dinning in dubai

With Dubai's diverse population, it's not surprising that the city has a wide range of dining options, covering everything from Thai to Tunisian. A good number of the best-quality restaurants are in hotels, but they are expensive, so be prepared to break the bank. There are also quite a few good mom-and-pop places, particularly Indian and Pakistani joints.
Traditional Emirati cooking consists primarily of dates, fresh and dried fish and both camel meat and milk—not terribly appealing to most Westerners. Be sure to try Dubai's fresh dates, though—they're soft, succulent and delicious.) Outside of Emirati homes, it's difficult to get a taste of local cuisine, although some restaurants do have a few traditional dishes. Most Arabic restaurants, however, draw on Lebanese cuisine instead, with grilled meats and meze (appetizer-like small portions of salads, meats and dips). There are also literally hundreds of stands around the city that serve shawarma (pita-style flat bread filled with shaved lamb or chicken roasted on a spit), hummus, salad and pickles. They're good for a quick, inexpensive snack.
Dinner is usually a late affair: Tables start to fill up around 9 pm. Friday brunch is an institution in Dubai, and competition is fierce among the providers of all-you-can-eat (and drink) buffets, many with alcohol included. Some restaurants even throw in entertainment for children. In cooler weather, alfresco dining is popular, whether on a terrace, a rooftop or at the beach.
Expect to pay the following for a dinner for one, excluding drinks, tax and tip: $ = less than 50 AED; $$ = 50 AED-100 AED; $$$ = 101 AED-200 AED; $$$$ = more than 200 AED.