Dubai is a paradise for seafood lovers, offering a diverse range of restaurants that cater to every palate. From Mediterranean-inspired dishes to Arabic seafood feasts, the city boasts some of the best seafood in Dubai, served fresh daily. Whether you prefer grilled, fried, or baked seafood, these establishments bring unique flavors and techniques to the table. Each restaurant has its own signature dish, showcasing the richness of the ocean with carefully crafted recipes. For those seeking an unforgettable seafood dining experience, these five restaurants stand out for their exceptional quality, ambiance, and culinary expertise.
ALICI
Nestled on Bluewaters Island, Alici brings the essence of Italy’s Amalfi Coast to Dubai. The restaurant’s interior, adorned in hues of blue and white, evokes a fresh, coastal ambiance. Specializing in Italian seafood, the menu features raw plates and dishes highlighting anchovies, true to its name. The lobster pasta, presented tableside, combines tender shellfish with a rich tomato sauce. Additionally, guests can enjoy views of the Arabian Gulf and JBR, enhancing the dining experience. The atmosphere is reminiscent of a family-run trattoria, offering a vacation-like feel.
Alici has rapidly become a popular spot since its opening in 2023. The terrace provides a serene setting for alfresco dining, allowing diners to immerse themselves in the surroundings. Moreover, the restaurant is unlicensed, focusing solely on its culinary offerings. Reservations are recommended due to its growing popularity. The staff is known for their warm hospitality and attentive service, ensuring a memorable experience. Alici is open for both lunch and dinner, accommodating various dining preferences. The seafood is sourced fresh daily, guaranteeing high-quality dishes.
The wine list complements the menu, featuring selections from Southern Italy. Desserts, such as the classic tiramisu, provide a sweet conclusion to meals. The open kitchen design allows guests to observe the culinary craftsmanship, adding to the restaurant’s charm. Furthermore, Alici’s commitment to authenticity sets it apart in Dubai’s dining scene. The restaurant has received accolades for its exceptional seafood offerings. It’s an ideal venue for both intimate dinners and group gatherings. Ultimately, Alici continues to set the standard for Italian seafood in the region.
IBN ALBAHR
Perched along Palm Jumeirah’s shoreline, Ibn AlBahr offers a genuine Lebanese seafood experience. The restaurant, managed by fishermen, ensures the freshest catch daily. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a display of the day’s haul, allowing them to select their preferred fish. The chosen seafood is then prepared to one’s liking, be it grilled, fried, or baked. Moreover, the simplicity of the preparation highlights the natural flavors of the sea. Accompanying the main courses are traditional Lebanese mezze, such as hummus and tabbouleh, which enhance the meal with their rich flavors.
The outdoor seating area provides a serene beachfront dining atmosphere. Furthermore, the gentle sound of waves enhances the overall experience, making it an ideal spot for relaxation. The interior decor is modest, focusing attention on the culinary offerings rather than extravagant aesthetics. Service is attentive, with staff knowledgeable about the menu and ready to assist with recommendations. Prices are reasonable, considering the high quality and freshness of the dishes. However, the restaurant operates on a first-come, first-served basis, especially during peak hours, so arriving early is advisable.
Parking can be challenging due to its popularity. Nevertheless, the effort is worthwhile for seafood enthusiasts. The grilled octopus comes highly recommended by regular patrons, as it perfectly balances tenderness and smoky flavor. For those seeking a beverage, a selection of Lebanese wines is available to complement the meal. Dessert options include traditional sweets like baklava, offering a delightful finish. The establishment maintains a family-friendly environment, making it suitable for both casual outings and special gatherings. In conclusion, Ibn AlBahr provides an authentic taste of Lebanese coastal cuisine in Dubai, combining freshness, simplicity, and tradition.
BORDO MAVİ
Tucked away in Jumeirah Fishing Harbour 1, Bordo Mavi offers a unique dining experience. The restaurant, which opened in 2023, has quickly gained popularity among seafood enthusiasts. Its menu, inspired by Turkish coastal cuisine, features dishes like clam casserole and grilled octopus. The interior is charmingly decorated, creating a cozy atmosphere for diners. The terrace provides a pleasant spot to enjoy meals with views of the Arabian Gulf. The staff is known for their friendly and attentive service, enhancing the overall dining experience. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours, due to its growing popularity.
The restaurant operates daily, offering both lunch and dinner services. Prices are reasonable, considering the quality and freshness of the seafood. Parking is available nearby, making it convenient for guests. The ambiance is relaxed, making it suitable for both casual meals and special occasions. The open kitchen design allows diners to observe the chefs at work. The wine list complements the seafood dishes, featuring selections from various regions. Desserts, such as traditional Turkish sweets, provide a delightful end to the meal.
The restaurant also offers vegetarian options, catering to diverse dietary preferences. Bordo Mavi has received positive reviews for its exceptional seafood and welcoming atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking an authentic taste of Turkish coastal cuisine in Dubai. The combination of fresh ingredients, skilled preparation, and attentive service makes it a must-visit destination for seafood lovers. Whether you’re a local resident or a tourist, Bordo Mavi offers a memorable dining experience that captures the essence of Turkish hospitality.
FISH BEACH TAVERNA
Nestled along the shores of Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort, Fish Beach Taverna offers a Mediterranean dining experience. The restaurant’s ambiance, with its white-washed furniture and blue accents, evokes a serene coastal village. Diners can choose to sit under the open sky, with lanterns casting a warm glow as the sun sets. The menu features a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including grilled octopus and sea bass. Mezze platters, brimming with traditional dips and salads, complement the main courses. The staff, attentive and knowledgeable, guide guests through the day’s fresh catches.
Reservations are recommended, especially during weekends, due to its popularity. The restaurant operates daily, serving both lunch and dinner. Parking is available on-site, providing convenience for visitors. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it suitable for both casual gatherings and special occasions. The wine list offers selections that pair well with the seafood-centric menu. Desserts, such as baklava, provide a sweet conclusion to the meal. The open-air setting allows guests to enjoy the gentle sea breeze.
Fish Beach Taverna has received acclaim for its authentic flavors and picturesque setting. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking a taste of the Mediterranean in Dubai. The combination of fresh ingredients, skilled preparation, and a charming ambiance makes it a must-visit destination. Whether you’re a local resident or a tourist, Fish Beach Taverna offers a memorable dining experience. The restaurant captures the essence of coastal dining, transporting guests to a seaside haven. It’s a place where the simplicity of fresh seafood is celebrated in every dish. The commitment to quality and authenticity is evident in every aspect of the dining experience. Fish Beach Taverna continues to be a favorite among seafood enthusiasts in Dubai.
SAMAKATO SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
Nestled in Al Barsha, Samakato Seafood Restaurant has gained popularity for its Mediterranean and Arabic-inspired seafood dishes. The menu is diverse, featuring appetizers like grilled calamari with red chili and dynamite shrimps, crispy and coated in a zesty sauce. Patrons can indulge in pottery specials such as the Samakato Pottery, a combination of caviar, shrimp, and calamari cooked to perfection. Additionally, rice and pasta options, including seafood paella and shrimp pasta, add variety to the selection.
A standout favorite is the Samakato Meal, which includes fillet, calamari, shrimps, rice, shrimp soup, and salad, providing a well-rounded taste of the restaurant’s culinary expertise. The ambiance is casual yet inviting, making it an excellent choice for family outings and casual dining. Service is often praised for its attentiveness, with complimentary items like bread, hummus, and tea offered to guests.
Due to its increasing popularity, especially in the evenings, reservations are recommended. Parking can be tricky in the area, but the high-quality seafood and generous portions make the visit worthwhile. Operating from 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM daily, Samakato Seafood Restaurant caters to both lunch and dinner crowds. Prices remain reasonable, ensuring value for money without compromising on taste. For seafood lovers in Dubai, this establishment is a must-visit.
DE FISH SEAFOOD
Situated in Karama, De Fish Seafood brings a mix of traditional and contemporary seafood flavors to Dubai. The menu is packed with flavorful options, including crab cakes, made with fresh lump crab and seasoned to perfection, as well as a heartwarming seafood soup, filled with prawns, mussels, and squid.
For main courses, diners can savor grilled lobster, basted with garlic butter, or the rich and aromatic fish curry, featuring tender fish pieces simmered in coconut gravy. One of the most sought-after dishes is the Mixed Seafood Platter, presenting an array of fresh prawns, mussels, and calamari, all cooked using signature marinades.
The interior is simple yet inviting, allowing guests to focus on the outstanding food. Service is prompt, with staff ensuring that orders are delivered efficiently. Reservations are not typically required, except for weekends when the restaurant experiences a higher influx of customers.
Due to its central location, parking can be challenging, but the restaurant is easily reachable via public transport. De Fish Seafood operates daily for both lunch and dinner. Prices are affordable, making it a great choice for those who crave high-quality seafood at a reasonable cost.
SARDINA SEAFOOD
Nestled in Jumeirah 3, Sardina Seafood brings a Mediterranean-inspired seafood experience to Dubai. The menu is extensive, featuring classic dishes like grilled fish, seafood pasta, and a variety of mezze options, all crafted with authentic flavors.
Among the appetizers, the charcoal-grilled sardines, lightly seasoned and served with lemon wedges, stand out. Additionally, their shrimp saganaki, cooked in a tomato and feta-based sauce, is a delightful start to any meal.
For the main course, the Seafood Paella is a top recommendation, combining saffron-infused rice with a mix of shrimp, mussels, and squid. Other favorites include the grilled red snapper, which is cooked whole and served with a lemon-garlic dressing, and the lobster thermidor, baked with a creamy cheese sauce.
The restaurant boasts a cozy yet stylish setting, incorporating Mediterranean elements in its design. Service is attentive, ensuring that every meal is served with care. Due to its increasing popularity, reserving a table in advance is advised.
Parking is accessible, with designated spots nearby. The restaurant operates daily, serving both lunch and dinner. Prices are slightly above average but justified by the authenticity and high-quality seafood. Sardina Seafood offers an unforgettable Mediterranean dining experience for seafood lovers.
FISH GOURMET SEAFOOD
Situated in Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, Fish Gourmet Seafood specializes in delivering premium seafood prepared with care. The menu offers a variety of dishes that celebrate the natural flavors of the ocean. Among the appetizers, grilled prawns, seasoned with Mediterranean spices, and fried calamari rings, served with aioli, stand out.
For main courses, guests can choose the seafood risotto, featuring creamy saffron-infused Arborio rice with shrimp and scallops, or baked salmon, crusted with lemon and dill for a fresh, zesty taste. A highly recommended option is the Grilled Prawn Platter, which presents eight perfectly charred prawns accompanied by a side of garlic butter.
The ambiance is a blend of elegance and warmth, with nautical-themed décor creating a relaxed setting. The service is exceptional, with staff offering personalized recommendations. Reservations are encouraged, especially for dinner service.
Parking is easily accessible, making it convenient for diners. The restaurant operates throughout the day, catering to lunch and dinner patrons. While prices lean towards the higher end, the freshness and quality of the seafood justify the cost. Fish Gourmet Seafood remains a top choice for those seeking refined yet unpretentious seafood dining.
