From towering skyscrapers to opulent shopping malls, Dubai embodies the word “luxury.” This city of superlatives does not disappoint in housing some of the world’s most over-the-top gastronomic indulgences either. For foodies who like to taste the good life in truly extravagant cuisine, Dubai has many dishes that are as unforgettable as they are exquisite.
Luxurious foods you must have when in Dubai:
- Gold Cappuccino at Armani Hotel
Starting your day in Dubai with a cup of coffee is one thing, but quite another if that coffee has 24-karat gold sprinkled on it. The Gold Cappuccino at Armani Hotel, nestled in the iconic Burj Khalifa, simply doesn’t compare to anything when it comes to luxury. It’s not just a drink but rather an experience, with a side of gold-coated biscotti. Rich in aroma, the creamy coffee is taken to new dimensions by the subtle flakes of gold, elevating it to a glass of opulence one simply has to taste.
Price: AED 75 per serve
Location: Armani Hotel Dubai-Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai
- Al Mahara’s Seafood Extravaganza
One could have underwater dining at Al Mahara, an underwater-themed restaurant. A seafood extravaganza unparalleled by any other, the restaurant is variously described as perhaps one of the most luxurious restaurants in the world. Everything on the menu, from Beluga caviar to blue lobster, is done to perfection and sourced only from the best of the best from around the world. Its signature dish, Alaskan King Crab, comes with a side of gold leaf to make sure the opulence doesn’t stop at the decor.
Price: 590 AED (Starters and drinks not included)
Location: Inside Burj Al Arab
- Gold Leaf Steak at Nusr-Et Steakhouse
The main course for a hearty meal at Nusr-Et Steakhouse, run by famous chef Salt Bae, has to be the Gold Leaf Steak. Already a prime cut of meat, the steak is coated in a layer of edible gold—the literal touch of luxury added to your meal. It is said to have quite the theatrical presentation; therefore, eating here is not just delicious but highly ‘grammable as well. Tender and flavorful meat with the shimmer of the gold leaf creates an eye- and taste-bud orgasm.
Price: AED 3,500, 1.1 kg thick bone-in ribeye with gold leaf
Location: Restaurant Village Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah
- Black Diamond Ice Cream at Scoopi Café
When it comes to desserts, Dubai takes it to the next level. The Black Diamond Ice Cream at Scoopi Café is described as one of the most expensive varieties of ice cream in the world. Boasting a bright AED 3,000 (around $817), it consists of Madagascar vanilla, Iranian saffron, and black truffle. The real reason why this dessert is extra special includes a topping with 23-karat edible gold. The bowl of ice cream comes in a Versace bowl, which you get to keep, hence making this the ultimate treat for the sweet-tooth-and-luxury-loving person.
Price: AED 3000 per serve
Location: Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai
- Caviar and Oysters at Pierchic
Pierchic is located at the end of a pier overlooking the Arabian Gulf and is often referred to as one of the most romantic restaurants in Dubai. It is a luxurious seafood restaurant, focussing on some of the finest caviars and oysters in the world. Traditional accompaniment of the Royal Baerii caviar is a menu highlight that offers a taste from the ocean depths as refined as it gets luxurious. Top this with flown-in fresh oysters and a glass of champagne for the ultimate, most decadent meal.
Price: 800 AED, drinks excluded
Location: Madinat Jumeriah, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Al Nassma
But Dubai’s food scene is not all about international luxuries; there are local delicacies, too. Just to name one, Al Nassma, a Dubai-based chocolate maker, produces exquisite chocolates with traditional Emirati camel milk. The infusion of flavours like that of macadamia nuts, honey, and Arabian spices together makes it an exotic and luxurious taste. Usually, the chocolates get gilded with gold leaves, so even the most fastidious chocoholics will be impressed.
Price: AED 165 for 200 grammes
- Billionaire’s Burger at At.Mosphere
If you think burgers can be too casual to qualify for a high-end meal, change your mind. The Billionaire’s Burger at Burj Khalifa, 122 floor, redefines the fast food genre with its opulent ingredients. Made from Wagyu beef, foie gras, and black truffle, it is gourmet fast food at its pinnacle. And to finish, it has a sprinkle of edible gold dust. This burger comes served with truffle fries, besides being the perfect blend of comfort food and over-the-top extravagance.
Price: 1250 AED
Location: Burj Khalifa-At.Mosphere
Conclusion
The gastronomic scene in Dubai is so extravagant and varied; this city would appear to offer any conceivable experience, from gold-dusted beverages down to seafood served with a side of opulence. Undeniably, relishing a gold leaf steak or tasting caviar overlooking the sea, these luxurious foods are locators of Dubai as the global capital of luxury. So next time you’re in town, indulge in one of these opulent creations and know what it’s like, really, to eat in style.
