Indian Restaurants in Deira represent the true soul of Dubai’s culinary diversity. Known for its vibrant streets, bustling markets, and rich cultural heritage, Deira is a place where tradition meets taste. It’s where Dubai’s Indian community — one of the largest in the UAE — has brought its rich flavors, spices, and recipes to life. Whether you’re craving a plate of Hyderabadi biryani, a crispy South Indian dosa, or a bowl of creamy butter chicken, Deira has something to satisfy every craving.
At UAE Explorer, we’ve explored the streets, reviews, and real diners’ opinions to curate this list of the 11 Best Indian Restaurants in Deira, Dubai. These restaurants were chosen not just for their popularity, but for their quality, consistency, affordability, and authentic Indian flavors. Whether you want a quick snack, a fine-dining experience, or a late-night meal, Deira’s Indian food scene is packed with options.
Why Deira is the Heart of Indian Cuisine in Dubai
Deira is often called the “Old Dubai” — a neighborhood full of life, stories, and flavors. For decades, Indian traders and expats have called this area home, bringing along their beloved recipes. Today, this district is a paradise for food lovers, offering authentic Indian food from every region of India.
What makes Deira special is its balance — you’ll find luxury fine dining next to small family-run eateries, all serving dishes prepared with love. It’s this blend of tradition, affordability, and authenticity that makes Deira the best place in Dubai for Indian cuisine.
1. Annapoorna Restaurant (⭐4.3 out of 1933 reviews)
A Legacy of Authentic South Indian Flavors
Among the best Indian restaurants in Deira, Annapoorna Restaurant stands out as a true icon of South Indian cuisine. Since 2002, this restaurant has served everything from crispy dosas to flavorful sambars that make you feel like you’re dining in Chennai or Kerala. With over 50 types of dosas, Annapoorna offers something for everyone — from spicy masala to classic plain.
Their catering service can serve up to 2000 meals daily, which shows just how trusted and loved they are. The restaurant’s warm hospitality, cleanliness, and fast service make it perfect for both families and office-goers.
Cuisine: Indian, Asian
Special Diets: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch
Features: Delivery, Takeout, Table Service, Gift Cards
Timings: Everyday: 7:00 AM – 11:30 PM
2. Calicut Notebook (⭐4.3 out of 1707 reviews)
Fusion of Kerala Spices and Global Taste
Calicut Notebook is another gem in Deira’s Indian food scene. Established in 2012, this restaurant redefines South Indian cuisine by blending traditional Kerala recipes with international flavors. Known for its aromatic seafood, coconut-rich curries, and perfectly cooked appams, it’s a paradise for lovers of authentic coastal food.
The interiors are modern yet warm, making it a comfortable spot for families and groups. Their service is excellent — attentive yet unintrusive — and the food is consistently fresh.
Cuisine: Indian
Special Diets: Halal, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Late Night
Timings: Sun–Wed: 10:00 AM–12:00 AM | Thu–Sat: 10:30 AM–12:00 AM
3. Gazebo Restaurant (⭐4.1 out of 1511 reviews)
Royal Indian Dining Experience
If you’re craving royal North Indian flavors, Gazebo in Deira is a must-visit. Famous for its slow-cooked dum biryanis, kebabs, and rich curries, Gazebo has built a reputation as one of Dubai’s most elegant Indian dining destinations.
Every dish here is inspired by ancient Mughal recipes, prepared with precision and aromatic spices. Their butter chicken and mutton rogan josh are among the most recommended dishes by regular customers.
Cuisine: Indian, Seafood, Barbecue
Special Diets: Halal, Vegan, Vegetarian Options
Meals: Lunch, Dinner, Late Night
Timings: Daily: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
4. Vrindhavan Restaurant (⭐3.9 out of 944 reviews)
Simple, Homely & Heartwarming
Vrindhavan Restaurant is one of those places that makes you feel instantly at home. Known for its vegetarian-friendly menu and homestyle curries, Vrindhavan is a local favorite for affordable, tasty Indian food.
Their staff is friendly, portions are generous, and the food is always fresh. It’s a perfect choice for a quick lunch or casual dinner with friends.
Cuisine: Indian, Asian
Special Diets: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Timings: Daily: 7:30 AM – 11:30 PM
5. Puranmal Restaurant (⭐4.0 out of 693 reviews)
50 Years of Pure Vegetarian Excellence
A name that’s been trusted for over five decades, Puranmal Restaurant is an institution in itself. Known for its authentic North Indian vegetarian dishes, this restaurant offers everything from chaats and thalis to traditional sweets.
The ambiance is clean and family-friendly, while their prices are very reasonable for the quality they serve. It’s a great choice for those who prefer pure vegetarian meals in Deira.
Cuisine: Indian
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Timings: Everyday: 9:00 AM – 11:15 PM
6. New Marina Restaurant (⭐4.3 out of 438 reviews)
Indian and Arabic Fusion Under One Roof
New Marina Restaurant is where Indian and Arabic cuisines meet. From spicy curries to fresh seafood, their menu is both vast and flavorful. It’s open until 5 AM, making it ideal for late-night foodies.
Their tandoori prawns, butter naan, and mixed grill platters are highly recommended. With quick service and fair pricing, New Marina has become a go-to spot in Deira for food lovers.
Cuisine: Indian, Seafood, Arabic
Special Diets: Vegetarian Friendly
Meals: Lunch, Dinner, Late Night
Timings: Everyday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 AM
7. Kojranwala (⭐4.4 out of 351 reviews)
Best for Biryani & Kebabs
Kojranwala is famous for its flavorful biryanis, tandoori kebabs, and curries that blend Indian and Pakistani styles. The restaurant is cozy and ideal for casual dining.
If you love spice and authenticity, their chicken tikka biryani and seekh kebabs are a must-try. The staff is friendly, and the food is freshly prepared with rich, aromatic spices.
Cuisine: Indian, Pakistani, Middle Eastern
Special Diets: Halal, Vegetarian Friendly
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Timings: Everyday: 4:00 AM – 1:00 AM
8. Avatara (⭐5 out of 257 reviews)
Dubai’s First Vegetarian Fine Dining Experience
Avatara brings fine dining to vegetarian Indian cuisine. Known as Dubai’s first all-vegetarian degustation restaurant, Avatara redefines Indian food with artful presentation and innovative ingredients.
Each dish is a story — from modern reinterpretations of dal to desserts inspired by temple offerings. Ideal for special occasions, it offers a truly one-of-a-kind dining experience.
Cuisine: Indian, Contemporary
Meals: Dinner, Late Night
Timings: Tue–Sat: 6:00 PM–11:30 PM | Sun: 1:30–3:00 PM, 6:00–11:30 PM
9. Bombay Chowpatty (⭐3.6 out of 154 reviews)
A Slice of Mumbai in Dubai
Bombay Chowpatty is where Dubai meets Mumbai’s street food culture. From spicy pani puri to pav bhaji, the menu bursts with flavor. The restaurant’s casual vibe and affordable pricing make it a favorite for quick Indian snacks or family dining.
Cuisine: Indian, Fast Food
Special Diets: Halal, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Timings: Everyday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
10. Spices (⭐4.4 out of 111 reviews)
24-Hour Dining for Every Taste
Spices Restaurant is a true melting pot, offering Indian, Pakistani, and Middle Eastern cuisine around the clock. With buffet options and vegan-friendly dishes, it’s perfect for any appetite or occasion.
Its spacious seating, playground, and valet parking make it ideal for families and groups.
Cuisine: Indian, Seafood, International, Middle Eastern, Arabic
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch
Timings: 24 Hours
11. Handi (⭐4.3 out of 81 reviews)
Known for Tandoori Perfection
Handi Restaurant is a gem for North Indian and Asian food lovers. Their tandoori chicken and butter naan are perfectly cooked, and the restaurant offers a cozy ambiance with live music.
Cuisine: Indian, Asian
Special Diets: Halal, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Timings: Everyday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Tips for Choosing the Best Indian Restaurant in Deira
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Check Ratings & Reviews: Always look at Google and Zomato reviews for consistent quality.
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Decide Your Cuisine Type: North Indian, South Indian, or fusion? Deira offers them all.
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Budget & Ambiance: From fine dining (Avatara) to casual eateries (Bombay Chowpatty), choose based on your mood and budget.
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Meal Time: Some serve breakfast & brunch, others are open till late night.
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Try Something New: Don’t just order biryani — explore dosas, chaats, and thalis too.
Conclusion
Deira is truly the heartbeat of Indian dining in Dubai. From luxury restaurants like Avatara to homely eateries like Vrindhavan and Annapoorna, every spot tells a story of tradition, taste, and togetherness.
So next time you’re exploring the city, let this UAE Explorer guide lead you to the best Indian restaurants in Deira — where the aroma of spices welcomes you home.
FAQs About Indian Restaurants in Deira, Dubai
1. What makes Deira the best area for Indian restaurants in Dubai?
Deira is home to a large Indian community, making it the ideal place for authentic and affordable Indian cuisine.
2. Are there vegetarian Indian restaurants in Deira?
Yes, restaurants like Annapoorna, Avatara, and Puranmal specialize in pure vegetarian menus.
3. What is the best restaurant for biryani in Deira?
Kojranwala and Gazebo are highly recommended for biryani lovers.
4. Which Indian restaurant in Deira is open 24 hours?
Spices Restaurant operates 24 hours, serving a wide variety of cuisines.
5. Is there a fine dining Indian restaurant in Deira?
Yes, Avatara offers a fine dining vegetarian degustation experience.
6. Are these restaurants family-friendly?
All restaurants listed are family-friendly, offering comfortable seating and child-friendly options.
7. Do these restaurants offer home delivery?
Most do — especially Annapoorna, Gazebo, and Bombay Chowpatty.
8. What’s the average meal cost in Indian restaurants in Deira?
Meals usually range from AED 25 to AED 80 per person, depending on the restaurant.
9. Are these restaurants Halal-certified?
Yes, all the mentioned restaurants serve Halal food.
10. Which restaurant offers the best South Indian breakfast?
Annapoorna and Calicut Notebook are top choices for authentic South Indian breakfasts.
This list is perfect! Deira has some of the most authentic Indian restaurants in Dubai. I’ve tried a few mentioned here — the flavors truly remind me of home.