Best Indian Restaurants in International City Dubai are where authentic Indian flavors come alive in one of the most vibrant neighborhoods of the UAE. Known for its diverse community and pocket-friendly dining options, International City has become a top destination for anyone craving true Indian cuisine in Dubai. Whether you’re longing for the spicy aroma of North Indian curries, the crisp perfection of South Indian dosas, or the irresistible taste of biryani, this area offers a flavorful journey through India’s regional delicacies.
At UAE Explorer, we’ve curated a detailed guide to help food lovers discover the finest Indian dining experiences that International City has to offer. Each restaurant on this list has been handpicked for its authenticity, quality, and unique culinary charm. From cozy family-run eateries to popular chain restaurants, you’ll find both traditional recipes and modern twists that make every meal memorable.
What truly sets International City apart is its vibrant blend of cultures and affordability. You don’t need to spend lavishly to enjoy a hearty Indian meal — most restaurants here offer generous portions, warm hospitality, and a taste that feels like home. For residents, it’s a familiar comfort; for visitors, it’s an introduction to India’s diverse food culture withou
Why International City Is a Haven for Indian Food Lovers
International City is one of Dubai’s most diverse neighborhoods, home to thousands of expatriates, including a large Indian community. Because of that, the area has become a hotspot for Indian food — where you can enjoy both authentic regional cuisines and modern fusion dishes. The restaurants here are not only flavorful but also budget-friendly compared to other parts of Dubai.
From rich butter chicken to masala dosa, every corner in International City has something that reminds you of home-cooked meals or street food from Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, or Chennai. And the best part? Many of these places deliver across Dubai, making them perfect for those lazy weekend cravings.
Top 10 Best Indian Restaurants in International City Dubai
Below is a handpicked list of the top-rated Indian restaurants offering the finest taste, quality, and dining experience in International City.
1. Amma’s Restaurant – Authentic South Indian Delight
Amma’s Restaurant is one of the oldest and most loved South Indian restaurants in International City. This cozy eatery serves authentic Tamil and Kerala-style dishes, famous for their home-cooked flavor. Their dosas are crisp, sambhar is tangy, and the chicken chettinad is a must-try.
What to try: Dosa varieties, Chicken Chettinad, Filter Coffee
Approx. cost: AED 30 for two
Vibe: Simple, family-friendly, and affordable
Why visit: Authentic taste, fast service, and friendly staff
If you love traditional South Indian comfort food, Amma’s Restaurant will make you feel at home.
2. Bikanervala – A Vegetarian Heaven
Bikanervala is a well-known Indian vegetarian chain famous for its sweets, snacks, and North Indian meals. Located at The Pavilion in International City, it’s perfect for those craving chole bhature, paneer tikka, or authentic Indian mithai.
What to try: Chaat platter, Raj Kachori, Gulab Jamun
Approx. cost: AED 65 for two
Vibe: Casual dine-in with a touch of Indian décor
Why visit: Great for families, clean ambiance, and a wide vegetarian menu
This is the go-to place for vegetarians and anyone missing Indian street food.
3. Apni Rasoi Restaurant – Home-Style North Indian Meals
Apni Rasoi translates to “Our Kitchen,” and the name truly reflects its soul. It’s a hidden gem offering affordable, home-style North Indian dishes that taste just like your mom’s cooking. Their parathas, dal makhani, and thali meals are comforting and filling.
What to try: Thali, Paneer Butter Masala, Tandoori Roti
Approx. cost: AED 20 for two
Vibe: Cozy and simple, with friendly staff
Why visit: Budget-friendly, homely flavors, and generous portions
If you’re a student or working professional looking for daily meals, Apni Rasoi is a top pick.
4. Mystic India Veg Restaurant – Pure Veg Dining
Mystic India is a 100% vegetarian restaurant known for its clean setup and authentic North Indian cuisine. The dishes are rich in flavor yet light on oil, making it perfect for families and health-conscious diners.
What to try: Palak Paneer, Veg Biryani, Tandoori Platter
Approx. cost: AED 60 for two
Vibe: Elegant, relaxed dining environment
Why visit: Excellent service, hygienic, and perfect for vegetarians
Mystic India stands out for its consistent taste and pleasant service, attracting both locals and tourists.
5. Persian Darbar Restaurant – Royal Indian Mughlai Cuisine
Though the name hints at Persian roots, this restaurant is widely loved for its Indian Mughlai flavors. Their biryanis, kebabs, and butter chicken have a loyal fanbase. Persian Darbar also offers generous portions and beautifully presented dishes.
What to try: Chicken Mughlai, Mutton Biryani, Seekh Kebab
Approx. cost: AED 80 for two
Vibe: Elegant interiors with a royal touch
Why visit: Great for family dinners and group gatherings
Persian Darbar is perfect for those who enjoy rich, creamy gravies and grilled meat delicacies.
6. Indi Spice Restaurant – Fusion of North and South
Indi Spice is a modern Indian restaurant that blends traditional recipes with a contemporary twist. From butter chicken to Indo-Chinese noodles, every dish here offers a unique experience.
What to try: Butter Chicken, Chili Paneer, Indo-Chinese Fried Rice
Approx. cost: AED 120 for two
Vibe: Trendy and comfortable
Why visit: Fusion menu, family-friendly, and great for parties
This is the ideal spot if you want a mix of Indian and Asian flavors in one place.
7. Shahi Paratha Restaurant – Taste of the Streets
Shahi Paratha Restaurant brings authentic Indian street food vibes to International City. Famous for its stuffed parathas, chaats, and tea, it’s a popular choice for quick bites and casual meals.
What to try: Aloo Paratha, Masala Chai, Pav Bhaji
Approx. cost: AED 15 for two
Vibe: Small café-style eatery
Why visit: Authentic street food, low prices, and quick service
It’s one of the most affordable Indian restaurants in Dubai for a hearty snack or breakfast.
8. Soy to Chutney – Indian and Asian Fusion
Soy to Chutney offers an exciting mix of Indian and Chinese dishes, perfect for those who enjoy fusion food. Their menu includes classic Indian curries, noodles, and flavorful appetizers.
What to try: Butter Chicken, Manchurian, Fried Rice
Approx. cost: AED 70 for two
Vibe: Stylish, contemporary dining
Why visit: Great fusion menu and modern presentation
Soy to Chutney is perfect for friends and families who love experimenting with taste.
9. Naseeb Restaurant – Affordable and Delicious
Naseeb Restaurant is a simple, affordable place that serves flavorful Indian food with no compromise on quality. Whether you’re in the mood for biryani, curry, or chapati meals, Naseeb never disappoints.
What to try: Chicken Biryani, Dal Fry, Butter Naan
Approx. cost: AED 25 for two
Vibe: Basic yet comfortable
Why visit: Fast service, affordable meals, authentic flavor
This restaurant is loved by locals who want satisfying Indian meals on a budget.
10. Biryani Express – The King of Biryanis
Biryani Express specializes in one thing — perfect biryanis. They serve multiple varieties, including Hyderabadi, Lucknowi, and Kolkata biryanis, all rich in flavor and cooked to perfection.
What to try: Hyderabadi Chicken Biryani, Mutton Biryani, Raita
Approx. cost: AED 50 for two
Vibe: Family-friendly, simple décor
Why visit: Authentic biryani flavors and excellent portion size
For biryani lovers, this place is a must-visit in International City.
Additional Hidden Gems Worth Trying
Apart from the popular names above, International City also hides several lesser-known yet fantastic Indian eateries worth exploring:
- Swaad House: Specializes in Gujarati thalis and snacks.
- Chaat Junction: Famous for pani puri and dahi bhalla.
- Madras Café: Ideal for South Indian breakfasts like idli and vada.
- Kolkata Kitchen: Serves authentic Bengali dishes and sweets.
Each of these adds diversity to Dubai’s ever-growing Indian food scene.
What Makes These Restaurants Stand Out
The best thing about Indian restaurants in International City is the balance between taste and affordability. Most of them provide hearty meals for under AED 50 per person, without compromising authenticity. You’ll find regional cuisines from all over India — Punjabi, South Indian, Hyderabadi, Gujarati, and even Indo-Chinese.
Moreover, these eateries cater to every type of diner:
- Budget-friendly canteens for students and workers.
- Vegetarian-only restaurants for health-conscious visitors.
- Family-friendly dining options for weekend outings.
- Delivery-friendly spots for those who prefer comfort at home.
Tips for Dining in International City
- Check Google Reviews: Ratings often help identify the most consistent spots.
- Try Combo Meals: Most restaurants offer value combos that are filling and affordable.
- Visit During Off-Peak Hours: To avoid long waits, especially on weekends.
- Ask for Spice Levels: Indian dishes vary in heat, so always request mild, medium, or spicy as per your preference.
- Explore Beyond Popular Names: Some small family-run kitchens serve surprisingly delicious meals.
Vegetarian vs. Non-Vegetarian Options
One of the best things about Indian cuisine is its diversity. Vegetarian restaurants like Bikanervala and Mystic India serve wholesome meals rich in flavor, while non-vegetarian spots like Persian Darbar and Biryani Express cater to meat lovers. International City beautifully represents both sides of Indian food culture.
Why You Should Explore Indian Food in Dubai
Indian food in Dubai has evolved to match the city’s cosmopolitan vibe. Chefs here blend traditional recipes with modern presentations, creating dishes that appeal to all palates. The Indian restaurants in International City are not only authentic but also showcase India’s regional diversity in a single neighborhood.
From butter naan to paneer tikka, dosa to biryani — you can enjoy a culinary trip across India without leaving Dubai.
Conclusion
The best Indian restaurants in International City Dubai offer a mix of authenticity, affordability, and variety that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re craving spicy curries, vegetarian thalis, or aromatic biryanis, you’ll find something for every mood and budget here.
So next time your taste buds crave Indian flavors, skip the big malls and head straight to International City — a food paradise waiting to be explored. And for more dining guides and local insights, keep following UAE Explorer for the best recommendations in Dubai and across the UAE.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the FAQs of Best Indian Restaurants in International City Dubai:
1. What are the best Indian restaurants in International City Dubai?
Some of the top-rated Indian restaurants include Amma’s Restaurant, Bikanervala, Apni Rasoi, Mystic India, Persian Darbar, and Biryani Express.
2. Are there vegetarian Indian restaurants in International City?
Yes, restaurants like Mystic India, Bikanervala, and Swaad House specialize in vegetarian dishes.
3. Which restaurant serves the best biryani in International City?
Biryani Express and Persian Darbar are famous for their flavorful biryanis.
4. Are these restaurants affordable?
Most Indian restaurants in International City are budget-friendly, with meals for two people costing between AED 20 and AED 80.
5. Do these restaurants offer home delivery?
Yes, almost all major restaurants in International City offer delivery through Zomato, Talabat, or direct orders.
6. Is there parking available near these restaurants?
Yes, International City has ample public parking near most dining areas.
7. Which restaurant is best for South Indian food?
Amma’s Restaurant and Madras Café are excellent for authentic South Indian cuisine.
8. Are these restaurants family-friendly?
Absolutely! Most of them provide a comfortable environment suitable for families and kids.
9. What’s the average cost of eating at an Indian restaurant in International City?
You can expect to spend around AED 25–70 for two people, depending on the restaurant type.
10. Why is International City popular for Indian food?
Because of its large Indian community, International City naturally evolved into a hub for authentic Indian dining, offering incredible variety at affordable prices.