Here are our favourites, but otherwise steer away from the hotels and pick a neighbourhood café or restaurant and simply select a la carte.
Comptoir 102
This villa converted into a chic café (and lifestyle store) on Jumeirah Beach Road serves one healthy three-course meal a day for Dhs93 and uses local, organic produce.
The Farm
Escape to this heavenly retreat amid Al Barari’s lush nurseries and multi-million dollar mansions off the 311. Order from an international and Thai a la carte iPad menu.
Rivington Grill
If you’re after al fresco with a view then the Riv at either the original Souk Al Bahar or Madinat Jumeirah locations hits the spot. Choose from the a la carte menu of British classics, and a roast is included on Saturdays.
Thai Chi
Located at Wafi Pyramids, this Dubai institution serves both Thai and Chinese food. A buffet lunch deal runs seven days a week, priced at Dhs119 with soft drinks, tea and coffee.