Whether you’re still searching for a plant-based place to feast on Christmas Day or eager to book a last-minute Friendmas, you can’t count on Dubai to have you covered.
Not so long ago, vegetarians were lucky to find even one delicious dish on the menu, but now, times have changed. This festive season, many of the city’s top restaurants are stepping up their game with plant-based dishes that make it easy to celebrate the holidays without compromising on the flavours.
Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian or just looking to enjoy a more sustainable meal, Dubai’s eateries are turning up the heat this year and their menus will leave you feeling both full and festive.
Planet Terra
Three courses of dreamy vegan dishes? Yes please! Planet Terra boasts a whole lot of plant based options on their Christmas menu. Celebrate the festive season with a special set menu, starting from 220 AED. The hearty menu includes mains like the Herb Gnocchi and the festive Vegan Christmas Wellington—filled with King oyster mushroom, soy and melon seed filling, wrapped in nori and savoy cabbage, with delicate pastry, mushroom cream, potato pave, crispy butternut, tartare sauce and a vegetable jus.
Add a bit more to your package and get two drinks such as Spiced Apple Cider or Vegan Hot Chocolate, to perfectly complement the meal. It’s ideal for celebrating in a festive atmosphere.
The Strand Craft Kitchen
The Strand serves up festive vegetarian and vegan dishes this season. Start with their Butternut Pumpkin Soup, a rich and velvety bowl made with roasted butternut squash, herbs, and spices. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl and sets the tone for a delicious holiday meal.
If you’re looking for something hearty, try their Impossible Meatloaf—a plant-based twist on the classic meatloaf. Made with Impossible Foods’ plant-based meat, this dish is topped with a sweet glaze that makes it extra special. Whether you’re a vegetarian or not, it’s a must-try that’ll make your holiday meal just a little bit more festive.
Rove Hotels
If you are looking for cheap, cheerful, and for some—free—vegetarian food, Rove extends an open invitation on December 24th to those spending the holidays solo. With complimentary spots available for the first 20 registrants at each location, this dinner is all about fostering connections and holiday cheer.
Indulge in holiday dishes made with organic, sustainable ingredients at The Daily restaurants up until December 25th. Plus, bring five or more plastic bottles for recycling and enjoy 25 per cent off your bill—it’s a great way to give back to the planet while you celebrate.
Ella’s Eatery
Perched along Palm Jumeirah, Ella’s Eatery offers a cosy spot for a festive gathering. Start your meal with their irresistible Goat Cheese Croquettes—crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside. Served with a tangy dipping sauce, these croquettes are the perfect appetizer to kick off any holiday celebration.
Ella’s also offers a delicious Impossible Meatloaf, another plant-based take on the holiday classic. It’s made with Impossible Foods’ meat and is designed to mimic the savory, satisfying texture of traditional meatloaf—without any meat.
SEVA
Plant-based restaurant SEVA has you covered this festive season. Enjoy dishes like the Earthy Chestnut & Mushroom Velvet, a creamy blend of chestnuts and mushrooms, topped with a swirl of cashew cream cheese and crispy gluten-free croutons. At 45 AED, this dish is a delicious and affordable addition to your festive table. Or, for something more hearty, SEVA’s Mushroom & Tofu Festive Loaf is made with mushrooms, tofu, and psyllium husk. Served with creamy mashed potatoes and rich mushroom demi-glace, it’s a satisfying option for the holiday season at 85 AED.
