With Onam around the corner, Dubai is gearing up for one of the most anticipated festivals of the Malayali community. This year, the 10-day harvest festival culminates on Thiruvonam, Friday, September 5, but the feasting begins well in advance.

At the heart of the celebration lies the Onam Sadhya, a lavish vegetarian feast of over 20 dishes served on a banana leaf. From homely Kerala cafes in Karama to luxury hotels in Downtown Dubai, restaurants across the city are preparing to serve the traditional meal. Whether you want a pocket-friendly Sadhya with friends or an indulgent gourmet experience, here’s your festive dining guide.

Authentic and Affordable Sadhyas

Calicut Paragon, Karama
An institution in Dubai’s dining scene, Paragon is always on every Malayali’s list. Expect 25 classic dishes in a homely Kerala-inspired setting.

• Dhs48 (dine-in), Dh51 (takeaway)
• Sept 5–7, 11.30am-4.30pm
• Call: 055 22 77 486

LIZ, Karama
A cosy, family-style restaurant offering an impressive 26-dish Sadhya. Great value and flavour-packed.

• Dhs38 (dine-in, Sept 7 only, with reservation), Dh45 (takeaway Sept 4-6)
• Call: 04 342 6955

Indian Coffee House, Bur Dubai
A budget-friendly option serving a mini Sadhya with all the essentials. Perfect for an early celebration.

• Dh29 (dine-in), Dh31 (takeaway)
• Aug 29-Sept 4, Noon-4pm
• Call:  054 581 0016

Malabar Tiffin House, Karama
Known for its Insta-worthy Kerala plates, expect a festive spread with over 25 dishes — and even non-veg options the following week.

• Dh45 (dine-in), Dh48 (takeaway)
• Sept 5-7 and Sept 12-13, Noon-4pm
  Call: 050 522 7391

Salkara, Media City
Run by the Paragon group, Salkara offers a nostalgic taste of Malabar’s 70s and 80s cuisine.

• Dine-in Sept 5, 11.30am–3.30pm
  Call: 04 263 1110

Nalukettu, Al Qusais
Styled like a Kerala heritage home, this long-standing favourite promises authenticity and hearty payasams.

• Dh47 (dine-in), Dh49 (takeaway)
• Sept 4-7, Noon-4pm
  Call: 04 261 5688

Luxurious Onam Experiences

Jamavar, Downtown Dubai
Marking Onam for the first time, Jamavar presents Leelamma’s Onam Sadhya, a multi-course culinary tribute blending heritage with finesse. Curated by chef Surender Mohan, this is a regal celebration of Kerala’s traditions.

• Aug 26-Sept 5
• Dh195 (non-veg), Dh165 (veg)
• Call: 04 553 7852

Bombay Brasserie, Taj Dubai
A corporate-friendly Sadhya with traditional flavours served on banana leaves in an elegant setting.

• Sept 1-5, 12.30-3pm
• Dh175
• Call: 04 438 3222

Varq, Taj Exotica, Palm Jumeirah
A refined vegetarian feast on banana leaves with optional Sadhya-inspired drinks.

• Sept 4-6, Noon-2.30pm
• Dh295
• Call: 04 275 4444

Shamiana, Taj JLT
Enjoy a festive spread served with flair, banana leaves complemented by silver bowls.

• Sept 4-6, 12.30-3pm
• Dhs175
  
• Call: 052 680 5419

Other Popular Picks

• Dhe Puttu, Karama – Famous for its puttu varieties and authentic Sadhya.
• Kairali, Karama – One of Dubai’s oldest Kerala restaurants, known for traditional flavours.
• Aaraamam, Karama /Al Nahda – Large servings, homely flavours, family-friendly vibes.
• Lulu Hypermarket Food Courts – Affordable and convenient Onam Sadhya boxes for dine-in or takeaway.

What Makes an Onam Sadhya Special?

Traditionally, a Sadhya features between 26 to 28 dishes, showcasing Kerala’s rich vegetarian heritage; however, the number of dishes can vary. More than just a meal, the Sadhya is a carefully planned, authentic dining experience. Traditionally served on a banana leaf, dishes are placed and eaten in a precise sequence that balances flavours, textures, and aromas.

The feast begins with Kerala matta rice, paired with ghee and parippu (lentil curry). Next come a series of tangy, spicy and creamy curries; from sambar and rasam to coconut-rich avial and kalan. Stir-fried vegetables (thoran), pickles like inji puli (ginger-tamarind chutney), and crunchy banana chips (upperi) add layers of contrast.

Finally, the meal moves toward its sweet conclusion with multiple varieties of payasam, creamy desserts such as palada payasam or ada pradhaman, creating a sense of harmony and completion.

It’s this thoughtful order and balance that make the sadhya not just a festive meal, but an expression of Kerala’s cultural philosophy: community, abundance, and gratitude.