Fuel up the tasty way at Expo City’s best cafes and restaurants
Expo City Dubai, the former site of The World’s Greatest Show – Expo 2020, has many attractions. But where to head for delicious eats after all that exploring? Let’s look at the best cafes and restaurants in Expo City.
Note that currently, Al Fanar and WOFL are closed due to renovation.
BEST RESTAURANTS IN EXPO CITY
The Expo 2020 site, Expo City Dubai, is a paradise for anyone who loves their food, with outlets serving cuisines from across the globe. No matter what taste you’re craving, Expo City has you covered! You’ll come here for family-friendly meals and stay for street food options, sustainable choices, sweet delights, and more. Does all this make you peckish? Here are the best options for you.
Al-Fanar Restaurant & Cafe
At Al-Fanar Restaurant & Cafe, one of the best Arabic eateries in Dubai — also included in Dubai’s Michelin Guide — you get a genuine flavour of the emirate. The Emirati restaurant attempts to revive “memories of Dubai when it was a little town on the beach of the Arabian Gulf” by evoking the UAE of the 1960s through traditional furnishings and authentic cuisine.
- Location: Corner of Al Wasl and Sunset Avenue
Al Baik
Did you have the Al Baik experience in the mega exhibition?
Al Baik, a household name in Saudi Arabia, is famous for its supremely succulent and deliciously crunchy chicken. Their menu includes the Big Baik, BBQ thighs, jumbo shrimp, chicken fillet nuggets and much more.
Dubai’s favourite fried chicken spot in Dubai also has branches in the Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Ajman, Al Majaz Waterfront and City Centre Sharjah.
- Location: Opportunity area opposite Saudi Pavillion
- Timings: 11:00 am to 09:30 pm
Assembly
Assembly Mezze & Skewers invites you to experience a culinary journey led by the renowned Chef Athanasios Kargatzidis (Chef Tommy). Celebrated for his contributions to Baron, a restaurant consistently ranked among the “World’s 50 Best,” Chef Tommy brings his expertise to Assembly.
Here, the charcoal grill takes centre stage, showcasing the captivating flavours of the Middle East. Prepare to be impressed by the masterful pairing of fresh, high-quality ingredients with the artistry of open-fire cooking.
- Location: Corner of Horizon and Sky Avenue
- Timings: 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Milky Ice
The well-known, towering ice cream from this Polish-Emirati spot is available at the Expo 2020 site. This food truck in Expo City has locations throughout the UAE.
- Location: Ghaf Avenue
- Timings: 11:00 pm to 08:00 pm
Wofl
Enjoy waffles with a twist at Wofl Expo City!
One of the best restaurants in Expo City, Wofl, has relaunched its food truck. The Opportunity District eatery serves mouthwatering WOFL sandwiches with various delicious toppings. The homegrown food concept has locations all around the UAE. It opened its first venue back in November 2016 at Jumeirah Beach Residence.
They offer one of the most delicious waffles in Dubai. Think toasty Croque monsieur, Mexican-inspired dishes, New York-style dishes and a tuna alternative from the Mediterranean. And how can we not mention the speciality coffee roasted in Norway by Solberg & Hansen and served in Dubai?
- Location: Sidr Avenue, Terra Pavilion
GRAND BEIRUT
Grand Beirut’s magnificent ambience transports you to Lebanon’s perpetually bustling scene. Enjoy a genuine Lebanese experience rich in art, culture and cuisine.
- Location: Mangrove Avenue in the Sustainability District
- Timings: 11:00 am to 10:00 pm
THE DAILY
The Daily is a must-visit neighbourhood hangout with amazing foreign flavours, Wi-Fi and top-notch service. Its lively and welcoming local atmosphere keeps you coming back, whether for a coffee in the morning, a business lunch or a meet-up over supper.
There is something for everyone, including nourishing, homemade-style meals, delectable, healthy salads, energising drinks and vegan options.
- Location: Corner of Al Wasl and Horizon Avenue
- Timings: 06:30 am to 11:30 pm
PXB Cafe
PXB Café offers a refreshingly casual setting that prioritises your well-being. Their menu boasts diverse hot and cold plant-based dishes, all crafted with health-conscious ingredients. For a truly special experience, head to their Rooftop venue, which transforms into a vibrant hub for brunch and unique events during the winter months.
- Location: Terra, The Sustainability Pavilion
- Timings: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm
Philly Jawn by Ghostburger
Calling all burger aficionados and cheesesteak enthusiasts! Philly Jawn by Ghostburger brings the legendary flavours of Philadelphia straight to Expo City Dubai.
Enjoy their famed South Philly cheesesteaks or juicy wings, sure to tantalise your taste buds. And, of course, don’t miss the legendary Ghostburger, a recipe that’s become Philly folklore.
- Location: Ghaf Avenue, Mobility Pavilion
- Timings: 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm
FAQS
WHEN DID EXPO CITY OPEN TO THE PUBLIC?
The opening of Expo City took place on 1st October 2022.
WHAT ARE THE ATTRACTIONS IN EXPO CITY?
Want to spend a perfect day at Expo City Dubai? You can explore the following attractions in the eco-friendly, tech-driven community:
- Alif – The Mobility Pavilion
- Al Wasl Plaza
- Surreal
- Vision Pavilion
- Women’s Pavilion
- Stories of Nations
- Garden in the Sky
- Terra (The Sustainability Pavilion)
WHAT ARE THE TICKET PRICES FOR EXPO CITY DUBAI?
Admission to Expo City Dubai is free of charge. However, you have to pay to visit the attractions. For instance, tickets for Terra (The Sustainability Pavilion) and Alif (The Mobility Pavilion) start at AED 50 each. These pavilions are free for children under 12 and People of Determination. For more details, you can visit the official website of Expo City Dubai.
DOES EXPO CITY OFFER ACCOMMODATION AS WELL?
Yes! Apartment developments in Expo City Dubai are ideal for those seeking luxury, convenient housing in Dubai. These include 1 to 2-bedroom loft apartments with courtyards, studios to 2-bedroom flats and affordable co-living apartments.
Want to live near the futuristic community? The popular residential areas near Expo City Dubai are your best bet. Investors searching for lucrative investment opportunities may consider the highest ROI areas near Expo City Dubai.
And that’s a wrap on our list of restaurants in Expo City. We hope you have fun exploring this amazingly futuristic city in Dubai and enjoy some fab eats there!
Cover Image Credit: Images have been taken from Expo City’s Official Website.