The 5 Best Restaurants in Al Karama
Moving beyond the glitz and glamour of the city lies Al Karama; one of Old Dubai’s most historical districts. It’s home to the Dubai Frame, shopping centers, parks, and some of the best restaurants you can check out.
From delicious kebabs and barbeque served hot from the grill or fresh seafood expertly prepared on the plate, here’s some of the best restaurants in Al Karama to check out!
How Much Does it Cost to Dine at Al Karama?
Restaurant prices in Al Karama ultimately vary based on the type of cuisine served and the style of restaurant. There’s just as many expensive fine dining locations as there are inexpensive local joints.
We’ve gathered a small list showing how much you can expect to spend on our list of restaurants below:
Choosing the Best Restaurants in Al Karama
Wondering how to choose the best restaurants in Al Karama? For us, we’ve narrowed down our list based on the following factors:
1. Hot Palayok Restaurant & Grill
| RATING | |
| FACILITIES | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| RESTAURANT EXPERIENCE | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| FOOD | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| AMBIANCE | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| CUSTOMER SERVICE | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| PROFESSIONALISM | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| COMMUNICATION | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| ACCESSIBILITY | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
With a focus on bringing the best of Filipino and Pan-Asian cuisine to Dubai’s dinner table, Hot Palayok Restaurant & Grill is a fairly well known buffet and restaurant within Al Karama.
The restaurant features a good blend of classics and lesser known favorite dishes, placing a large focus on maintaining the authentic taste and ingredients used in Filipino cuisines.
Additionally, the menu is noted by customers to be rather extensive. The offerings include classic soups and sizzling platters from Filipino cuisine, stretching even to street food offerings like fish balls and kwek kwek.
Hot Palayok itself has a very spacious restaurant area, housing both the buffet offerings and the seating area. Despite the shared space, there is plenty of space for large groups, which we found very convenient.
This is backed up by the lively ambiance and decor of the restaurant. The whole area is brightly lit and decorated with vibrant murals, with accompanying live acoustic music to keep customers refreshed.
It can be a little overwhelming at times though, and we can definitely see how those looking for a more intimate night out may want to move to a quieter booth.
We’ve observed that Hot Palayok Restaurant & Grill can be quite crowded though, leading to some wait time before getting seated. We also recommend car owners to come in early, as parking space can be quite limited.
Overall, Hot Palayok is one of Al Karama’s best known restaurants for a reason– the extensive menu invites customers to try as many dishes to satisfy both the curiosity and the palate.
Pros
- Extensive food menu
- Very spacious restaurant area
Cons
- Limited parking space
- Can be quite loud at times
Customer Reviews
The ambience was nice and the staff very friendly
“The choices of food from buffet menu, appetizer until dessert are mouth watering and tasty definitely. The ambience was nice and the staff very friendly. The restaurant is also clean and spacious.” – Vera Pujias
Pinoy comfort food! Love the selection
“Pinoy comfort food! Love the selection! Make sure to pre-book. Parking is a bit challenging but overall we had a good time” – Riva Gwen Palomar
2. Barbeque Nation
| RATING | |
| FACILITIES | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| RESTAURANT EXPERIENCE | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| FOOD | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| AMBIANCE | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| CUSTOMER SERVICE | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| PROFESSIONALISM | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| COMMUNICATION | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| ACCESSIBILITY | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
Barbeque Nation lives up exactly to its namesake– this restaurant, originating from India, brings the very best dishes of the live grills of Indian cuisine to the table.
The restaurant features a great combination of grilled options as well as other types of Indian classics in the menu. You can even get their different roasted meats as part of a flavorful biryani if you’re inclined.
Vegetarian diners don’t have to worry either, as the menu has quite the amount of vegetable-based options– from paneer tikka to spiced broccoli and mushroom skewers to replace the meats.
The restaurant itself has a very lively ambiance, especially with the live grilling counters providing customers entertainment while they wait for their food. Customers may also grill their own food if preferred, as tables are equipped with their own grills.
Those who are newer to the experience can also always count on their staff. The staff are rather courteous and informative, able to give reliable menu recommendations and checking in regularly to ensure customers are having a good time.
Sure, it’s a little pricey compared to most options but, we think the experience is well worth it.
Customers hoping to dine at Barbeque Nation should definitely look into getting a reservation early, though. With the limited seating space inside the restaurant, it gets packed quite easily.
All in all, any fan of Indian cuisine in Al Karama would find Barbeque Nation a reliable restaurant for a good fix. The live grills and large menu make the restaurant the perfect place for a group or family outing.
Pros
- Wide amount of vegetarian options
- Nice, lovely ambiance
Cons
- Prices are quite high
- Takes time to get a reservation
Customer Reviews
Amazing food, the taste was up to the mark
“Amazing food, the taste was up to the mark, especially the chicken wings were so juicy and the kheema pav from the live counter was lip smacking.” – Aziz Sarguru
It’s always a lovely dining experience at Barbeque Nation
“It’s always a lovely dining experience at Barbeque Nation. The food is remarkably delicious – from the starters all the way down to the dessert.” – Henna Saleem
3. Sthan
| RATING | |
| FACILITIES | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| RESTAURANT EXPERIENCE | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| FOOD | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| AMBIANCE | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| CUSTOMER SERVICE | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| PROFESSIONALISM | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| COMMUNICATION | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| ACCESSIBILITY | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Sthan is a restaurant that bills itself as one without borders– and it certainly sets out to do just that. With a menu incorporating cuisine from three different countries, this restaurant will definitely take customers on a culinary journey.
The menu features staples from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Hindustan– with chaats, curries and kebabs galore. These are served alongside fresh desserts and tasty coolers that help wash down the meal.
When the restaurant holds special events, these menus may also change to feature other dishes and cuisines– so customers, especially those in nearby areas, are encouraged to keep an eye out.
With these events also come promotions, although with the restaurant’s reasonable costing for their products, customers are guaranteed good value for money when dining at Sthan.
The staff are also always ready to assist should a customer find themselves struggling to navigate the menu. Their recommendations are reliable enough to introduce even new customers to the restaurant’s best.
That being said, the low cost of the food also encourages customers to order a wider assortment, as some customers have noted that the portion sizes at the restaurant can be on the smaller side.
Still, if you’re after a wide assortment of reliable dishes from many international cuisines, then Sthan is definitely for you. Highly recommended when dining at Al Karama!
Pros
- Rotating menu can help keep the experience fresh
- Reasonable pricing
Cons
- Limited buffet menu
- Portion sizes can be quite small
Customer Reviews
Excellent quality with value for money
“Excellent quality with value for money but the service stands out amazing. Went in around 10:30 pm and the place was still buzzing with people. First time for us there explained to them. Very attentive service.” – Ranitidine Q
Food was amazing and the service was impeccable
“Food was amazing and the service was impeccable by sophia! We ordered rara gosht, slow cooked stew, chapli kebab, naan, nimbu soda, mango lassi and punjabi kulfi.” – Delma Christopher
4. Sangeetha Vegetarian Restaurant
| RATING | |
| FACILITIES | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| RESTAURANT EXPERIENCE | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| FOOD | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| AMBIANCE | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| CUSTOMER SERVICE | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| PROFESSIONALISM | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| COMMUNICATION | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| ACCESSIBILITY | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Sangeetha Vegetarian Restaurant is a restaurant that specializes in vegetarian food– served fast, fresh, and at a reasonable cost. With several branches spread throughout the region, Sangeetha has become a reliable name in vegetarian dining in Al Karama.
The menu is, as the name implies, completely made up of vegetarian offerings, mostly from Southern Indian cuisine. There are a few Northern Indian offerings as well, along with Chinese cuisine for those hoping for a different taste.
Being composed entirely of vegetarian dishes hasn’t limited Sangeetha’s menu, however, as it has quite the extensive menu. Classic dishes like biryanis and masala are present, alongside kuruma pastries to accompany the restaurant’s curries.
Customers have also noted that Sangeetha is good for those dining on a budget, as they offer a good amount of set meals on their menu. They also run special lunchtime promos for those looking for a quick lunch without breaking the bank.
That said, service may take a while on some orders so we do advise being patient.
Though one of the older restaurants in Al Karama, Sangeetha also manages to keep a lively ambiance– especially thanks to their staff, who attend to every customer with a friendly attitude.
Customers traveling to the restaurant by car may find themselves challenged by the limited parking spaces, though, so it may be better to walk.
With all of the above in mind, Sangeetha’s quick and tasteful food at reasonable prices has made it a reliable restaurant for casual diners, and a safer choice for vegetarians looking for a specialized restaurant.
Pros
- Extensive dining menu
- Very lively ambiance
Cons
- Takes time to serve the food
- Limited parking space
Customer Reviews
The Pongal here is the best I have tasted
“Reached here after a morning run for sumptuous breakfast. The Pongal here is the best I have tasted out of Tamil Nadu. Soft juicy idlis and perfect Sambhar.” – Dr. Varsha Rajendra Shirvekar
World class vegetarian restaurant
“World class vegetarian restaurant, top class food quality you will want more. They sell the best filter coffee and dosas highlights for the mini tiffin” – Abhishek Nair
5. De Fish Restaurant
| RATING | |
| FACILITIES | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| RESTAURANT EXPERIENCE | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| FOOD | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| AMBIANCE | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| CUSTOMER SERVICE | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| PROFESSIONALISM | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| COMMUNICATION | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| ACCESSIBILITY | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
With a commitment to serving the best dishes and maintaining the cleanest restaurant, De Fish is one of Al Karama’s go-to spots for fresh seafood, served in all manners of ways.
As its name implies, De Fish’s menu focuses mainly on seafood of all sorts. These range from fish to prawns and mussels, served in salads, pastas or grilled alongside other
The restaurant’s staff are very accommodating of customer preferences, especially with regards to their meal. De Fish allows customers to select their own preferred seafood and method of preparation, and the staff will do their best to accommodate.
While waiting for the meal, customers may also find themselves relaxed by the restaurant’s natural ambiance. With its clean, wooden decor and colorful lighting, customers can definitely bask in the relaxed but bright ambiance of De Fish.
The generous portion sizes of the restaurant’s offerings have also been praised by customers. Even a half portion will come with more than enough for one person, which can be good for someone on an empty stomach.
That being said, customers have complained about the limited variety of seafood available on some of the combo meals such as the bucket and the grilled mix, so it may be better to order an assortment of seafood separately.
All in all, De Fish Restaurant should definitely be a must-visit destination for any seafood lover dining in Al Karama. Better yet, customers can try dining with a larger group to get a full sample of the various seafood options on display.
Pros
- Nice and accommodating staff
- Very good portion sizes
Cons
- Limited seafood selection
- Takes time to serve the food
Customer Reviews
The presentation is always beautiful
“I would like to give this place 5 stars, mussels and prawns not only look nice but also are absolutely mouthwatering! The presentation is always beautiful and the colors are so vibrant.” – Mansi Pathak
Everything I ordered was delicious
“I recently dined at De Fish Restaurant and was thoroughly impressed with the amazing food and friendly service. The menu had a wide variety of options to choose from, and everything I ordered was delicious.” – Mohamed Ashraf
FAQs about Al Karama Dubai
We hoped you enjoyed dining at the best restaurants in Al Karama! For more amazing food destinations such as the best places for business lunch in Downtown Dubai here!