Restaurants in Kuwait City

When nothing but a thick juicy steak will do, head to this stunning steakhouse. Widely regarded as one of the best restaurants in Kuwait, the service and setting are both impeccable, but it's the meat that takes centre stage. As well as steaks, expect everything from duck salads to lamb shanks. Note: the dress code is smart casual.

It’s not easy finding authentic Italian cuisine in Kuwait, but this long-standing restaurant, fashioned like a Renaissance period apartment, always delivers. Located in the heart of the Sheraton Kuwait, where it’s been a must-visit since 1979, try the traditional risotto and finish off your meal with a decadent tiramisu.

Sunk into the heart of Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel and Spa, the overly lavish interior of the Salt Restaurant sets out its intent: showy fine dining. Fortunately the food doesn’t disappoint and chefs plate up some of the most decadent seafood in the city as a live pianist tickles the ivories in the background.

Part of the Radisson Blu Hotel, this popular seafood restaurant has the distinction of being located in the hull of a traditional dhow. Don’t worry about getting seasick though – it’s dry, in all senses of the word. Dinner is a fixed menu of impeccably cooked fish or meat, delivered hot off the grill to your table.

If you get fed up of flashy fine-dining restaurants, then this tourist-focused Lebanese eatery can be a breath of fresh air. With exposed brick walls, Moorish tiles and traditional hanging lamps, it can feel like a Disney version of an old-fashioned country house, but the food, in particular the shawarma grills, can feel much more modern.

Nestled inside the Holiday Inn, and split across several rooms, Ayam Zaman serves Lebanese food with true Arabian hospitality. Expect sizzling mixed kebabs, mounds of tabbouleh, bowls of plump olives and plenty of creamy hummus. For something special, try the grilled chicken and pistachio rolls. Ask for a table that overlooks the garden.

If you’re tired of having the same breakfast every day at your hotel, or your hotel doesn’t serve breakfast, try The Breakfast Club. Served here are breakfast dishes from all over the globe; American, British, European and even a traditional Kuwaiti breakfast.

If you’re on a budget, Burj Al-Hamam offers unrivalled sea views without the need for your sharpest threads. Jutting out into the sea from the Corniche, this is a great place to sample delicious Middle Eastern mezze. The desserts are particularly moreish – round off your meal with sweet baklava and a strong cup of coffee.

You’ll see Le Notre a lot on your travels around Kuwait City – they have cafés in the Al Fanar, Marina and 360 malls. Despite the name, it isn’t limited to French cuisine, but serves fresh Mediterranean and Arabic dishes too. Its breakfast buffet is extremely good value, but leave room for its patisserie desserts, whatever the time of day.

Don't be fooled by the humble appearance of the restaurants that line the edge of Souk Al-Mubarakiya, they're among the best cheap eats in the city. Pull up a plastic chair for an authentic Middle Eastern meal of fresh kebabs, green leaves, pickles, hummus and pita picked from the surrounding shops.