Where can you try gold-plated food in the UAE?

Have you ever imagined indulging in a culinary experience so lavish that your dish isn’t just expertly prepared but also adorned with shimmering, edible gold, transforming a meal into a truly opulent affair? The United Arab Emirates, a land synonymous with luxury and extravagance, has embraced this trend wholeheartedly, offering a dazzling array of restaurants and cafes where you can literally dine on gold.

The Allure of Edible Gold in UAE Cuisine

Edible gold has transcended its historical use as a symbol of wealth and status, finding its way onto the plates of discerning diners across the UAE. This isn’t just about showmanship; the presence of 24-karat gold leaf or flakes adds a unique visual flair, elevating the simplest dish to a work of art. Beyond the aesthetic, edible gold is biologically inert, meaning it passes through the digestive system without being absorbed, making it safe for consumption. Its appeal lies in the sheer indulgence and the unforgettable memory it creates, turning a regular meal into a memorable story to tell.

Dubai: The Golden Epicenter of Gastronomy

Dubai truly leads the charge in offering gold-plated culinary delights. You’ll find an astonishing variety here, from breakfast items to hearty steaks and decadent desserts.

• Bosporus Turkish Restaurant: This establishment offers a regal twist on Turkish cuisine, featuring dishes like the Gold Asado Burger, Gold Baklava Cheesecake, and even a Gold Bar Kebab. Their Gold Ribeye and Tomahawk Steaks are also popular, giving a truly luxurious Ottoman experience.
• Nusr-Et Steakhouse: Owned by the world-famous chef Salt Bae, Nusr-Et at the Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach is renowned for its gold-leaf coated tenderloin steak. It’s a culinary spectacle that has attracted global attention.
• Bombay Borough: For a touch of Indian opulence, Bombay Borough in DIFC serves the Royal Gold Biryani. This elaborate platter includes Kashmiri lamb seekh kebabs, Old Delhi lamb chops, Rajput chicken kebabs, Mughlai koftas, and malai chicken over saffron-infused biryani, all magnificently garnished with 23-karat edible gold.
• Hard Rock Cafe: Surprisingly, you can even find gold-plated food at the Hard Rock Cafe in Dubai Festival City Mall or Dubai International Airport, where they offer the Gold Leaf Steak Burger.
• Hampstead Bakery and Cafe: This cafe offers a stunning 24-karat gold-wrapped French toast brioche, a delightful mix of white chocolate and berries. It’s almost as impressive as their view of the Burj Khalifa.
• O’Pao: Located in Karama, this Indian street food restaurant has introduced the world’s first 22-karat Gold Vada Pav Roll, a luxurious take on a humble snack, featuring fried cheese, potato, and creamy butter wrapped in gold leaf.
• Yalla Samosa: For a glittering snack, Yalla Samosa offers their unique 24-karat gold samosa.
• Scoopi Cafe: If you’re craving something sweet and shimmering, Scoopi Cafe offers a unique activated charcoal ice cream topped with edible gold, providing both a visual and taste sensation.
• 24 Karat Restaurant: As the name suggests, this Italian restaurant at the Marriott Al Jaddaf Hotel specializes in dishes that can be finished with a sprinkling of edible gold. From seafood soup with crab gnocchi to black spaghetti with pink prawns, and even their slow-cooked veal burger with a gold-topped bun, gold is central to their menu.
• Rhain Steakhouse: This establishment offers a signature Gold Steak, a premium Australian wagyu striploin enveloped in 24K edible gold, making for a truly indulgent experience.
• Sahn Eddar at Burj Al Arab: At one of the world’s most iconic hotels, you can sip a 24k gold cappuccino, where gold is blended into the foam and generously dusted on top, served with gold spoon in a gold bone-China cup.

Abu Dhabi: A Glimpse of Golden Indulgence

While Dubai might be the undisputed capital of gold-plated cuisine, Abu Dhabi also offers its own luxurious experiences, particularly at its most iconic hotel.

• Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi: This grand hotel is famous for its signature Palace Cappuccino, which comes adorned with real 24-carat gold leaf. Beyond coffee, you might find pastries and desserts delicately sprinkled with gold powder or small sheets, especially during afternoon tea or within their buffet selections. The focus here is on subtle elegance rather than overt gilding, but the luxurious touch of gold is undeniably present. While other restaurants in Abu Dhabi may offer occasional golden touches, the Emirates Palace remains the most consistent and well-known spot for such indulgence in the capital.

Beyond Dubai and Abu Dhabi: A Golden Sparkle

While the larger emirates, particularly Dubai, dominate the scene for gold-plated food, the concept of luxury and unique dining experiences is present throughout the UAE. In other emirates like Sharjah, Ajman, and Ras Al Khaimah, you might find specialized cafes or high-end hotels that occasionally introduce limited-time offerings with edible gold. However, these are less common and more likely to be special promotions rather than regular menu staples. It’s always a good idea to check with local high-end dining establishments or hotel restaurants if you’re looking for such experiences outside of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, as the culinary landscape here is ever-evolving.

The Experience of Dining with Gold

When you order a dish with edible gold, it’s not just about the taste; it’s about the entire sensory experience. The subtle shimmer, the feeling of luxury, and the inherent uniqueness of the offering combine to create a memorable occasion. Many of these restaurants are situated in prime locations, often with stunning views or lavish interiors, further enhancing the dining experience. While we cannot provide specific prices as they can vary greatly and are subject to change, be prepared for these golden delights to reflect their luxurious nature, often placing them at the higher end of the dining spectrum. It’s an investment in an experience, a moment of pure indulgence.

This comprehensive guide has been brought to you by the www.few.ae team.