A roundup of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants, bars and cafes in Jumeirah Lake Towers.
JLT is a culinary hotspot with a delightful mix of homegrown restaurants, and a few lively bars perfect for after-work drinks, ladies’ nights, or catching up with friends. If you’re on the hunt for the best eats in the area, these gems—handpicked by Time Out Dubai – are a must-visit. Each has been tried and tested, so you know you’re in for a treat.
Asian Street by Thai
Tucked away in Cluster F, this tiny spot is a haven for budget-friendly, authentic Thai street food. With only around 20 seats, you’ll want to plan your visit, but once you’re settled, expect dishes like spring rolls, pad Thai, green curries, and more, served with no fuss—just pure flavour. It’s one of the best-value Thai spots in Dubai.
Unlicensed. Cluster F, JLT, @asianstreetbythai (04 391 8828).
Bait Maryam
A cosy tribute to Chef Salam Dakkak’s mother, this Palestinian restaurant in Cluster D feels like home. With charming trinkets and books scattered around, it’s the perfect spot for Middle Eastern comfort food. Indulge in silky hummus, shakshouka, kibbeh, and mouthwatering grills that’ll warm your soul.
Unlicensed. Cluster D, JLT, baitmaryam.com (054 704 4774).
Café Isan
This multi-award-winning spot is a staple for Thai food lovers in Dubai. With mismatched plastic furniture and a laid-back vibe, Café Isan serves up fiery, flavour-packed dishes straight from the Isan region of Thailand. Be sure to snag a spot on their outdoor terrace in the cooler months.
Licensed. Armada Avenue Hotel JLT, Cluster P, JLT, cafeisan.co (058 529 1003).
Canary Club
Channelling retro Miami vibes, Canary Club in Banyan Tree Residences offers a chic setting with sushi, grills, and must-try dishes like their short-rib pizza. Whether you’re here for ladies’ night or just some Tiki Club fun, Canary Club is the perfect spot for a night out.
Licensed. Banyan Tree Residences, JLT, canaryclub.com (04 584 5999).
Couqley
Parisian charm meets a laid-back vibe at Couqley, a cosy French eatery and bar in JLT. The premium drinks, knowledgeable bartenders, and an upbeat playlist create the perfect atmosphere for a relaxed evening of good food and even better company.
Licensed. Cluster A, Jumeirah Lakes Towers (04 514 9339).
Dhaba Lane
Serving up Indian street food with flair, Dhaba Lane is a top spot for budget-conscious diners craving rich, flavorful dishes. From biryanis to curries and chaat, this JLT gem delivers regional favourites with a modern twist.
Unlicensed. Cluster D, JLT, dhaba-lane (054 999 4251).
Franky’s Pizzeria
Located at The Park in JLT, Franky’s Pizzeria is a trendy spot serving up Neapolitan-style pizzas with delicious toppings like black truffle, mussels, and ‘broken meatball.’ Grab a drink, enjoy the rooftop views, and savour the sunset with a slice in hand.
Licensed. The Park, JLT, @frankyspizzeria (050 427 5217).
Fusion Ceviche
If Peruvian food is your thing, Fusion Ceviche in Cluster Q is a hidden gem. Known for its ultra-fresh ceviche and bold, authentic flavours, this petite restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a laid-back vibe.
Unlicensed. Cluster Q, JLT, @fusionceviche (04 449 6292).
Good Burger at Maiz Tacos
A burger lover’s paradise, Good Burger in Cluster Y is all about quality. Try their classic Good Burger or the indulgent mushroom and Gruyère version for a burst of flavour. Fans of Maiz Tacos won’t want to miss the Birria Burger for a delightful fusion of the two concepts.
Unlicensed. Cluster Y, JLT, @goodburgerdxb (04 514 4712).
Hanoi Naturally
Nestled in the heart of JLT, Hanoi Naturally is a hidden gem for anyone craving authentic Vietnamese eats. This unpretentious spot may fly under the radar, but it dishes up some of the freshest and most flavorful Vietnamese cuisine in Dubai. With a menu that brims with zingy papaya salads, aromatic prawn summer rolls, and a pho broth so good you’ll be slurping it with a grin, this place nails traditional flavours without any fuss. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and all about healthy, clean cooking. For unbeatable Vietnamese dishes that won’t hurt your wallet, this is a top contender in the city.
Unlicensed. Cluster C, JLT, hanoinaturally.com (04 431 3099).
Hawkerboi
A cool newcomer making waves in Dubai’s buzzing Asian dining scene, Hawkerboi is the spot for street food with a serious vibe. It all began as a pop-up supper club but has now transformed into one of Dubai’s top Asian restaurants, officially claiming the title of Time Out Dubai’s Casual Restaurant of the Year 2024. This moody eatery has everything from crispy fried squid and duck gyoza to roast meats and zesty curries that pack a punch. If you want to explore it all, opt for the nine-course tasting menu for under AED 400 – your taste buds will thank you.
Licensed. The Park, JLT, @hawker.boi (050 427 5217).
Jamie Oliver’s Pizzeria
Craving pizza that hits all the right notes? Head over to Jamie Oliver’s Pizzeria, where bold flavours meet perfectly crisp dough. Popular among JLT’s office crowd, this joint serves up slices that’ll make you dream of pizza on random weekdays. You can always count on these pies to deliver the goods, whether you’re there for lunch or grabbing a quick bite with friends. Book ahead though—those tables fill up fast.
Unlicensed. Cluster R, JLT, @jamieoliverspizzeriagcc (04 874 7082).
McGettigan’s JLT
An Irish pub staple in Dubai, McGettigan’s JLT is the go-to spot for an electric atmosphere, great deals, and hearty eats. Whether you’re into live music, ladies’ nights, comedy gigs, or a classic Sunday roast, McGettigan’s has it all. The terrace is a prime hangout during the cooler months, giving off real pub garden vibes. The menu is packed with comforting pub fare, from juicy burgers and wings to a killer sausage and mash combo.
voco Bonnington Dubai, Cluster J, JLT, mcgettigans.com (04 356 0470).
Mythos Kouzina & Grill
Mythos Kouzina & Grill reigns supreme as Dubai’s favourite Greek restaurant, year after year. Tucked away in JLT, this cosy taverna serves up Mediterranean magic with mouthwatering tzatziki, rich moussaka, and a must-try mixed grill that’ll have you coming back for more. Whether you’re sitting on the charming terrace or diving into the baked feta indoors, Mythos promises authentic Greek dining at its finest.
Licensed. Armada Avenue Hotel, Cluster P, JLT, mythosdubai.com (04 399 8166).
Pickl
When it comes to burgers, Pickl is a heavy hitter that everyone in Dubai knows and loves. With multiple wins as the Best Burger in Dubai, you know you’re in for a treat. From the iconic beef burgers with their seared patties to the legendary chicken sandos, Pickl’s menu is packed with flavour. Whether it’s morning, noon, or night, it’s never the wrong time for one of these unbeatable burgers.
Unlicensed. One JLT, JLT, eatpickl.com (04 584 6859).
Pitfire Pizza
Pitfire Pizza continues to dominate the pizza scene in Dubai with its New York-Neapolitan-style pies. Founded by a husband-and-wife team, this beloved spot loads its pizzas with delicious toppings, from classic pepperoni to unique options like potato or dates. The crust is perfectly blistered, the flavours are intense, and don’t even think about skipping the garlic knots – they’re a must.
Unlicensed. Cluster D, JLT, pitfiredubai.ae (800 748 3473).
Saigon
Don’t be fooled by the casual, laid-back vibe at Saigon – this small Vietnamese joint is serious about its food. Serving up crispy spring rolls, fresh salads, and steaming pho bowls, Saigon offers up authentic flavours without the frills. Locals and expats alike flock here for dishes that deliver in taste, quality, and value.
Unlicensed. Lake Terrace Tower, Cluster D, JLT, saigon-restaurant.com (04 576 4466).
Splendour Fields
From the creators of Tom & Serg, Splendour Fields in The Park at JLT offers dreamy views and equally delightful coffee. Whether you’re in for their specialty brews or nibbling on fresh pastries from Rise & Dawn Bakehouse, this chic café is the perfect spot to unwind. Their breakfast options, like the ricotta hotcakes and smashed avo, are standouts, while burgers and mains like Aussie parma satisfy later in the day.
Licensed. The Park, JLT, @splendourfields (056 603 0897).
Tiki’s Bar by Canary Club
Perched atop Canary Club, Tiki’s Bar has been a massive hit since opening. Combining killer views with a mouthwatering menu of taco makis, skewers, and rolls, this laid-back spot makes for a top-tier night out. With creatively mixed drinks like the Tahitian Traveller, it’s hard not to have a good time here.
Licensed. Banyan Tree Residences, JLT, canaryclub.com/tikis (04 584 5999).
The Little Bali
If you’re after Balinese cuisine on a budget, The Little Bali in JLT is your go-to spot. Authentic plates like grilled chicken, crispy tilapia, and even camel make this eatery a standout. The nasi goreng and satay sampler are local favourites, bursting with flavour and served at prices that’ll keep you smiling.
Unlicensed. Cluster U, JLT, littlebali.ae (04 554 8575).
ubk
At ubk, every hour feels like a happy hour. With great deals running from open to close, this casual hangout is the perfect spot to catch a game, groove to live music, or just relax with friends. Grab some hearty pub grub—think Beyond Burgers, massive hot dogs, and more—and soak up the good vibes in their spacious outdoor area.
Licensed. Mövenpick Hotel, Cluster A, JLT (04 438 0000).
Vietnamese Foodies
Vietnamese Foodies in JLT is all about no-nonsense, healthy, and wallet-friendly Vietnamese cuisine. Known for their iconic 14-hour broth pho bowls and fresh, flavourful dishes, this spot guarantees a tasty meal without breaking the bank.
Unlicensed.
Cluster D, JLT, vietnamesefoodies.com (04 565 6088).
