Dubai’s gastronomy pays tributes to different tastes across the globe, and African gastronomy has made a strong standing with bold spices, heavy stews, grilled meat, and comforting staples. From West African jollof rice to East African nyama choma and a whole host of Pan-African fusion dishes, these restaurants have become favorites of the local populace, expats, and food trailblazers alike.
The top 10 African restaurants in Dubai are listed here, featuring a brief description of what makes each one special and which dishes you should check out.
1. KIZA Restaurant & Lounge
Emirates Financial Towers – Zaa’beel Second – DIFC – Dubai
It is a chic Pan-African restaurant specializing in an upscale dining experience, with a live band and dancing to the vibrant African vibe.The staff are friendly, the food is tasty, plus it’s a great place for a dinner out.
Must-try dishes: Jollof rice, grilled lamb chops, chicken suya, seafood stew.
2. Enish Dubai
H Hotel & H hotel – 1 Dubai 2nd December street – 40 Sheikh Zayed Rd – Dubai
Classy atmosphere and true flavors give this place the right to call itself one of the best Nigerian restaurants in Dubai.Premium African dinners with very good consistent service.
Must-try dishes: Egusi soup, pounded yam, pepper soup, fried plantains.
3. Calabar Aroma Restaurant Dubai
Emirates Financial Towers – Zaa’beel Second – DIFC – Dubai
The place is so lively with crude Nigerian and Calabar cuisine set to Afrobeats.Must-try dishes: Afang soup, seafood okra, goat meat pepper soup.Authentic taste with energy spell from African.
4. Tribes Dubai Mall
Level 2, Star Atrium, above apple store, The Dubai Mall – Dubai
A modern-African restaurant, combining contemporary presentation with traditional flavors, located inside the Dubai Mall.A place to appease travelers seeking African food within posh surroundings.
Must-try dishes: Braai meats, peri-peri chicken, beef short ribs.
5. Mpombo African Restaurant
NML B3 – Sikkat – Dubai
Famed for East African specialties, it is a lovely joint for generous servings and homely flavors.Affordable and authentic East African meals.
Must-try dishes: Nyama choma, chapati, samosas, slow-cooked beef stew.
6. Chop House Restaurant
K2 – Cluster K – Al Thanyah Fifth – Jumeirah Lakes Towers – Dubai
It is a hidden place for lovers of the comfort of West African foods, particularly the Nigerian classics.Rich flavors and excellent value for money.
Must-try dishes: Jollof rice, fried rice, grilled chicken, plantain.
7. African Dishes Restaurant Dubai
Barsha Platinum Building By Armada Hotel – Al Barsha First – Dubai
An affordable dining option featuring homey West African dishes available for dine-in and delivery.Affordable prices and satisfying portions.
Must-try dishes: Egusi with fufu, okra soup, amala.
8. Chinmark Restaurant
shop 5&6 Marina Hotel Apartment, Marina dubai marina marina walk – Dubai
A small African restaurant at Marina, distinguished by its neat presentation and balanced flavor of all dishes.Casual dining with reliable quality.
Must-try dishes: Spicy stews, grilled meats, rice dishes.
9. Farm City Dubai
Pantheon Elysee I – Dubai
Farm City lives up to the Nigerians’ popularity in Dubai for its traditional soups and swallows.Authentic taste that feels close to home.
Must-try dishes: Afang soup, pounded yam, ogbono soup.
10. African Queen Dubai
J1 Beach – Jumeirah – Jumeirah 1 – Dubai
A beachside African restaurant serving elevated African cuisine with a little luxury twist.Premium location with carefully crafted authentic dishes.
Must-try dishes: Grilled seafood, spiced chicken, signature African sauces.
Some more African Restaurants in Dubai
Popular African Dishes Loved in Dubai
If you are just beginning your adventures into African food, these are the must-tries that have gained admiration in Dubai:
- Jollof Rice –A spicy, tomato-rich rice dish common throughout West Africa.
- Egusi Soup – A rich stew of melon seeds served with fufu or pounded yam.
- Suya – Spicy grilled meat, a classic popular street food.
- Afang Soup – The nutritious Nigerian soup filled with leafy greens.
- Nyama Choma – Grilled meat dish from East Africa.
- Fried Plantain – Sweet, crispy, and ever-so-perfect as a side dish.
From authentic Nigerian comfort food to East African grills to luxury Pan-African dining, African restaurants shine impressively in Dubai. These top 10 places show the diversity, depth, and soul of the African cuisine, all located in the heart of the UAE.