To be in Dubai and not seek its regional food is a sacrilege of the first order for any foodie. If you are a non-vegetarian, the mistake is all the more severe. Regional gastronomy of Dubai is a carnivore’s paradise. The whiff of kebabs grilling floats through the air and people walking about with a shawarma tucked firmly in their hands is a common sight on the streets of Dubai. This international cosmopolitan city is renowned for its excellent food and one should not leave the chance to sample it if visiting this fab city. ‘Sidra’ is a safe choice when it comes to regional food. The chain of good-looking Lebanese restaurants is a popular pick for anybody craving traditional Middle Eastern food while in Dubai. Hop over to Bay Avenue in Executive Towers F at Business Bay, where Sidra is located.

Sidra keeps its front door open from morning to well into the night so the sight of party-crawlers coming in for an after party bite is fairly common. Sidra remains busy throughout the day, from breakfast to midnight snacking. Call ahead to book a table with them to avoid standing. The menu of Sidra thrives on the gorgeous spread of Lebanese fare, ranging from mouth-watering kebabs to even some western dishes like steaks and tuna salads. No alcohol is available at Sidra, stick to juices or laban ayran, which is a traditional yoghurt-based drink. Start with, falafel, sambousek, kalaya meat, zaatar & olives salad and makanek with pomegranate molasses. Second course gets more fulfilling with, lahem meshwi sandwich, kabab halabi, shish tawook, grilled lobster, steak with black pepper sauce, shawerma, cheese with zaatar saj and arayes.

Middle East has a deep sweet tooth. At Sidra get a sugar high with, banana split, Sidra ice cream, cream caramel, choco banana, custard, mouhalabia and fried ice cream. Enjoy a plate of mix fruit slices or watermelon to shave off the calories. Sidra serves sheesha is multiple flavours. Sit in their outdoor seating and savor a sheesha to enjoy the moment. Inside, the décor is tastefully designed with soothing earthy shades to exude elegance, class and formality. This is a good not so expensive place to bring somebody for traditional Lebanese meal. Couples can dine al fresco and share a sheesha between them.