Dubai is a culinary melting pot, and for South Indian food lovers, especially those craving authentic Tamil cuisine, the city offers a vibrant selection of restaurants. From spicy Chettinad curries to comforting idli and dosa breakfasts, here’s our curated list of the top 5 Tamil restaurants in Dubai for 2025.
1. Saravana Bhavan – Iconic Tamil Vegetarian Delight
Location: Multiple branches – Al Karama, Al Qusais, Al Barsha
Cuisine Type: Pure Vegetarian (Tamil Nadu-style)
Best For: Tiffin items, South Indian thali, filter coffee
Why Visit:
Saravana Bhavan is a household name among Tamil foodies and a global vegetarian brand that originated in Chennai. Known for its consistent quality, this restaurant serves classics like pongal, vada, sambar, and a variety of dosa options.
Highlights:
- Quick service, hygienic setup
- Great for breakfast and family meals
- Must-try: Ghee roast dosa, mini tiffin, and filter coffee
Average Cost: AED 40–60 for two
Nearest Metro: Al Karama (Red Line)
2. Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant – For Spice Lovers
Location: Al Karama, Al Nahda, Al Barsha
Cuisine Type: Non-Vegetarian, Chettinad-style Tamil cuisine
Best For: Pepper chicken, mutton chukka, crab masala
Why Visit:
Anjappar brings the bold and spicy flavors of Chettinad to Dubai. From aromatic biryanis to hearty meat dishes, this restaurant is perfect for those who crave traditional Tamil non-veg food.
Highlights:
- Rich spice-forward menu
- Authentic Chettinad recipes
- Great for lunch with friends or dinner outings
Average Cost: AED 70–100 for two
Nearest Metro: ADCB (Red Line)
3. Thalappakatti Restaurant – Famous Dindigul Biryani
Location: Al Karama, Al Qusais, Discovery Gardens
Cuisine Type: South Indian Biryani & Meals
Best For: Dindigul-style biryani with seeraga samba rice
Why Visit:
A gem for biryani lovers, Thalappakatti is known for its Dindigul Thalappakatti Biryani, prepared with signature short-grain rice and aromatic spices. The brand carries legacy from Tamil Nadu with a loyal fanbase in Dubai.
Highlights:
- Authentic regional biryani
- Rich in flavor and spices
- Non-veg and veg options available
Average Cost: AED 80–120 for two
Nearest Metro: BurJuman (Red Line)
4. Amma’s Restaurant – Homestyle Tamil Meals
Location: Karama, Al Qusais
Cuisine Type: Homestyle South Indian
Best For: Budget-friendly lunch, idli-vada combos
Why Visit:
True to its name, Amma’s serves meals that taste like home-cooked Tamil food. It’s a favorite among Tamil expats, offering a rotating lunch menu, simple tiffin items, and delicious side dishes.
Highlights:
- Feels like a meal at home
- Perfect for quick lunch breaks
- Must-try: Parotta with kurma, sambar rice
Average Cost: AED 35–60 for two
Nearest Metro: ADCB (Red Line)
5. Madras Vegetarian Restaurant – Classic Tamil Comfort Food
Location: Al Karama
Cuisine Type: Tamil Vegetarian
Best For: South Indian meals, chutneys, sweets
Why Visit:
With a long-standing reputation, Madras Vegetarian is known for its classic Tamil Nadu-style meals, served on banana leaves during festivals. A go-to place for dosas, rasam, and pongal.
Highlights:
- Old-school Tamil vegetarian setup
- Loved for sambar and coconut chutney
- Must-try: Mini thali and kesari dessert
Average Cost: AED 40–60 for two
Nearest Metro: Al Karama (Red Line)
Bonus Tips for Tamil Food Lovers in Dubai
- Look for Friday brunch specials at these spots.
- Many offer home delivery via Talabat and Zomato.
- Visit during Pongal and Tamil New Year for festival menus.
Google Map: Top Tamil Restaurants in Dubai – Custom Map
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Which is the best Tamil non-vegetarian restaurant in Dubai?
A: Anjappar Chettinad is a top choice for non-veg lovers looking for spicy Tamil dishes.
Q: Where can I get authentic Tamil vegetarian food in Dubai?
A: Saravana Bhavan and Madras Vegetarian Restaurant offer the best Tamil vegetarian meals in the city.
Q: Are these restaurants budget-friendly?
A: Yes, most Tamil restaurants in Dubai offer affordable meals ranging from AED 35–100 for two.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a Tamil expat craving a taste of home or a food explorer curious about South Indian cuisine, these top Tamil restaurants in Dubai offer the real deal—from fiery Chettinad curries to soul-warming dosas and biryanis.