Secret eats

1 Fish shawarma: Whenever we begin extolling the virtues of fish shawarma, someone will inevitably twist their features into an epic show of disgust and exclaim: ‘Fish shawarma?!’, followed by an emphatic ‘eeeuuuwww’. We ignore these cretins, because we’re enlightened: this dish at Al Shera’s Fisheries Centre, hidden down an alleyway beside Toys R Us in Deira (opposite Al Muraqqabat Street, near Aroos Damascus) is even better than the chicken version. Fresh hammour and garlic sauce is packed into a wrap more closely resembling a crisp pancake. Delicious.
(04 227 1803) Dhs8, only served after 6pm

2 Deep-fried Mars bars: At Mirdif Fish & Chips, a cholesterol overdose is yours for just Dhs5.
Street 15, off Algeria Street, Mirdif (04 288 1812)

3 Marzano pizza: We were sceptical when a friend told us Marzano does the best pizza in town, but one blissful visit later and we admit they may be right. Tucked into the back of Al Manzil Souk, the lesser-known (and thus empty) brother to Souk Al Bahar, this warm Italian restaurant serves up the thinnest, crispiest pizza bases we’ve ever had – anywhere. Toppings take in staples such as buffalo mozzarella and basil, as well as more inventive lobster and asparagus. Best of all? The ingredients are fresher than a freshly showered Will Smith circa 1990-96.
Al Manzil Souk, behind Al Manzil Hotel, opposite The Palace Hotel, Old Town (04 420 1136)

4 Buhaiwan Chinese: For Chinese food unlike any other, head to this obscure little spot where the proprietors are Uyghur – a Turk ethnic group that has primarily settled in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (western China, bordering Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan). As a result, the cuisine consists of strange mixtures involving kebab meat, potatoes, seaweed and lots and lots of chilli. We’re big fans of this strange, hearty fare, but be warned – it will set your tongue a-tingling. A huge meal for four will set you back about Dhs25 per person.
International City, China, C-07 (04 422 7595)

5 The Madras Vegetarian Restaurant: On Fridays between 11am and 3.30pm, the friendly staff at this Satwa spot serve thali on giant banana leaves. An endless supply of curries, dips, popadoms and rice can be yours for the princely sum of Dhs10.
Opposite Al Hanaa Centre on Mankhool Road, near Satwa roundabout (04 358 1124)

6 Bollywood Café: Open daily until 3am, go for the live entertainment: Bollywood lookalikes sing as you take your supper.
Regent Palace Hotel, Bur Dubai, opposite BurJuman (04 396 3888)

7 Zen Restaurant’s al-fresco deck: We’ve found the most romantic (and reasonable) date spot in town. Head to Zen Restaurant in Za’abeel Park and request a table on the deck overlooking the lake – you’ll probably be the only couple there. Staff tend to adjust the lighting accordingly. Order some of the tasty Thai and Chinese food and accept the compliment when your companion marvels at your secret city knowledge.
Gate 6, Za’abeel Park (04 321 7170)

8 Aroma Garden Caffé: You’ll need to tackle an assault course of construction to get to the entrance, but this quirky spot on Oud Metha Road is worth the battle. The massive interior is overgrown with creepers and foliage; fog billows from plant pots and water fountains made from glowing globes are set into the tables. A thin cloud of shisha smoke hangs permanently in the air, making for a fragrant place to dine, and the big menu of kebabs, pasta and pizza has something for everyone. Plus, it’s open until 2am every day. We love the long list of coffees and mocktails – cherry latte, anyone?
Oud Metha Road, beside Dubai TV (04 336 8999)