Review: Dip Dash – The Award-Winning Vegan Haven In Dubai That Has Everyone Talking!

Those who know, know! But for the uninitiated, Dip Dash is an award-winning family restaurant tucked away in the lively streets of Al Barsha in Dubai? Founded 2 years ago, this place is quickly becoming a haven for those in search of creative, plant-based and vegetarian dishes as Dip Dash masterfully combines taste, health, and quality. With a brand-new menu of 17 innovative dishes, this hidden gem caters to Jain, vegan, and vegetarian foodies and guilt-free diners alike.

First Impressions

Visiting Dip Dash on a busy mid-week evening, we were delighted to find the rare convenience of free parking — a real luxury in the heart of Al Barsha. Upon entering, we were greeted with a smile by Dhwani Maheshwari, co-founder, tastemaker and creative director at Dip Dash, whose passion for plant-based dining is evident in every aspect of the restaurant. Coming from a traditional Jain family, Dhwani is a devoted vegetarian with a clear mission: to craft exciting, flavor-packed vegan dishes that rival any non-vegetarian fare.

As Dhwani explained, "When I came to Dubai, I saw a gap in the market for healthy, guilt-free vegetarian food that wasn't just traditional. I wanted to create an experience where vegans could enjoy the same rich flavors as non-vegetarians, with a focus on Asian cuisine—which is diverse, healthy, and flavorful. Our food has no preservatives, no artificial colours and everything is made in-house."

The Menu: A Plant-Based Culinary Adventure

With dishes made fresh on-site and without preservatives, Dip Dash delivers hearty portions without the heavy feeling inside you. Rated among Top 10 restaurants worldwide and Top 10 Fusion Restaurants in Dubai by TripAdvisor in 2023, Dip Dash is especially famous for its globally celebrated bao buns. Needless to say, we dived in.

Honestly, there is a platter to choose from and though we wished to sample much more, we are only but human. So we went for the recommended ones.

First up were the Wow Bao Bun. If you are looking for some adventure for your palate, the Wow Bao lived up to its name. Soft, fluffy bao buns stuffed with grilled artichokes and paired with a tangy Asian dip made for a delightful starter. The garlic chips added a satisfying crunch, while the water spinach provided a burst of freshness. This dish had layers of textures and flavors, and it's easy to see why the bao is hailed as the best in the world.

Poached Dumplings were the next. Recommended by Dhwani herself, these poached dumplings were a revelation. Swimming in a rich soy broth, the delicate wrappers encased a fragrant mix of zucchini, coriander, and crunchy water chestnuts. From my personal experience, patience is needed for the dumplings to cool down a bit. Worth the wait to have the dumplings in it entirety for the flavours to burst in your mouth. Try these with the fragrant chilli oil sauces on the side. The lightness from the dumplings and the heaviness from the chilli are the best combination that you will savour in the moment.

Next, there was a tussle between two choices for sushi but we went by Bikram's (the staff) recommendation for the Crispy Cad Sushi. The crispy exterior of the sushi is contrasted beautifully with the tangy pickled carrots and cucumbers inside. There is also a drizzle of tangy sauce tied everything together, creating an irresistible balance of flavors. This is a must-try for anyone looking for a plant-based twist on traditional sushi. But I would definitely recommend trying more from the options that have ingredients not seen otherwise.

Next recommendation was the Malaysian Bamboo Curry. This newly added dish takes inspiration from the traditional laksa but the flavors are a medley around your mouth and totally addictive. Rich, creamy, and coconut-infused, the curry is loaded with vibrant vegetables that soak up the fragrant broth. Served with a generous helping of rice, this comforting dish strikes the perfect balance of spice and creaminess.

To end things on a sweet note, we went for the So Much Fudge. Living up to its name — a decadent chocolate cake smothered in dark chocolate ganache and sweetened with coconut sugar. Topped with roasted nuts, each bite was rich, gooey, and utterly satisfying. It was the perfect way to end an extraordinary meal, leaving us both satisfied and guilt-free.

Beyond the Plate

Dip Dash also offers a selection of homemade sauces, all free from preservatives and made with locally sourced ingredients. These versatile dips are perfect to take home and elevate your own meals. From spicy to tangy, each sauce reflects the same quality and thoughtfulness that goes into every dish served at Dip Dash. The restaurant's beverage offerings also complement the meal beautifully, with highlights like the bold Vietnamese Coffee and the tropical Coconut Skyline Mocktail.

Final Thoughts

Dhwani's commitment to healthy, flavorful, and guilt-free dining shines through in every dish, from the vibrant appetizers like the Poached Dumplings to the indulgent So Much Fudge. Whether you're a die-hard vegan, a curious foodie, or just someone looking for a satisfying meal that won't weigh you down, Dip Dash is a must-visit.

In a city bursting with dining options, Dip Dash stands out as a sanctuary for those who believe that eating healthy doesn't mean sacrificing flavor. So, next time you're in Dubai, make sure to carve out time for this hidden gem in Al Barsha—your taste buds will thank you.

Added bonus: It's pet-friendly! You don't have to worry about leaving your furry friends at home. Whether you're out for a casual bite or a leisurely meal, Dip Dash offers a welcoming atmosphere for both you and your pets, making it the perfect spot for a fun outing with your darlings.