With the FACT Dining Awards (FDA) just around the corner, we are celebrating all things food over the coming months. This year marks the 15th anniversary of our coveted awards and, to kick things off, we present our top 15 picks from one of our most popular categories: Global Cuisines!

Read on to see what makes these cuisines special, some fun facts and where to find them on the island!

A complete list of nominations in these categories and more can be found on our website.

Voting opened on September 1, so be sure to cast your votes for your favourites!

Chinese

With its rich history spanning more than 5,000 years, Chinese cuisine is renowned for its diverse and flavourful dishes. Originating from various regions of China, it encompasses a range of cooking styles, including Cantonese, Sichuan and Hunan. Influenced by geography, climate and local ingredients, Chinese food is characterised by its use of aromatic spices, herbs and sauces. Signature dishes include dim sum, Peking duck and mapo tofu, each reflecting regional specialities and traditions.
Fun Fact: The oldest known noodles, dating back 4,000 years, were found at the Lajia archaeological site in northwest China.
Flavour Profile: Savoury, sweet, spicy
Find It Here: China Garden, David’s Stir Fry Crazy, Hong Kong Chinese Restaurant

Indian

A vibrant tapestry of flavours and aromas, Indian cuisine reflects the country’s diverse culture and history. Originating from the Indian subcontinent, it features regional variations influenced by cultural choices, traditions and historical invasions. The main ingredients include a wide variety of spices, such as cumin, coriander, chilli and turmeric, which are used to create complex and layered dishes like biryani, butter chicken and dosa. India being the spice capital of the world and with the highest global percentage of vegetarians, its cuisine also offers some of the widest varieties of veggie dishes.
Fun Fact: India is the largest producer of spices, contributing to 70% of the global market.
Flavour Profile: Spicy, aromatic, rich
Find It Here: Nirvana, Lanterns, Mumbai Spices

International

Incorporating a broad spectrum of culinary traditions from around the world, international cuisine blends diverse ingredients and cooking techniques. It may include a fusion of flavours from various cultures or creative and innovative dishes that cross traditional boundaries. From classic French specialities to American comfort food, this cuisine celebrates the global exchange of culinary practices and ingredients. Popular favourites include steaks, burgers and pastas.
Fun Fact: Despite their name, French fries are believed to have originated in Belgium during the 17th century. Today, Belgium holds the title for their highest consumption in Europe.
Flavour Profile: Diverse, eclectic
Find It Here: Choices, Manos, NOMAD Urban Eatery

Iranian

One of the oldest in the world, Iranian cuisine is a rich blend of flavours and traditions that date back to ancient Persia. It is known for its use of fragrant herbs, spices and ingredients, such as saffron, dried fruits and nuts. Signature dishes include kebabs, stews like ghormeh sabzi and rice dishes such as pilaf. Iran is also credited with inventing one of the earliest forms of ice cream, known as Bastani, made with saffron and rosewater. Fun Fact: Iran is the world’s largest producer of saffron – its most beloved spice, often referred to as red gold.
Flavour Profile: Savoury, sweet, tangy
Find It Here: Banu, Isfahani, Takht Jamsheed

Italian

A testament to Italy’s love of food, this cuisine has distinct styles, such as Neapolitan pizza, Tuscan pasta and Sicilian seafood, showcasing the rich history and regional diversity of the country. Celebrated for its emphasis on fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods, Italian food relies on staples like olive oil, tomatoes, garlic and basil, and is renowned for its hearty flavours and classic dishes, including lasagna and risotto. Italy is home to over 600 different pasta shapes, each designed to complement specific types of sauces. The country also boasts a long tradition of olive oil production, with some trees more than 1,000 years old.
Fun Fact: The first recorded cookbook that’s still in print today, originally titled De Re Coquinaria, was written by a Roman gourmet in the first century AD.
Flavour Profile: Savoury, rich, aromatic
Find It Here: Sapori Di Toscana Le Domain, Cico’s, Cipriani Bahrain

Japanese

Renowned for its aesthetic presentation and focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients, Japanese cuisine highlights simplicity and precision. With roots in ancient traditions, iconic Japanese dishes include sushi, sashimi and ramen, to name a few. The country is also the birthplace of the umami flavour, now recognised as the fifth taste, first identified by scientist Dr Kikunae Ikeda in 1908.
Fun Fact: Bento Boxes, which are packed meals, have been a part of Japanese culture since the 12th century.
Flavour Profile: Umami, subtle, fresh
Find It Here: Bushido by Buddha-Bar, Gyuto, Maki

Lebanese

Combining elements from Mediterranean, Arab and Ottoman culinary traditions, Lebanese cuisine reflects the diverse cultural influences of the Middle East. It showcases vibrant flavours and healthy ingredients and is known for its use of fresh vegetables, citrus elements, mixed herbs, spices and grains. Popular dishes include tabbouleh, hummus, kebabs and mezze (a selection of small dishes) – a staple of Lebanese dining, served as appetisers or a main course.
Fun Fact: Tabbouleh, a popular salad, is believed to have originated in the mountains of Lebanon and Syria more than 4,000 years ago.
Flavour Profile: Fresh, tangy, aromatic
Find It Here: Badawi, Rayés Lebanese Restaurant, Zahrat Al Fayrouz

Mediterranean

Encompassing the diverse food traditions of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, including Greece, Turkey and Italy, this versatile cuisine is known for its fresh, seasonal ingredients, featuring an abundance of fruits, vegetables, grains and olive oil. With a healthy and flavourful approach to eating, dishes such as Greek salad, dolmades and moussaka highlight the cuisine’s use of aromatic herbs and spices. The Mediterranean diet is considered one of the healthiest in the world and often linked to longevity and reduced risk of chronic diseases.
Fun Fact: Feta cheese, a key ingredient in many Mediterranean dishes, has been made in Greece for around 6,000 years, making it one of the world’s oldest cheeses.
Flavour Profile: Fresh, herbaceous, vibrant
Find It Here: Fatto, Indigo Terrace, Palma

Mexican

A rich tapestry of indigenous and Spanish influences, Mexican cuisine is known for its bold flavours and colourful presentations. Ingredients like maize, beans and chilli peppers are fundamental to this cuisine and form the basis of dishes such as enchiladas, burritos and tamales. Tacos, with a history dating back to ancient civilisations, remain a beloved part of Mexican cuisine today, reflecting the country’s deep culinary heritage. During Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), special foods like sugar skulls and pan de muerto (bread of the dead) are prepared to honour deceased loved ones.
Fun Fact: Avocados, central to dishes like guacamole, were first domesticated by the ancient peoples of Mexico more than 5,000 years ago.
Flavour Profile: Spicy, tangy, complex
Find It Here: Calexico, Cantina Kahlo, Casa Mexicana

Middle Eastern & North African

Deeply intertwined and influenced by the region’s history and cultural exchanges, Middle Eastern and North African cuisine is known for its use of aromatic spices like cumin, coriander and cinnamon, as well as fresh herbs, vegetables and grains. Flavourful and nourishing dishes, such as shawarma, tagine and couscous, believed to have been invented by the Berbers more than a thousand years ago, are traditional favourites. Also, falafel, a popular street food across the Middle East, has origins that are widely debated but remains a cherished vegetarian option.
Fun Fact: In Morocco, Friday is traditionally known as Couscous Day, where friends and families gather to share a couscous meal.
Flavour Profile: Spicy, aromatic, earthy
Find It Here: Al Abraaj, Emmawash, Kula

North American

Blending influences from indigenous, European and global culinary traditions, North American cuisine features comfort foods and regional specialities, with a focus on hearty, satisfying meals. In the United States and Canada, popular dishes includer burgers, poutine and barbecued meats. Indigenous foods like corn, beans and squash, cultivated long before European settlers arrived, still remain integral to the continent’s culinary identity.
Fun Fact: The iconic American hamburger originated in the late 19th century and was popularised by early fastfood chains.
Flavour Profile: Hearty, savoury, diverse
Find It Here: Applebee’s, Fuddruckers, Ric’s Kountry Kitchen

Southeast Asian

Renowned for its vibrant flavours and aromatic spices, Southeast Asian cuisine reflects the culinary traditions of countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia and Indonesia. Dishes such as pho, pad Thai and satay highlight the emphasis on fresh herbs, citrus and balanced seasoning. Cities such as Bangkok, Hanoi and Penang are home to bustling food scenes, with street food playing a significant role in the food culture. Rice is central to Southeast Asian cooking, showcased at its best in signature dishes, such as nasi goreng in Indonesia and nasi lemak in Malaysia. Fish sauce is also a key ingredient in many dishes, providing a unique umami flavour.
Fun Fact: The word ‘pho’, Vietnam’s most famous dish, is thought to be derived from the French word ‘feu’, as in ‘potau-feu’, which is a beef stew.
Flavour Profile: Spicy, tangy, aromatic
Find It Here: BO.SABI, Monsoon, re/ Asian Cuisine

Thai

Celebrated for its complex and balanced flavours, Thai cuisine combines sweet, sour, bitter, spicy and salty elements in each dish. Emphasising freshness and vibrant tastes, it features ingredients like lemongrass, galangal and chilli peppers. Coconut milk is also a staple in Thai cuisine, lending a creamy richness to curries and desserts. Popular dishes such as green curry, pad Thai and tom yum soup showcase the cuisine’s distinctive taste profile. The capital, Bangkok, is renowned for its street food, often ranked among the best in the world.
Fun Fact: Pad Thai was introduced by the government as a national dish in the 1930s and remains a beloved favourite today.
Flavour Profile: Sweet, sour, spicy
Find It Here: Baan Saeng Thai, Banana Leaf, Honey Restaurant

Traditional (Bahraini)

A vibrant reflection of the island’s historical role as a cultural crossroads, Bahraini cuisine is rooted in Arabian culinary traditions and incorporates influences from Persia, India, Africa and the Levant, reflecting centuries of trade and migration. The food centres around rice, seafood, lamb and dates, with fragrant spices like saffron, cardamom, turmeric and the unique Bahraini spice blend, Baharat. Signature dishes include machboos (a fragrant rice dish with meat or fish), muhammar (sweet rice), the popular breakfast dish balaleet (sweetened vermicelli with eggs) and Bahraini halwa. Traditional Bahraini meals are communal, often enjoyed in large gatherings with family and friends.
Fun Fact: Khubz Irani is a popular, large flatbread often freshly baked in tandoor ovens and enjoyed with various dips, meats or cheese.
Flavour Profile: Aromatic, spiced
Find It Here: Haji’s Café, Villa Mamas, Tabreez

Turkish

Combining elements from Central Asia, the Middle East and the Mediterranean, Turkish cuisine reflects the diverse influences of the Ottoman Empire. Known for its rich, flavourful dishes, it features ingredients like lamb, yogurt and a variety of spices. Signature dishes include kebabs, mezzes and baklava. Turkish food is characterised by its emphasis on grilling, slow-cooking and the use of fresh herbs and spices to create a harmonious fusion of flavours. Bread, particularly flatbread like pide, is a staple of Turkish cuisine.
Fun Fact: The doner kebab, a popular street food that originated in Turkey, has spread globally, becoming a favourite in many countries.
Flavour Profile: Savoury, aromatic, rich
Find It Here: Lale Restaurant & Gourmet, Şışler, Sultan Namli