Best South Indian Restaurants in Dubai for Authentic Dosa & Idli

Why South Indian Cuisine Is So Loved in Dubai

South Indian food has become a firm favorite in Dubai — and it’s easy to see why. Its light, flavorful and satisfying dishes like dosa, idli, vada and uttapam are perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The city’s multicultural food scene means you can find authentic regional outlets alongside modern café twists, all catering to vegetarians and spice lovers alike. Below is a curated guide to the best South Indian restaurants in Dubai where the dosa is crisp, the idli is soft and the filter coffee is rich.

You’ll find options ranging from traditional eateries to contemporary diners that appeal to families, solo diners, office lunches and casual meetups.

1. Aryaas – Classic South Indian Favorites

Why It’s Great: Aryaas is one of Dubai’s most popular South Indian chains known for consistent quality and authentic flavors.
Must-Try:
• Masala Dosa
• Plain & Rava Idli
• Medu Vada
• South Indian Thali
• Filter Coffee
Vibe: Casual, family-friendly, quick service
Best For: Everyday dosa and idli cravings at affordable prices

2. Calicut Paragon – Kerala-Style Excellence

Why It’s Great: Famous for its Kerala specialties and coastal flavors, Calicut Paragon also delivers excellent dosa and idli.
Must-Try:
• Paper Dosa
• Podi Dosa
• Idli Sambar
• Kerala Parotta (bonus)
• Beef/Chicken Varieties (for non-veg lovers)
Vibe: Full-service restaurant with generous portions
Best For: Dosas with a South Kerala touch and hearty meals

3. Saravanaa Bhavan – Authentic Chettinad & Tamil Cuisine

Why It’s Great: Well-known worldwide for reliable South Indian classics and pure vegetarian fare.
Must-Try:
• Onion & Mysore Masala Dosa
• Soft Steamed Idli
• Ghee Roast
• Filter Coffee
• Thali Meals
Vibe: Simple, focused on traditional taste
Best For: Pure vegetarian South Indian meals with consistent quality

4. Govinda’s – Temple Food & Vegetarian Delights

Why It’s Great: A vegetarian favorite serving sattvic and clean South Indian food with a spiritual vibe.
Must-Try:
• Dosa Variety Platter
• Idli with Coconut Chutney
• Uttapam
• Herbal Filter Coffee
Vibe: Peaceful, vegetarian-centric
Best For: Healthy, traditional South Indian breakfasts and lunches

5. Abu Dhabi Restaurant – Taste of Kerala in Dubai

Why It’s Great: A go-to place for Kerala food with strong dosa and idli offerings.
Must-Try:
• Masala & Paper Dosa
• Fluffy Idli
• Kerala Style Sambar
• Beef Fry (if you enjoy non-veg sides)
Vibe: Family-friendly, traditional interiors
Best For: Kerala-style breakfast with solid dosa and idli

6. Dosa Plaza – Fusion & Creative Dosas

Why It’s Great: Known for innovative dosa creations beyond the usual classics.
Must-Try:
• Paneer Tikka Dosa
• Schezwan Dosa
• Cheese Burst Dosa
• Classic Idli & Vada
Vibe: Casual, fast service, creative menu
Best For: Unique dosa twists alongside staples

7. Bikanervala – Indian Street & South Indian Combo

Why It’s Great: A one-stop place for South Indian plus Indian street favorites.
Must-Try:
• Masala & Onion Dosa
• Steamed Idli
• Aloo Bonda & Medu Vada
• South Indian Thali
Vibe: Family friendly, affordable
Best For: South Indian with variety of other Indian treats

8. Kerala Kitchen – Home-Style Kerala Flavors

Why It’s Great: Offers South Indian comfort food in a cozy setting.
Must-Try:
• Classic Dosa
• Soft Idli
• Appam & Stew (excellent addition)
• Filter Coffee
Vibe: Casual dine-in, relaxed
Best For: Kerala comfort breakfast and lunch

9. Bombay Brasserie – South Meets Modern Indian

Why It’s Great: A more upscale choice that includes well-executed South Indian dishes on a broader menu.
Must-Try:
• Crispy Dosa Creations
• Idli Sambar Platter
• South Indian Starters
• Masala Chai / Filter Coffee
Vibe: Stylish, perfect for brunch or group meals
Best For: South Indian food in a refined setting

10. Sangeetha Vegetarian Restaurant – Trusted South Indian Classic

Why It’s Great: A trusted vegetarian eatery known for consistently good South Indian breakfast — dosas, idlis and more.
Must-Try:
• Paper & Set Dosa
• Soft Idli
• Vada & Sambar
• Filter Coffee
Vibe: Traditional and no-frills
Best For: Simple, authentic vegetarian breakfasts

How These Restaurants Compare

Best for Traditional Taste:
• Saravanaa Bhavan
• Sangeetha
• Govinda’s

Best for Kerala-Style Flavors:
• Calicut Paragon
• Abu Dhabi Restaurant
• Kerala Kitchen

Best for Creative Dosas:
• Dosa Plaza
• Bombay Brasserie (fusion options)

Best for Budget & Variety:
• Aryaas
• Bikanervala

Best for Healthy & Vegetarian Focus:
• Govinda’s
• Saravanaa Bhavan
• Sangeetha

Tips for Ordering the Best Dosa & Idli Experience in Dubai

Go Early for Breakfast: Many places serve their freshest idli/dosa in morning hours.
Pair Smart: Coconut chutney, hot sambar and filter coffee elevate the meal.
Try Variety Platters: Some restaurants offer mixed dosa platters — a great way to taste multiple flavors.
Ask for Spice Levels: South Indian dishes can be tailored to mild or spicy, especially if you’re not used to local heat.
Explore Add-Ons: Vada, uthappam and curd rice make excellent companions or second plates.

Quick Price Expectations in 2026 (Approx.)

Dosa / Masala Dosa: AED 15–45
Plain Idli / Sambar Idli: AED 12–30
Filter Coffee: AED 8–20
South Indian Thali: AED 30–60

Prices vary by location (mall outlets vs local restaurants), timing and portion size.

Dubai’s South Indian restaurant scene is rich and diverse — from classic vegetarian eateries to creative dosa hubs and regional Kerala spots. Whether you want a quick, affordable breakfast or a relaxed brunch with friends, there’s an excellent dosa and idli place nearby. Exploring these spots gives you a taste of South India’s best while enjoying Dubai’s cosmopolitan food culture.

Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes only. Menu items, prices, locations and operating hours may change. Visitors are advised to check current details before visiting.