Dubai is a city that takes its burger culture seriously, evolving from simple fast-food joints to a sophisticated landscape of gourmet “burger boutiques.” Whether you are a fan of the classic American smash burger, a seeker of decadent Wagyu beef patties, or someone who loves innovative toppings like bacon jam and truffle aioli, the city has a spot for you.
Disclaimer: Please note that the restaurants aren’t listed in the level of importance, this means that a restaurant listed at the bottom of this page is just as important as one listed at the top.
Pickl
- Review: Pickl has transformed from a local favorite into a regional powerhouse by focusing on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their “Cheeseburger” is a masterclass in the smash burger technique, featuring perfectly seared beef and signature house-made pickles. For those who prefer poultry, the “Chicken Sando” is widely considered one of the best in the city, offering adjustable spice levels. The vibe is always energetic, making it a go-to for a casual yet premium meal. Their commitment to “Simple. Not Basic.” is evident in every bite.
- Tel: +971 4 584 6859
- Address: One JLT, Jumeirah Lake Towers (and multiple locations city-wide)
High Joint
- Review: High Joint started as a tiny hole-in-the-wall in Al Manara and quickly earned a cult following. They are famous for using premium cuts of beef and dry-aging their meat to ensure a deep, rich flavor profile. The “High Jamz” burger, featuring bacon jam and crispy fried onions, is a legendary menu item that keeps locals returning. Despite its small physical size, the brand’s reputation is massive due to its daring flavor combinations. It is the definition of a “hidden gem” that became a superstar.
- Tel: +971 4 268 1586
- Address: Al Manara, Al Thanya St, Dubai
Eleven Green
- Review: Eleven Green is the brainchild of local foodies and has quickly risen to become an award-winning “Burger Bistro.” Their “Bull Burger” is world-renowned, having won international accolades for its perfectly balanced textures. The menu is intentionally concise, focusing on excellence rather than quantity, using artisanal buns and top-tier wagyu beef. The atmosphere is cozy and chic, reflecting the passion of its founders. It is widely regarded as a must-visit for any serious burger enthusiast.
- Tel: +971 4 252 5968
- Address: Meyan Mall, Al Thanya St, Umm Suqeim
Salt
- Review: Salt pioneered the food truck culture in Dubai, starting at Kite Beach and expanding into a massive lifestyle brand. They focus on sliders, allowing diners to enjoy multiple flavors in one sitting, with their Wagyu sliders being the star attraction. The outdoor setting at their beach locations provides a unique “vacation” vibe right in the middle of the city. Their milkshakes and soft-serve ice cream are the perfect companions to their savory, buttery buns. It remains one of the most Instagrammable spots in the UAE.
- Tel: +971 55 996 5802
- Address: Kite Beach, Jumeirah 2 (and multiple locations)
Slaw
- Review: Slaw is where Chef Ali Yazdi brings “soul food” to the Dubai burger scene with a heavy focus on fried chicken and indulgent beef stacks. The burgers here are known for being massive, messy, and unapologetically flavorful. Their use of fermented ingredients and unique sauces sets them apart from more traditional outlets. The “Umm Al Sheif” location has a retro-cool aesthetic that matches the bold menu items. If you are looking for a burger that requires multiple napkins and offers maximum satisfaction, Slaw is the place.
- Tel: +971 4 547 6777
- Address: Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah 1
Maxzi The Good Food Shop
- Review: Originally an online grocery store, Maxzi’s “Smash and Sear” concept has taken the top spot in several culinary awards recently. They use 100g Wagyu beef patties that are smashed to create a crispy, caramelized crust while maintaining a juicy center. The simplicity of their toppings—fresh onions, pickles, and house sauce—allows the quality of the beef to shine. Located in the industrial-chic Al Quoz area, it offers a raw and authentic dining experience. It is currently considered one of the most underrated yet technically perfect burgers in town.
- Tel: +971 4 395 3988
- Address: Al Shafar Investment Building, Al Quoz 1
Black Tap
- Review: Bringing a slice of New York City to Dubai, Black Tap is as famous for its “CrazyShakes” as it is for its craft burgers. The menu features award-winning recipes like the “Greg Norman,” which utilizes Wagyu beef, blue cheese, and arugula. Each burger is carefully constructed to offer a gourmet experience in a high-energy, mural-filled environment. It is the perfect spot for groups looking to celebrate with over-the-top desserts and heavy-duty burgers. Their locations in prime tourist spots like Dubai Mall make them highly accessible.
- Tel: +971 4 330 5103
- Address: Dubai Mall, Lower Ground Level (and JBR/Al Naseem)
Lento
- Review: Chef Faisal Naser’s Lento is a minimalist’s dream, focusing on the art of the sourdough bun and the double-smash patty. The “Picante Umami” burger is a standout, blending spicy Lento sauce with green salsa for a flavor profile that is uniquely contemporary. The restaurant itself doubles as a vinyl listening room, creating a hip, artistic atmosphere that draws a cool crowd. Because they pride themselves on small-batch quality, items can sell out quickly. It is widely praised for its consistency and artisanal approach to fast food.
- Tel: +971 4 252 5968
- Address: Al Wasl Road, Umm Suqeim 2
Ugly Burger
- Review: Ugly Burger embraces a “flavor over aesthetics” mantra, though their burgers are actually quite beautiful in their decadence. Specializing in Asian-inspired craft burgers, they use ingredients like miso aioli and spicy shrimp to differentiate themselves. The “Double Truffle” burger is a rich, fungi-packed delight that is a favorite among vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Their branding is playful and urban, fitting perfectly with their location in Nakheel Mall. They prove that you don’t need a fancy name when the food speaks for itself.
- Tel: +971 58 110 8432
- Address: Nakheel Mall, Palm Jumeirah
She Burger
- Review: Founded by Shaikha Eissa, She Burger is a local success story that transitioned from a home delivery service to a trendy brick-and-mortar boutique. The menu is inventive, featuring names like “Gone Girl” and “Biggy Mac” that reflect its modern, pop-culture-infused vibe. The sliders are particularly popular, allowing guests to sample a variety of sweet and savory combinations. The interior of the Dar Wasl location is sleek and minimalist, making it a favorite for the fashion-forward crowd. It is a testament to the power of homegrown culinary talent in Dubai.
- Tel: +971 4 333 3258
- Address: Dar Wasl Mall, Al Wasl Road
11 Woodfire
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- Review: While 11 Woodfire is a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its diverse grill menu, its Wagyu burger is legendary. Cooked over an open wood fire, the patty gains a smoky depth that is impossible to replicate in a standard kitchen. Topped with aged cheddar and crispy onions, it is a sophisticated take on a classic that emphasizes the quality of the char. The setting is upscale and atmospheric, perfect for a refined dinner that happens to center on a burger. It’s the choice for those who want a “fine-dining” burger experience.
- Tel: +971 4 491 9000
- Address: Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah 1
Good Burger
- Review: Operating out of the Maiz Tacos locations, Good Burger focuses on premium ingredients and the perfect “potato bun” ratio. Their “Mushroom & Gruyère” burger is a creamy, earthy masterpiece that has won over even the toughest critics. They use only fresh, never-frozen beef, which is evident in the tenderness and flavor of the patties. The brand has a loyal following in JLT, where it serves as a reliable spot for a high-quality lunch. It offers a no-nonsense approach to burgers that prioritizes taste above all else.
- Tel: +971 4 514 4712
- Address: Cluster Y, Jumeirah Lake Towers
Beau Restaurant
- Review: Beau is a stylish newcomer that has quickly established itself in the competitive Jumeirah burger scene. They specialize in Parisian-style smash burgers, offering a concise menu that ensures every item is executed perfectly. Their “Truffle Burger” and “Elysée Sauce” are highlights that bring a touch of European flair to the classic American dish. The restaurant’s aesthetic is bright and modern, providing a great backdrop for a casual meal. It is a great spot for those who appreciate a smaller, more curated menu.
- Tel: +971 4 224 7348
- Address: Jumeirah 3, Dubai
Bossman’s Burgr Factory
- Review: If you are looking for an “over-the-top” dining experience, Bossman’s is the place to be. Their burgers are massive, often stacked high with multiple patties and dripping with various cheeses and sauces. The decor is inspired by comic books and street art, making it a high-energy environment that appeals to the younger, social-media-savvy crowd. It’s not just about the size; the flavors are bold and designed to satisfy serious cravings. It is widely considered the king of “cheat meal” destinations in Dubai.
- Tel: +971 58 506 2000
- Address: Jumeirah 3 and Al Khawaneej
Meat Me There
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- Review: Located in the picturesque Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, Meat Me There offers a simple, focused menu that lets the meat do the talking. Their Black Angus patties are juicy and flavorful, served in soft buns with just enough toppings to complement the beef. The waterfront view adds a layer of tranquility that is rare for a burger joint. It is a favorite among long-time residents who appreciate a consistent, high-quality product without the gimmicks. It remains one of the most reliable spots for a classic beef burger.
- Tel: +971 4 437 6010
- Address: The Souk at Fishing Harbour, Umm Suqeim
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