Orfali Bros Bistro: A Culinary Love Letter to Syria in the Heart of Dubai
If you’re seeking an unforgettable dining experience in Dubai, look no further than Orfali Bros Bistro. This culinary gem is not just a restaurant—it’s an exploration of culture, memory, and creativity. Founded by three visionary Syrian brothers, this bistro is a place where tradition dances with innovation on every plate.
A Culinary Journey Rooted in Heritage
Orfali Bros Bistro was founded in 2021 by Mohamad, Wassim, and Omar Orfali—three brothers from Aleppo who have made it their mission to reshape Middle Eastern cuisine. Their culinary journey, deeply rooted in Syrian traditions, is infused with contemporary techniques and global inspirations. From the start, their vision has been to create food that tells stories—of childhood, of diaspora, of flavor, of home.
What sets the bistro apart is how it reimagines comfort food through a global lens. Every dish is created to evoke emotion—nostalgia for those familiar with the Levant, and discovery for those tasting it for the first time. The result? A dining experience that is simultaneously heartwarming and thrilling.
The Space: Warmth, Personality, and Style
The ambiance of Orfali Bros Bistro is inviting, energetic, and filled with personality. Nestled in the chic Wasl 51 area of Dubai, the interior combines modern aesthetics with Middle Eastern accents—wood textures, handcrafted tiles, warm lighting, and an open kitchen that brings the action right to the guest.
You’ll immediately feel like you’re part of something personal here—like stepping into someone’s home, where every detail has a purpose, and every corner has a story. The casual yet polished atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between fine dining and comfort.
A Menu That Defies Expectations
At the heart of the bistro is a menu that refuses to be boxed in by tradition alone. The dishes are clever, bold, and inspired by a lifetime of exploration. Mohamad Orfali, the head chef and a culinary star in the Arab world, has worked tirelessly to bring flavors from Syria and beyond into one coherent, delicious narrative.
Signature Dishes You Shouldn’t Miss
1. Aleppo Kebab Tartare
A playful reinterpretation of a beloved classic, this raw lamb tartare is rich, spicy, and perfectly balanced. It’s topped with Aleppine spices and served with flatbread crisps. The first bite instantly transports you to the bustling streets of Aleppo.
2. Shish Barak Gyoza
This brilliant fusion of Syrian dumplings and Japanese gyoza is filled with lamb, pine nuts, and onion, served in a creamy yogurt-based sauce. It’s sour, savory, crunchy, and soft—all at once.
3. Umami Eclair
An unexpected delight—this savory choux pastry is filled with a miso cream and topped with sun-dried tomato paste. It’s light but packed with depth and umami.
4. Fattoush Salad with Sumac Dressing
Bright, tangy, and textural, this salad reimagines the familiar in fresh ways. The crisp pita chips and the zing of sumac offer a lively contrast to the rich main dishes.
5. Mushroom Kibbeh
Traditional Syrian kibbeh goes vegetarian here with earthy mushrooms, bulgur, and warm spices. It’s fried to a golden crunch outside and silky inside—a comforting favorite with a twist.
6. Cherry Kebab
Inspired by a historic Damascene recipe, these juicy meatballs are served in a sour cherry sauce that’s sweet, tart, and intense. A perfect dish for those who love bold contrasts.
A Visual Feast
The food at Orfali Bros Bistro isn’t just delicious—it’s stunning. Every plate is a work of art, carefully composed to reflect the Orfali brothers’ belief that food should excite all the senses. Expect brilliant colors, elegant plating, and imaginative use of textures.
Dessert: Sweet Nostalgia
Don’t leave without trying dessert. The Orfali brothers bring their pastry expertise to the table with creations that are as emotionally resonant as they are refined.
Basbousa Cheesecake brings together Levantine semolina cake and velvety cheesecake. The drizzle of rose syrup and sprinkle of pistachios will melt your heart.
Mouhalabia Millefeuille, a fusion of traditional milk pudding and French pastry, is light, fragrant, and utterly satisfying.
Service with Soul
Another reason Orfali Bros Bistro stands out is the service. It’s warm, attentive, and knowledgeable—every server can share the story behind a dish, its ingredients, and the Orfali philosophy. They’re passionate about the food they serve, and that passion is contagious.
Behind the Bistro: The Orfali Brothers
Mohamad Orfali, the face of the restaurant, is a celebrated chef and TV personality known for his educational cooking shows. But he’s also a teacher, a writer, and a food thinker. His brothers Wassim and Omar specialize in pastry and kitchen execution, making the trio a perfect culinary storm.
Together, they’ve taken their Syrian upbringing and channeled it into a restaurant that defies categorization. Their story is one of resilience, creativity, and love—a love for their homeland, for food, and for each other.
Why It’s a Must-Visit in Dubai
In a city brimming with culinary experiences, Orfali Bros Bistro is a standout for many reasons:
- Authenticity meets creativity: Syrian roots are honored but never limited by tradition.
- Seasonal innovation: The menu evolves constantly to showcase new ideas and ingredients.
- Global appeal: While proudly Middle Eastern, the food speaks a universal language of flavor.
- Atmosphere: A space that makes you feel welcomed, curious, and cared for.
- Storytelling: Every dish carries meaning—and that makes the meal unforgettable.
Planning Your Visit
Address: Wasl 51, Al Wasl Road, Dubai, UAE
Reservations: Strongly recommended—this bistro is in high demand.
Operating Hours: 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM daily
Dress Code: Smart casual
Price Range: Moderate to upscale (~AED 200–400 per person)
Final Thoughts
Orfali Bros Bistro is more than just a meal—it’s a journey. From Aleppo to Dubai, the Orfali brothers have carved out a space where the past and present merge beautifully. It’s a love letter to food, memory, and identity, written with creativity and care.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just someone looking for something real in the heart of Dubai, this bistro is a must-visit. It will challenge your taste buds, warm your heart, and leave you talking about the meal for days.
Next time you’re in Dubai, do yourself a favor—book a table, bring your curiosity, and get ready to be wowed.
