10 Iconic Decade-Old Restaurants In Dubai Every Foodie Must Visit In 2026

Dubai’s dining scene is quite eccentric. There’s a new restaurant opening every other week in the Emirate. But some remain nostalgic and iconic and refuse to fade. They cook, grill, pour, and serve the same way they always did, and that’s the reason people keep going back. These restaurants shaped Dubai’s food scene long before tasting menus and viral reels were introduced by the internet. Maybe that’s why even after 10 years, these restaurants still carry that value. So if you wish to taste the city’s soul in 2026, here are 10 decade-old iconic restaurants in Dubai that must be on your bucket list.

10 Iconic Decade-Old Restaurants In Dubai Every Foodie Must Visit In 2026

1. Ravi Restaurant

 

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Since 1978

Ravi is not the trend-chaser when it comes to food. It’s famous for satiating hunger pangs. This Satwa legend has built its name on bold spices, honest portions, and zero fluff. From office-goers, taxi drivers, to tourists, and chefs share tables here. The nihari hits different, and the mutton karahi carries heat that feels amazing. Fresh naan lands on your table nonstop dnd that’s how Ravi shows how food has to be enjoyed. Dubai might have outgrown its own shell in these years, but Ravi continues to keep it grounded. That’s what foodies get attracted to.

2. Al Mallah

Since 1979

Al Mallah is your spot to satisfy late-night cravings in Dubai. This humble Satwa eatery serves shawarma, falafel, and fresh juices that taste the same every single time. The chicken shawarma drips with garlic sauce, and the falafel stays crisp and freshly green inside. Locals always crash here when the craving hits. Al Mallah thrives because it respects simplicity, speed and is known to feed well, and everyone. In a city that moves fast, this place still pauses time for foodies.

3. Fibber Magee’s

Since 1996

Irish pub warmth arrived in Dubai long before the city embraced casual bars. Thanks to Fibber Magge’s. From setting the tone with dark wood, old posters, live music, and proper pints, it’s renowned for people visiting to bond over drafts. The fish and chips has to be your go to order and the shepherd’s pie satisfies without aesthetics. Regulars treat the staff like family. Fibber Magee’s proves that atmosphere matters as much as good food. It still feels like a second home to many visitors, even after nearly three decades.

4. Bu Qtair

Since the 1980s

Bu Qtair started as a fishermen’s secret, which now gains love from across the Emirate. It works on the basic system where you pick your fish and the kitchen fries or grills it with chilli and curry leaves as per the guest’s preference. The prawns explode with spice here and you can try a lot more fish types from their menu. Bu Qtair reminds Dubai came from the sea, fueled by simple food and strong taste.

5. Al Ustad Special Kabab

 

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Since 1978

It’s a rare case if locals and tourists are unaware of Al Ustad Special Kabab in Dubai. It’s like a living museum that delivers juicy kababs and a few celebrity spottings if your luck allows. Photos of leaders line the walls, smoke of grilling meat fills the air and the sound of the skewers sizzling nonstop. The koobideh stays juicy and the Saffron rice shines bright and fragrant. Families return across generations here and tourists stumble in only to leave impressed. This restaurant honours Iranian grilling with pride and precision. Dubai trusts Al Ustad because it never compromised on flavour or identity. And many celebrities would agree to this!

6. Chicken Tikka Inn

Since 1972

Chicken Tikka Inn speaks to pure nostalgia for people who lived long enough in Dubai. This place grills meat the way North India and Pakistan have shown the world. The chicken tikka arrives smoky and tender. They also serve a malai version that stays rich and soft. Mint chutney and onions are just complementary but actually play a part of like it’s a ritual. Regulars return to this spot due to the consistency. The kitchen never overcomplicates the plate and hence Chicken Tikka Inn proves that classic grills never lose relevance.

7. Miyako

Since 1987

Dubai got familiar with the idea of Japanese cuisine when Miyako arrived in the Emirates. It’s that era when sushi felt unfamiliar to the Emiratis but people still accepted it with grace. The restaurant, to date, values restraint, balance, and quiet confidence. From fresh sashimi, delicate tempura, to warming bowls of ramen, the menu. Business lunches flow smoothly here while long dinners feel calm and refined. Miyako has built trust through quality and in 2026, it still offers one of the city’s most authentic Japanese experiences.

8. The Irish Village

Since 1996

The Irish Village feels like a celebration every time you step in. Families & friends come for brunch or live music. Sports fans are seen cheering for their favourite teams over pints. The outdoor seating invites long conversations while the menu delivers pub classics. This place shaped Dubai’s social dining scene before it was a thing. The Irish Village thrives because it welcomes everyone without ever rushing them out.

9. Barasti

Since 1995

Barasti captured Dubai’s beach spirit before beach clubs ruled the coast. Flip-flops, sunsets, loud music, and cold drinks define the vibe. People come here after work, for brunch, and to party. The menu keeps things simple with burgers, wings, and grills that set the mood. Barasti survived because it stays real insted of being exclusive.

Also Read: 10 Celebrity-Favourite Restaurants In Dubai You Should Book A Table At In 2026

10. Sind Punjab

Since 1977

Sind Punjab stands as one of Dubai’s oldest Indian restaurants. It carries the weight of history with pride and has managed to keep the Indian diaspora attracted for years. The butter chicken tastes rich, dal makhani is simmered slowly and deeply, and the tandoori breads arrive hot and fluffy. Families celebrate milestones here by sharing hearty meals. Sind Punjab keeps Indian comfort food honest, generous and cost-effective.

Why These Restaurants Still Matter In 2026

These restaurants did more than just survive in a destination that is famous for being a food destination across the world. They shaped habits, cravings, and memories. They fed from workers to royals during Dubai’s early boom. They hosted first dates, team dinners, and late-night talks. Each one tells a chapter of the city’s story. In 2026, Dubai still needs them and 

if you call yourself a foodie, put these names on your list.

Cover Image Courtesy: Ravi Restaurant/Instagram, Bu Qtair/Website