If there’s one thing that rings true it’s that there are plenty of new restaurants in Dubai bursting onto the scene.
Every month we see brand new spots launch in this vibrant city and we couldn’t be happier that the F&B scene just keeps growing (and growing and growing).
There are loads of exciting places to book into, from sushi spots to cool Italian restaurants.
Here are the latest restaurants to visit in Dubai.
Jump to:
- May 2024 openings
- April 2024 openings
- March 2024 openings
- February 2024 openings
- January 2024 openings
- December 2023 openings
- November 2023 openings
- October 2023 openings
June 2024 openings
Akabeko
Located on West Beach, Akabeko describes itself as the first Japanese A5 wagyu-focused “Yakiniku” experience in the city. It is a popular Japanese dining experience that involves grilling meat over a tabletop stove. With a nose-to-tail concept, Akabeko offers a menu that respects and honours the product, including all the “left behinds” and “secondaries”. Here, you can enjoy up to 12 different Japanese Wagyu cuts that are not served anywhere else in the city. Don’t miss out on Akabeko’s signature truffle ice cream.
Daily from noon-4pm and 6pm-11pm. Voco Dubai the Palm Hotel, West Beach (050 561 8288).
May 2024 openings
Aretha
From Rikas Hospitality Group, Aretha isn’t just any live music hotspot, this is one that is set to transport you all the way back to the Jazz Age of the swinging Sixties and soulful Seventies, dubbed as ‘the golden age of music’, in fact. In addition to the retro theme, Aretha is set to be a restaurant and lounge reminiscent of the Roaring Twenties. Expect classic dishes that include Dover sole meunière, wagyu beef Rossini, and grilled rock lobster, alongside the seafood greats such as caviar and oysters — it seems Aretha will be a feast for the eyes, ears and tastebuds. Visitors can expect regular live entertainment housed in a venue fitting for the jazz era — think plush seating, gold detailing, and glittering chandeliers.
Tue-Sun 7pm-3am. St. Regis Gardens, at The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm – Palm Jumeirah @arethadubai
Lana Lusa
One of our favourite Portuguese restaurants, Lana Lusa has relocated to an incredible new space at the Four Seasons Private Residences on the Dubai Canal. The move (and closure) from Wasl 51 to the Four Seasons Residences marks a significant chapter in Lana Lusa’s journey, promising a different dining experience. One that’s more refined and elegant. In celebration of the gorgeous space, Lana Lusa has extended its menu offering more diverse Mediterranean flavours. The menu also offers a ‘Portuguese Heritage’ section, with recipes inspired by the founder Jessica Kassim Viveiro’s grandmother. The restaurant will also soon be licensed. We are hoping to see some interesting Portuguese grape and creative mixed drinks.
Mon-Thu noon-1am, Fri-Sat 9am-1am. Four Seasons Private Residences Dubai, Jumeirah 2 lanalusa.com (04 380 1515).
JUYI Restaurant & Lounge
JUYI Restaurant & Lounge is a dinner and nightlife destination in Dubai offering a fusion of a nightclub, live shows, and dinner experiences all under one roof. JUYI, which means “drink and chill”, offers up a selection of Japanese fine dining dishes. Despite the focus on nightlife, you can also try an afternoon tea and shisha service, blending the British tradition of leisure with an Arabic vice.
Daily from noon-3am. Paramount Hotel, Business Bay (04 267 7888).
The Showhouse
From the team behind Asia Asia, Lock Stock & Barrel and Wavehouse, comes The Showhouse, a soon-to-open dinner and show concept offering French-Mediterranean dishes and dramatic live performances. The Showhouse, which is located at the InterContinental Dubai Marina has taken over the space formerly occupied by Koyo. Hidden behind a nondescript door in a cement car park, The Showhouse is described as unsuspecting and a little quirky, as well as a celebration of all things theatrical. On the à la carte menu you’ll find a selection of starters like burrata, prawns with olive oil and tarragon, chicken liver and foie gras parfait, and beef tartare, as well as mains like wild mushroom and truffle tagliatelle, baked seabass en papillote, ragu confit de canard and filet steak with dauphinoise potatoes.
Dhs395 (silver), Dhs495 (gold), Dhs545 (VIP). Wed-Thu, 7pm-1am, Fri 8pm-1am, Sat 1pm-5pm and 7pm-1am. InterContinental Dubai Marina, Dubai Marina solutions-leisure.com/-showhouse
April 2024 openings
Cielo
Located at the brand new FIVE LUXE JBR, one of the great things about Cielo, the Italian word for sky, is how you can dine from breakfast right through until dinner to really max out. Think an all-Mediterranean menu, and yes, there’s pizza available. Tuck in and take in LUXE’s views across the Arabian Gulf, Dubai Eye and of course, the Palm Jumeirah Island.
Open daily from 7am–midnight. FIVE LUXE JBR, The Walk JBR luxejbr.fivehotelsandresorts.com.
Fifth Flavor Restaurant
Think of Fifth Flavor as your Pan-Asian culinary destination, in Wasl Square. Enjoy a unique gastronomic journey filled with umami and irresistible flavors, meticulously crafted to perfection. Following its debut at Ripe Market in 2021, it has now opened its first brick-and-mortar establishment, welcoming guests Tuesday through to Sunday. The intimate space is perfect for both cozy hangouts and lively gatherings, enhanced by its curated soundtracks.
Open Tues- Sun, from 6pm-11.30pm (midnight, Fri-Sat) @fifthflavor.ae (04 298 4383)
Goose Island Tap House
Open since early March 2024, Goose Island Tap House is the most casual dining option of FIVE’s dining options and is the first to open out of the five dining venues soon to be available. If you’re familiar with an English gastro-pub, this is it and then some.
Expect craft hops, hearty pub food and of course, good old-fashioned fun in the shape of darts or pinballs.
Open now. Mon-Thu, 4pm-2am, Fri-Sat 4pm-3am, Sun, 4pm-2am. FIVE LUXE, The Walk, JBR @gooseislandjbr.
Paradiso
Experimental bar Paradiso Dubai, which is located at FIVE LUXE JBR is helmed by head mixologist Giacomo Giannotti. Hailed as the best Italian bartender abroad and the best barman in Spain, Giacomo has come to Dubai to promise a beverage masterpiece inside the experimental world of Paradiso.
If you only order one mixed drink, your senses (and Instagram feed) will be elevated from the get-go. Expect bunsen-burner style delivery, with substance. Alongside Giannotti will be chef David Gil Rovira, whose expertise in Spanish cuisine makes the perfect pairing. No smoke and mirrors in this place.
Open now. 7pm – 2am week days. FIVE LUXE, The Walk, JBR. luxejbr.fivehotelsandresorts.com.
Ronin
If Japanese is your thing, we have a feeling you’ll really love Ronin time and time again. Located at the new FIVE LUXE JBR and led by celebrity chef Sin Keun Choi ‘SK,’ who has a notable background cooking at multi-award-winning restaurants, here you can expect gourmet sashimi and rolls, with a vibrantly fun twist.
Open daily from 7pm-2am. FIVE LUXE, The Walk, JBR. luxebr.fivehotelsandresorts.com.
SALT at the Museum
Bringing one of Dubai’s most recognisable burger names to one of the city’s most beautiful landmarks, SALT at Museum of the Future is a stand-alone concept that acts as a collaborative platform where the region’s most talented chefs create limited-edition items on the menu. The brand will host a calendar of chef collaborations, welcoming a new regional chef every three months. From April through to June, SALT at the Museum will collaborate with Singaporean, Dubai-based chef and restaurateur Akmal Anuar.
Open daily from 11am-midnight. Museum of the Future, Sheikh Zayed Road
March 2024 openings
Alba
Located at the Dubai Opera Plaza, Alba is an Asian-European restaurant that draws inspiration from China, Japan, and South Korea that’s infused with Mediterranean flair. Dishes, which are created by chefs Vladimir Chistyakov and Minho Ted Shin, include scallops crudo, beef yuk-hwe, uni truffle and caviar and Wagyu maki with foie gras. Interiors are stunning, featuring a cherry blossom tree, and traditional Asian art on the walls.
Open daily from 6pm-midnight. Dubai Opera Plaza, Downtown Dubai (04 575 3297).
Alusia
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This charming lakeside opening combines all the best elements of Levantine and Andalusian cuisine together. Both regions make use of citrus, tomatoes and garlic in many dishes which makes it a more natural marriage than first thought. Middle Eastern design elements with a Spanish influence can be found in the venue’s décor. The new venue comes from the same people behind the popular Canary Club and Brunch and Cake spots in Dubai.
Open daily 10am-1am (during Ramadan), 8am-midnight (after Ramadan). Jumeirah Islands Pavillion, JLT. (04 421 2272). alusia.ae
Bisou
Here, you’ll find Middle Eastern gastronomy married with French dishes, which result in dishes such as Foie Grois terrine with apricots and dates tahini with yuzu black caviar. The inspiration for the combination of cultures was the romance of a French librarian and an Arabic poet and this is reflected in the décor which has literature punctuating throughout the space. Chefs Vladimir Chistyakov and Alexander Loshinin are behind the literature-inspired concept.
Open daily from midday-midnight. Dubai Opera Plaza, Downtown Dubai. @Bisou
Bonbon Café Angelo Musa
Bonbon is a gorgeous pâtisserie concept serving viennoiseries, freshly baked bread, a range of chocolate bonbons and ice cream, as well as sandwiches, salads, and bespoke cakes, all made in a Parisian style. Angelo Musa also leads the boulangerie and pâtisserie programme throughout The Lana, so you will spot his baked goods all over the property.
Daily from 5pm-11pm. The Lana Dorchester Collection Dubai, Business Bay (04 541 7755).
Daikan Izakaya
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Daikan Izakaya is bringing its legendary ramen and izakaya-sharing dishes to the lively C2 district at City Walk, Dubai. After closing in DIFC last year, the Japanese spot launched its first licensed branch. You’ll basically feel like you’re on the streets of Tokyo, with a menu that features a wide variety of signature ramen dishes including smoked shio dashi ramen and a vegetarian option. On their soft opening menu, there are new contemporary dishes like wagyu cheese steak sandwich, lobster pops and crispy tuna bites. More dishes are expected to be added in the near future. And you can wash it all down with a selection of house drinks.
Open daily, noon-midnight. Daikan Izakaya, C2 Licensed District City Walk (052 703 8369).
Derwandi
Named after an iconic Lebanese character El Derwandi from the 1970s, Derwandi Dubai promises to make you feel like you’re on the streets in Beirut, offering ingredients sourced directly from Lebanon. For example, the tahini is from Tripoli, the keshek from Baalbak, zaatar from Jbeil, zeitoun and olive oil from Koura and pine nuts from the mountains. The space spans 1,200 square metres across two floors and a cool rooftop that overlooks the Burj Khalifa. Take advantage of the great weather with an early brekky, late lunch, or tea and shisha after dinner. Expect dishes like labneh Derwandi, freeket el ezz salad, hummus Derwandi, and shawarma to name a few. There’s also a large communal platter, sayniyet Derwandi, which a group can share. Mains include all our favourites like warak enab with koussa, mixed frills, fatteh and much more.
Sun-Thu 8am-1am, Fri-Sat 8am-2am. Al Wasl Road, Jumeriah 2 (058 853 963).
HOYA
HOYA is a multi-storey villa located in Jumeirah that’s designed to look like a lush garden inside and out. Each floor offers something different – from secret doors to a little library and even a plant studio. On the ground floor, you’ll have the opportunity to dine on Mediterranean dishes while browsing a library full of books. Make sure you keep an eye out for the secret bookshelf door, which slides open to reveal a hidden garden showcasing a picturesque pond. If you head up to the mezzanine floor, you’ll come across a plant shop where you can buy a potted plant or a little succulent. Cute.
Open daily from 10am-10pm. Villa 1901-A, Al Manara @hoya.uae (04 346 8986).
Kokoro Handroll Bar
Dubai diners are always looking out for the newest foodie experience and the latest one is in the heart of Alserkal Avenue. Kokoro Handroll Bar is Dubai’s first hand roll bar promising sushi lovers something different. The restaurant, which is currently in soft opening stages, already has the attention of the city’s foodie community, particularly those with a penchant for sushi. The concept was brought to Dubai by the team behind Pinza, FIYA and Bake My Day, so you know you’re getting something great.
Wed-Sun from noon until sushi is sold out. Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz @kokoro.dxb
Pitfire
The Time Out Dubai Restaurant Award winner for Best Pizzeria now has a new licensed outpost in the up-and-coming foodie neighbourhood of Dubai Hills. Pitfire is loved around Dubai for its sourdough creations, serving up pizza that’s not quite Neapolitan and not quite New York. Here, you’ll be able to get a slice with a pint. Perfect meal? We think so.
Sun-Thu noon-11pm, Fri-Sat noon-midnight. Dubai Hills Business Park 1, pitfirepizzabakers.com/.
Rare
Located in the C2 (the licensed bit) of City Walk is a newly opened steakhouse mixing the vibe of a New York bar and an art deco Parisian brasserie. Rare is a 130-seater venue that’s expansive with a spacious shaded outdoor terrace for those who like to enjoy watching the city come to life at night. Inside, there are pockets of booths which provide a bit of privacy away from the hustle and bustle of a busy restaurant. You can choose from the finest cuts such as the oyster blade with pebre and amarillo chilli or striploin with wasabi cream and batter crispies. Sounds good, right?
Sun-Thu noon-1am, Fri-Sat noon-2am. C2, City Walk (04 287 4604).
Zula
Zula, located at the Shangri-La Dubai offers up delicious Turkish and Greek dishes. Expect earthy tones and minimalist interiors inspired by the sunny coastlines of the Mediterranean. Dishes on the menu include Aegean tomatoes filled with feta cheese, grilled artichoke, served with stracciatella cheese, manti, kuzu siz and more. Led by chef Olcay Hanci, Zula’s team makes dishes with attention to authenticity, so you know you’re getting some really good stuff.
Daily from 6pm-1am. Shangri-La Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road (056 943 9887).
February 2024 openings
Aelia
At the heart of the Link is Aelia, highlighting French-leaning cuisine. The elegant space is open all day welcoming diners for all three meals or for a drink or snack to take away. The menu features French Rivieran classics and there’s an afternoon tea experience also available.
Daily from 7am-10pm. The Link, One&Only Zabeel thelinkdubai.com/aelia (04 666 1777).
Amaseena
Located on the lawns of the Ritz Carlton Dubai al fresco restaurant Amaseena has a brand new look. Offering up superb food in a picturesque setting, this gorgeous beachside restaurant features a more understated design with a desert-inspired colour palette. At the arabesque space, you’ll get a buffet-style dining experience featuring kebabs, hearty stews, rice, and salads that showcase Middle Eastern flavours. There’s also an à la carte menu that complements the experience with a selection of mezze and light bites.
Tue-Sun 6pm-11pm. Ritz Carlton Dubai, JBR (04 318 6150).
Andaliman
Andaliman, located in The Garden on Level 4, is a celebration of inherently Indonesian flavours. Named after a local pepper, Andaliman offers a family-friendly concept with a bar, open kitchen and outdoor seating. The menu showcases flavours like lemongrass, chilli and coconut with a distinct nod to the diversity of sambal.
Daily from noon-11pm. The Garden, One&Only Zabeel oneandonlyresorts.com/one-zaabeel/andaliman (04 666 1777).
Agatha
Located in the heart of Habtoor City, Agatha is an Asian and French concept that’s all artsy and colourful. The restaurant joins the likes of World Cut Steakhouse, The 44 and Le Patio. On the menu, you’ll get dishes like yellow tail crudo, salmon tartare, kristal caviar and beef carpaccio. There’s also a huge focus on music with the venue bringing in an international DJ line-up.
Daily from 7pm-2am. Al Habtoor City Boulevard, Sheikh Zayed Road (04 883 2118)
Alizée Restaurant
Overlooking Banyan Tree Dubai’s lawns, Alizée is a modern Mediterranean with a Southern French touch. Alizée’s menu focuses on fresh ingredients and rustic presentations, so expect seafood towers, pasta dishes, grills and bites straight from the wood-fired oven. It’s all about the outdoor vibes here, so pool passes are available from Dhs250 on weekdays with Dhs125 of that redeemable.
Dhs250 (with Dhs125 redeemable on weekdays), Dhs350 (with Dhs175 redeemable on weekends). Daily from 7am-11pm. Banyan Tree Dubai, Bluewaters Dubai (04 556 6466).
Babushka
Located at Pavilion at The Beach in JBR, Babushka is a two-story Slavic restaurant and bar offering traditional cuisine with a modern twist. The licensed restaurant is all about Georgian food, so expect dishes like octopus satsivi, khinkali and marbled beef tataki to name a few.
Sun-Thu 10am-midnight, Fri-Sat 10am-3am. Pavilion, JBR (058 908 1100).
DuangDy
Created by world-famous chefs Bo Songvisava and Dylan Jones, DuangDy is described as a celebration of Thai food that respects the land by using sustainable practices to serve up artsy food. This is the first time both chefs have launched something in Dubai, so it’s a pretty big deal. DuangDy is all about presenting centuries-old recipes in a modern setting.
Daily from 6pm-midnight. The Link, One&Only Zabeel thelinkdubai.com/duangdy (04 666 1777).
High Society by Jean Imbert
Located on the hotel rooftop with a concept developed by Jean Imbert, High Society serves hotel guests at the pool during the day and in the evening the mixed drinks bar transforms into a nighttime venue with a large selection of bubbly, grape and beverages. The big draw? 180-degree views across Downtown Dubai, Burj Khalifa and D3. The venue, which sits adjacent to the infinity pool, gives indoor and outdoor vibes. In addition to the drinks, expect a selection of deluxe grape and a collection of bites including oysters, shiso langoustine spring rolls or another iconic, the croque-caviar.
Sun-Wed noon-3pm, 5pm-11.30pm, Thu-Sat noon-3pm, Sat 5pm-12.30am. The Lana Dorchester Collection Dubai, Business Bay (04 541 7755).
Jara by Martín Berasategui
Located on the 18th floor of The Lana, Jara by Martín Berasategui is all about ‘cooking with love.’ Developed by Berasategui, Jara serves up Basque cuisine. Named after the chef’s granddaughter, Jara’s menu is centred around charcoal-grilled meats and seafood. Some of the other highlights on the menu include tomato tartare with stracciatella, oysters with Martín Berasategui’s gazpacho, grilled octopus, kokotxas casserole with clams, whole blue lobster, seabass supreme, Australian Wagyu t-bone steak, Spanish baby lamb shoulder and more.
Adjacent to the restaurant is Jara Bar, a lounge and bar concept that’s perfect for post-dinner, Jara Bar offers pintxos and creative mixed drinks to choose from, inspired by the sea, the land, and the fire.
Tue-Sun 6pm-midnight. The Lana Dorchester Collection Dubai, Business Bay (04 541 7755).
La Dame de Pic
If you’re curious about trying incredibly intricate and creative French food by one of the most famous chefs in the world, you’ll have to add La Dame de Pic Dubai to your foodie bucket list. Anne-Sophie Pic is the decorated chef behind the concept that is known worldwide for its avant-garde offering. You can enjoy dishes such as roasted guinea fowl perfumed with hojicha, lamb rack perfumed with roasted kombu and Atlantic crab infused with sobacha to name a few.
From Dhs695 per person. Open daily from 6pm-midnight. The Link, One&Only Zabeel, oneandonlyresorts.com/la-dame-de-pic (04 666 1777).
Maison de la Plage
Chef Izu Ani, the man behind GAIA and carine has expanded his La Maison Ani brand by launching Maison de la Plage, a beachside destination featuring comfy sun beds, a pool and a cool beachy restaurant. The space is meant to resemble the sun-drenched shores of the Côte d’Azur and at the heart of the venue is the beach house and the market, which is a call-back to Ani’s lucky encounter with his wife in a market in France. The beach-style restaurant serves up artisanal bread, fruits de mer, and fresh produce, paying homage to the Mediterranean and its flavours. Signature dishes of the new restaurant include salade Niçoise, snails with butter and anchovies and (of course) lobster linguine.
Daily 10am-2am. West Beach, Palm Jumeirah. @maisondelaplage.
Mu-Kii Pan Asian Tapas
A new all-you-can-eat Asian restaurant gives you a chance to dine on over 100 different dishes. You can order everything from an iPad and eat as much as you can for Dhs135 per person. Children aged six to 12 can enjoy the experience for half the price, while little ones up to 5 years eat for free.
Dhs135. Daily from noon-midnight. Pavilion, JBR (054 281 8168).
Players House
Located at Andaz Hotel on the Palm, Players House can be described as a multi-use space that’s home to a sports lounge, barber shop, a music and podcast studio, and a VIP club, all under one roof. So whether you want to catch the game on XL TV screens while enjoying a pint. Expect oversized couches, a cool bar and a selection of elevated pub dishes like a hearty Wagyu cheese burger, jumbo prawns, Angus tenderloin and more.
Mon-Fri 6pm-3am, Sat 3.30pm-3am, Sun 5pm-3am. Andaz Hotel, Palm Jumeirah (052 970 2362).
Qabu by Paco Morales
Chef Paco Morales, known for his unique take on Andalusian cuisine, will celebrate Cordoba’s culinary history at Qabu. Expect delicious Spanish food and views that will make you want to pull your phone out.
Open daily from 6pm-midnight. The Link, One&Only Zabeel, thelinkdubai.com/qabu (04 666 1777).
Riviera by Jean Imbert
Riviera is a space inspired by the South of France. Located on the fourth floor of The Lana, Riviera by Jean Imbert is open from 7am and offers indoor and Al Fresco dining with a terrace overlooking the water. Highlights of the menu include toasted focaccia with green beans, burrata and pistachio, Jacky’s gazpacho topped with mozzarella di bufala, and tuna tartare made at your table, and so much more
Tue-Sun 6pm-midnight. The Lana Dorchester Collection Dubai, Business Bay (04 541 7755).
Sagetsu
Japanese cuisine is undeniably one of Dubai diners’ most well-loved. Sagetsu promises to bring together traditional and modern Japanese cuisine. Chef Tetsuya Wakuda will also incorporate classical French techniques with the Japanese philosophy of using natural, seasonal flavours in refined cuisine.
Open daily from 6pm-midnight. The Link, One&Only Zabeel, thelinkdubai.com/sagetsu (04 666 1777).
StreetXO
Created by Spanish chef Dabiz Muñoz, who hails from Madrid StreetXO is a street food concept in a super high-end setting. Essentially, you’ll be served haute cuisine dishes in an informal and unexpected setting (just look at all that graffiti). Celebrated as one of Madrid’s most unconventional chefs, the food is totally experimental.
Daily from 6pm-midnight. The Garden, One&Only Zabeel oneandonlyresorts.com/one-zaabeel/andaliman (04 666 1777).
TRIBAL Lounge
Located in Hotel Indigo Downtown Dubai, TRIBAL Lounge is a day-to-night experience that’s packed with theme nights that cater to various musical tastes. The menu features dishes like mini beef sliders, crispy halloumi, and crispy calamari, paired with some classic selections of mains from prime cut tenderloin, tiger prawns and chicken parmigiana. Additionally, guests can enjoy TRIBAL’s dessert options from ricotta cheesecake, and classic tiramisu, baklava desserts, and gelati.
Mon-Thu 3pm-2am. Fri-Sun 3pm-3am. Hotel Indigo Downtown Dubai, Downtown Dubai (050 577 6262).
January 2024 openings
71 Steak and Grill
Located adjacent to Emirates Towers, in a secret garden also known as Peacock Park, you’ll find 71 Steak and Grill. The outdoor spot is curated by head chef Brando Moros, who is known around the industry for his creative approach to wood-fire grilling. The concept will be open for three months only. The 60-cover alfresco restaurant has a breathtaking backdrop of the Emirates Towers and the Museum of the Future. But you’ll be in a beautiful garden environment, so expect to be surrounded by tropical foliage and see wild peacocks roam freely. You can also reserve a seat at the 12-seat grill counter, offering an omakase grill experience. The setup features a wooden wrap-around counter seating and you get a front-row seat to the open grill area, where Morros himself cooks for you.
Open Tue-Sun, 12pm-12am. Fri Jan 26-Tue April 30. Peacock Park, Jumeirah Emirates Towers Gardens 71steakandgrill.myshopify.com (058 662 6271).
Arrazuna
At Arrazuna, famed Scandi/Turkish chef Mehmet Gürs will serve vibrant Levantine and Arabic cuisines. The space is designed like a high-end food hall, featuring eight open kitchens. Diners can expect a menu that showcases top-quality ingredients with a market-to-table approach that pays testament to the heritage of Middle Eastern cuisine as a whole.
Daily from noon-11pm. The Link, One&Only Zabeel arrazunadubai.com (04 666 1777).
Asia Asia Palm Jumeirah
Located at Andaz The Palm, Asia Asia Palm Jumeirah has taken over the space once occupied by Hanami. Spread over 10,000 square feet, the venue features a large terrace with views of Atlantis The Royal and Burj Al Arab. The brand’s fourth outpost in the UAE will serve up its famed Asian food and lively atmosphere. The space incorporates pops of fuschia, gold and features velvety textures. You’ll also find live cooking stations, an open kitchen and fun bar areas. The usual menu has been taken up a notch and features tasty pan-Asian dishes that we know and love.
Sun, Mon, Wed, Thur 6pm-1am, Tue, Fri, Sat 6pm-2am. Andaz Hotel, Palm Jumeirah asia-asia.com.
Brass Monkey
Quirky entertainment spot Brass Monkey has opened its second Dubai location in City Walk. Expect the same fun vibes as its OG Bluewaters location. The spacious venue boasts plenty of arcade games, retro video games, bowling alleys, pool tables and more. You can also dine on tasty American cuisine including burgers, wings and much more. A one-stop-fun-shop for big kids.
Mon-Wed 4pm-2am, Thur-Fri 4pm-3am, Sat noon-3am, Sun noon-2am. C2, City Walk (04 582 2244).
Café Kitsuné
If you’re a big matcha latte fan, then you’ll love this new neighbourhood spot. This is the first Café Kitsuné in the UAE. Unsurprisingly, the coffee menu is extensive, with hot and cold drinks or a dirty chai latte as well as its famous iced matcha drink. Food-wise, Café Kitsuné promises French and international classics revisited with a Japanese touch. Local legend Reif Othman designed the menu, so you can expect it to be delicious. You’ll get egg sandos, croque-monsieur, shakshooukas, pancakes and much more.
Daily from 10am-10pm. Huna Residences, Wasl Road @cafekitsune.uae
CARO Steakhouse Frenzy
From the team behind Soon Izakaya and Sfumato comes CARO Steakhouse Frenzy located at Fairmont Dubai Sheikh Zayed Road. Led by chef Carson Hill, expect top-level steaks from Argentina and Japan, as well as premium seafood including oysters and grilled lobster. At the helm is the esteemed Chef Carson Hill, unveiling a menu of culinary opulence. There’s also in-house dry ageing and a Josper oven. At the heart of the venue, you’ll find a fancy glass ageing walk-in chamber, surrounded by accents of gold and brown furnishings, vintage renaissance glassware and much more.
Mon-Thu 6.30pm-1am. Fri-Sun 6.30pm-2.30am. Fairmont Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road (058 118 3800)
Frank
Frank is a meat-focused casual dining spot fusing “fun hip-hop vibes with urban cheer”. Located at Bluewaters Dubai, it’s family-friendly and offers up open flame-cooked dishes. Try the steaks, salads, and burgers, including the cheesy killer—a cheese sauce-infused beef burger, or the classic Frank cheeseburger.
Sun-Thu noon-midnight, Fri-Sat noon-2am. Bluewaters Dubai (052 455 4708).
Smoki Moto
If you’ve got a Korean barbecue craving, you’ll want to try this Palm Jumeirah spot. Dubai’s first fully licensed Korean steakhouse offers up cool views, Seoul-inspired interior design and a selection of high-end steaks. And the coolest bit is, you can grill these yourself right at the table with built-in charcoal grills. But what makes this different from the traditional Korean barbecue experience is that Smoki Moto properly defines itself as a steakhouse. The team is made up of eight Korean chefs who’ve created a menu that spotlights various cuts of steak, predominantly beef. The concept encourages a sharing style experience, reminiscent of an Asian family dining.
Mon-Thu 5pm-1am. Fri-Sun 5pm-2am. Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jumeirah, marriott.com/smoki-moto (04 666 1430).
Sphere at The Link
Sphere at The Link is a chic destination bar with panoramic views, creative mixed beverages, and great live entertainment. The 360-degree bar features stylish crowds, deep house beats and sunset views that you can pair with signature beverages.
Open daily from 6pm-1am. The Link, One&Only Zabeel, thelinkdubai.com/sphere (04 666 1777).
Tamada
A late-night dinner spot showcasing Georgian cuisine with a twist. While dinner is served Wednesday to Sunday from 8pm to 11.30pm, at midnight it transforms into a nightclub ready for partygoers to dance the night away. The experience includes a live entertainment programme featuring global DJs – curated by Lebanese musical maestro Guy Manoukian. Located on the 74th floor of SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences, Tamada will have gorgeous views of the city because of the floor-to-ceiling windows. The name Tamada comes from the Georgian term, which means “a toastmaster of the feast”. And of course, there will be a selection of super creative mixed drinks. The restaurant aims to showcase the richness of Eastern European food to diners in Dubai, while they enjoy exciting live music and beautiful interiors.
Wed-Sun 8pm-3am. SLS Dubai, Business Bay. ennismore.com/dining (04 607 0757)
Tapasake
Located across the top of The Link, Tapasake offers both a pool club and a restaurant experience at the world’s longest infinity pool. Here, you’ll get a resident DJ, refreshing drinks, and a tapas-style menu of Japanese-Latin American bites as well as swim-up bars, sunken pods and a chance to level up your Instagram feed. You’ll get plates of Nikkei dishes including sushi, sashimi, ceviche, tiradito and izakaya tapas for sharing.
Open daily from 10am-7pm. The Link, One&Only Zabeel, oneandonlyresorts.com/one-zaabeel/tapasake (04 666 1777).
December 2023 openings
Askim
Askim, which is roughly translated to love, is a newly opened Turkish-Syrian spot serving up a fusion of Levantine and (obviously) Turkish cuisine. Located in Downtown Dubai, the interiors are sun-drenched and offer a spacious set-up. Head there for breakfast to enjoy a big tray of Turkish-style dishes. The rest of the menu showcases kebabs, mezes, and refreshing salads. Signature dishes include kebbeh msalwakat, Askim hummus and meat with chestnut rice.
Daily from 9am-2am. Boulevard Heights, Downtown Dubai (04 2667099).
Cipriani Dolci
The Jumeirah restaurant is Cipriani Dolci’s first standalone restaurant in Dubai. Serving up Italian cuisine, the menu features classics like bellini and carpaccio, complemented by signature dolci desserts such as the famous torta di cioccolato.
Sun-Thu 7.30am-11pm, Fri-Sat 8am-midnight. HUNA, Al Wasl Road (04 347 0003).
Franky in Florence
Hurrah. One more licensed restaurant in JLT. Make your way upstairs to the rooftop bar and pizzeria at The Park in JLT, located above Splendour Fields and Hawkerboi. There you’ll find a hotspot serving contemporary Neapolitan-style pizza and antipasti. Interiors are strooned with foilage and art from all corners of Italy and rooftop views over JLT. With a DJ picking up the mood as the sun goes down, the rooftop bar will become the home of sunset drinks and easy dinners with friends in JLT.
The Park, JLT (050 427 5217).
Leña
It seems like Spanish cuisine is really having a moment in Dubai. Famed Marbella chef Dani García has opened Leña at The St. Regis Gardens near Chez Wam and Signor Sassi. The restaurant describes itself as a steakhouse 2.0 and promises beautiful interiors. Leña will feature great-quality produce and unusual techniques like cooking over hot embers with a modern touch. Think vegetable starters, chargrilled favourites, yakipinchos and more.
The St. Regis Gardens, Palm Jumeirah Dubai.
North Audley Cantine (NAC)
Hailing from Mayfair, NAC has opened its doors in Al Safa 1, replacing where Shakespeare & Co. once stood. The area is now called the H Residence, a new development by HUNA. The modern restaurant features favourites like shakshuka with zatar and feta from the weekend brunch menu, or the flamed aubergine and halloumi fries. For more filling dishes, there’s also the ahi tuna poke or the truffle burger.
Mon-Fri 11am-11pm, Sat 10am-midnight. H Residences, Al Safa 1 @nacdubai
Ninive Bab Al Shams
Great views don’t always come from being on a rooftop. Sometimes the desert is exactly what you need. A second outpost of the beloved Middle Eastern restaurant Ninive has opened its doors at the luxurious five-star resort of Bab Al Shams, a hotel that’s long been home to desert staycays for Dubai dwellers. Recreating the stunning surrounds of a Bedouin tent, Ninive at Bab Al Shams offers much of the same ambience and flavour as the original in Jumeirah Emirates Towers but with views of the vast desert. Expect elevated Middle Eastern, North African and Anatolian cuisine, shisha and a cool drinks menu all served within an urban majlis.
Sun-Thu 4pm-midnight, Fri-Sat 4pm-2am. Bab Al Shams Hotel, Al Qudra (04 809 6203).
Sushiyaki
From the team behind Ristorante Loren and Taverna comes Sushiyaki, a Japanese spot in Souk Madinat Jumeirah. Serving up sushi, yakitori and more, the modern restaurant offers up stunning views of the Madinat waterways.
Daily from noon-midnight. Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Jumeirah ( 04 451 9170).
November 2023 openings
Berenjak
Berenjak is all about the modern Persian flavours. The London-born restaurant which launched in Soho and has another location in Borough Market has opened its first Dubai location in the heart of Jumeirah at Dar Wasl Mall. The restaurant’s décor features a blend of classical Persian patterns and textiles, staying true to traditional Iranian style. The Dubai menu features Berenjak’s most iconic dishes from London, including black chickpea hummus and kashk e bademjoon, coal-cooked kebabs including Berenjak’s popular jujeh kabab and kabab koobideh.
Mon-Fri noon-4pm and 6pm-11pm, Sat noon-12.30pm and Sun noon-11.30pm. Dar Wasl Mall, Al Wasl Road (04 295 3644).
MOLI by SHI
Chinese restaurant and lounge Moli by Shi offers high-end Chinese food with a strong focus on dim sum and rice pots. The interiors are more on the traditional side with elements reminiscent of a Chinese temple.
Sun-Thu noon-1am, Fri-Sat 1pm-2am. Dubai Hills Business Park, Dubai Hills (04 276 3338)
PASTAMAMMA
Brought to you by the team behind L’ETO, PASTAMAMMA, located on Bluewaters Island is exactly what you think it is, and that’s a homemade pasta and artisan pizza spot with modern vibes. The family-friendly destination offers up different types of pasta and pizza for all ages.
Daily from 9am-midnight. Bluewaters Island (04 547 5361).
Triple 7
A new adult’s arcade and bar that’s blending nostalgia with nightlife has opened its doors in Dubai. Triple 7 located at Radisson Blu Canal View Hotel in Business Bay will take you back to the ’80s and ’90s. The centrepiece of Triple 7 is its collection of arcade games spanning decades, from classic pinball machines and nostalgic eight-bit video games to modern virtual reality experiences. Here you can challenge friends to competitive rounds or go on a solo adventure that’ll take you back to your childhood. Located right by the arcade is 7 Heaven, a chic and stylish lounge and bar area offering craft hops, signature mixed drinks, and top-shelf beverages. You can also order food, including sliders, nachos, pizza and more. Beyond being an arcade and a lounge, Triple 7 is also home to bowling alleys, billiard tables, and the aforementioned retro arcade games, all under one roof.
Radisson Blu Canal View, Business Bay, 777dxb.com
XU
Tucked away on the second floor of the Kempinski hotel, lies XU, a very cool and very moody Cantonese-inspired restaurant. Home to a very cool lounge, bar, restaurant and terrace, Xu is spacious but intimate at the same time. Dishes on the menu include crispy lemongrass chicken, Asian-style buttermilk prawn, and charcoal-grilled Wagyu beef ribeye with spicy peanut sauce. A dim sum selection (of course), and so much more.
Sun-Wed 6pm-1am, Thu-Sat 6pm-3am. Kempinski Hotel, Mall of the Emirates (04 394 6252)
October 2023 openings
42 Midtown
Located in one of Dubai’s coolest lifestyle boutique hotels, Zabeel House The Greens, 42 Midtown joins Lah Lah and Social Company as a New York-inspired restaurant. The art deco-styled space features intimate dining booths, a very cool-looking bar and a year-round terrace. Expect a menu of classic dishes like bar bites, sharing appetisers, wood-fired pizza, grills, mains, and desserts.
Sun-Thur noon-3.30pm and 5pm-midnight, Fri-Sat noon-2am. P2 Level of Onyx Tower 2, Zabeel House The Greens (04 529 1111).
Avatara
Avatara is the world’s first and only Indian vegetarian fine dining destination and is led by Gault&Millau UAE award-winning chef Rahul Rana. The innovative spot has relocated to the up-and-coming foodie destination, Dubai Hills Business Park. This culinary spot first opened its doors in Dubai in March 2022 at the voco Hotel, where it was shortlisted at the Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards 2023. It features a menu Made up of 17 courses each dedicated to a specific chakra. You can expect dishes like okra chilli thecha, dal vada with beetroot kanji, jackfruit momo, horse gram curry and much more.
Mon-Fri 6pm-11.30pm, Sat-Sun 1pm-3pm and 6pm-11.30pm. Dubai Hills Business Park, avatara.ae (058 143 2867).
Chef’s
Chef’s is a smokehouse in the heart of Al Satwa which serves gourmet, homemade briskets, ribs, and juicy burgers. Tucked behind Sheikh Zayed Road, Chef’s is a destination for smoked meats. Inside Chef’s, the smoker takes centre stage, cooking up brisket, burgers, smoked BBQ sandwiches and ribs.
Daily from noon-1am. Al Badaa’ Street, Al Satwa (04 298 8994).
D U O Gastrobar
DUO Gastrobar is now open. Helmed by Russian chefs Dmitry Blinov and Renat Malikov, the new fine-dining spot aims to bring the “essence of Saint Petersburg” to Dubai. The restaurant offers modern European cuisine with a touch of Asia. With all kinds of seasonal dishes, the menu offers up dishes with interesting combinations like broccoli pate with pine nuts, tuna ceviche with cucumber and cilantro, yellowtail with black truffle and horseradish, oxtail pie with taleggio and young cabbage with black truffle. The licensed venue also offers classic mixed drinks and a large list of grape.
Mon-Fri noon-11pm, Sat-Sun noon-midnight. Dubai Hills Business Park, Building 4.
Limonata by Lucia’s
Beachclub dining is literally all the rage these days. The team behind February 30, Black Flamingo and The Theatre has launched a colourful beach bar and restaurant, Limonata at Club Vista Mare on Palm Jumeirah. Inspired by 1960s Italy, this beach restaurant is decorated with sunny yellows and bursts of orange. The lemon trees, inspired by the Amalfi coast, will also look amazing on the Gram. Featuring a full Italian menu, a bar and stunning interiors, Limonata is located right on the beach so expect to dine with your toes in the sand.
Daily from noon-2am. Club Vista Mare, Palm Jumeirah @limonatadubai (058 140 5777).
Luna Rossa
Luna Rossa, or the ‘red moon’ in Italian offers up authentic Italian cuisine inspired by the sun-kissed shores and hills of Italy. Located in Business Bay, you can enjoy traditional pizzas and tasty pasta dishes like pappardelle alla Genovese di manzo, tartare di gambero rosso di mazara del vallo, and (of course) a truffle pizza. There’s also a pretty terrace worth checking out.
Daily from 8am-1am. J One Marasi Drive, Business Bay (056 353 7303).
Madeleine & Marcel
This Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards nominee in Best Bakery and Patisserie has expanded to the Palm at one of the best vantage points in the city. Madeleine & Marcel at the Palm Tower offers a glass-framed observation deck and delicious French pastries. Croissants with a stunning Palm backdrop? Yes, please. For now you can only access Madeleine & Marcel if you have a ticket at The View to gain access.
Open daily from10am-8pm. Palm View Tower, Palm Jumeirah madeleineetmarcel.com.
Onda by Pierchic
The perfect seasonal spot to visit just for sunset drinks and bites. Wander up the pier at Jumeirah Al Qasr for a sunset drink and you’ll have some pretty magnificent views of the Arabian Gulf and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. The bar is open to everyone, whether you’re dining at end-of-the-pier Italian restaurant Pierchic, or just in the mood for a bit of sea air with your drinks. Either way, if you’re after pre-dinner drinks with your date, or on the hunt for a spot to unwind as the sun sets, this open-air deck suspended above the water should be your next go-to.
Sun-Thu 5pm-midnight, Fri-Sat 5pm-1am. Pierchic, Jumeirah Al Qasr jumeirah.com/pierchic (800 323 232).
Quince
Quince is a multi-purpose foodie concept housing a Mediterranean restaurant, an in-house bakery, and an indoor garden. It comes from an Emirati father-son duo, Amer Al Tamimi and Abdulla Al Tamimi, who have both worked in art and design concepts in the UAE for the last 30 years. The homegrown spot is the first time the family has ventured into the foodie space and promises to still focus on art and design while whipping up Med classics with a twist. You can also buy the décor and furniture pieces at the restaurant if you want to take any of them home.
Daily 8am-11pm. Umm Suqeim Road, Al Barsha. quincedubai.com (056 418 4244).
Rohini
Located in JLT’s cluster A, Rohini is the sister restaurant of the popular Little Miss India at Fairmont The Palm. Rohini offers bold flavours with imaginative interpretations of Indian classics. The interiors are definitely on the maximalist side.
Daily from 12.30pm-1am. Movenpick JLT, Cluster A (04 438 0064).
