The Best Food I’ve Had in Dubai | Another Level of Food | Best Iranian | Gilaneh Restaurant

🍽️ Gilaneh Restaurant, Deira: A Northern Iranian Culinary Treasure in the Heart of Dubai 🇮🇷🇦🇪

Dubai is one of the greatest food cities on Earth. From 5-star fine dining to hidden street gems, this city offers an unmatched culinary playground. So when a restaurant manages to stand out in such a competitive scene, it truly means something special.

Located on 33 Al Maktoum Road in Deira, Gilaneh Restaurant isn’t just another Persian eatery—it’s an experience, a journey through the rich culinary heritage of Northern Iran, and, quite frankly, some of the best food I’ve ever had in Dubai. That’s not a light statement when you consider how spoiled for choice this city really is.
✨ First Impressions: Stepping Into Something Special

The moment I walked into Gilaneh, I knew I was somewhere different. There’s a warmth and authenticity in the air—the kind that comes not from décor or marketing, but from passion, family tradition, and deep cultural roots. The restaurant is beautifully decorated in a traditional Gilaki style, with intricate textiles, carved wood, and soft lighting that immediately makes you feel at home.

You’re not just here to eat—you’re here to experience Gilan, the lush northern region of Iran where mountains meet the Caspian Sea, and flavors are bold, fresh, and herbaceous.
🥣 A Soup That Set the Tone

The meal began with a dish I’ll never forget: a Northern Iranian herb and vegetable soup, brimming with fresh dill, spinach, coriander, and parsley, slow-cooked to perfection. Every spoonful felt like a warm embrace. The balance of tangy herbs and soft vegetables, possibly thickened with lentils or beans, was absolutely outstanding—comforting, earthy, and alive with flavor.

This wasn't just a starter—it was a statement. A bold declaration that Gilaneh is here to honor ancestral flavors with excellence.
🥗 Fresh Salads and House-Baked Bread

Next came the salads, a selection of fresh, vibrant plates dressed simply but perfectly—letting the ingredients speak for themselves. Think crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, shredded herbs, sumac, and pickled vegetables, each with its own texture and story.

But what elevated this course even further was the house-made bread—warm, soft, slightly blistered, and incredibly aromatic. You could smell the fire it came from, and when torn and dipped into olive oil or wrapped around fresh herbs, it was an experience of its own.
🔥 The Showstopper: A Kebab Experience Like No Other

Then came the main event, and I honestly wasn't prepared for just how good it would be. The kebab platter was a masterpiece, both visually and in taste. Here's what landed on my table:

Chicken Kebab (Joojeh): Char-grilled, perfectly marinated in saffron and yogurt, the meat was succulent, juicy, and deeply flavorful. Not a dry bite in sight.

Lamb Kebab (Shishlik or Koobideh): Smoky and tender, the lamb had that melting texture that only comes from expert grilling and well-aged meat.

Ground Lamb Kebab (Koobideh): This one blew me away. Rich, savory, slightly crisp on the outside, and unbelievably juicy inside. It held that magical balance between spice, fat, and char—pure perfection.

Every kebab came with saffron rice, a dollop of butter, grilled tomatoes, and a slice of lime. Each bite was harmonious, bold, and deeply satisfying.
🌿 A Taste of the Caspian Spirit in Dubai

What sets Gilaneh apart is its unwavering commitment to the flavors of Gilan—a region known for herbs, seafood, rich stews, and grilled meats. While many Persian restaurants focus on mainstream dishes, Gilaneh dives deep into regional authenticity, offering something both rare and unforgettable in Dubai’s crowded food scene.

Here, flavor is not rushed, ingredients are treated with care, and the result is a meal that stays with you long after the table has been cleared.
📍 Location & Atmosphere

Gilaneh Restaurant
📍 33 Al Maktoum Road, Deira, Dubai, UAE
📞 (Check local listings for contact & timings)

The staff are friendly, attentive, and deeply knowledgeable about the dishes. The atmosphere is cozy, respectful, and ideal for families, food lovers, or anyone seeking an authentic Iranian culinary journey.
🌟 Final Verdict: A True Hidden Gem

Gilaneh is more than just a restaurant—it’s a culinary portal to the north of Iran, right in the heart of Dubai. From that unforgettable soup, to the fresh herb salads and warm bread, to the show-stopping kebabs, every element was crafted with love, skill, and heritage.

Dubai may have hundreds of incredible restaurants, but Gilaneh stands among the very best—a true hidden gem for those seeking flavor, tradition, and soul in every bite.