Samad Aliraqi specialises in traditional Arabic cuisine and boasts multiple sites across the globe, including Muscat, Kuala Lumpur, Baghdad, London and Dubai. This one finds its home a stone’s throw away from Jumeirah Beach, perfect for refueling after a day of swimming in the sea.
The spacious dining room boasts a huge amount of seating throughout, as well as an outdoor terrace at the front of the restaurant. Sandy-toned brick walls, tiled floors, wooden beams and stunning arches create a traditional but grand aesthetic, while soaring ceilings featuring impressive chandeliers draw the eye upwards.
Samad Aliraqi is open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Plus, there’s a dedicated kid’s menu for families looking for somewhere easy and relaxed to take little ones. The breakfast menu offers an ample array of hot options, from fried halloumi with eggs to omelettes and various breads. While throughout the day, you can choose from a range of hot and cold appetisers, salads, Iraqi dishes and specials. You might choose to start with the likes of stuffed vine leaves, labneh with mint, cheese borak, or Iraqi pastrami. While signature Iraqi mains include chicken tashrib, stuffed lamb and lamb shoulder amongst many and other meat options. It’s also known for its Iraqi grills, kebabs and shawarma dishes, along with a selection of fish and seafood cooked according to an ancient Iraqi method. To finish, choose from a selection of sweets, which includes numerous twists on ‘kubba’ (rice and potato balls).
On the drinks front, take your pick from a selection of fruity cocktails, from date and almond to mango, strawberry and guava. There is also a range of juices, teas, coffees and soft drinks to suit grown-ups and children alike.