Upon arrival at Dubai International Airport, we immediately started our UAE escapade by going to Dubai Creek and later on having our first meal (breakfast) at a tiny Paratha store near NMC Medical Centre where my sister and her friend had their medical. They need to get their medical results and they brought us there because they wanted us to try their favorite Paratha and Chai Karak. They’ve been talking about it even before we flew here so, here we are.

We’re also a bit confused on how to spell paratha since we saw various spellings from different establishments. Some spelled it as Porota and Paratha. 😅 Anyway, for the purpose of this blog, I will just use Paratha.

An inexpensive yet authentic way to experience Indian cuisine at Salem Khamis Coffee Shop in Dubai.

Salem Khamis Coffee Shop is a small cafe located near the entrance of a small building so, don’t expect too much from the place but you can expect that the quality of their food is good. They only have one small table inside and a few chairs. There were 8 of us and they were able to give us chairs. We just used another chair for the food since the table is inside the store and the place is a bit cramped. Where did we eat? In the hallway outside the store (but still inside the building). Yup, we ate in the hallway seated. There were almost no people inside so it was okay.

My sister also told us that this place was an accidental discovery since they were too hungry after their medical exam. They just looked around for a place to eat and this was the only store open at that time.

Paratha

Paratha is a flatbread made with whole wheat flour and fried using butter or oil. We had the paratha with egg and cheese for only Dhs 4. It also has mayo, ketchup, cucumber, and carrots inside. It was a bit oily but definitely delicious. I love how flaky the paratha was and this is approved for breakfast! Take note that this was the most inexpensive meal we had here.

Aside from that, you are sure to be full after eating just one.

Price: Dhs 4
Table for: 1
Drink Rating: 5/5

Of course, breakfast wouldn’t be complete without a hot drink.

Chai Karak

A hot drink made with black tea, cardamom, saffron, and sugar. Yup, this is like a hot milk tea but Indian version. Hehe. It has a strong tea flavor yet creamy and sweet. Definitely loved this one too!

Another drink to be added to my favorite list!

Price: Dhs 1
Table for: 1
Drink Rating: 5/5

If you are in Dubai and near the area, you should drop by to try this out especially if you are looking for authentic yet inexpensive Indian food. Or you can simply look for restaurants selling Paratha and Chai Karak as they are everywhere.

These two are definitely a must-try in UAE.

Ambiance: 3/5
Service: 5/5
Value for Money: 5/5
Overall Rating: 5/5

Location: New Al Safiya Bldg, Hor Al Anz, Deira, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Landmarks: NMC Medical Centre and Abu Hail Metro Station
Contact Details: +971 800 6254335
Instagram: @ibnbattutamall

Disclaimer: We paid for our food and this review was written with an honest opinion.