Dubai is a potpourri of cultures. With an influx from various regions around the world, you find a fascinating melange of ethnicity amid its eloquence. This is quite prominent in its cuisine as well. Dubai is one of the cities where you can explore all kinds of cuisine from around the world. The international food scene in this city has evolved and improved, bringing with it some of the best restaurants, street food stands, and distinctive dining venues across the globe. Fancy some Afghan food? No worries! Dubai has some of the most amazing restaurants and food houses that offer lip-smacking Afghani dishes. Before you go ahead and search for ‘Afghan restaurant near me’ on your phone, take a glance at this post. Here’s an insight into Afghan cuisine and a list of the most popular restaurants to check out in Dubai.
About Afghan Food
Afghan food has a unique blend of Asian and Middle Eastern flavours and spices. With influences from Persian, Indian, and Central Asian cuisines. Afghan cuisine is known for its use of fatty meat and plant-based ingredients. The main ingredients of the dish are complemented by a balance of rice or flatbreads. The food is aromatic with generous use of saffron, cumin, green cardamom, and peppercorns and garnished with dry fruits. From hearty kebabs, and flaky, soft flatbreads to fragrant rice dishes and delectable baked goods, Afghan cuisine showcases the country's cultural heritage and its people's love for food. In Dubai, the Afghani cuisine is captured both in tradition and innovation, providing a taste of Afghanistan’s delicious offerings with a slice of its cultural heritage to its diners.
List of Best Afghan Restaurants in Dubai
Afghan Palace Restaurant
One of the top places to try Afghan food in Dubai is at Afghan Palace Restaurant. Set in 3 different locations in Dubai, this Afghan restaurant Dubai has been serving authentic types of Afghani cuisine since 1991 and complements the dining experience with a cosy ambience. The menu features delicacies from Shinwari cuisine, along with Uzbik Kabuli dishes. From traditional Afghan seekh kebabs to flavourful vegetarian options such as Borani Bonjon, Afghan Palace Restaurant promises a delightful Afghan culinary journey.
Location:
At Al Nahda 1: Shop Number 08, Ahli House, Al Nahda 1
At Oud Metha: 2nd Street, 69 Oud Metha Road, Near Lamcy Plaza
At JLT: Lake Level Shop No E05 - Jumeirah Lake Towers - E Cluster
Price: AED 190 for 2 people
Best dishes to try: Afghan Platter, Kebabs and Karahi
Wakha Restaurant
Situated in the bustling neighbourhoods of Al Barsha and Jumeirah, Wakha Restaurant serves a wide variety of Afghani and Shinwari dishes that are sure to please any foodie’s taste palette. For those searching for an Afghani Pulao restaurant, this is the ideal spot to dine. Their Kabuli pulao, a fragrant long-grained rice dish cooked with raisins and carrots, topped with tender lamb or chicken is a must-try. There’s more! You can opt for their mouth-watering Lamb Tikka, Shinwari BBQ or their flavorful Wakha Platter which has an assortment of Kebabs, tikkas, pulao and naans. Whatever you choose, Wakha Restaurant is sure to satisfy your cravings for Afghani cuisine.
Location:
At Al Barsha: Opposite Lulu Hypermarket, Al Barsha 1
At Jumeirah: Villa 673, Jumeirah Street, Umm Suqeim
Timings: Daily – Noon to Midnight
Price: AED 200 for 2 people
Best dishes to try: Kabuli Pulao, Lamb Tikka Chops, Wakha Platter
Sthan
For a classy dining experience, check out Sthan. It's a popular spot known for its fancy setting and great service. If you love Pakistani, Indian, and Afghani food, this is the place to be. Sthan's menu has tasty dishes like Afghani Kabuli Murgh Shorba, along with other goodies from India and Pakistan. If you crave the bold flavours and fragrant aromas of tandoor and spices, coupled with a penchant for rejuvenating with a steaming cup of chai, Sthan is perfect for you! Prepare to be tantalized by both the menu and the comforting ambience, ensuring a truly satisfying dining experience. It's a great choice if you want to enjoy a nice meal with a touch of elegance.
Location:
Karama, Zabeel Road, Al Karama, Dubai
Timings: Daily - Noon to Midnight
Price: AED 155 for 2 people.
Best dishes to try: Raan Irani, Biriyanis
Afghan Kebab House
If you are on a tighter budget but still crave authentic Afghan food, the Afghan Kebab House is a fantastic choice. This casual eatery offers a wide variety of meat specialities, especially kebabs. Cooked to perfection, the meat is tender and succulent, satisfying and delicious. The friendly atmosphere, reasonable prices, and generous portions make this a great spot to have a hearty meal with friends and families.
Location:
Near Al Manal Center Behind Al Ghurair Masjid Deira, Naif
Timings: Daily - 11.30 am till 12 midnight
Price: AED 60 for 2 people
Best dishes to try: Mutton Karahi, Lamb Steak Kebab
Kishmish
Check out UAE’s first-ever gourmet Afghan restaurant-Kishmish. Get everything you crave in Afghani food- be it Shakshuka, Bolani, Ashak or kebabs. For those seeking a cosy dining experience combined with modern elements, Kishmish offers the perfect spot with a fusion menu offering a unique twist on traditional Afghan flavours. No exploration of Afghan cuisine would be complete without mentioning the delicious Afghan desserts. When you are here, you need to check out Sheer Yakhin in cardamom and rose infused or saffron and crushed pistachios flavours.
Location:
Dar Wasl Mall, Al Wasl Rd, Al Wasl
Price: AED 270 for 2 person.
Best dishes to try: Sheer Yakhin, Chicken Bun Kebab, Mantu
Conclusion
Afghan cuisine offers a tantalizing array of flavours and dishes that showcase the rich culinary heritage of Afghanistan. From the aromatic Kabuli pulao to the savoury Mantu and mouth-watering kebabs, Afghan food is a delightful journey for the taste buds. In Dubai, you can explore this fascinating cuisine by visiting some of the best Afghani restaurants in the city. Whether you're seeking a hearty meal or a sweet indulgence, these restaurants offer an authentic taste of Afghanistan. So, don't miss the opportunity to explore Afghan cuisine and satisfy your cravings for delicious and unique flavours on your Dubai holiday.