Ravi, a famous Indian/Pakistani place in Deira, is very good. I also like Al Hallab, a local chain with locations near the airport and at the Dubai Mall. Automatic is another excellent basic Lebanese place with several locations. Last time I went to this excellent falafel place in the Jumeirah Beach area.

If you walk around Deira, you will find lots of small local Arabic and Indian places that are solid, although unfortunately I haven't recorded any of the names. I'm sure that locals here can provide many more recommendations.