Dubai’s culinary landscape is a melting pot of global flavors, and Turkish cuisine holds a special place among the city’s gastronomic offerings.
From succulent kebabs to delectable baklava, Turkish restaurants in Dubai provide an authentic taste of Turkey’s rich culinary heritage.
In this article, we delve into the best Turkish restaurants in Dubai, highlighting their unique features and specialties.
Why Do We Visit the Best Turkish Restaurants in Dubai?
Dubai offers a delightful culinary experience that blends authentic flavors, rich traditions, and warm hospitality. Here’s why these top Turkish dining spots are worth exploring, along with specific restaurant recommendations based on ambiance and budget.
1. Authentic Turkish Cuisine
Dubai’s best Turkish restaurants serve traditional dishes prepared with high-quality ingredients, bringing the essence of Turkish food to the city. Some must-try specialties include:
- Iskender Kebab: Try grilled lamb over pita bread with tomato sauce and yogurt.
- Adana Kebab: You must try spicy minced meat skewers. It is a signature Turkish dish.
- Baklava: If you are a sweet lover, then you must try a sweet pastry layered with nuts and honey syrup.
- Kunafa: It is a crispy, cheese-filled dessert soaked in sweet syrup.
2. Rich Culinary Heritage
Turkish cuisine is deeply rooted in history. It is influenced by Ottoman, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean flavors. By dining at the best Turkish restaurants in Dubai, you get a taste of centuries-old recipes and techniques passed down through generations.
3. Immersive Atmosphere
The ambiance in Dubai’s top Turkish restaurants reflects traditional Turkish decor, often featuring grand chandeliers, intricate woodwork, and cozy seating reminiscent of Istanbul’s vibrant dining culture.
Best Restaurants for Ambiance
- Bosporus Turkish Cuisine: The Dubai Mall: It offers stunning waterfront views and an elegant setting for a luxurious dining experience.
- Gunaydin – Souk Al Bahar: A high-end Turkish steakhouse with prime views of Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain.
- The Mahal Turkish Cuisine: A cozy and intimate restaurant with traditional Turkish interiors.
4. High-Quality Ingredients & Craftsmanship
The best Turkish restaurants focus on fresh, premium ingredients. It ensures that dishes remain authentic and flavorful. Many chefs are trained in Turkey, bringing expertise to every meal.
5. Scenic Locations & Exceptional Hospitality
- Restaurants with Burj Khalifa views offer a breathtaking dining experience.
- Warm and welcoming service makes guests feel at home, following Turkey’s famous hospitality traditions.
6. Perfect for Gatherings & Special Occasions
Turkish cuisine is designed for sharing, with large mezze platters, mixed grills, and traditional tea ceremonies, making it ideal for gatherings and celebrations.
Best Budget-Friendly Turkish Restaurants
- Turkish Village Restaurant – Festival City Mall: It offers affordable yet authentic Turkish dishes in a casual setting.
- Kapadokya Turkish Kitchen: A hidden gem serving traditional Anatolian flavors at reasonable prices.
- Sirali – Al Habtoor City: It is known for its creative presentation and high-quality ingredients, offering a mix of affordable and premium dishes.
Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or an upscale feast, Dubai’s best Turkish restaurants deliver an unforgettable dining experience.
Why is Turkish Cuisine Popular in Dubai?
Dubai’s love for Turkish cuisine is fueled by its rich flavors, cultural connections, and authentic recipes. Here’s why it remains a top dining choice:
- Familiar Flavors & Shared Traditions: With similarities to Middle Eastern cuisine, dishes like kebabs, mezze, and baklava feel both exotic and familiar.
- Authenticity & Quality: Imported ingredients and Turkey-trained chefs ensure that traditional recipes remain true to their origins.
- Diverse Dining Choices: From affordable eateries to luxury steakhouses, Turkish food fits every budget and occasion.
- Love for Turkish Desserts & Coffee: Favorites like kunafa, baklava, and strong Turkish coffee have become Dubai staples.
- Influence of Turkish Travel & Culture: With many Dubai residents visiting Turkey, the love for Turkish food, markets, and cafés continues to grow.
A mix of history, hospitality, and irresistible flavors makes Turkish cuisine a favorite across Dubai’s dining scene!
Top Turkish Restaurants in Dubai
1. Sultan Saray
Sultan Saray is a restaurant known for its delicious Turkish food. The menu includes a variety of dishes, from kebabs to fresh salads. It’s a great place to enjoy flavorful meals in a cozy atmosphere with friends and family.
It has garnered a loyal following for its exceptional kebabs and vibrant atmosphere. The restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring traditional Turkish dishes, with a particular emphasis on grilled meats and meze. The tableside service adds an element of theater to the dining experience, making it a memorable visit for patrons.
Location: Sheikh Zayed Road
Specialties:
- Assorted mezze platters
- Pide (Turkish flatbread)
- A variety of grilled meats
Ambiance: The lively setting, combined with attentive service, creates an inviting environment suitable for both casual meals and special occasions.
2. Sirali
Sirali is a recent addition to Dubai’s Turkish dining scene. It has quickly established itself as a go-to destination for authentic Turkish cuisine. The restaurant is renowned for its innovative presentations and commitment to using high-quality ingredients.
Location: Meera Tower, Al Habtoor City
Specialties:
- Freshly baked simit bread
- Signature rolled Adana kebab
- Modern interpretations of classic Turkish dishes
Ambiance: Elegant interiors with a contemporary touch provide a sophisticated dining environment complemented by warm hospitality.
3. Asil
Asil offers a fusion of Turkish, Lebanese, and Moroccan cuisines, creating a unique dining experience. The restaurant’s plush lounge area and terrace provide stunning views of the Arabian Gulf, enhancing the overall ambiance.
Location: Rixos Premium Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Residence
Specialties:
- Diverse mezze selection
- Grilled meats and seafood
- Traditional tagines
Ambiance: Richly decorated interiors and live entertainment contribute to a vibrant and immersive dining atmosphere.
4. Bosporus Turkish Cuisine
Bosporus aims to connect diners with exquisite Ottoman cuisine. It offers a wide range of traditional Turkish dishes. The restaurant is known for its homely, traditional style and extensive menu.
What is Turkish cuisine called? Turkish cuisine is often called “Turkish Kitchen” or “Türk Mutfağı” in Turkish. It blends Ottoman, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Balkan flavors and is known for its rich mezes, grilled meats, and sweet desserts like baklava.
Location: Multiple branches, including The Dubai Mall and Umm Suqeim
Specialties:
- Mixed mezze starters
- Pide and lahmacun
- Doner kebabs and mixed grills
Ambiance: Cozy interiors with a welcoming atmosphere make it suitable for family gatherings and casual dining.
5. Günaydin
It originates from a butcher’s shop in Istanbul, and Günaydin has transformed into a high-end Turkish steakhouse. The restaurant offers prime views of the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain. It provides a picturesque dining setting.
Location: Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai
Specialties:
- Wide selection of steaks
- Dedicated lamb menu
- Assorted hot and cold meze
Ambiance: Elegant interiors with a focus on providing a premium dining experience, ideal for special occasions.
6. Zouzou Restaurant
It offers a blend of Turkish and Lebanese cuisines in a vibrant beachfront setting. The restaurant is praised for its colorful ambiance and flavorful dishes. What about the prices at ZouZou Restaurant in Dubai? ZouZou Restaurant in Dubai offers Turkish and Lebanese dishes at moderate prices. Appetizers range from AED 25–60, mains from AED 50–120, desserts from AED 25–45, and drinks from AED 15–35.
Location: La Mer, Jumeirah 1
Specialties:
- Turkish mixed grill
- Assorted mezze
- Traditional desserts
Ambiance: Bright and lively decor with outdoor seating options, perfect for enjoying the seaside view.
7. MADO
MADO is a globally recognized Turkish restaurant known for its delectable dishes and extensive dessert offerings. The establishment combines a restaurant, bakery, and dessert parlor under one roof.
What does MADO mean? MADO stands for “Maraş Dondurması” . It refers to a famous Turkish ice cream brand originating from Kahramanmaraş. It is known for its stretchy, chewy texture and rich flavor.
Location: The Dubai Mall
Specialties:
- Traditional Turkish breakfast
- A variety of kebabs
- Authentic Turkish ice cream and desserts
Ambiance: Casual and family-friendly environment, suitable for all-day dining.
8. Rüya Dubai
Rüya offers a contemporary take on traditional Anatolian cuisine. The restaurant features high ceilings, luxurious furnishings, and a DJ booth, creating a modern and upscale dining atmosphere.
Location: The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm
Specialties:
- Cheese and egg pide
- Assorted kebabs
- Innovative Mezze dishes
Ambiance: Chic and stylish interiors with a terrace overlooking the pool, providing a relaxed yet sophisticated setting.
Average Hotel Prices in Dubai
Here’s a general idea of hotel costs in Dubai:
- Budget Hotels (1-2 stars): Starting from $30 per night.
- Mid-Range Hotels (3 stars): Approximately $50–$100 per night.
- Luxury Hotels (4-5 stars): Ranging from $150 to over $500 per night.
Where to Stay & Average Budget
Where to Stay Nearby:
If you’re planning to explore some of the best Turkish restaurants in Dubai, it’s helpful to stay in areas that offer easy access to both dining and sightseeing:
Downtown Dubai
- Close to top Turkish restaurants like Günaydin and Bosporus
- Ideal for tourists who also want to visit Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall
- Budget: AED 400–1000 per night
Dubai Marina / JBR
- Great for beach lovers and near Turkish spots like Kaftan Turkish Cuisine
- Many mid-range and luxury hotel options
- Budget: AED 300–1200 per night
Al Barsha
- Near the Mall of the Emirates and several casual Turkish eateries
- More affordable hotels and family options
- Budget: AED 200–600 per night
Business Bay
- Central location with easy access to both high-end and casual Turkish restaurants
- Budget: AED 350–900 per night
Average Budget for Turkish Dining in Dubai
Depending on the restaurant type and location, here’s what you can expect to spend:
| Type of Dining | Per Person (AED) |
| Street-style / casual cafés | 40 – 80 AED |
| Mid-range restaurants | 80 – 150 AED |
| High-end Turkish dining | 150 – 300+ AED |
Tip: Many Turkish restaurants offer generous sharing platters, so dining in groups can often be more cost-effective.
Best Time to Visit Turkish Restaurants in Dubai
- Lunch Hours (12:00 PM – 2:30 PM): Great for quieter dining, smaller crowds, and lunch deals at many mid-range restaurants.
- Dinner Time (7:00 PM – 9:30 PM): Perfect for enjoying the full Turkish dining experience — vibrant ambiance, warm lighting, and often live grilling.
- Weekdays (Sunday to Thursday): Less crowded than on weekends. You’ll get faster service and a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Cooler Months (November to March): Ideal for outdoor seating at Turkish restaurants with terraces or garden views, especially in areas like JBR, La Mer, or Downtown.
- Avoid Peak Weekend Nights (Friday & Saturday 8–10 PM): These times are often busiest, so it’s better to reserve in advance if you plan to go then.
Tips for Enjoying Turkish Food in Dubai
- Start with mezes like hummus, ezme, or stuffed vine leaves.
- Try pide (Turkish flatbread) or lahmacun for a lighter dish.
- Finish with Turkish coffee or tea—an essential part of the experience.
- Go early for breakfast at Turkish Village or Mado—Turkish breakfasts are elaborate!
- Most Turkish restaurants in Dubai are family-friendly, with kid-friendly options.
- Expect generous portions—sharing plates is common and encouraged.
Transportation Tips
- Metro: Use the Red Line to reach areas like Downtown or Al Barsha.
- Careem/Uber: Easy and convenient for door-to-door travel.
- Taxis: Safe, metered, and available across Dubai.
- Driving: Paid or valet parking is available at most restaurants.
- Walking: Best in cooler months around JBR, Downtown, and City Walk.
FAQs:
What is a traditional Turkish drink?
Ayran – a salty yogurt-based drink.
What is Turkey’s national dish?
Kebab, especially the famous Döner Kebab
What is Turkey rich in?
Culture, history, natural resources like boron, and agricultural products
What tea do the Turkish people drink?
Strong black tea (çay), usually served in tulip-shaped glasses.
What is the famous Turkish restaurant guy?
Nusret Gökçe, known as Salt Bae.
Conclusion
Dubai is home to a wide range of authentic Turkish restaurants, from luxury dining to friendly neighborhood spots.
Whether you’re savoring a succulent kebab at Bosporus, enjoying a lavish breakfast at Turkish
Village or treating yourself to dessert at Mado, there’s something for every taste and occasion.
These are the best Turkish restaurants in Dubai that deliver authentic Turkish flavors that reflect both tradition and modern flair.
So the next time you’re craving rich spices, warm bread, and hearty hospitality, let this list guide you to the best authentic Turkish restaurants in the city.
