Al Ustad Special Kabab

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Al Ustad Special Kabab is a legendary hole-in-the-wall Bur Dubai restaurant and takeaway. Opened in 1978 – when Dubai’s shimmering spires were yet to be raised – the city’s oldest Iranian eatery has changed little since early days. Tucked beneath a glowing blue sign, the family-run, canteen-style Persian establishment is considered a local stalwart. Homely interiors – walls lined with photos of celebrity patrons embracing the late founder, Mohammed Al Ansari; clocks set to different time zones; and glass-topped tables housing foreign currencies – offer a homespun authenticity that can be hard to encounter amid the out-and-out glitz of the desert city. Meals begin with complimentary fresh vegetables and mint-infused yogurt, before diving into a short and sweet and a la carte menu of juicy grilled meats served over fragrant, buttery zafran rice and warming flatbreads. Take note of regulars’ orders: the kebab khas – juicy, yogurt-marinated barbecued chicken – is a signature of the grill, and the saffron-marinated chicken joojeh kebab and lemony khorak Bahraini are also popular.

Key Information

• Average price per person $13
• Lunch: Sat – Thurs dinner: Mon – Sun
• 971 4 397 1933
• Visit Al Ustad Special Kabab's Website

Location

Metro Station – Al Mussallah Rd, Near Al Fahidi, Dubai,