With a rich and diverse culinary culture, the Emirate of Dubai has firmly established itself as a culinary hotspot, from traditional Emirati delicacies with rich spices to vibrant street food markets offering exotic Southeast Asian flavours.
One of the best moments to experience this culinary adventure firsthand is the Dubai Food Festival (DFF), organised by Dubai’s Festivals and Retail Establishment, which began in the city on April 19 and will continue until May 12.
According to a press statement issued by Dubai Tourism, this festival offers guests the chance to indulge in cuisine indulgences ranging from fine dining to street cooking, making Dubai a haven for all food enthusiasts from around the world. As part of the festival, a number of activities and events are being organised alongside, says the statement.
Dubai Restaurant Week
Dive into a world of culinary exploration with Dubai Restaurant Week at the Dubai Food Festival. Running from April 26 to May 12, discover specially curated set menus priced at AED 125 for a two-course lunch and AED 250 for a three-course dinner, at 50 of the city’s best restaurants such as Al Khaima, Boca and Hoi An.
e& Beach Canteen
Dubai’s favourite dining pop-up, e& Beach Canteen, has returned from April 19 to May 5 as part of the festival. Enjoy an amazing line-up of diverse dining concepts, live entertainment and exciting activities to keep the family entertained for hours. The statement adds that visitors can have 17 days of non-stop food, fun and fiesta at this outdoor carnival at Jumeirah Beach, located just behind Sunset Mall.
10 Dirham Dish
Whether you are craving local delicacies or international favourites, ‘10 Dirham Dish’ is your ticket to discovering the diverse tastes of Dubai in the most wallet-friendly way, each available for just AED 10. The festival is set to feature more than 50 of Dubai’s much-loved culinary hotspots, for every age, taste and budget. Some of the most-loved AED 10 festival dishes include Trattoria’s arancini, Philotimos’ crispy dolmades and Demon Duck By Alvin Leung’s signature prawn toast.
Gault & Millau Culinary Innovators
Twelve of Dubai’s most acclaimed chefs have lined up to take part in Gault & Millau’s inaugural Culinary Innovators event for a spectacular three-night pop-up from April 25-27. The event will unfold each evening as an 11-course, roaming tasting menu, with ticket holders enjoying one dish from each chef team’s kitchen stall, along with an accompanying beverage pairing served along the journey.
The organisers say that other highlights include the ‘Taste of Dubai’, ‘Dine and Win’, ‘Limited Coffee Edition’ and ‘Cheese Festival’, making Dubai Food Festival a delectable experience. It brings together food enthusiasts, chefs, and restaurateurs to celebrate flavours, innovative dishes, and cultural experiences, making it a must-attend event for anyone passionate about gastronomy, says the tourism promotion board.