Burj Khalifa to Emirates flight: Unique Onam food spreads to try in UAE
UAE residents from Kerala are celebrating Onam with grandeur this year as restaurants, hotels, and even airlines curate elaborate Onasadhya feasts. With more than 30 dishes served on a banana leaf, the traditional vegetarian spread has become one of the most awaited culinary experiences of the harvest festival.
From enjoying a feast 35,000 feet in the air to dining at the world’s tallest tower, here are some of the most unique Onam spreads across the UAE:
Emirates Airlines’ festive touch
Travellers flying between Dubai and Kochi or Thiruvananthapuram can experience a specially curated Onam menu onboard Emirates flights. Dishes include traditional appetisers like sharkara upperi (banana roasted in jaggery), kaya varuthathu (banana chips), and kondattam mulaku (yoghurt-soaked sundried chillies). Main courses feature kaalan (yam with coconut and yoghurt) and puli inji (ginger chutney), while desserts include palada pradhaman and parippu payasam.
Onasadhya at Burj Khalifa
At Armani/Amal, inside the Burj Khalifa, guests can indulge in a three-course Onam menu featuring baby corn bezule, chemmeen pollichathu, meen karivepillai, and chicken 65. The feast comes with panoramic views of Downtown Dubai and The Dubai Fountain.
Community celebrations in Sharjah
Over 8,000 people are expected at Expo Centre Sharjah on September 7, where attendees will enjoy live concerts, Onam games, and a traditional appearance by King Maveli, alongside a grand feast.
A luxurious feast at the Opera District
At Jamvar in the Opera District, Michelin-starred culinary curator Samyukta Nair is presenting a lavish Onasadhya with a tribute to Leela Nair, the family matriarch. Alongside vegetarian classics, non-vegetarian dishes like Meen Porichathu and Alleppey Prawn Curry will be on the menu.
A fusion Onam experience
Meat and Mackerel, sister brand of Calicut Paragon, is offering a fusion Onasadhya blending Kerala recipes with global flavours. Highlights include Miso inji puli candy, Edamame beans, and a Dubai-style pistachio kunafa. This one-day special is available only on Friday, September 5.
Michelin-inspired creations in Jumeirah
Chef Simi Mathews at Khadak in Jumeirah is reimagining the traditional sadhya with modern twists. Along with staples like Avial, Erissery, Pachadi, and Sambhar, the spread includes prawn and mutton curries for a unique non-vegetarian touch.
With options ranging from the skies to world-class dining venues, this year’s Onam celebrations in the UAE promise an unforgettable culinary journey.
