2024 has truly been the year of Viral food trends in the GCC. The region’s food scene exploded with wild innovations, bringing together traditional flavours with modern twists that made us all stop, stare, and hit ‘share’ on Instagram. If you missed out on the viral food trends that took social media by storm, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of the top 10 viral food and drinks from the GCC that kept taste buds tingling and cameras flashing this year.
10 Viral Food & Drinks In GCC
1. The Viral Kunafa Chocolate
Move over, regular chocolate bars there’s a new kid in town! Dubai’s dessert game just got a lot more exciting with the Viral Kunafa Chocolate. Combining the creamy richness of chocolate ganache with the crispy texture of phyllo dough layered, this dessert is as Instagrammable as it is indulgent. When you break the bar open expect a glorious ooze of chocolate, making it a must-have for dessert lovers in Dubai. Talk about the perfect marriage of Middle Eastern and Western flavours!
Where to find it: FIX Chocolatier, Dubai
2. Viral Creme Caramel French Toast
French toast has always been a classic, but in 2024, it reached new heights. The Viral Creme Caramel French Toast, first spotted at Global Village, became a breakfast favourite. Picture this: fluffy French toast, soaked in a velvety crème caramel mix, and drizzled with a rich caramel sauce. With a cute box inspired by Global Village’s gate, this dish wasn’t just delicious. It was a total showstopper for foodies who love their mornings sweet and Instagram-worthy.
Where to find it: Umm Ali, Global Village
3. Gajar Ka Halwa Spring Rolls
Say what? Gajar Ka Halwa, that beloved carrot pudding, has been reinvented into a spring roll. This clever fusion wraps the sweet, spiced halwa inside a crispy spring roll wrapper and deep fries it to perfection. Served over a bed of vanilla ice cream, it’s a sweet dish topped with a generous amount of chopped nuts, that turned heads across the GCC. It’s a throwback to traditional flavours with a modern twist, and you simply can’t miss it.
Where to find it: Bhukkad Cafe
4. DreamcakesV
As if cakes weren’t dreamy enough, 2024 brought us Dreamcakes, the dessert that lived up to its name. These ultra-light, mousse-like cakes have taken the GCC by storm, known for their multi-layered flavours and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether you’re into chocolate or s’mores, Dreamcakes became the perfect treat to satisfy any sweet tooth. Influencers couldn’t get enough, and neither will you.
Where to find it: Praisethree Dreamcake, Chunk Bakehouse and more.
5. Shotmisu
Tiramisu lovers, get ready for the ultimate upgrade: Shotmisu. This dessert combines the smooth, creamy layers of classic tiramisu with a shot of coffee to give you the perfect caffeine kick. And for those who live for chocolate, there’s a version topped with chocolate pudding and chips that’ll send your taste buds into overdrive. Think of it as a double shot of flavour and excitement in one bite.
Where to find it: BeFine, As Sahafah, Riyadh
6. Fruit-Shaped Ice Cream
This year, ice cream got a makeover, and it’s cooler (pun intended) than ever. Fruit-Shaped Ice Cream by Mystical took over the GCC, with each bite crafted to look like real fruits. From strawberries to mangoes, the flavours are just as delicious as the design is adorable. Want the full fruity experience? Grab a mixed box and enjoy them all in one go. They’re available exclusively through Snoonu in Qatar, so why not order from the comfort of your couch?
Where to find it: Snoonu app, Qatar
Also Read: 8 Spots To Get Your Hands On The Dubai’s Viral Kunafa Chocolate In Riyadh
7. Coffee or Milkshakes in Chocolate-Coated Crackling Cups
Ever wanted a drink that doubles as a snack? Enter the Chocolate-Coated Crackling Cups. This viral sensation has people sipping coffee or milkshakes out of cups coated with solidified chocolate. Crack the cup, and you’re treated to a delightful symphony of crunchy chocolate and smooth beverage goodness. It’s as much about the experience as it is about the taste. A total must-try for anyone who loves a good ASMR moment with their drink.
Where to find it: DRIP Coffee, Riyadh; Kawfee, UAE
8. Circular Croissants
Croissants are timeless, but this year, they got a funky upgrade with Circular Croissants. Instead of the traditional crescent shape, these pastries are round and filled with everything from cheese and ham to raspberry and almond paste. The flaky texture remains, but the circular shape gives it a whole new spin that’s perfect for foodies who like their pastries with a side of novelty.
Where to find it: PAUL Bakery, and other upscale bakeries across the GCC.
9. Milaf Cola
Soda lovers, rejoice, there’s a new fizzy drink in town that’s as sweet as it is good for you. Milaf Cola, the world’s first date-based soft drink, made its debut at the Riyadh Date Festival, and it’s been a hit ever since. Made with locally sourced dates, Milaf Cola is packed with natural sugars, fibre, and minerals, making it a refreshing alternative to traditional sodas. Sweet, nourishing, and eco-friendly, Milaf Cola is a drink with a purpose.
Where to find it: In Saudi Arabia
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Noon’s Not Fried Chicken Ice Cream
Hold on to your taste buds because Noon’s Not Fried Chicken Ice Cream is here to shake things up. This isn’t actual fried chicken, it’s a scoop of ice cream rolled in cornflakes to look like fried chicken. It’s quirky, it’s unexpected, and it’s one of the most fun desserts of the year. Don’t worry, it’s 100% vegetarian and suitable for all kinds of sweet-toothed adventurers.
Where to find it: Noon website (UAE & Saudi Arabia)
So, if you’re looking to jump on the 2025 food train, these viral hits are a delicious place to start!
Cover Image Courtesy: FIX Dessert Chocolatier, Mystical/Instagram
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