12 keto and paleo-friendly UAE restaurants
by Elloww Team
The UAE has embraced the healthy eating trend with open arms, especially when it comes to keto and paleo diets. Over the last three years, searches for “ketogenic” have surged by more than 1,000% in the UAE, according to a survey conducted by SEMrush. While interest in the paleo diet has slightly declined, dropping by 19% in the same period, it remains a favorite for those seeking a clean, unprocessed way of eating.
But what’s driving this trend? The rise of health-conscious living, combined with the UAE's vibrant dining scene, has created the perfect environment for innovative, diet-friendly meals. From grab-and-go snacks to gourmet dishes, keto and paleo enthusiasts have plenty of options to explore.
Let’s dive into the basics of these diets before uncovering the best spots in the UAE to satisfy your cravings.
What Are the Keto and Paleo Diets?
The ketogenic diet is a low-carb, high-fat approach designed to shift your body into ketosis, a state where it burns fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. Staples of the keto diet include healthy fats (avocado, olive oil, nuts), moderate protein (chicken, eggs, fish), and minimal carbs (leafy greens, cauliflower, zucchini).
In contrast, the paleo diet emphasizes eating like our ancestors, focusing on whole, unprocessed foods. It excludes grains, dairy, refined sugar, and legumes, advocating a mix of meats, fish, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds. While keto prioritizes macronutrient ratios, paleo is more about the quality and origin of the food.
Both diets share common ground but cater to slightly different goals—keto is often aimed at weight loss and energy optimization, while paleo is rooted in clean eating and overall wellness.
Why the UAE Loves Keto and Paleo
The UAE’s diverse population and health-conscious culture have made these diets more popular than ever. With busy lifestyles and a growing awareness of fitness, people are seeking meals that align with their health goals without sacrificing taste. Restaurants and meal delivery services have stepped up to the challenge, offering creative and delicious options for keto and paleo followers.
Here’s a curated list of 12 standout restaurants in the UAE that cater to these diets.
1. Basiligo (Reem Island, Abu Dhabi)
Perfect For: Meal plans and keto-friendly snacks.
Why You’ll Love It: Basiligo is a top choice for those on keto or paleo, offering customizable meal plans that are as delicious as they are healthy. Highlights include Keto Breakfast Cheeseburgers, Beef and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms, and Seared White Fish with Walnut Brussels Sprout Salad. Their Cheddar Cheese Crisps make the perfect snack to keep you going throughout the day.
2. Wild & The Moon (Dubai)
Perfect For: Organic, plant-based paleo options.
Why You’ll Love It: This café takes clean eating seriously. Their menu features cold-pressed juices, grain-free salads, and paleo-friendly desserts like raw cacao treats. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it a great spot to catch up with friends over a healthy meal.
3. The Acai Spot (Multiple Locations)
Perfect For: Paleo-friendly acai bowls.
Why You’ll Love It: Acai bowls are a go-to for paleo enthusiasts, and The Acai Spot lets you customize yours with paleo-approved toppings like nuts, seeds, and fresh fruits. Opt for their no-added-sugar options to stay on track.
4. Kcal (Dubai & Abu Dhabi)
Perfect For: Keto meal delivery.
Why You’ll Love It: Kcal takes the guesswork out of eating keto. Their menu includes dishes like Zoodles with Chicken Alfredo and Cauliflower-Crust Pizza, proving that low-carb doesn’t have to mean boring. They also offer meal plans tailored to your dietary needs.
5. Café Bateel (Multiple Locations)
Perfect For: Mediterranean-inspired paleo dishes.
Why You’ll Love It: Café Bateel is known for its fresh, high-quality ingredients. Paleo diners will appreciate their grilled meats and vibrant salads, while keto followers can indulge in dishes featuring healthy fats like olive oil and avocado.
6. Freedom Pizza (Dubai & Abu Dhabi)
Perfect For: Keto-friendly pizzas.
Why You’ll Love It: Freedom Pizza proves you can enjoy pizza on a low-carb diet. Their cauliflower crust is a game-changer, offering all the flavor with none of the guilt. Customize your toppings to create the ultimate keto treat.
7. Nolu’s (Abu Dhabi)
Perfect For: Fusion flavors with paleo and keto twists.
Why You’ll Love It: Combining Afghan flavors with modern culinary techniques, Nolu’s offers hearty, wholesome meals. Try their grilled meats and veggie-rich sides for a satisfying paleo meal, or opt for their low-carb options to fit your keto goals.
8. Comptoir 102 (Dubai)
Perfect For: Paleo breakfasts and grain-free treats.
Why You’ll Love It: This charming café specializes in organic, locally sourced dishes. Their grain-free pancakes and nourishing bowls are a hit among paleo eaters. Plus, the café’s boutique offers a selection of wellness products to complement your lifestyle.
9. Circle Café (Dubai)
Perfect For: Customizable paleo and keto meals.
Why You’ll Love It: Circle Café makes it easy to stick to your diet with customizable options. Their avocado toast on low-carb bread and nutrient-packed salads are both healthy and satisfying.
10. Eat Well Restaurant (Dubai Healthcare City)
Perfect For: Health-focused dining.
Why You’ll Love It: As part of the Dubai Herbal and Treatment Centre, Eat Well Restaurant offers a menu designed by nutritionists. Keto-friendly dishes like grilled salmon with cauliflower rice and paleo-inspired sides like roasted veggies are standouts.
11. Soul Santé (Dubai)
Perfect For: Keto and paleo desserts.
Why You’ll Love It: Known for their guilt-free treats, Soul Santé serves protein-packed dishes and innovative desserts like keto donuts and avocado-based mousse. Their creative menu proves that healthy eating can still be indulgent.
12. Flow (Dubai)
Perfect For: Sustainable and wholesome meals.
Why You’ll Love It: Flow emphasizes fresh, organic ingredients. Paleo diners can enjoy hearty grain-free bowls, while keto followers will love their low-carb salads and protein-rich dishes.
Tips for Dining Out on Keto and Paleo
- Plan Ahead: Check the menu online to identify keto or paleo-friendly options.
- Customize Your Order: Don’t hesitate to ask for substitutions—many restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary needs.
- Mind Hidden Ingredients: Watch out for added sugars, sauces, or breading that may sneak into your meal.
Moderation Is Key
While keto and paleo diets offer plenty of health benefits, it’s important not to take them to extremes. Balance is essential—incorporating occasional treats or experimenting with your favorite comfort foods in moderation can help you maintain a sustainable lifestyle.
Ready to Explore?
With these 12 incredible restaurants, staying keto or paleo in the UAE has never been easier. Have a favorite spot that didn’t make the list? Share your recommendations in the comments! And don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more tips, trends, and guides to healthy living.
