Latest news with #Khadak
What's On
10 hours ago
- Lifestyle
- What's On
6 places to get the best butter chicken in Dubai this weekend
Butter chicken unites us all; these are the best in Dubai… Who doesn't love a good butter chicken? The silken curry takes the cake as the top-rated comfort food and everyone's primary takeout choice, and we're not just talking about the desi crowd. Our fellow fair-skinned folk seem to love a good butter chicken, for obvious reasons relating to premature spice tolerances, but we'll forgive – at least it's not a vindaloo. If you're looking for a solid butter chicken to dress up your weekend nights in, check out this list. And save some for us. Sind Punjab View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sind Punjab Restaurant (@sindpunjabdxb) Sind Punjab, located in Meena Bazaar, has been feeding hungry patrons since 1977. Tender, flavourful, with a rich sauce and chicken cooked to perfection, it strikes a balance between sweet and spicy and is insanely economical. Dhs27.50, @sindpunjabdxb Khadak The Guntur butter chicken at Khadak has been touted by many as it's best offering, and it is indeed, a most solid contender. Rich, creamy, with a tomato-y sweetness and buttery smoothness, this one has a kick missing from some. Dhs78, @khadak_ae Roobaru View this post on Instagram A post shared by Roobaru – Indian Restaurant in Dubai (@ Roobaru is a delivery favourite, and their Roob's butter chicken is one thing you need to have in your order. It is everything butter chicken should be – rich, silky, tender, creamy, and so perfectly comforting – it'll warm your stone cold heart. Dhs69, @ Gazebo View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gazebo Restaurant (@gazeborestaurant) Gazebo is an Indian classic – and they have loads of great options besides just the dum biryani. The murgh makhani or butter chicken is a crowd pleaser, and served with their steaming, buttery naan, it'll solve all your problems. Dhs43, @gazeborestaurant Mohalla View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mohalla (@mohallarestaurant) Mohalla is also a fan favourite among Dubai residents, and they have their Delhi 6 butter chicken that is sure to please anyone. The tomato and butter gravy is silky smooth, and the chicken is good to tandoori goodness. Dhs65, @mohallarestaurant Rang This stunning mall eatery offers the perfect accompaniment to your weekend shopping plans – a rich, creamy, dreamy, smooth, butter chicken. Shop till you drop and then refuel with this dish, paired with some incredible naan, of course. Dhs62, Images: Supplied/Socials
Time Out Dubai
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
Best casual dining restaurants in Dubai 2025: 10 highly-rated spots to try next
Looking for a brilliant casual dining restaurant in Dubai? You're in the right place. The Time Out Dubai team has carefully and independently vetted each of these restaurants to ensure that not only is it pretty damn brilliant, but offers a meal for two, including two courses each and a house beverage each, for Dhs400 or less. Check out the full list of the Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards 2025 winners here That's easier said than done in Dubai, so trust us when we say you need to bookmark this top 10 list. Time Out Dubai reviews anonymously and pays for all its meals. For more on the review process click here. These are the best casual dining restaurants in Dubai, as recognised by the Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards 2025. The best casual dining restaurants in Dubai 2025 WINNER Sufret Maryam (Credit: ITP Images, Sufret Maryam) There must be something in the water at Wasl 51. New to Time Out Dubai's top 10 casual restaurants in Dubai is Sufret Maryam, the latest creation from Salam Dakkak, chef-owner of Dubai institution Bait Maryam. Her new venture is a lot bigger but still cosy, thoughtfully decorated with works from Middle Eastern artists and rustic knick-knacks. Nostalgic Palestinian and Jordanian dishes are elevated to the level you'd expect from such a renowned chef, beautifully presented and executed. Splash out on the La'Moshet Maryam, a slow-cooked lamb shoulder marinated in chef Salam's special spices. It's a taste experience you'll want to repeat again and again. Unlicensed. Wasl 51, Jumeirah 1, sufretmaryam (050 417 2272). Check out our full Sufret Maryam review here Highly commended Khadak (Credit: Khadak) New casual Indian restaurant Khadak has a story to tell. It does this through everything from knick-knacks and wall-art to its revival of long-forgotten recipes and the culinary adventures of its chef founder Naved Nasir, famed for his years at London's Dishoom. The menu pays homage to Indian street food stalls across the country, with examples including Radio Café kheema pao, a nostalgic tribute to Bombay's former Radio Café, and chicken sukka, from the coastal kitchens of Mangalore. Every dish is described to make you want to try it – and served to make you want to tell everyone about it. Unlicensed. Villa 426, 12 Al Wasl Rd, Jumeirah 2, (058 979 7830). Kinoya Credit: Kinoya It may now have a branch at one of the fanciest department stores in the world – Harrods in London's Knightsbridge – but Kinoya in Dubai's The Greens is distinctly more casual. A top Japanese restaurant, this spot comes from supper club star chef Neha Mishra and has been a total hit since opening in 2021. Famed for its silky smooth ramen, this casual izakaya is a brilliant place to visit when you need a comforting bowl of soup, or some of the delicious gyoza, skewers and sushi. It's all excellent, so make a trip there, pronto. Licensed. Onyx Tower, The Greens, (04 220 2920). Check out our full Kinoya review here Shortlisted 21grams Credit: 21grams If the thought of a Balkan breakfast floats your boat then there's only one place in Dubai to head. Handmade from family recipes using seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers where possible, don't be surprised if you find yourself ordering a side of creamy polenta or an omelette butter roll with your order of sunny-side-up eggs with pulled beef. Just be warned, all that lovely wholesomeness makes this place popular, so be sure to book ahead. Unlicensed. Jumeirah Street next to Umm Suqeim 2, (050 841 5021). Check out our full 21grams review here Café Isan Credit: Café Isan One of the coolest spots in town and one of the best casual dining restaurants in Dubai, Café Isan is a top choice whenever you're in the mood for deliciously authentic Thai food. Dig into street food classics like spring rolls and chicken wings, as well as steaming, fragrant curries and flavour-packed stir-fries. The vibes are super-chill, especially in winter when you can sit on the terrace and take in the sights of the surrounding JLT skyscrapers. The service is warm and friendly, while the drinks are affordable and the poptastic tunes add to the laid-back atmosphere. Licensed. Armada Avenue Hotel JLT, Cluster P, JLT, (058 529 1003). Check out our full Café Isan review here Franky's Pizzeria Credit: Franky's Pizzeria The Park in JLT is one trendy place to visit – being home to cool Asian street food eatery Hawkerboi and café Splendour Fields. And now you'll also find Franky in Florence here – one of the best pizzerias in Dubai, and one of the newest. Neapolitan-style pizzas come adorned with toppings including cavallo nero, black truffle and mushroom, mussels and prawns, 'broken meatball' or classic stracciatella. The interiors are decked out with foliage and artwork, while the views from this rooftop spot are also superb. Order a drink and enjoy a slice at sunset. Licensed. The Park, JLT, @frankyspizzeria (050 427 5217). Check out our full Franky's Pizzeria review here Fusión Ceviche A petite, unassuming Peruvian spot in JLT serves absolutely brilliant ceviche. With super-fresh fish and packed full of flavour (and a fair amount of heat) it's one of the best Latin American restaurants in Dubai and a terrific place to delve into Peruvian food. With only a handful of tables, bag a spot at the counter and go with the chef's recommendations for the most authentic experiences. The Peruvian juices are worth a try too. A laid-back restaurant that's a top one to check out if you're looking for something a little more off the radar. Unlicensed. Cluster Q, JLT, @fusionceviche (04 449 6292). Check out our full Fusion Ceviche review here Hawkerboi Credit: Hawkerboi If you're in the mood for a cooler than cool casual dining restaurant in Dubai's JLT, then Hawkerboi is the one to check out. With a lively vibe, moody lighting and a range of creative mixed drinks, it's the prime place for a fun date night that's not too fancy but with great food. With Asian street food-style plates, dig into everything from curries to dumplings, satay, stir-fries and grills. The menu is affordable and there's even a supper club-style tasting menu for under Dhs400 that will see you trying more, for less, at this must-visit spot. Licensed. The Park, JLT, @ (505 427 5217). Check out our full Hawkerboi review here Isabella Cucina Italiana Authenticity is the order of the day at Isabella's, which prides itself on its house-made fresh pastas and pizza doughs, fermented for 48 hours. There are soups, salads, raw dishes and antipasti along with hearty mains, including popular picks like ossobuco and lamb chops. Every table should feature at least one wood-fired pizza and filled pasta and if you like fish, go for the classic branzino al sale, or salt-baked seabass to share. This is homestyle food served with care and a perfect option for a meal with all the family. Licensed. Vida Hills Hotel, Emirates Hills, (04 323 7347). Kokoro Hand Roll Bar (Credit: Kokoro) When Kokoro first opened in 2024, the hype around this little no-bookings sushi joint in quirky Al Quoz was huge. A year on and it's attention that's justified. Hailing from Texas, Kokoro is the brainchild of chefs Patrick Pham and Daniel Lee, who pride themselves on using only top-notch ingredients. There are 23 dishes on the menu, all made-to-order, including eight different handrolls. Sit at the bar to watch everything from the slicing of fish to the flame-torching of wagyu and marvel at the precision of the chefs as they work. Unlicensed. Al Serkal Avenue, Al Quoz, (04 259 7919). Check out our full Kokoro Hand Roll Bar review here Other award-winning spots in Dubai Hands down the 10 best steakhouses in Dubai Places that are really worth your money The 10 best pizzerias in Dubai for the perfect slice Because pizza is life, let's be real 10 of the best bar food venues in Dubai (whether you drink or not) Brilliant plates with your drinks
What's On
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
5 of the best restaurants in Dubai this weekend: New openings, menus & pop-ups
What's cooking this weekend? This… If your plans revolve around what's for lunch (and dinner), this week's lineup is worth making room for. We've rounded up five of the best restaurants in Dubai doing something a little different this weekend – think business lunches, new openings, and new menus. Whether you're in the mood to try something new or just looking for a solid go-to, here are 5 of the best restaurants in Dubai worth adding to your weekend group chat. Music Loves Company: The new café bar with live vibes What: Music Loves Company is a café by day, bar by night, and a live entertainment hotspot all in one. Expect everything from chilled coffee catch-ups to late-night comedy and gigs, with great food and drinks to match. Vibe: A laid-back, social space where music lovers, coffee enthusiasts, and comedy fans can hang out. Whether you're here for a relaxed afternoon or to catch a live show, the vibe is always lively. Menu: From strong coffee and fresh juices to hearty wraps, colourful salads, and sweet treats like stuffed cookies and banana bread. The cocktail list is fun, with drinks inspired by classic song lyrics. When: Open daily, with live events like comedy nights every Saturday from 8:30pm. Where: Expo City Dubai. @ wearemlc_ Khadak business lunch What: A midday breather done right. Inspired by India's everyday ritual of stopping to eat properly – no desk lunches here – Khadak's new business lunch is about slowing down without going off schedule. Vibe: Cool and calm. Menu: For Dhs98, you get a generous main, roti or rice, daal, and cucumber raita – simple and deeply satisfying. Dishes like Karare Kale Chaat, Guntur Butter Chicken, and Moong Daal Gosht hit that perfect lunch sweet spot. Optional desserts and non-alcoholic drinks are priced at Dhs15. When: Monday to Friday, 12-5pm Where: Khadak, Jumeirah 1, Dubai. @khadak_ae Il Gattopardo's new weekend lunch: Il Pranzo What: A laid-back yet luxe Italian lunch on Saturdays at Il Gattopardo. Start with fresh crudo, then dig into mains like Josper-grilled Tagliata Di Manzo or red mullet with artichokes. Plus, there's a Signature Spritz deal (Dhs150 for two hours) to keep the cocktails flowing. Vibe: Elegant with panoramic views, live music, and a cool, relaxed atmosphere – perfect for a weekend unwind. Menu: Three-course set menu (Dhs198), with a mix of seafood and Italian classics. Add the Spritz package for extra fun. When: Saturdays from 12pm. Where: Il Gattopardo, 51st floor, ICD Brookfield Place, Dubai. @ gattopardodubai Third Avenue's new weekend breakfast What: A no-rush, three-course breakfast served every Saturday and Sunday for Dhs89. Pick any three dishes from a menu of sweet and savoury favourites, plus a coffee or water to get you going. Vibe: Casual and easy-going with front-row seats to Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountains. Menu: Eight options to mix and match – from Truffle Millefeuille to Zaatar & Labneh Pide, Eggs Shakshuka, and French Toast with Lotus Caramel. When: Every Saturday and Sunday, from 10am to 12pm. Where: Third Avenue, Downtown Dubai. @ thirdavenueboutique Ladurée's new pastry menu What: A new collection of refined pastries, each with its own personality. Vibe: Elegant, quiet luxury. Menu: Highlights include the golden vanilla flan with a caramelised puff base, a Jivara milk chocolate éclair with a touch of gold, and a minimalist tiramisu reimagined inside a delicate Opalys shell. When: Available now. Where: All Ladurée outlets across the UAE. Priced at Dhs55 at Dubai Mall tearoom and restaurant, and Dhs52 elsewhere. @ ladureeuae Images: Supplied/Instagram > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
FACT
21-04-2025
- Entertainment
- FACT
The FACT UAE guide to the week ahead: 21 to 27 April 2025
Your guide to the best food, arts and culture across Dubai this week. April is in full swing, which means brunches, theme nights, dining experiences, and epic events are all on the agenda for an epic week ahead. Monday 21 April Enjoy a midday Escape to Mesoamerica Step away from the everyday with the Almuerzo Business Lunch at Girl & the Goose – Restaurante Centroamericano. Perfect for quick business catch-ups and leisurely lunches with friends, this thoughtfully curated menu brings Central America's bold, soulful flavours to your afternoon. Available Monday to Friday from 12pm to 3pm. AED 109 (two courses) or AED 139 (three courses). GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Tuesday 22 April Try the new menu at FZN FZN by Björn Frantzén has unveiled its second seasonal tasting menu. Diners will begin in a chic Nordic-style lounge with canapés, before a guided house tour leads to the dining room. The nine-course menu features standout dishes such as Chawanmushi with Smoked Beef Broth and Bafun Uni, Turbot with Beurre Blanc and Frantzén Caviar, and signatures like Langoustine with Koshihikari Rice. The experience ends with desserts like Matcha Waffles with Carrot Ice Cream and miso madeleines. With over 1,600 wine labels, guests can choose from wine, mixed, or non-alcoholic pairings. Available daily from 7pm. AED 2,000 per person. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Wednesday 23 April Enjoy a midweek indulgence at Nobu by the Beach Nobu by the Beach at Atlantis The Royal, the city's most talked-about pool and beach club, has unveiled its new all-day experience designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life. The offer includes a sun lounger, two signature drinks, and a poolside platter featuring a selection of chef-curated sashimi and bites. With chilled beats and refined service, Nobu's first pool and beach club concept seamlessly blends laidback luxury with culinary excellence. Available on Wednesdays from 10am to 7pm. AED 545 per person. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Thursday 24 April Have lunch at Khadak Inspired by India's cherished tradition of taking a proper lunch break, Khadak invites diners to enjoy a moment of calm, connection, and seriously good food. Start with small plates, such as the crispy Karare Kale Chaat or Morel Cheese Kulcha, before moving on to a selection of marvellous mains. Think rich Guntur Butter Chicken, Shadab Chicken Biryani, or the comforting Moong Daal Gosht with a tender goat shank. Each main is served with a choice of roti, naan, roomali, or basmati rice. Available Monday to Friday from 12pm to 5pm. AED 98 per person. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Friday 25 April See Nas live in the capital BRED – named after the idiom 'born and bred' – will celebrate the region's urban scene on Yas Island this April. Hip-hop heavyweight Nas will headline on Friday, 25 April. Born Nasir Jones, the American rapper is known for his profound impact on the hip-hop scene. Emerging from Queensbridge, New York, Nas gained critical acclaim with his 1994 debut album, Illmatic, celebrated for its intricate lyrics and vivid storytelling and the tracks 'N.Y. State of Mind' and 'The World Is Yours.' Throughout his career, Nas has released several successful albums, including It Was Written (1996), which features the hit single 'If I Ruled the World (Imagine That)' featuring Lauryn Hill, which has been lauded as one of the greatest rap songs of all time. GO: Visit for more information. Saturday 26 April Enjoy brunch with a side of bowling Head to Ajman Hotel for the new Rollin' Brunch, where you'll enjoy a tasty brunch, unlimited drinks while you bowl, and two full hours of non-stop bowling fun. Want to level up? Add beach access and make a day of it. Available on Saturdays from 1pm to 4pm. AED 400 (soft beverages), AED 500 (house beverages for two hours), AED 535 (soft beverages and beach access) and AED 685 (house beverages for two hours and beach access). GO: Email fboffice@ or call 06 714 5582 for reservations and more information. Sunday 27 April Savour a true taste of Italy at Bella Bocca Bella Bocca serves up soulful Italian cuisine in the new Marriott Marquis Dubai at Jewel of the Creek. Helmed by Chef de Cuisine Oscar Cimmino, enjoy a laid-back affair of shared plates, live music, and free-flowing drinks. The indulgent menu features Insalata di Frutti di Mare (a zesty seafood salad with lemon emulsion and pickled vegetables) and Pasta a forma di conchiglia con ragù di anatra (shell-shaped pasta enveloped in a rich duck ragout). Round things off with the Espuma Tiramisu. Available on Saturdays and Sundays from 12:30pm to 4pm. AED 175 (food only) or AED 275 (including house beverages) GO: Email or call 054 247 7565 for reservations and more information.
Emirates Woman
09-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Emirates Woman
Beyond Dishoom: Chef Naved's culinary journey to Khadak Dubai
Emirates Man by Sarah Joseph 25 seconds ago Born to bring forgotten Indian recipes to the forefront, Chef Naved Nasir is the brainchild behind Dubai's Khadak. Behind the highly sought-after Dishoom in London, he opened his first restaurant in Dubai to bring a casual Indian dining experience deeply rooted in tradition. To provide that depth artists flown in from India have added a unique layer to Khadak's design. Here each piece of art tells its own story, transporting diners to India. Beyond the food, Khadak's space is infused with a narrative that celebrates the vibrant cultures of India, merging artistic expressions with culinary heritage. Situated in Jumeirah, the menu showcases rarely-seen recipes in a new light, with his expertise in the world of food. To delve into Chef Naved's story, Emirates Man sat down with him to see how Khadak's making its mark in the UAE. Talk us through your background. I've spent much of my career introducing Indian cuisine to a global audience, most notably as Chef Director at Dishoom in London. Before that, I trained at the iconic Bukhara in New Delhi and had the privilege of working under the late Chef Imtiaz Qureshi in Mumbai. For me, food has always gone beyond taste—it's about storytelling, evoking nostalgia, and bringing people together around a shared experience. What inspired you to launch Khadak in Dubai? Dubai felt like the right place to revive and share the stories of India's forgotten food culture. With Khadak, I wanted to go beyond the expected—to bring back lost recipes, age-old techniques, and the spirit of iconic food streets across India. It's about presenting these bold, nostalgic flavors with care and intention, in a city that truly celebrates culinary storytelling. How did you adapt Dishoom's success formula for the Dubai audience while keeping Khadak unique? I never intended to replicate Dishoom. What resonated in London wouldn't necessarily translate here. Dubai has a rich love for Indian food, but I felt there was space to spotlight lesser-known culinary traditions. Khadak brings forward forgotten recipes, cooked with grit and fire, in a space that feels warm yet refreshingly distinctive. Our dishes and interiors pay tribute to the iconic food shops in India. This was important to us as many have weathered decades of change while holding onto their originality. How do you weave storytelling into the dining experience at Khadak Dubai? Every dish at Khadak has a story. Take our Shabrati Nihari—it's inspired by how nihari was traditionally slow-cooked overnight and served at dawn to both laborers and nawabs. The dish nods to Haji Shabrati in Old Delhi. Our Shami Kebab honors the legendary Noor Mohammadi in Mumbai's Bhendi Bazaar, a restaurant with a history of over 100 years. These aren't just recipes—they're cultural touchstones revived on the plate. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Khadak (@khadak_ae) What are some of the key dishes to try at the restaurant? The Khadak Daal is definitely a highlight, it's slow-cooked for hours to develop a rich, smoky depth. The Shabrati Nihari is indulgent yet balanced, with melt-in-your-mouth meat in a deeply aromatic broth. Our Morel Cheese Kulcha is crisp on the outside and filled with umami-packed morels, herbs, and cheese. The Jackfruit Haleem is another standout—luxuriously slow-cooked with an unexpected hero ingredient. What were some of the most fascinating forgotten Indian recipes you uncovered while researching for Khadak? One that truly stood out was a Rampuri-style Moong Dal Gosht—my personal favorite, and a treasured family recipe. There's only one aunt left in my family who still knows how to prepare it. We've revived it at Khadak using slow-cooked goat shanks, green moong dal, and a unique blend of spices that's true to its heritage. 'Khadak is designed to feel like home – warm, soulful, and full of character.' How do you balance nostalgia with innovation when reintroducing old dishes in a modern setting? Innovation for me isn't about deconstructing dishes into something unrecognisable. It's about respecting tradition while refining technique, sourcing better ingredients, and deepening flavour. Nostalgia forms the foundation, but we build upon it through thoughtful execution. For instance, our reimagined Broccoli Bhel combines a street-favourite puffed rice dish with broccoli and nuts. Or take the Uthappam on our breakfast menu – it blends the classic with the freshness of avocado toast, creating a dish that feels both familiar and new. What role does the design and ambiance of Khadak play in making these forgotten dishes more appealing to a global audience? Khadak is designed to feel like home- warm, soulful, and full of character. From the woodwork to the tiles, from the soft lighting to the nostalgic details and murals, everything is carefully chosen to evoke a sense of belonging. The artwork on our walls tells its own story, drawing from the lost art of Daastangoi. My favorite spot is our cozy veranda, wrapped in bougainvillea, lime, and other plants, perfect for a quiet breakfast of bun maska and Irani chai. What's your take on the evolving perception of Indian cuisine in the UAE? Indian food has always been respected here, but the perception is evolving. Diners are now more curious—interested in regional specialties, lesser-known techniques, and flavors that go beyond just heat. There's a hunger for depth and storytelling, and that's a very promising shift. How does Khadak aim to shape the future of Indian dining in Dubai? We want people to rethink what Indian food can be. Not just what's familiar, but what's been forgotten—or never discovered. Khadak is not about being revolutionary; it's about reviving lost traditions and reimagining them with care. If we can spark a deeper connection to Indian cuisine, then we're doing something meaningful. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @khadak
