Andaliman, located in Dubai, offers a unique introduction to Indonesian cuisine with stunning views and a diverse menu that highlights traditional flavors and techniques.
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Jul 17, 2026 ALN: Can Andaliman convince you to fall in love with Indonesian food? We think so. Not every restaurant introduces you to a cuisine you don’t come across every day. Andaliman, now at The Link, One Za’abeel, does exactly that. Set 100 metres above the city with one of Dubai’s stunning views, the restaurant serves a menu inspired by Indonesia’s diverse culinary heritage, where citrusy Andaliman pepper, fragrant spices, and traditional cooking techniques are at the heart of every dish. Whether you’re already familiar with Indonesian food or trying it for the first time, it’s one to have on your list.
Set 100 metres above the city, Andaliman comes with one of Dubai’s best views, with floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over the skyline and Burj Khalifa. The interiors feel warm and inviting, with natural textures, earthy tones, and subtle Indonesian touches creating a setting that feels effortlessly laid-back yet elevated. As soon as we sat down, we were welcomed with a refreshing shot of pure coconut water – a thoughtful touch that immediately set the tone for the experience.
The ambiance is designed to reflect the essence of Indonesia while also appealing to the cosmopolitan tastes of Dubai’s residents and visitors. The use of wooden elements, traditional artifacts, and soft lighting creates a cozy yet sophisticated environment, making it suitable for both casual dining and special occasions. This unique blend of cultural elements not only enhances the dining experience but also serves as a conversation starter, inviting guests to explore the rich heritage of Indonesian cuisine.
Before the starters arrived, we were introduced to one of Indonesia’s staples: a colourful tray of Sambals. Each one brought something different, from smoky and rich to citrusy and fiery, encouraging plenty of dipping, mixing, and discovering throughout the meal. This assortment of sambals serves as a perfect introduction to the bold flavors that characterize Indonesian cuisine, showcasing the importance of condiments in enhancing the overall dining experience.
The Asinan Pindang was a brilliant way to start. Fresh organic sea bream was paired with chayote, passion fruit gel, and fragrant Andaliman oil, creating a dish that was bright, refreshing, and beautifully balanced. This dish highlights the use of fresh ingredients, which are a hallmark of Indonesian cooking, and reflects the country’s coastal heritage. We also loved the satays. The Sate Lilit, made with minced shrimp and fish wrapped around a lemongrass stick, was unlike any satay we’d tried before, while the classic Sate Ayam arrived smoky from the grill with a rich peanut sauce that was impossible to stop dipping into. These dishes not only showcase the variety of flavors but also the innovative techniques used by the chefs at Andaliman.
For mains, the Nasi Goreng Seafood delivered everything you’d hope for from Indonesia’s beloved fried rice. Packed with king prawns, baby squid, fish balls, and topped with fried omelette, it was comforting and full of flavour. This dish is often considered a national treasure in Indonesia, with each region having its own unique spin on the classic recipe. The Kota Jakarta Beef Char Kway Teow was another standout, with smoky wok-fried flat rice noodles, tender sliced beef, crunchy bean sprouts, and just enough chilli to give it a gentle kick. The balance of textures and flavors in this dish exemplifies the skill of the chefs in creating a harmonious dining experience.
Dessert was every bit as memorable. The Dadar Gulung, soft pandan pancakes filled with coconut and palm sugar, came with pandan coconut ice cream and was easily our favourite of the three. This dessert not only offers a sweet ending but also showcases the use of pandan, a plant widely used in Southeast Asian cuisine for its unique flavor and vibrant color. The Sarang Semut, an oven-baked caramel cake with salted toffee sauce, was rich without feeling too heavy, while the Es Teler Campur – a country-style coconut sundae with jackfruit, avocado, sago pearls, and roasted peanuts – was refreshing, creamy, and a great way to round off the meal. These desserts reflect the diversity of Indonesian sweets, which often combine tropical fruits and rich flavors to create delightful endings to meals.
To drink, we kept things simple with fresh watermelon juice, which was incredibly refreshing alongside the food, although the tropical-inspired cocktail and mocktail list looked equally tempting. The drink offerings at Andaliman are carefully curated to complement the flavors of the food, providing guests with options that enhance their overall dining experience.
The calm, welcoming energy from the team makes the experience even better. Service is attentive, and the staff know the menu inside out, happily talking you through the dishes and helping you navigate the flavours if it’s your first time trying Indonesian food. This level of service is crucial in a restaurant that aims to introduce diners to a less familiar cuisine, as it can help alleviate any apprehensions about trying new flavors and dishes.
Moreover, the staff's enthusiasm for Indonesian cuisine is palpable, and they are eager to share their knowledge about the ingredients and cooking methods used in each dish. This not only enhances the dining experience but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the culinary traditions of Indonesia.
For two people sharing two starters, two mains, two desserts, and drinks, expect the bill to come to around Dhs500. This price point reflects the quality of ingredients, the skill of the chefs, and the overall dining experience, which combines stunning views, exceptional service, and a unique culinary journey.
What stood out most was how fresh everything was. Every dish was so colourful and packed with flavour, hearty enough to satisfy yet light enough to leave room for dessert. Add the views high above the city, the relaxed atmosphere, and genuinely warm service, and Andaliman is somewhere we’ll happily return to for sunset drinks, a business lunch, or dinner. The blend of a breathtaking setting with authentic Indonesian cuisine creates a compelling reason to visit, whether you are a local resident or a tourist exploring Dubai.
Where: Level 24, The Link, One Za’abeel
When: Daily, 12pm to 11pm
Contact: (04) 666 1617 or email andalimandubai.com
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