Enjoying a scrumptious meal with the enthralling views of the Burj Khalifa is a must-do on your Dubai bucket list and a quintessential experience of Dubai. Complemented by the captivating dancing fountains and spellbinding light show. Whether you want the perfect restaurant for a romantic evening, to celebrate a special occasion or a fun night out for the family.
As someone who lived in Downtown Dubai for many years and has enjoyed almost every option on this list, I’ve compiled a variety of options to ensure an amazing time in close proximity to the Burj Khalifa.
With its spectacular rise into the sky, it’s no wonder why many of the world’s finest eateries choose to locate their establishments nearby. From traditional Arabic cuisine to modern international fare, there’s something for everyone
Here’s my ultimate list of the best Burj Khalifa view restaurants with exciting menus that will satisfy your food cravings too! So come and experience a casual or luxury dining setting of your choice while taking in the breathtaking views of this iconic structure!
Make sure to check out the bottom section with handy tips for where to park and how to make the most of other activities in the area!
Best restaurants near the Burj Khalifa with a Burj Khalifa view
I’ve included a mix of different cuisines and the ones that have the best food! Not only selecting all the places with a great view but also have amazing tasty food to match!
Restaurants in Downtown Dubai, do tend to be more expensive compared to other locations in Dubai and this is a tourist hot spot. Some restaurants have a minimum spend for the tables outside too, so make sure to check before you visit.
Insider tip – Groupon.ae has lots of great offers at various restaurants for dining out in Dubai. So it’s definitely worth checking if there’s any offers for any of these restaurants before you head out!
Affordable Burj Khalifa View Restaurants
1. Five Guys – Dubai Mall
Five Guys, the beloved American fast food chain, is renowned for its succulent burgers and crispy fries. Sticking to what they do best, they offer a simple menu focused on fresh beef burgers and hot dogs, which can be personalised with a variety of toppings. Don’t forget to try their mouthwatering milkshakes, made with luxurious real ice cream!
At Five Guys, the friendly and efficient service is all part of the package. Ordering at the cashier is a breeze, with servers dishing out your grub to your table in no time. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, making it the ideal spot to enjoy a tasty meal with your friends or family.
This is one of the most affordable restaurants that is located right by the Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa along with being one of the best spots to watch the fountains and Burj Khalifa light show! As it’s the perfect angle for both.
They have quite a large outdoor seating area, based on first come, first served. Sometimes large crowds gather in front of you to watch the fountains on the bridge but you have a great view of the Burj Khalifa and you can still see the Dubai Fountain shoot into the air.
Key information & prices:
Style: American fast-food burgers
Hours: 10 am till 2 am
Rating: 4.2 out of 5
Meals start from 24 AED ($6.50 USD)
Tel: +971 04 380 4117
Website
2. Nando’s – Dubai Mall
With over 1,000 locations worldwide, Nando’s is a beloved Portuguese-style grill. At the often-crowded outlet in Dubai Mall, savour the scrumptious and pocket-friendly meals on offer. Chicken is flame-grilled to perfection and served in various peri-peri styles, strips, and burgers, accompanied by sides such as rice, fries and salad.
Make sure to enjoy all their different sauces on offer and choose the spiciness based on your preference. Feeling daring? Go for the extra hot or keep it calm with their lemon and herb.
Their Dubai Mall location has a key spot right by the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain show on the Water Promenade. There is a large outdoor seating area but you may have to wait for an outside table to be available.
This is another great option for those on a budget or wanting to watch their spending.
Key information & prices:
Style: Portuguese rotisserie chicken
Hours: 8 am till 12 am, Weekends till 1 am
Rating: 4.4 out of 5
Meals start from 26 AED ($7 USD)
Mid-range Burj Khalifa view restaurants
3. Ana Restaurant – Dubai Mall
Located in Dubai Mall on the Waterfront Promenade, Ana Restaurant offers an Emirati dining experience that is unlike any other. With its chic and contemporary interior, diners can enjoy magnificent views of the Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa on their first floor terrace.
The menu at Ana Restaurant boasts an assortment of Emirati and Middle Eastern dishes. Trying some Emirati food while you’re in Dubai is a must. Crafted from fresh local ingredients, it comes as no surprise that this popular venue is in high demand for locals and tourists alike.
They recently became famous all over social media for offering their Karak for only 50 fils ($0.15 USD) so make sure to pick up your bargain Karak chai while you’re here. It’s impossible to get this price even from the very affordable tea houses and it’s usually 23 AED a cup.
Key information & prices:
Style: Modern Emirati
Hours: 10 am till 12 am
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Main meals start from 46 AED ($12.50 USD)
Tel: +971 4 388 2313
Website
4. Social House – Dubai Mall
*Currently temporarily closed, they haven’t stated a reason but it’s common for restaurants over summer in Dubai to close for refurbishment works.
Nestled on the lower ground floor of Dubai Mall, Social House thrives as a modern, casual dining fixture. It’s vibrant atmosphere and international cuisine, with a strong focus on healthy eating, present a menu to satiate all cravings. From delicious sushi and Asian dishes to scrumptious salads, pizza, and pasta.
I have dined at this restaurant time and again, and its service has always been friendly, and the food is consistently good! I am impressed that their healthy food options are not lacking in taste. Without even considering the breath-taking view, this restaurant has become one of my absolute favourites in Downtown Dubai.
The outdoor seating gets busy so make sure to get there early, as you aren’t able to book in advance outside tables. They do have quite a large outdoor eating area compared to the restaurants in Souq Al Bahar, so it can be easier to get a table with a good view. It’s definitely one of my favourite Dubai restaurants with a view.
They’ve had famous guests here such as Sheikh Hamdan, also known as Faz or Fazza who is the Crown Prince of Dubai, so if he likes it! It must be good!
Key information & prices:
Style: Healthy International
Hours: 10 am till 11 pm, Weekends till 12 am
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Meals start from 57 AED ($15 USD)
*Minimum spend 75 AED ($20 USD) per person
Tel: +971 4 339 8640
Website
5. Wafi Gourmet – Dubai Mall
Wafi Gourmet, situated on the lower ground floor of Dubai Mall, serves up authentic Lebanese cuisine. Famed for its freshness, you can enjoy Al fresco dining with close-up views of the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain. From the starters of hummus, baba ghanoush and tabbouleh, to an array of grilled meats and succulent seafood indulgences.
This place has become an iconic Dubai spot, having been here for ages. If you haven’t tasted Lebanese cuisine before, I strongly recommend starting with a Manakeesh – think Lebanese-style pizza that’s both crunchy and chewy. Shareable plates are the norm, and classic options include hummus with meat.
Make sure to try some of the tasty Arabic desserts here too! A must-try classic is Kunafa and you’ll see their large plate of it ready to be served to eagerly awaiting diners.
They are located on the Dubai Mall promenade with outdoor seating by the Burj Khalifa Lake. Tables aren’t reservable so you may need to wait if you want a good table right by the fountains! I do think are pricey for Middle Eastern food compared to other locations in Dubai however this is a prime location.
Key information & prices:
Style: Authentic Lebanese
Hours: 9 am till 12 am, Weekends till 1 am
Rating: 4.1 out of 5
Dishes start from 30 AED ($8 USD)
Fine Dining Restaurants
6. Thiptara – Old Town Island
Indulge in the tastiest Bangkok-style seafood while basking in the magical evening atmosphere at Thiptara. Featuring a Thai and Asian fusion menu is served on a stunning terrace with spectacular views of the Burj Khalifa and Dubai’s fabulous fountains. Experience an enchanting evening of romance enhanced by low-level lighting.
If you’re looking for a magical culinary encounter with Arabesque interiors with the spectacular ambience of courtyards and greenery, then look no further than this restaurant nestled at The Palace Downtown on Old Town Island. A luxurious 5-star hotel, close to Souk Al Bahar, offers a perfect setting for a date or special occasion.
You can reserve outdoor dining here, however, it is subject to a minimum spend of 375 AED ($102 USD) per person.
They also have a lounge for drinks which is open from 5 pm till 2 am, serving a range of alcoholic drinks.
Key information & prices:
Style: Thai and Asian Seafood
Hours: 6:30 pm till 11:30 pm, Saturday Brunch 12:30 pm till 4 pm.
Rating: 4.4 out of 5
Dishes start from 75 AED ($20 USD)
7. 99 Sushi Bar – Address Downtown Hotel
With its prime location and stunning outdoor terrace, the view of the Burj Khalifa lends a touch of class to this stunning Japanese restaurant. Originally from Spain, you’ll find both modern and traditional Japanese dishes featured on their wide-ranging menu. Such as sushi, sashimi and tempura or carpaccio and tartar.
The robata grill has particularly delectable offerings, including seafood and wagyu stakes for those who aren’t sushi lovers. They also have a range of Japanese alcoholic drinks to match the menu.
Their Dubai Mall location hasn’t won a Michelin star like their Abu Dhabi location but it was mentioned in their 2023 good food guide, so you’ll certain enjoy a delectable meal here.
The offer a reasonably priced set lunch, however to truly enjoy the Burj Khalifa light show and dancing Dubai Fountains, you’ll truly need to enjoy a meal during the evening. There is a Dubai Fountain show on a lunch time but without being all lit up, it just isn’t the same.
Key information & prices:
Style: Contemporary Japanese
Hours: 12 pm till 11:30 pm, Weekends till 12 am
Rating: 4.2 out of 5
Dishes start from 35 AED ($9.50 USD)
Tel: +971 4 547 2241
Website
8. Karma Kafe – Souk Al Bahar
Karma Kafe is an acclaimed restaurant chain founded by the same creators as the famous Buddha Bar. It boasts a diverse selection of Asian culinary delights, ranging from mouth-watering Thai curries to wholesome Vietnamese pho and scrumptious Japanese sushi.
Visitors can complement their meals with a variety of cocktails or mocktails. They are especially known for their drinks.
I adore the cuisine served at this restaurant! It has a diverse menu featuring several scrumptious dishes. Despite being a long-standing eatery, it still attracts a crowd and is known to be a hot spot of Dubai. To add to its appeal, the first-floor outdoor terrace provides a stunning view of the Burj Khalifa and fountians.
It has low level lighting so it’s a perfect romantic dinner in Dubai if you’re looking for somewhere for date night too!
Karma Kafe also does a ladies’ night every Tuesday that includes food for a set price, so you may be able to save some money if you’re happy to visit during the week.
Key information & prices:
Style: Asian fusion
Hours: 5 pm till 1 am
Rating: 4.1 out of 5
Over 16s only
Dishes start from 40 AED ($11 USD)
9. BiCE Mare – Souk Al Bahar
Nestled on the second floor of Souk Al Bahar is the lauded Italian seafood restaurant, BiCE Mare. Its award-winning cuisine effortlessly blends a diverse range of seafood dishes with classic Italian favourites like pizza and pasta. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain.
Having lived in Italy for four months, I’m a stickler when it comes to Italian food. I’m pleased to say this restaurant in Dubai does it justice. The service has always been impeccable and the staff are incredibly friendly too.
You’ll definitely want to call or book in advance so you can get a table on the outdoor terrace. Alcohol is also served here.
They also offer a business lunch menu but I highly recommend to go on an evening to fully experience the Burj Khalifa lit up and the Dubai Fountain show.
Key information & prices:
Style: Contemporary Italian Seafood
Hours: 12 pm till 12 am
Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Dishes start from 78 AED ($21 USD)
Tel: +971 4 423 0982
Website
10. Hashi, Armani Hotel – Burj Khalifa
Hashi is the posh and polished Japanese restaurant in Downtown Dubai with a modern flair. Offering a range of dishes, including sushi, tempura, sashimi, and yakitori, it’s a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists. Reservations are highly recommended to experience a sophisticated setting with a stylish atmosphere.
The restaurant feaures a large terrace area with ample seating, directly below the Burj Khalifa as part of the Armani Hotel. So while you’ll be able to see the light show pretty close up! Though it may hurt your neck leaning your head all the way back for the Burj Khalifa.
You have an amazing panoramic view across the whole of the Dubai Fountains so it’s a really beautiful spot for the fountains. It is a little bit hard to hear the music from here, so that’s the only downside but the view is incredible. Another great romantic restaurant with its dimmed lights and stunning view.
Due to it being located in the Armani Hotel inside Burj Khalifa, they’re able to serve alcoholic drinks.
There are several restaurants to choose from inside the Burj Khalifa, however Hashi has one of the best terraces which is why I picked it for this list. It’s also one mentioned in the Michelin Guide.
Key information & prices:
Style: Modern Japanese
Hours: 6:30 pm till 11:30 pm, Closed Mondays.
Rating: 4.4 out of 5
Dishes start from 35 AED ($9.50 USD)
Family Friendly Restaurants
Insider tip – Be aware that some of the restaurants, if serving shisha on the terrace or outdoor area then under 18s are not allowed to sit in that area. This can make watching the Dubai dancing fountains at dinner a little more difficult with children as you’ll need to be seated indoors.
If you’re looking for more family friendly restaurants in Dubai for your visit, I’ve written another article with places where they have activity areas or entertain for children.
11. Black Tap – Dubai Mall
Are you a burger enthusiast? Have you tasted Black Tap? this NYC-originated spot is known for its extravagantly delicious burgers and milkshakes. The buzz around Black Tap keeps growing and it’s not hard to see why!
Although their burgers come with a premium price tag, the quality ingredients used are definitely worth it as they result in an incredible taste that’s hard to beat. Don’t forget to book ahead as there might be a long wait. Come and taste why Black Tap has become one of the must-visit restaurants in town. They also have gluten free buns along with vegan options, yay!
This restaurant is kid-friendly with a kids’ menu and their giant candy-covered milkshakes are loved by adults and kids alike. They’re huge, so make sure you get one to share unless you’re really really hungry.
Key information & prices:
Style: Gourmet American Burgers
Hours: 11 am till 12 am
Rating: 4.2 out of 5
Kids eat free Sunday to Wednesday
(This may be a limited time offer)
Meals start from 45 AED ($12 USD)
Tables are first come first serve
Tel: +971 4 330 5103
12. Salt
SALT is an inviting eatery, renowned for serving American cuisine, such as burgers, sliders, and chicken strips. A diverse offering of milkshakes and soft drinks is also on the menu. In line with their simplistic approach, ice creams are also offered.
This one is pretty unique to the rest and is situated a little bit further back along the water promenade, head as if you’re going towards the Dubai Fountain Valet Parking. So it’s a little bit further away from Dubai Fountains but makes a really cool spot to watch the Burj Khalifa laser show.
They’ve now built an inside restaurant but of course, if you want the best view of the Burj Khalifa and fountains, you’ll need to sit in the open air area outside. It’s a fun experience that is a little bit different to all the others since it’s a freestanding restaurant, converted from a food truck.
Tables are on a first come, first served basis.
Key information & prices:
Style: Modern Burgers
Hours: 11 am till 2 am
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Meals start from 31 AED ($8 USD)
Tel: +971 54 990 9689
Burj Khalifa skyline view restaurants
13 – The Restaurant – The Address Boulevard
The Restaurant Address Boulevard is a fine-dining restaurant located in the Address Boulevard hotel in Dubai. It offers a modern European menu, mostly focused on French cuisine. The restaurant has a stylish and contemporary interior, with a cool library area to hang out for a drink or their large terrace by the swimming pool with an incredible Burj Khalifa view for dining.
All of the The Address Hotels, their restaurant is called “The Restaurant” however my favourite one to eat at is The Address Boulevard. Most of them have an amazing view of the Burj Khalifa but this one is my favourite for their food.
Key information & prices:
Style: Modern European
Hours: 6:30 am till 1:30 am
Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Dishes from 60 AED ($16 USD)
Tel: +971 4 561 8888
Website
14 – The Grand Cafe – Downtown Dubai
Experience a unique Lebanese-style dining experience at Grand Café, a mid-range restaurant adjacent to Dubai Mall on Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard. Its stellar views of the Burj Khalifa, makes it the perfect place to indulge in the best of Lebanese cuisine while soaking up the vibrant culture of Downtown Dubai.
Also one of the best parts about the restaurants on Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard is they tend to be a little less busy than the Dubai Mall and Souk Al Bahar restaurants. As most crowds head to Dubai Mall.
Indulge in a culinary festival of rich flavours, where live music from the Levant and warm Arabic hospitality will captivate your senses. The restaurant takes pride not only in their high-quality food, but also in their attention to detail and original recipes that boast top-quality flavours.
The restaurants provides free valet parking, however if you’re wanting to have a wander along the boulevard. There is underground parking off the boulevard road that goes under the street, so keep a keen eye out for these somewhat secret parking lots.
Key information & prices:
Style: Modern Lebanese
Hours: 10 am till 2:30 am
Rating: 4.3 out of 5
Dishes from 28 AED ($8 USD)
Tel: +971 50 650 0220
Website
15 – Roberto’s – DIFC
Roberto’s is a sophisticated Italian fine-dining restaurant nestled within Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). With over a decade of culinary excellence, this eatery is a go-to for authentic Italian fares. Recognised for its classy ambience and attentive service, Roberto’s is a place where elegant dining meets flavourful delights.
Roberto’s menu boasts a plethora of classic Italian staples such as fresh pasta, authentic pizzas, flavourful risottos, and a tantalising range of seafood dishes. For wine connoisseurs, the restaurant also stocks an extensive selection of the finest Italian wines, not to forget the inspiring collection of cocktails to whet any appetite.
Key information & prices:
Style: Contemporary Italian
Hours: 12 pm till 3 am
Rating: 4.4 out of 5
Dishes from 45 AED ($12 USD)
FAQs
What is the Burj Khalifa area?
The Burj Khalifa is located in the area of Downtown Dubai with lots of other Dubai tourist attractions nearby. The Dancing Fountain Dubai is located at the back of Dubai Mall in-between Souq Al Bahar
You’ll also find here, the Dubai fountain (also called the Falling Man fountain), Dubai aquarium, the world’s largest sweet shop (candy shop if you’re American) and of course the world’s largest mall, Dubai Mall. So it’s definitely worth spending an entire day here to explore the area
Insider tip – If you’re following the signs for ‘Dubai Fountain’ inside Dubai Mall make sure to follow the signs for Souq Al Bahar as there are two sets of doors, if you arrive by Dubai Falling Man Waterfall. If you follow Souq Al Bahar, it will take you to the right location!
Also, the Dubai Fountain has many names, such as Dancing Fountain Dubai or Burj Khalifa Fountain. The dancing fountains are separate from the Burj Khalifa and you have to head to Dubai Mall, not the Burj Khalifa, to see them close up!
Where should I park for watchin the Burj Khalifa light show?
Both Dubai Mall and Souk Al Bahar have free parking for visitors so you can easily park in either of these. There’s also valet parking available at an extra cost at both car parks.
Souk Al Bahar does now have a token system, it is limited to two free hours or four free hours if you’re visiting a restaurant who’ll validate your token. It’s 10 AED per hour after the free time.
The Dubai mall parking has three main sections. The Cinema Parking is pretty close to the fountain and so is part of Fashion Avenue Parking. You want to park at the opposite end of Bloomingdales.
Avoid Grand Parking, as it’s the opposite end of Dubai Mall and the sheer size of Dubai Mall means you’ll end up doing a lot of walking if you park here!
If you do end up on the wrong side of the mall. There are e-taxis (long open golf buggies/carts) which will drop you right by the fountains
Insider tip – My personal recommendation is to park in Souk Al Bahar, as it’s a shorter distance to walk to the fountains and there’s less traffic getting out of the car park. It’s also smaller, so easier to find your car after! However they have now introduced a token system which you’ll need to validate and is for a limited time unlike Dubai Mall Park. So if you plan to spend all day in Downtown Dubai, it’s best to park in Dubai Mall.
When is the best time to go watch the Dubai fountains and Burj Khalifa light show?
The best time to go is either early evening or nighttime. This is to get the true experience and beauty of everything lit up. Most of the shows do not start until the early evening, just before sunset.
You can learn more about Dubai Fountian here, including where I recommend to watch.
What are the Burj Khalifa light show and Dubain Foutain timings?
The Burj Khalifa light show timings are every half an hour at quarter past and quarter to the hour, with the Dubai Fountain show timings every half an hour in between on the hour and half past the hour. So you can enjoy a free show every 15 minutes.
It is also sometimes referred to as the ‘Burj Khalifa laser show’ due to the lasers that come out of the Burj Khalifa!
If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, you can buy tickets for a 30 minute traditional boat ride across the Burj Khalifa lake and see the Dubai fountain show up close!
For more information, read my full guide about the Dubai Fountain show times and where is best to watch them.
What is the cost to watch the Burj Khalifa fountain show?
The fountain show and Burj Khalifa light show are completely free to watch! Even the parking is free! A popular place to watch for free is the bridge leading to Souq Al Bahar as it’s slightly raised so you have a great view of the fountains and the Burj Khalifa. It’s also the perfect spot for a photo!
If you want a full guide to watching the fountains and other activities available on the Burj Khalifa lake.
Enjoy a tour of the Burj Khalifa and Dubai
There are countless incredible tours of Dubai that include access to the incredible 124th floor of the Burj Khalifa, however one of my favourites is this Half ay Bus Tour with Burj Khalifa access ticket or if you really want to try and see as much of Dubai in a short time. Then this incredible 8 hour tour with Burj Khalifa access with $50 off covers all the main sights to see in Dubai.
Before you go, make sure to read some of my other useful guides to Dubai!
Dining at the Burj Al Arab, an insider’s guide and how to save money visiting
A Dubai classic dish of Mandi, best 11 Mandi restaurants in Dubai
Dubai marina? Downtown? The best Dubai area to stay in for you!
How to spend all your money in 3 days in Dubai
The Dubai dress code for women; what rules you should know
I have also created this helpful article packed full of information on visiting the Burj Khalifa, it’s a must read beforee you visit! It also has a long list of activities to do in and around the Burj Khalifa as well. If you’re looking for food inside the Burj Khalifa, this article lists all restaurants.
Conclusion
My personal favourite for a romantic meal is Thiptara, serving amazing Thai and Asian Seafood. It’s one of the most romantic restaurants in Dubai. Just make sure to book in advance so you get one of the best tables close to the water!
For meeting friends for a casual meal my favourite is Social House, as they have lots of healthy tasty options and again good food. It’s a spot to enjoy the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall fountain show! Plus do some shopping of course!
If you’re wanting drinks, then Karma Cafe is one of the best spots in town, known for its cocktails!
If you’re wanting to combine dinner with visiting the Burj Khalifa observation deck on the incredible 124th floor, then I highly recommend this 3 course lunch or dinner with Burj Khalifa access ticket package!
So now you know all the best places to see the Burj Khalifa, Dubai has to offer! I’ll be writing lots more Burj Khalifa, Dubai Downtown restaurant and hotel guides so don’t forget to subscribe to my e-mail list! I lived in the Downtown area for many years, so I give you all the best inside information that no other Dubai blog has!
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