For food lovers in Dubai, few things rival the indulgence of a well‑crafted seafood platter. Whether you’re craving charred prawns fresh off the grill or tender baked fish fillets layered with flavour, the right choice can elevate your entire dining experience. In this blog, we’ll deep‑dive into seafood platter Dubai options—comparing grilled vs. baked platters, when to choose each, and how to get the most out of your sharing feast.
What Makes a Great Seafood Platter in Dubai?
Dubai’s seafood scene is rich with variety and creative flair. From towering shared platters at high‑end restaurants to laid‑back beachfront grill houses, you’ll find everything from raw oysters to whole baked fish.
Here’s what sets a great platter apart:
- Freshness – Catch of the day, good sourcing
- Variety – A mix of shellfish, fish fillets, crustaceans
- Cooking style – Grilled vs baked (we’ll unpack both)
- Presentation – Height, colour, garnishes that make the dish pop
By understanding these, you’ll be better equipped to choose the right platter for the moment.
Grilled Seafood Platter: Bold Flavour & Charred Appeal
When you’re after smokiness, strong flavour and a meal with attitude, a grilled seafood platter is your pick. Think succulent tiger prawns with char‑marks, whole grilled fish with crisp skin, calamari rings, maybe even lobster tails grilled over flame.
Why choose grilled?
- The open‑flame or charcoal method adds smoky, savoury depth.
- Textural contrast: crisp exterior, juicy interior.
- Works beautifully with simple sides (grilled veggies, lemon wedges) and lighter sauces.
In Dubai’s seafood restaurants, many highlight grilled options as signature dishes.
Best occasions for grilled
- Dinner nights when you want bold flavours
- Sharing with friends and chatting over a lively meal
- Pairing with robust wine or a full‑flavour drink
Pro tip:
When ordering, ask for a “mixed grilled seafood platter” and check whether fish fillets and shellfish are part of the mix—sometimes you’ll get mainly prawns or only fish.
Baked Seafood Platter: Gentle Heat & Layered Flavours
If your mood leans toward gentle cooking, layered seasoning and comfort, then a baked seafood platter is the way to go. Baked seafood might include fillets of sea bass or grouper served in a herb‑butter or tomato sauce, shellfish baked in shells with garlic and breadcrumbs, or a whole fish baked with Mediterranean herbs.
Why choose baked?
- More subtle flavour profile, lets the seafood shine
- Often less smoky, easier on lighter palates
- Ideal for groups with varying tastes (some may prefer mild)
Articles on Dubai’s seafood platters mention hot or baked options as a fantastic alternative for those who don’t favour grilling.
Best occasions for baked
- Lunch or dinner when you want refined flavours
- Family gatherings where some diners prefer milder taste
- Pairing with crisp white wine or gentle cocktails
Pro tip:
Ask what the baking style is—does it come with breadcrumb topping, herb crust, or sauce? Choose based on your flavour preference (garlic‑butter vs tomato vs citrus‑herb).
Mixed Seafood Platter: Best of Both Worlds
Why choose when you can mix? A mixed seafood platter combines grilled and baked elements—and sometimes raw or chilled components too. This style gives you diverse textures and flavours in one shared dish.
What to look for:
- A mix of prawns, fish fillets, shellfish (mussels, clams)
- Both grilled items (for char) and baked items (for gentle flavour)
- Balanced sides that complement all elements (rice, salad, seasonal vegetables)
Dubai’s seafood platter listings highlight this variation: “hot seafood platter including salmon, tiger prawns, scallops, mussels… perfect for sharing.”
When to choose mixed:
- Celebrations or large groups when you want something for everyone
- If you’re unsure whether grilled or baked is the best fit
- When you want visual impact and food conversation
Pro tip:
Confirm portion size and sides. Mixed platters can be large, and good restaurants will allow customization or side swaps.
How to Choose the Right Platter for Your Mood
Here’s a quick decision‑guide for selecting your seafood platter in Dubai:
| Your goal | Choose | Why |
| Want bold, smoky, char‑flavoured | Grilled seafood platter | Strong flavour, crisp textures |
| Prefer gentle, subtle cooking | Baked seafood platter | Elegant, mild, lets seafood shine |
| Want variety, sharing, visual wow | Mixed seafood platter | Combines best features of both |
Other tips to ask when ordering:
- “Can I pick which fish or shellfish go on the platter?”
- “Any sauce or cooking style you recommend?”
- “What sides come, and can I swap them for salad/veggies?”
- “Is the seafood local or imported today?”
As one Dubai‑based article notes: “Many restaurants offer customised platters based on preference, group size and dietary restrictions.” With that in mind, you’ll be more confident in choosing.
Top Spots in Dubai to Try an Outstanding Seafood Platter
When you’re ready to dig in, Dubai offers plenty of top venues for seafood platters. For example:
- The MAINE Oyster Bar & Grill in JBR features seafood towers and fresh grilled items.
- Ibn AlBahr at Club Vista Mare is noted for excellent seafood and grilled options with a view.
- For raw + hot platter options plus customisation, some sources highlight bespoke restaurants in Dubai where you can build your own platter.
When you visit, mention you’re interested in a “seafood platter – preference grilled or baked” and your server will guide you toward the best match.
Conclusion
Exploring seafood platters in Dubai is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of fresh flavors, expert cooking, and shared indulgence. Whether you’re drawn to the smoky appeal of a grilled seafood platter or the delicate charm of a baked one, choosing the right style elevates every bite.
For an unforgettable seafood experience, visit Villamoura—Dubai’s viral dining destination on Sheikh Zayed Road. Our chefs craft exceptional seafood platters using the freshest ingredients, perfect for sharing in a lush, floral-themed setting designed for both comfort and Instagram moments.
Book your table now by calling +971 4 557 1256 or emailing reservations@villamoura.ae. We’re located on the Ground Floor, Sofitel Dubai Downtown, Sheikh Zayed Road, Downtown Dubai—your next seafood feast awaits.
FAQs
Q: What is typically included in a seafood platter in Dubai?
A: Varieties of prawns, shellfish (mussels, clams), fish fillets or whole fish, sometimes lobsters—either grilled or baked.
Q: Is a grilled platter healthier than a baked one?
A: It depends — grilling adds flavour without heavy sauce, but baked may use less char and allow lighter preparation. Choose based on sides and sauce.
Q: Can I customise a seafood platter based on my preferences?
A: Yes. Many restaurants in Dubai allow choices of fish/shellfish, cooking method (grill or bake), and even sides.
Q: What sides pair best with seafood platters?
A: Grilled veggies, simple salads, steamed rice or potatoes are good. Avoid heavy cream‑based sides to let the seafood shine.
