If you are searching for budget restaurants and affordable buffets in Dubai, you may be surprised to know that you can choose from plenty of options. Dubai’s vibrant culinary market offers more than just opulent dining experiences – it’s a haven for budget-friendly foodies, too. Contrary to common perception, you can savour delectable dishes without breaking the bank.
While the city boasts many upscale dining venues for those seeking luxury, there are a lot of fantastic budget restaurants and affordable buffets in Dubai that offer value-for-money food. The city’s food scene is a global melting pot, showcasing flavours worldwide. Even better, you won’t have to empty your wallet to enjoy these culinary delights.
From mouth-watering curries to freshly baked manakish, tantalizing shawarma, and succulent seafood, you can Indulge in a diverse culinary journey that won’t dent your finances.
So, whether you’re a resident or a visitor, explore some of the best budget restaurants and affordable buffets in Dubai to feast like a king without putting a dent in your wallet.
You might also like to read: 14 Affordable Restaurants with Dubai Fountain Views
Budget Restaurants and Affordable Buffets in Dubai
From hidden gems to popular spots, Dubai’s dining scene is as diverse as its skyline, ensuring a delightful experience for every palate and pocket. We have compiled a list of cheap restaurants and affordable buffets for savvy diners where anyone can dine their heart out without emptying their wallet.
Let’s dive into the details and discover the top cheap eats and some of the most affordable buffets in Dubai.
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Absolute Barbecues
Also known as ABs, Absolute Barbecues is a relaxed, family-friendly restaurant that celebrates the art of DIY grilling paired with an expansive main course buffet and an irresistible dessert bar.
Priced at a wallet-friendly AED 79 on weekdays (AED 89 on weekends), ABs offers a unique culinary experience where you can craft personalized plates with smoky masala drumsticks, five-spiced grilled prawns, barbecue watermelon, and indulgent mutton biryani to name a few.
The restaurant offers a “buffet in a box” option for those interested in feasting on barbecued items at home. At just AED 99, you can enjoy a curated feast at your home, including starters, six mains, and three desserts, ensuring a delightful family meal without breaking the bank. This one, without any doubt, tops the chart for the most affordable buffets in Dubai.
- Location: Deira and Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai
- Average Cost: AED 180 for two people
For reservations and further details, we recommend you visit their official website at absolutebarbecuesme.com.
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Allo Beirut
Though a newcomer, Allo Beirut has etched its place in the culinary scene since its boisterous arrival in 2018. This Lebanese gem has consistently lived up to its reputation, serving an array of delectable street food at pocket-friendly rates.
Amidst the extensive menu, a regular zaatar manakish steals the spotlight, starting at just AED 9 while the simple yet delightful kaak is priced at AED 11. Indulge in a tempting falafel saj sandwich for a mere AED 15 or savor the garlic-infused goodness of a chicken shawarma for just AED 11.
Allo Beirut’s legacy as one of Dubai’s best budget-friendly restaurants is solidified by its commitment to delivering exceptional taste without compromise. Visit the nearest branch to experience Lebanese street food at its best.
- Location: Hessa Street, City Walk, JBR,
- Average Cost: AED 100 for two people
For further details on pricing and menu, we advise you to visit their official website at allobeirutstreetfood.com
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Al Mallah
A symbol of Lebanese authenticity, Al Mallah has been delighting Dubai diners since its establishment in 1979. This iconic eatery boasts a menu brimming with affordable delights that satisfy your cravings and leave you with a contented smile.
From freshly baked pastries to mouthwatering shawarmas and flavorful grills, every dish at Al Mallah signifies the restaurant’s commitment to providing fresh and flavourful food to its patrons.
Enjoy an array of delightful offerings, including regular shawarma for just AED 9 and flavorful falafel priced at a mere AED 1. Elevate your dining experience with a tangy fattoush salad at AED 17 and a pot of creamy hummus for AED 18.
Whether you’re craving a quick bite or a hearty meal, Al Mallah can calm your hunger pangs with delectable food on a budget.
Location: Satwa, Hudaiba
Average Cost: AED 50 for two people
For further details on menu and pricing, we recommend you visit their online portal at almallahuae.com
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Al Ustad Special Kebab
Located near the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, Al Ustad is one of Dubai’s oldest establishments, serving up genuine Iranian flavours for over 40 years. Beyond its culinary prowess, this little gem provides a quirky yet charming ambience adorned with a dash of old-world allure.
The efficient service makes it an ideal stop for those exploring the city’s historic old town. Unsure of what to order? The kebabs are a melt-in-your-mouth perfection, and the saffron-spiced rice mixed with yoghurt-marinated meat is a treat worth savouring and sharing.
Kebab enthusiasts can indulge in the culinary legacy starting at Dhs28, with options ranging from succulent mutton to flavorful chicken, each boasting a variety of styles and marinades expertly paired with rice or bread.
Al Ustad epitomizes the essence of authentic Iranian fare, offering a delightful blend of flavour, history, and hospitality. To top it off, the prices are ridiculously affordable. This one is one of the most popular budget restaurants in Dubai.
- Location: Al Mankhool, Bur Dubai
- Average Cost: AED 90 for two people
For further details, visit their official website
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Din Tai Fung
A culinary sensation that’s both delectable and immensely popular, Din Tai Fung is a local favourite that might have you waiting in queues due to its immense popularity. Renowned for its dim sum and Taiwanese delicacies, this eatery caters to those seeking a reasonably priced dining experience.
The restaurant offers hearty noodle dishes, delectable xiao long bao, and flavorful vegetable options, all earning widespread acclaim among locals. Dumplings take centre stage at Din Tai Fung, with a variety of seafood options, fresh vegetables, and flavours to suit every palate. The best part? You can savour their renowned offerings for less than AED50
For those craving something different, the menu extends beyond dumplings to offer noodles, rice dishes, and an array of Asian-inspired soups. With branches spanning the globe, from Sydney to Tokyo, Din Tai Fung’s reputation for delivering fast and delicious plates makes it a constant crowd-puller.
Brace yourself for long queues, often requiring a spot on the waitlist before being seated, but the delectable experience makes the wait at Din Tai Fung unquestionably worthwhile.
- Location: Mall of the Emirates, Ghurair Centre, Dubai Mall
- Average Cost: AED 150 for two people
For further details, we recommend you visit their official Instagram handle at Din Tai Fung AE
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Barbecue Delights
Indulge in a feast of “buffet delights” starting at just AED59 at Barbecue Delights. Revel in the flavours of tasty kebabs, succulent chicken tikka, flavorful mutton seekh kebab, lamb chops, biryani, and more, all available at a remarkably pocket-friendly price.
Barbecue Delights showcases a delectable fusion of Pakistani, Afghani, and North Indian flavours, making it a sought-after choice for families seeking a hearty yet budget-friendly dining experience in a casual and lively setting. If you are looking for affordable buffets in Dubai, this is a must-visit spot for delicious food at wallet-friendly rates.
- Location: Ibn Battuta Mall, JBR
- Average Cost: AED 150 for two people.
For reservation and further details, visit their official Instagram handle at bbq.delights
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Bu Qtair
Located in the Umm Suqeim Fishing Harbour, this popular cafe exudes an ultra-casual vibe, offering a delightful seafood experience against the backdrop of the atmospheric waterfront. The restaurant serves freshly prepared delicacies including signatures like the fried fish of the day, BBQ shrimp, and a fiery fish curry.
This renowned spot is a must-visit if you crave fresh seafood without breaking the bank. Embrace a no-fuss dining experience with limited choices at wallet-friendly prices. Select from various fish or prawns (fresh catch only), served with curry sauce and bread. Prices are reasonable, starting at around Dhs70, ensuring a delightful and shareable seafood feast.
Location: Umm Suqeim Fishing Harbour.
Average Cost: AED 120 for two people.
For further details and menu inquiries, visit their official Instagram account at buQtair
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Calicut Paragon
Calicut Paragon, located in Karama, has garnered consistent praise for its superb South Indian, particularly Keralan, cuisine. This no-frills gem has become a go-to spot for its laid-back ambiance and delectable offerings. While both meat and vegetarian dishes are a treat for the taste buds, it’s the seafood that entices patrons back time and again.
Must-try dishes on the menu include Malabar veggie curry for under AED 20, the Alleppy chicken at AED 23, or Grandma-style tawa mussels or salmon at AED 32. For those seeking a culinary adventure, the famed crab thushar priced at AED 42 can be a good option.
While staples like delectable fried pakoras (fritters) and cheese-stuffed mushrooms grace the side orders, the seafood selection frequently takes the spotlight.
As a perfect finale to your meal, savor a cup of fragrant zafrani (saffron) tea. This restaurant’s winning combination of robust flavors and affordable prices ensures a satisfying dining experience for every palate.
Those in search of budget restaurants and affordable buffets in Dubai must pay a visit to Calicut Paragon.
- Location: Al Tayer Building, Karama Dubai
- Average Cost: AED 120 for two people
For further details and menu inquiries, you may contact their customer care team at 04-251-2545
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Dampa Seafood Grill
Get ready to roll up your sleeves and embark on a seafood feast like no other at Dampa Seafood Grill. Revered as one of Dubai’s favorite budget restaurants, this unpretentious gem ensures a dining experience where shrimp, clams, mussels, crab, and corn arrive at your table by the load – quite literally. It has swiftly earned its place among the must-visit seafood spots in the city.
Inspired by the Filipino military tradition of boodle-fight style dining, the restaurant’s ‘safest dump’ transforms your table into a seafood haven. Piles of grilled seafood served with freshly steamed rice is the show’s star.
Enhance the dining experience further by drizzling the steaming food with your choice of sauce including lemon and herb, Mexican, Thai curry, Cajun, and Chipotle. Priced at only AED 157, this is one of the best affordable buffets in Dubai.
- Location: Baniyas Road, Deira, Dubai
- Average Cost: AED 100 for two people.
For further details and menu inquiries, we recommend you visit their website at dampaseafoodgrill.com
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Happy Sunday Hotpot and BBQ Buffet
Craving authentic Chinese food but do not want to spend a lot on the food? Worry not, Happy Sunday Restaurant has a lot of options to satisfy your hotpot cravings at a price you won’t believe. For as low as AED 50, the restaurant serves an affordable feast packed with flavour and taste.
This low-key gem offers a fuss-free dining experience with diverse dishes to please every palate. For just AED 49, you can indulge in an all-you-can-eat extravaganza featuring a delightful spread of grilled meat and veggies, paired with a steaming hotpot.
It’s a bargain that promises both variety and flavour. Happy Sunday Hotpot can be a good choice if you are searching for the most affordable buffets in Dubai.
- Location: Burjuman Centre, Karama Dubai
- Average Cost: AED 100 for two people.
For further details on menu and pricing, we recommend you visit their official website at Happy Sunday Hotpot and BBQ Buffet
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IKEA
Renowned as a go-to destination for pocket-friendly home furnishings, IKEA also houses a café that surprises hungry shoppers with delicious and exceptionally affordable dishes.
For quick bites, you can savor a grilled cheese sandwich for as low as AED 5 and feast on classic Swedish meatballs topped with lingonberry sauce for just AED 12. Other popular items on the menu include fresh butter croissants, coffee, hotdogs, and vanilla ice cream.
Location: Dubai Festival Plaza
Average Cost: AED 40 for two people.
For further details, you may visit the official IKEA website for UAE.
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Little Lahore
For an affordable culinary journey through Pakistani flavors, look no further than Little Lahore located in JLT, Dubai. This restaurant effortlessly blends traditional Southeast Asian dishes that not only tantalize your taste buds but also go easy on your wallet.
If you’re hunting for affordable buffets in Dubai, Little Lahore has you covered. Starting at just AED 49, the buffet spread boasts a delightful array, featuring paneer tikka, mutton seekh kebab, chicken malai boti, naans, and more.
Not in the buffet mood? Fear not, as Little Lahore offers other pocket-friendly options too. Dive into Paratha rolls starting at AED18 or explore a range of meat and chicken curries priced at around AED 30. You can also order bread and freshly baked Naans for as low as AED 5.
- Location: JLT, Dubai
- Average Cost: AED 100 for two people
For further details on menu and pricing, we recommend you visit their official website at little-lahore.com
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Mamaesh
With its rising popularity, this Palestinian restaurant has multiplied its branches across the city, offering a convenient solution for those irresistible mama’esh cravings. The traditional baked delight is a steal at AED 9 for a plain version, but for an indulgent experience, consider the akawi cheese variant at AED 15. The menu extends beyond mama’esh, featuring a variety of fatayer starting at AED 15 and hummus priced from AED 18.
Dedicated to authenticity, the team at this Palestinian eatery takes pride in crafting flatbreads solely from organic flour, baked to perfection in a wood-fired stone oven. Every bite not only fits your budget but also delivers the wholesome flavour you crave, making it a must-try for those seeking an affordable taste of Palestinian culinary tradition.
- Location: Al Manara, Meadows Souk, Business Bay
- Average Cost: AED 100 for two people
For further details and menu inquiries, we recommend you visit their official website at mamaesh.com
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Ravi Restaurant
If you haven’t experienced this hidden gem yet, you’re certainly missing out. Whether it’s the recent Adidas collaboration that piqued your interest or the abundant local recommendations, it’s high time to make your way to Satwa and discover the culinary haven called Ravi Restaurant for yourself.
This home-grown Pakistani restaurant has garnered much love for its aromatic curries, freshly baked naans, and all the flavorful extras; all served on humble plastic tables. With curries starting at a reasonable price of AED 25 and grills priced under AED 19, there’s every reason to indulge in the delicious Pakistani delights.
While every dish at Ravi Restaurant is worth a try, don’t miss out on the spicy mutton chops and the chicken mughlai – a creamy curry crowned with shaved egg. Pair these flavorful offerings with the stuffed paratha bread for an authentic street food experience at an unbeatable price.
Ravi Restaurant promises a gastronomic journey through delectable options that’ll leave your taste buds yearning for more, that too without breaking the bank.
- Location: Satwa, Al Nahda, Karama
- Average Cost: AED 85 for two people
For further details and menu inquiries, we recommend you visit their official Instagram handle at Ravi Restaurants UAE
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The Daily
If you are after affordable buffets in Dubai serving tantalizing breakfast, then The Daily can be a suitable choice. With a presence in all Rove Hotels across the city, this restaurant is for savvy diners searching for a pocket-friendly feast comprising international delicacies. The breakfast buffet, priced at AED 69, is an enticing option to kickstart your day with various delectable dishes.
Indulge in an all-you-can-eat extravaganza that includes croissants, cheese, cold cuts, hummus, yogurts, and juices. The bonus? You can order your eggs, pancakes, or granola from the kitchen, ensuring a customized breakfast experience. Served daily from 6.30 am until 10.30 am, this buffet promises to fill you up nicely without breaking the bank.
- Location: Dubai Marina, La Mer, Downtown Dubai
- Average Cost: AED 150 for two people
For further details and queries, you may log on to their official website at Rove Hotels.
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Saigon Restaurant
For authentic Vietnamese cuisine, Saigon in JLT is worth a try. The menu boasts authentic and incredibly tasty dishes served in a fuss-free and down-to-earth setting. Dive into refreshing salads starting from AED 24, savor banh mi delights for only AED 30, and warm up with a comforting bowl of pho priced at AED 35.
Set against the scenic lakes of JLT, the outdoor ambience is chilled-out and charming, making it an inviting spot, especially during the winter. Whether you indulge in the flavoursome salads, delightful banh mi, or comforting pho, Saigon guarantees authentic Vietnamese cuisine at affordable rates.
- Location: Lake Terrace Tower, Cluster D, JLT.
- Average Cost: AED 115 for two people
For further details and menu inquiries, you may visit their official website at Saigon-restaurant.com
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Lokmet Gibran
This Lebanese eatery in JLT serves one of the most affordable buffets in Dubai. With a wallet-friendly price tag, diners can indulge in a wide array of options, including flavorful kebabs, freshly baked bread, savoury mezze, and delectable desserts. There is also a diverse selection of salads, soups, and breakfast items to choose from.
The restaurant serves an all-you-can-eat lunch buffet comprising several savoury and sweet delights for only AED 55. Beyond its affordability, Lokmet Gibran prides itself on creating a welcoming and cosy ambience, making it an ideal spot for families, friends, and individuals looking for a satisfying yet cost-effective dining experience.
- Location: JLT Dubai
- Average Cost: AED 150 for two people
For further details and price inquiries, you may log on to their official website or visit their Instagram handle at Lokmet Gibran