Dubai Design District is known for its creative spirit, which also extends to its food scene. From bold fusion menus to laid-back cafés and bakeries with a twist, the restaurants in Dubai Design District draw food lovers who enjoy a bit of flair on their plate. Popular with designers, entrepreneurs and foodies alike, it’s a place where meals are anything but ordinary.
From global flavours to local favourites, this guide features some of the best Dubai Design District restaurants to help you plan your next meal for your lunch break, dinner catch-up or coffee run.
- The Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar
- SOYL Restaurant
- Vicolo Italian Street Food
- Thea Restaurant and Café LLC
- One Life Kitchen & Cafe
- Bistro Royale Dubai
- OTAKU
- Toss & Co.
- Mohalla
- The Name – Your Social Hub
- FAQs
Best Dubai Design District Restaurants
Dubai Design District (d3) is a hub for the city’s creative crowd—think designers, artists and tech innovators. But it’s not just about workspaces and galleries. The area has also become a go-to for food lovers, thanks to its mix of unique restaurants, cafés and bars.
Here’s a list of some of the best Dubai Design District restaurants worth a visit:
1. The Lighthouse Restaurant
The Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar combines modern design with a focus on thoughtful hospitality. It is located in Building Six and serves as a restaurant and a concept store, offering Mediterranean cuisine in Dubai alongside design-led gifts, books and homeware.
The space is often used for talks and cultural events, reflecting the district’s creative energy. With a clean aesthetic and warm ambience, it has become popular among creatives, professionals and visitors looking to enjoy meaningful conversations over delicious food.
Location
Contact
+971-4-422-6024
Opening Hours
Monday to Sunday: 08:00 am to 11:00 pm
Ratings
4.0 stars
Average Price for Two
AED 440 (Approx)
Top Dishes
- Baked feta with nuts and garnishes
- Mini koftas
- Fried prawns
- Truffle rigatoni
- Passion fruit and yuzu cheesecake
2. Soyl Restaurant
Soyl Restaurant offers a modern take on Middle Eastern cuisine with Mediterranean influences. By day, it serves as a chic dining spot and by night, it transforms into a cultural hub, hosting events that celebrate local artisans and the latest fashion brands.
The interior features an inviting atmosphere, highlighted by an olive tree at its centre, symbolising Middle Eastern hospitality.
Location
Contact
+971-4-244-1331
Opening Hours
Monday to Sunday: 08:00 am to 12:00 am
Ratings
4.2 stars
Average Price for Two
AED 80 (Approx)
Top Dishes
- Hummus Meat
- Chicken Liver
- Grilled Hammour with Creamy Sauce
- Persian Koobideh Kebabs
- Basque Cheesecake
3. Vicolo Italian Street Food
Vicolo Italian Street Food brings the vibrant essence of Italian cuisine to Dubai. The name ‘Vicolo’, meaning ‘narrow city street’, reflects its mission to recreate the lively atmosphere of Italy’s bustling alleys.
The restaurant focuses on authentic regional recipes, offering dishes that capture the heart of Italian street food culture. The rustic interior design enhances the dining experience, transporting guests to the charming streets of Italy.
Location
Contact
+971-50-800-4841
Opening Hours
Monday to Sunday: 08:00 am to 11:00 pm
Ratings
3.7 stars
Average Price for Two
AED 190 (Approx)
Top Dishes
- Margherita Pizza
- Carbonara Pasta
- Bolognese Pasta
- Arancini
- Tiramisu
4. Thea Restaurant and Café LLC
Thea Restaurant and Café offers a fusion of Mediterranean and French cuisine in Dubai. The two-storey venue is bathed in natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The minimalist interior design complements the artistic environment of d3, making it a popular spot for both casual diners and professionals.
Location
Contact
+971-58-556-4888
Opening Hours
Monday to Sunday: 07:30 am to 11:00 pm
Ratings
4.7 stars
Average Price for Two
AED 100 (Approx)
Top Dishes
- Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta
- Nicoise Salad
- Cheese Omelette
- Burrata Salad
- Black Truffle Risotto
5. One Life Kitchen and Café
One Life Kitchen and Café is a multifaceted venue with a café, restaurant, coffee roastery and community space. Established in 2016, it offers a diverse menu crafted from fresh, quality produce.
The interior features a bright, airy atmosphere, highlighted by natural light and a live green wall, reflecting the district’s creative ethos. Beyond dining, One Life hosts various events and offers a mezzanine space for private functions, accommodating up to 150 guests.
Location
Contact
+971-4-513-4727
Opening Hours
Monday to Sunday: 08:00 am to 11:00 pm
Ratings
4.4 stars
Average Price for Two
AED 165 (Approx)
Top Dishes
- Egg on Avo on Toast
- Shakshoumi
- Masala Omelette
- Pulled Beef Benedict
- Turkish Eggs
6. Bistro Royal Dubai
Bistro Royal combines international, Italian and steakhouse cuisines. Its contemporary interior and spacious terrace provide an inviting atmosphere for business meetings and social gatherings.
Bistro Royal also hosts events like Ladies’ Night and Happy Hour, enhancing its vibrant ambience. Other than that, it also offers Business Lunch on weekdays from 12:00 PM until 04:00 PM with all mains included for AED 39.
Location
Contact
+971-52-700-4053
Opening Hours
Monday to Sunday: 09:30 am to 12:30 am
Ratings
4.3 stars
Average Price for Two
AED 325 (Approx)
Top Dishes
- Ravioli
- Mashed Potatoes
- Salmon
7. OTAKU
OTAKU offers authentic Japanese cuisine in Dubai. Designed with simplicity in mind, its clean lines, soft hues and natural materials create a calm, understated vibe. The café is centred around a sleek steel counter where coffee is taken seriously—ideal for a quiet break or a focused work session.
More than just a coffee spot, OTAKU serves thoughtfully prepared Japanese meals throughout the day, making it a regular stop for creatives in the area.
Location
Contact
+971-4-583-3020
Opening Hours
Monday to Sunday: 07:30 am to 11:00 pm
Ratings
3.3 stars
Average Price for Two
AED 220 (Approx)
Top Dishes
- Classic Strawberry and Cream Soufflé Pancake
- Shrimp Crispy Rice
- Chicken Katsu Sando
- Rigatoni Sorrentina
- Rock Shrimp Roll
8. Toss & Co.
Toss & Co., formerly known as Toss’d, is a health-focused eatery on the ground floor of Building 5 in Dubai Design District (d3). The restaurant offers a variety of wholesome options, including salads, wraps, bowls, soups, shakes and açaí dishes.
The interior is elegantly decorated, creating a pleasant dining atmosphere. Toss & Co. is known for its polite staff and pocket-friendly prices.
Location
Contact
+971-4-552-8827
Opening Hours
Monday to Sunday: 08:00 am to 10:00 pm
Ratings
3.9 stars
Average Price for Two
AED 140 (Approx)
Top Dishes
- Super Avo Caesar
- Mexicali
- The Cobb
- Italian Job
- Burrito Bowl
9. Mohalla
Mohalla brings the heart of Indian street food in Dubai. With its bold flavours and modern flair, the restaurant captures the energy of India’s bustling food culture in every detail. The design blends contemporary elements with subtle nods to tradition, creating a fresh and familiar space. It’s popular in Dubai for those craving regional Indian dishes with a refined edge.
Location
Contact
+971-52-542-1937
Opening Hours
Monday to Sunday: 10:00 am to 12:30 pm
Ratings
4.1 stars
Average Price for Two
AED 240 (Approx)
Top Dishes
- Mutton Kosha
- Delhi 6 Butter Chicken
- Raj Kachori
- Vada Pav
- Jalebi with Rabri
10. The Name – Your Social Hub
The Name – Your Social Hub offers a unique blend of dining and retail experiences in D3. This contemporary venue serves as a restaurant, concept store and catering service, reflecting the district’s innovative spirit.
The minimalist interior, accentuated by natural light, provides an inviting atmosphere for both casual meals and professional meetings. Beyond its culinary offerings, The Name features many tech gadgets and designer products from emerging talents worldwide.
Location
Contact
+971-56-344-4565
Opening Hours
Monday to Saturday: 08:00 am to 10:00 pm
Ratings
3.7 stars
Average Price for Two
AED 175 (Approx)
Top Dishes
- Smoked Salmon Toast
- Pistachio Latte
- French Toast
- Chicken Breast Main Course
- Chocolate Cookies
FAQs
Yes, Dubai Design District (d3) is a free zone in Dubai. It operates under the Dubai Development Authority and offers 100% ownership to your business without payment of taxes. This makes it a popular base for design, fashion, media and tech businesses.
Dubai Design District is generally open from 08:00 am to 10:00 pm. However, individual restaurant and store opening times may vary, especially on weekends and public holidays.
Dubai Design District isn’t just a creative hotspot—it’s also a great place to discover standout food spots. From street-style bites to refined plates, the area caters to those who appreciate good food with character. Next time you’re in d3, skip the usual and try something memorable.
Meanwhile, explore these top restaurants in JVC for a more versatile culinary experience.
