A Festival of Lights and a season of feasts
The best part of any festivities is the feast that comes along with it – naturally. And when it comes to Indian festivals, it’s only the natural order of things to have a wide array of all sorts of delicacies. Mouthwatering chaats, starters with a kick, filling mains, and sweet syrupy desserts. (We got you craving for some Indian cuisine, haven’t we?).
Your Diwali festivities in Dubai deserve something grand and something that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the festival, with some familiar favourites and perhaps some new dishes to try out. So, without further ado…
Here are 8 Diwali dining spots that you need to head to for the festive season.
Varq at Taj Exotica Resort & Spa
Image: Supplied
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa is going all out with Diwali celebrations this year. Running from October 30 to November 15, the Festival of Lights will see a series of exciting dining and after-party experiences at the various venues within the hotel. At Varq, you can kickstart your celebrations with a festive set menu and themed beverages starting from Dhs275, followed by some festive entertainment and complimentary welcome drinks.
Where: Varq, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa
When: October 30 to November 15
Contact: @varqpalmdubai
Palm Kitchen at Taj Exotica Resort & Spa
A festive buffet for Diwali is an absolute must for the season. And serving up just that is Palm Kitchen at Taj Resort & Spa. You can expect a delicious spread of all of your festive Diwali favourites in one space. Skip the cooking this season and let the pros handle the festive menu for you. All you have to do is gather the gang for an afternoon of festive fun.
Where: Palm Kitchen, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa
When: November 8 from 6.30pm 10.30pm
Cost: Dhs235 for adults, Dhs120 for kids aged 6 to 11
Contact: exoticadubai.tajhotels.com
You’ll also like: 7 best Diwali gift ideas for the picky person in your life
Gymkhana Dubai
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The much-awaited Michelin-starred restaurant has landed in Dubai and is all set to celebrate its first-ever Diwali in the city. Dressed in all dark interiors with plush seatings and intricate detailing, the space is reminiscent of the elite social clubs of India. And this festive season you can expect a great selection of some of their restaurant classics with their Diwali tasting menu, priced at Dhs495 per person.
Where: Gymkhana Dubai, DIFC
When: November 8
Cost: Dhs495 per person
Contact: @gymkhanadxb
Jamavar
Image: Supplied
For a second-year-running Michelin-starred restaurant, Jamavar is joining forces with Indian concept store and design destination Chahar Bagh by Good Earth. Celebrate Indian culinary craftsman with their Diwali tasting menu with some classics like Nazakat ke Bhalle, Bhatti ka Paneer, Wild Mushroom Galouti and more. Available from October 29 to November 11, the feast is an immersive festive experience that is an ode to Indian cuisines, design and heritage.
Where: Jamavar, Address Residences, Dubai Opera District, Downtown Dubai
When: October 20 to November 11 for lunch and dinner
Cost: Dhs395 for vegetarian tasting menu, Dhs425 for non-vegetarian tasting menu
Contact: @jamavardubai
Jodhpur
If you’re a fan of Rajasthani cuisine, then you need to head to Jodhpur. Capturing the true essence of Rajasthani royalty, the space is a visual feast with its details and designs that instantly transport you to the historic blue city, Jodhpur. The restaurant strictly focuses on culinary traditions born entirely in the desert – which means you can expect delicacies like Gulab Jamun Ki Sabzi, Kair Sangri Kofta, the classic Dal Baati Churma and more.
Where: Jodhpur, Hyatt Place Dubai Jumeirah hotel
When: Monday to Friday, lunch from 12pm to 3pm, dinner from 6pm to 1am; weekends, lunch from 12pm to 4pm, dinner from 6pm to 2am
Contact: @jodhpurdxb
Atrangi by Ritu Dalmia
Overlooking the serene waters at Jumeirah Lagoon, Atrangi by Ritu Dalmia is quite the scenic spot to celebrate your Diwali festivities in Dubai. Aside from the views and interiors that definitely stand out, the space celebrates culinary traditions from all over India. So whether you’re craving some Southern specialities or Northern classics, this contemporary Indian hotspot will elevate your Diwali dining scene in Dubai for the season.
Where: Atrangi by Ritu Dalmia, Jumeirah Al Qasr
When: Daily, lunch from 12pm to 3pm, dinner from 7.30pm to 11.30pm
Contact: @atrangi.dubai
Carnival by Tresind
Image: What’s On Archives
Lighting up Diwali this season is Michelin Guide restaurant Carnival by Tresind with their festive specials. So best believe you are in for some great Indian flavours, music and vibes. Gather the whole family around for the Festival of Lights this month for an evening of catch-ups, conversations, and festive joy.
Where: Carnival by Tresind, Burj Daman
When: Daily 12pm to 1am
Contact: @carnivalbytresind
Asha’s
Launched by late Indian legendary singer Asha Bhosle, Asha’s perfectly marries the art of music with that of Indian culinary craftsmanship. It is the perfect choice for those lively Diwali night celebrations with friends. Here you’ll be treated to an evening with some comforting Indian chaats, mains, drinks and desserts.
Where: Asha’s, Wafi City
When: Daily 12.30pm to 12am
Contact: @ashasmiddleeast
Images: Supplied
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