It’s Diwali, and the homesickness is real and hitting harder than the sugar rush from a box of kaju katli.  Maybe you’re missing the neighbourhood aunties hosting taash parties that went on till 2 a.m., the hunt for that one perfect diya, or even the Diwali-deep clean that was sure to pull up treasures from your middle school 1 Direction phase, it all hits differently when you’re away.

But above all, it’s the food. It’s the sweets your mother starts preparing weeks in advance, or the pakoray your aunt sends in. Diwali, like every good desi festival, is all about the snacks, sweets, and the people you share them with. So if you’re craving a little Dilli wali Diwali energy (or just the taste of your mum’s homemade gulab jamun), we’ve got you covered.

We’ve rounded up the best spots in town to eat, celebrate, and maybe even find that spark again, this festival of lights.

Jamavar

A tried-and-true fave, Jamavar is the spot if you’re looking to live your royal-core fantasy this Diwali. The Awadhi palace vibes, dishes fit for a maharani, and a four-course menu inspired by luxe Indo-Persian flavours, all served on plates accented with 24-carat gold (yeah, luxe) scream perfection. Don’t even think about skipping their carrot gajrela with mascarpone; it’s creamy, dreamy, and basically dessert royalty.

Where: Jamavar, Address Residences Opera District, Burj Khalifa, Dubai.

When: Available 16th to 26th October, 2025.

Sevilla

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If you’re craving that cosy, home-style potluck energy this Diwali, Sevilla’s got you covered. Guests are greeted with a gorgeous rangoli and fresh flowers before diving into the good stuff, everything from creamy, crowd-favourite butter chicken and coastal Malabar flavours that taste like home. And don’t miss the chaat station that will definitely take you back to those post-dinner pani puri runs with your cousins.

Where: Sevilla Restaurant, Al Raha Beach Resort & Spa, Abu Dhabi.

When: Available 20th October 2025, 7 pm onwards.

Culinara:

Craving something a little different this Diwali? Culinara is bringing the best of both worlds straight to your table with an Indian-meets-Lebanese mash-up that’s as unexpected as it is delicious. Picture this: tabbouleh with mango bursts and hummus served with masala papad, And to top it off, Project Chaiwala is popping up till the 26th with all your street-food faves and, obviously, their signature karak. Because what’s a feast without a little chai-fueled chaos?

Where: CULINARA, 24th Floor at The Link, One Za’abeel, Dubai.

When: Available 17th to 26th October 2025.

Punjab Grill

A reliable classic, Punjab Grill brings the pind to you when you can’t make it home. Whether you’re a regular or a first-timer, you honestly can’t go wrong, everything’s a hit. Star dishes? The Deconstructed Pani Puri Sphere (fancy but fun) and the Nalli Nihari topped with Saffron Air. It’s giving luxury dhaba energy, and we’re here for it.

Where: Anantara Downtown, Lobby Level, Marasi Drive, Business Bay, Dubai.

When: Available 19th October to 3rd November, 2025.

Rohini

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Yes, buffets are fun. But let’s be real, half the time you fill up on appetizers before the mains even hit the table. Rohini gets it, which is why their Diwali set menu is festive indulgence, but done right. 

You can choose between a vegetarian or non-vegetarian spread. Start off with creamy Dahi Vada and rich Dal Makhani for the veg side, or Kashmiri Rogan Josh and juicy Seekh Kebabs for the non-veg crew. And of course, like all best things, it ends on a sweet note with homemade Rice Kheer and Malai Motichur.

Where: Rohini, Mövenpick Jumeirah Lakes Towers.

When: Available 19th to 21st October 2025.

With dinner sorted, you cannot possibly arrive empty handed, get inspired by our Diwali gift guide for every type of dinner guest.