Dubai, 27 November 2025 – Dubai's culinary scene isn't just about luxurious fine dining and celebrity chefs. It also thrives in its buzzing streets, vibrant markets, and laid-back cafés. For Australian travellers who crave bold flavours, comforting snacks, and modern matcha creations, Dubai offers a delicious mix of familiar tastes and new favourites to explore.
From tender chicken shawarma and gooey kunafa to iced matcha lattes, this list curates some of the best local spots in the city, tailored to what we know Aussies love: layered and full of flavour.
- Shawarma
A long-time street food favourite, shawarma has been a bestseller in Dubai for decades. Tender strips of chicken, marinated in a heady mix of spices, are slow-cooked on a rotating spit, then wrapped in soft pita bread and layered with crunchy lettuce, fries, tahini sauce, and creamy garlic paste. One bite, and you'll understand why this wallet-friendly wrap is a staple across the city.
You can grab one at Zaroob (priced between AUD $5 to $18). At their Sheikh Zayed Road location, you can relax in the funky outdoor garden or take your wrap to go while exploring the nearby art galleries in Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).
- Kunafa
Dubai's love for rich, indulgent desserts runs deep, and kunafa is at the heart of it. Long before the viral Dubai chocolate bars caught the attention of sweet tooths worldwide, kunafa had already mastered the art of gooey, sweet-and-savoury perfection.
Made with crisp golden pastry (kataifi), soaked in syrup and filled with warm, melty cheese, this beloved dessert delivers a unique flavour profile that's both comforting and indulgent. It's no surprise that kunafa has inspired newer creations, but nothing beats trying the original, served fresh and warm.
You can enjoy a traditional version at Nablus in Al Seef, with prices ranging from AUD $10 to $16, and explore the charming heritage district while you're there.
- Luqaimat
Crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, luqaimat are bite-sized donuts that are hard to resist. A staple in Emirati cuisine, these golden balls are made from flour, yeast, and flavoured with saffron and cardamom. Once deep-fried, they're drizzled with date molasses (locally known as dibs) and sprinkled with sesame seeds. Often served during Ramadan or at traditional feasts, they're the perfect mix of comfort and nostalgia.
You can try luqaimat at Arabian Tea House, a restaurant located in the heart of Al Fahidi, with prices starting from AUD 12.
Falafel
A staple of Middle Eastern street food, falafel is the ultimate anytime snack. These golden, crispy patties are made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, blended with fragrant herbs and spices, then deep-fried to perfection.
Whether they're enjoyed on their own with a side of creamy tahini sauce or stuffed into pita bread with fresh vegetables, falafels are a go-to for flavour and convenience.
You can enjoy falafel at Operation Falafel, a modern fast-casual chain known for putting an innovative twist on classic street eats. Prices for the falafel wraps range from AUD $5, while platters cost up to $11.
- Matcha
While not native to Dubai, matcha has found a thriving home in the city's café scene. From ceremonial-grade tea bars to modern matcha counters, Dubai has embraced this traditional Japanese green tea with enthusiasm, offering everything from classic lattes to innovative iced blends.
Whether you're a wellness enthusiast looking for an antioxidant-rich pick-me-up or a curious foodie exploring new flavours, the city offers plenty of ways to enjoy this bright green delight.
Here are a few standout spots to get your matcha fix:
- Dopa, Alserkal Avenue Known for its creative, playful menu, Dopa puts a fun twist on matcha drinks, think iced matcha with coconut or lavender.
- The Matcha Tokyo, Jumeirah Beach Residence A Dubai outpost of the cult-favourite Japanese brand, this café serves everything from pure matcha shots and traditional lattes to creamy matcha soft serve.
- Kurasu, Dar Wasl Mall Originating in Kyoto, Kurasu specialises in ceremonial-grade matcha brought directly from Japan. Try a classic hand-whisked matcha or opt for something more modern like a matcha espresso latte.
From classic Middle-Eastern street eats to authentic matcha cafés, Dubai's diverse culinary scene reflects its global spirit and local charm. For Australian travellers who love exploring destinations through culinary experience, these flavours offer an exciting mix of familiarity and discovery. Whether you're exploring neighbourhood food stalls, enjoying sweets by the creek, or sipping green tea in a sleek café, there's always something flavourful waiting around the corner.
