This city has 18,000 restaurants — but diners are spending $100 to eat at someone's home

Dubai boasts an incredible array of restaurants, offering cuisines from around the world. However, a growing trend has emerged in which people are willing to pay over $80 to have strangers cook for them at “supper clubs.” These clubs, which feature set-menu dinners hosted by amateur or professional chefs, have gained popularity in the underground dining scene. Guests often don’t know the menu or location until after booking, providing an opportunity to network and enjoy a unique dining experience. The social aspect, along with the search for community, is driving the appeal of supper clubs in Dubai, a city with a large expatriate population. Several success stories have inspired others to explore supper club ventures, resulting in the rise of new culinary experiences in the city. Splidu, an app that connects diners to underground dining experiences, aims to standardize the sector and streamline the booking process for chefs. The popularity of supper clubs continues to grow, attracting both locals and visitors seeking a more personal and intimate dining experience.