Navratri is more than just a festival; it’s a celebration of culture, tradition, and, of course, food. For many, that means indulging in the comforting, home-style dishes of Gujarat, from fluffy dhokla and crispy fafda to soulful kadhi-khichdi and indulgent thalis. If you’re observing a fast or want to enjoy a traditional meal, these restaurants promise to bring a taste of home to your plate.
1. Kathhiyawadi Thali Restaurant
Kathhiyawadi Thali Restaurant is a go-to spot for hearty home-style Gujarati food, especially during Navratri. Known for its all-vegetarian menu with vegan-friendly options, this place serves up comforting dishes like Marwadi Teekhi Dal, Gujarati Meethi Dal, Kadhi Khichdi, and their signature Gujarati Kadhi. The tangy kadhi paired with warm, flavourful khichdi is perfect for those craving festive flavours. Plus, they deliver across Al Karama, making it easy to enjoy a traditional meal from the comfort of your home.
Where: 4th A street, Al Kifaf building B block, Juma Al Majid Opp- Burjuman mall, 450M from Burjuman exit 2 – next to health hub clinic – Dubai
When: 11:45 am to 4 pm, 7 pm to 11:30 pm daily
Cost: Starts at around AED90 for two people
2. Gujarati Thal Restaurant
Gujarati Thal Restaurant in Meena Bazaar, Bur Dubai, is a vegetarian gem serving up the authentic flavours of Gujarat, perfect for the Navratri season. The menu features traditional favourites like Sev Khamani, Nyloan Khaman, and soft White Dhokla, each full of bold, nostalgic taste. For those observing fasts, the Special Upvas Farali Thali offers comforting dishes like jeera aloo, sabudana khichdi, and aamras. At the same time, the G.T. Special Premium Thali makes for a satisfying festive feast.
Where: Meena Bazar, Burdubai, 23 Sikka Street, Al Souq Al Kabeer -Dubai
When: 6 am to 12:30 am daily
Cost: Starts at around AED50 for two people
3. Himalaya Restaurant
Serving the Dubai community for over 37 years, Himalaya Restaurant is a beloved spot where the comforting flavours of Gujarat come to life. The restaurant offers everything from soft, spongy Khaman Dhokla to the nostalgic crunch of Papdi Gathiya and Jamnagri-style snacks. The Thepla Ka Nasta and Jethalal Special, featuring jalebi, khaman, fafda, and chai, are perfect festive bites for Navratri mornings.
Where: 11 4th St – Oud Metha – Dubai
When: 7:30 am to 10:30 pm daily
Cost: Starts at around AED 35 for two people
4. Virpur Restaurant LLC
Virpur Restaurant is a go-to spot for authentic Gujarati street food, especially during Navratri. Popular for its crispy Fafda-Jalebi combo made in pure desi ghee, the eatery also serves traditional favourites like Bajra Rotlo, Thepla Bhaji, and Khaman Dhokla. Their vibrant selection of chaats, masala sodas, and lassis adds a refreshing twist to every festive meal.
Where: Gold Souq – Dubai
When: Saturday to Thursday from 8:30 am to 10:30 pm and Friday from 8:30 am to 12 pm, 1:15 pm to 10:30 pm
Cost: Starts at around AED45 for two people
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5. Shree Khodiyar Kathiyawadi Dhaba
Bringing the bold, rustic flavours of Gujarat to Dubai, Shree Khodiyar Kathiyawadi Dhaba is a must-visit for traditional Kathiyawadi cuisine this Navratri. From comforting Bajra Rotlo with ghee and Gujarati Dal Rice to flavourful dishes like Sev Tameta, Stuffed Brinjal, and Garlic Potato, their menu is packed with hearty, home-style options. Pair your meal with cold curd tikhari or methi thepla for a wholesome festive experience.
Where: Centre Ground Floor – Al Khaleej St – BUR DUBAI – Dubai
When: 11 am to 12 am
Cost: Starts at around AED120 for two people
6. Fafda Jalebi Restaurant LLC
A popular spot in Karama, Fafda Jalebi Restaurant is known for serving up classic Gujarati snacks. Their bestsellers, such as crispy Fafda, soft Khaman Dhokla, and syrupy Jalebi, capture the essence of festive street food. Combos like Thepla Bhaji, Bhungra Bateta, and the iconic Fafda-Jalebi platter bring bold flavours and nostalgic charm to every bite.
Where: MySafqa, 28 18A St – Al Karama – Dubai
When: Monday to Friday from 8 am to 10:30 pm and Saturday to Sunday from 8 am to 11 pm
Cost: Starts at around AED45 for two people
7. Rangoli Restaurant
A long-time favourite in Meena Bazaar, Rangoli Restaurant blends traditional Gujarati hospitality with flavour-packed dishes perfect for Navratri. Their popular all-you-can-eat Gujarati buffet features an impressive variety of authentic vegetarian fare, while their chaats and South Indian options offer something for every craving. Warm service and home-style recipes make it a comforting choice for festive dining.
Where: AASR Electronic Trading LLC, 10 4A St – Al Karama – Dubai
When: 9 am to 1:30 pm daily
Cost: Starts at around AED85 for two people
8. Rasoi Ghar Restaurant LLC
Rasoi Ghar offers a vibrant Navratri-friendly dining experience with its all-vegetarian thali that consists of a rotating menu of traditional Gujarati dishes. Each meal begins with a sample tasting, and once you’ve picked your favourites, the team keeps your plate full with unlimited servings. It’s a warm, flavourful celebration of festive dining.
Where: Zainal Mohebi Plaza – Sheikh Zayed Bin Khalifa Road – opposite BurJuman, CenterPoint – Bur Dubai – Dubai
When: 12 pm to 3:15 pm and 7 pm to 11:15 pm daily
Cost: Starts at around AED116 for two people
9. Maharaja Bhog Restaurant
Maharaja Bhog celebrates the richness of Gujarati and Rajasthani cuisine, perfect for the Navratri season. Known for its elaborate thalis and ever-changing menu, the restaurant serves 30 different combinations over 30 days, ensuring something new with every visit. The organic ingredients, warm hospitality, and a setting that reflects Indian tradition make it an ideal spot in Karama to enjoy festive meals that feel both homely and indulgent.
Where: Ground Level, A Block, Hamsah Mall, Next to Ansar Gallery – Al Karama – Dubai
When: Monday to Friday from 12 pm to 3:30 pm, 7 pm to 11:30 pm and Saturday to Sunday from 12 pm to 4 pm, 7 pm to 11:30 pm
Cost: Starts at around AED105 for two people
If you’re in Dubai this Navratri and craving the authentic taste of home, use this guide to celebrate with a full heart and a plate full of traditional Gujarati food.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/Arundhati Sathe
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