designed interiors and reinterpreted traditional cuisine. Housed in a restored 1987 building, it offers an intimate yet warm dining experience rooted in Emirati hospitality and craftsmanship, perfect for those seeking authentic local flavours with modern presentation.
Dubai
Al Fanar is Dubai's trusted beacon for authentic Emirati seafood and heritage cuisine since 2011. Perched by Pond Park with a serene water view, it's where locals bring visitors to taste machboos, jesheed and fresh catches that honour generations of UAE tradition.
Dubai
Authentic Mexican kitchen run by Mama Lalis from Monclova, serving halal-certified birria, tacos and traditional recipes in a small, intimate 26-seat Al Barsha room. Open until midnight, welcoming walk-ins and groups with genuine Mexican hospitality and family-style sharing.
Hurghada
Mandarine brings authentic Lebanese flavours to Hurghada, serving signature mezze, tender shawarma and mixed grills made fresh daily. Perfect for groups or families craving generous shareable plates and warm hospitality in a relaxed dining space.
Photo by Sea Mood (Google)Hurghada
A beloved seafood restaurant on Hurghada's waterfront, Sea Mood serves fresh catch and coastal cuisine in a relaxed setting with views of the Red Sea. Perfect for everything from a romantic evening to a casual family meal.
Photo by AWS AWS (Google)Hurghada
A beloved Hurghada institution serving authentic Yemeni cuisine with generous, shareable platters and a warm family atmosphere. Locals and visitors queue for its signature dishes and genuine flavors.
Photo by Shawarma ibn Syria (Google)Hurghada
A beloved shawarma spot in North Hurghada known for generous, flavourful wraps at unbeatable prices. Locals queue here for quick, satisfying Middle Eastern street food that hits the mark every time.
Photo by مطعم اسماك المصطفي Almustafa Fish Restaurant (Google)Hurghada
A beloved seafood specialist in Hurghada, Al Mustafa serves fresh catch and traditional preparations in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Popular with locals and visitors alike for generous portions and honest flavours at fair prices.
Photo by Barbouni Seafood restaurant (Google)Hurghada
Barbouni is a seafood restaurant in Hurghada serving fresh catches in a relaxed evening setting. Open until 1 AM, it's perfect for a romantic seaside dinner or casual late-night gathering with friends.
Photo by الشيخ جمال - elsheikh gamal (Google)Jeddah
A well-loved neighbourhood restaurant in Al Bawadi serving traditional Saudi and Levantine fare with generous, shareable platters. High ratings and steady crowds make it a trusted spot for family meals and casual group dinners.
Jeddah
Rafa brings contemporary Saudi cuisine to Jeddah's waterfront, serving regional specialities with refined presentation at the Yacht Club. A relaxed marina setting perfect for celebrating local flavours with views and space for groups.
Jeddah
Niyyali brings authentic Lebanese soul to Jeddah's Corniche, where flavour and creativity shine through bold, diverse cuisine. Dine inside or on the terrace facing the Red Sea—an intimate, upscale escape for those seeking genuine Lebanese food and a stunning evening out.
Photo by Dr. Khan (Google)Jeddah
A beloved Jeddah institution in Aloudabaa serving traditional Saudi and Gulf cuisine with generous shareable platters in a welcoming family atmosphere. Locals return here for authentic flavours and the warm, unpretentious hospitality that's made it a trusted name.
Photo by مطعم حكاية منسف - جدة حي الحمرا فرع ٢ (Google)Jeddah
Hikaya Mansaf is a beloved local restaurant in Al-Hamra serving authentic Jordanian mansaf and traditional Levantine fare in a warm, family-oriented setting. A go-to spot for generous shareable platters and the kind of honest, heritage cooking Jeddah locals return to again and again.
Jeddah
Maeen blends traditional Saudi and Arabian Peninsula cuisine with modern care, serving heritage dishes like diced chicken, slow-cooked lamb, and grilled fish—daily-fresh ingredients, cooked with craft. A beloved local institution where families and friends gather for authentic, warming meals that taste like home.
Riyadh
Nomas is an intimate fine-dining journey through Najd heritage and culture, with just 35 seats offering a luxurious, immersive experience. Signature Middle Eastern cuisine celebrating Saudi tradition in an elegantly crafted setting.
Photo by Dannoun restaurant (Google)Riyadh
A beloved Riyadh institution serving generous traditional Saudi and Levantine fare in a welcoming family setting. Known for shareable platters and warm hospitality that keeps locals and visitors coming back.
Photo by Wildfire Brazilian Steakhouse وايلدفاير (Google)Riyadh
A premium Brazilian steakhouse in Crowne Plaza offering churrascaria-style dining with tableside carving and high-end meats. Perfect for celebrations and special occasions where you want to impress.
Photo by Desi Majlis Restaurant (Google)Riyadh
Desi Majlis is a warm, traditional South Asian restaurant beloved by Riyadh families for generous platters and authentic flavours. The majlis-style setting and strong ratings make it a go-to for group meals and weekend family dinners.
Photo by مطعم روزاليندا ROSALINDA RESTAURANT (Google)Riyadh
Rosa Linda is Riyadh's celebrated Lebanese fine-dining institution, renowned for its refined traditional cuisine and consistently excellent service. With a 4.7-star reputation among thousands of diners, it's the go-to for special occasions and authentic Levantine flavours.
Photo by عسيب (Google)Riyadh
Aseeb is a celebrated upscale Middle Eastern restaurant in Al Yasmeen, known for refined traditional cuisine and warm hospitality. A go-to for families and groups seeking generous platters in an elegant setting.
