Dubai’s Vibrant Restaurant Scene: Fresh Openings to Discover

Dubai’s culinary landscape is like an endless banquet, constantly evolving with exciting new restaurant openings. Each month brings a flurry of vibrant additions to the food and beverage scene, ensuring that there’s always something new to explore. From quirky sushi havens to chic Italian supper clubs, the dining options in Dubai are as diverse as they are delicious. Whether you’re a devoted foodie or simply seeking a lively night out, there’s always a hotspot waiting to be discovered. So, get ready to dive into the latest and greatest dining spots that have recently opened their doors in the city. Here are the must-visit venues you’ll want to reserve a table at without delay.

Jump to:

• January 2025 openings
• December 2024 openings
• November 2024 openings
• October 2024 openings
• September 2024 openings
• August 2024 openings
• July 2024 openings
• June 2024 openings
• May 2024 openings
• April 2024 openings
• March 2024 openings
• February 2024 openings
• January 2024 openings

January 2025 Openings

Blume

Blume, located in the newly established District8 in Dubai Marina, is a lush garden-themed restaurant where nature meets culinary artistry. Open daily from breakfast until the early hours, this enchanting eatery boasts a menu of over 100 dishes that beautifully fuse Mediterranean, Japanese, and international flavors. Picture yourself sipping on a refreshing cocktail while gazing across the Marina, enveloped by vibrant greenery. The menu features delectable offerings such as herb-roasted lamb—crafted from herbs sourced directly from Blume’s garden—and a mouthwatering truffle pizza. Plus, their shisha and drink selections are perfect for those relaxing evenings.

Open daily from 7 am to 3 am. Marina Walk, Dubai Marina. Visit district8dubai.com or call (04 495 6888).

FTV Dubai

Housed within the Voco Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road, FTV Dubai builds upon Fashion TV’s global prestige, creating a vibrant restaurant and nightlife venue inspired by the fashion world. By day, it caters to business lunches and brunches, while the evenings are electrified with performances by local talents.

Open Monday to Saturday from 5 pm to 3 am. Voco Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road. Follow them on Instagram @ftv.dubai or call (056 548 6942).

Luxuria

Luxuria is a high-energy Russian karaoke lounge where entertainment and fine dining unite. Expect a night filled with excitement, whether you’re enjoying a live show, sipping champagne, or feasting on dishes like golden maki sushi. With 30 planned shows featuring international artists and stand-up comedy, District 8 promises an unforgettable after-dark experience.

Open daily from 9 pm to 3 am. Marina Walk, Dubai Marina. Visit district8dubai.com or call (04 495 9888).

Rodina

Rodina, a chic Russian-inspired venue, aims to transport diners straight to Moscow with its luxurious ambiance and a menu filled with traditional Russian dishes like truffle-infused Moscow pelmeni and caviar-topped Olivier salad.

Open daily from 5 pm to 1 am. Marina Walk, Dubai Marina. Visit district8dubai.com or call (04 495 7888).

December 2024 Openings

African Queen

African Queen, a storied establishment with over 55 years of history, has made its way from the French Riviera to Dubai. Originally founded in 1969 in Beaulieu-sur-Mer, this restaurant has charmed global icons with its elegant yet relaxed atmosphere. The Dubai location seamlessly blends Mediterranean Riviera cuisine with African-inspired décor, offering a timeless yet adventurous dining experience. The menu features French Riviera classics such as salad Nicoise and pissaladiere pizza, alongside local flavors and decadent desserts.

Open Monday to Thursday from 10 am to midnight, and Friday to Sunday from 10 am to 1 am. J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1. Visit africanqueen-restaurant.com or call (052 778 0760).

Bâoli

Bâoli, a visually stunning venue, serves modern Japanese cuisine infused with fresh Asian flavors. With previous locations in Miami and Cannes, this jungle-themed restaurant at J1 Beach is an ideal weekend destination for a vibrant lunch party.

Open Sunday to Wednesday from 10 am to 1 am, and Thursday to Saturday from 10 am to 3 am. J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1. Visit baoli-restaurant.com or call (04 558 6381).

Bar des Prés

Bar des Prés offers a delightful fusion of French and East Asian cuisine, marking its fourth location after successful ventures in London and Paris. The menu features seasonal ingredients and harmonizes French and Japanese techniques, with dishes like green asparagus with caramelized miso and crunchy crab and avocado galette. The Parisian-inspired dining area welcomes guests for lunch and dinner.

Open daily from noon to 3 pm and 7 pm to 1 am. ICD Brookfield Place, DIFC. Visit bardespres.com or call (04 498 1616).

Chouchou

Chouchou has launched its first global outpost at J1 Beach at La Mer, offering a members-only beach house where upscale family-style French cuisine takes center stage. The exclusive venue includes a living room, rooftop terrace, and its own signature pool, perfectly fitting into Dubai’s sophisticated French dining scene. Signature offerings include seafood towers featuring oysters and caviar, salt-crusted chicken, and delectable desserts.

Open daily from 9 am to 2 am. J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1. Visit chouchoudxb.com or call (052 818 3203).

Duck & Waffle

The iconic London eatery Duck & Waffle, known for its playful take on comfort food, has finally opened in Dubai. Unlike its London counterpart, the Dubai branch occupies a spacious 10,000-square-foot area in DIFC. Initially welcoming guests from noon until 1 am, it will transition to 24/7 hours in early 2025. The menu highlights the signature Duck & Waffle dish, featuring crispy duck leg confit and fried duck egg drizzled with mustard maple syrup, alongside other standout dishes.

Open daily from noon to 1 am. Innovation One, DIFC. Visit duckandwaffle.com or call (056 981 6655).

Harummanis

Chef Akmal Anuar has unveiled Harummanis, a Singaporean-Malay restaurant in Dubai named after the beloved Harumanis mango. This establishment features traditional dishes with a modern twist, showcasing offerings such as beef cheeks rendang and a reimagined ketoprak with Japanese sesame sauce. Seafood aficionados will be delighted by the udang galah, featuring Australian jumbo prawns grilled with curry leaves.

Located at Wasl 51, Jumeirah. Follow on Instagram @harummanis.51.

Il Gattopardo

Inspired by its namesake novel, Il Gattopardo embodies the essence of the Italian Riviera and the vibrant energy of Milan and Venice. Open from noon until late, the venue offers leisurely lunches and lively dinners, complemented by a small lounge featuring resident DJs. The menu showcases modern interpretations of Italian classics made with seasonal ingredients.

Open daily from noon to 1:30 am. ICD Brookfield Place, DIFC. Visit gattopardo.restaurant or call (04 498 1727).

Kaimana

Kaimana Beach in Dubai offers a unique Polynesian-inspired escape with world-class dining and a chic atmosphere. Guests can relax by the pool, enjoy exclusive sunbeds, and private tiki cabanas. The menu beautifully blends Asian-Polynesian flavors, featuring dishes like escargots malasadas and piña oysters. Desserts include coconut tapioca panna cotta, ensuring a delightful culinary experience for everyone.

Open daily from 10 am to 1 am. J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1. Call (04 243 3555).

La Baia

This stylish restaurant and beach club exudes a charming Italian vibe, complete with striped sunbeds and fresh lemons adorning the tables. The menu features Southern Italian dishes, ranging from Mediterranean seafood to artisanal pastas. An exclusive dessert room showcases sweet treats like tiramisu and Sicilian cannoli.

Open daily from 10 am to 1 am. J1 Beach, La Mer South. Visit labaia-dxb.com or call (04 570 2482).

Sakhalin

Sakhalin presents an enticing blend of Mediterranean and Asian recipes, creating a unique ‘MediterrAsian’ dining experience. Curated by executive chef Alexey Kogay, the menu features dishes like golden nori sushi and Sakhalin tiramisu, set against a stunning beach view terrace with an illuminated roof installation.

Open daily from 11 am to midnight. J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1. Visit sakhalin.rest or call (04 495 1600).

LÚNICO

LÚNICO brings Spanish fine dining and a vibrant late-night bar experience to Dubai’s J1 Beach. Inspired by the moon’s phases, the venue offers a sensory journey with exceptional Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine, complemented by a dynamic bar program. Signature dishes include Ceviche Gallego and Galician Octopus, ensuring a delightful culinary adventure.

Open Sunday to Wednesday from noon to 1 am, and Thursday to Saturday from noon to 2 am. J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1. Visit lunicodubai.ae or call (050 277 6503).

Meat the Fish

Meat the Fish, a casual dining concept specializing in Mediterranean-Asian cuisine, has opened its doors at D-Marin Marsa Al Arab Marina in Dubai. Originally founded in Beirut, this brand has expanded into a restaurant and retail experience. The menu highlights high-quality ingredients, including grass-fed meat and wild fish, served in a vibrant, marketplace-inspired setting.

Open daily from 8 am to midnight. Marsa Al Arab Marina, Umm Suqqeim 3. Follow on Instagram @meatthefishdubai.

Maison Revka Dubai

Maison Revka, situated within the Delano Dubai Hotel, combines traditional Parisian salon style with Slavic flavors, offering a luxurious dining experience. The menu features Slavic delicacies like smoked salmon and caviar, complemented by exquisite desserts. The venue includes a luxurious pool area with private cabanas and a relaxing ambiance overlooking the sea.

Open daily from 10 am to 1 am. Delano Dubai, Bluewaters Island. Follow on Instagram @maisonrevka_dubai or call (04 543 2900).

MiMi Mei Fair

Located in Downtown Dubai’s Opera District, MiMi Mei Fair offers modern Chinese cuisine within a beautifully designed space inspired by ancient Chinese palaces. The menu explores regional flavors across China, with signature dishes like apple wood-fired roasted Peking duck and seafood treasure dumplings.

Open Monday to Thursday from noon to midnight, and Friday to Sunday from noon to 1 am. Address Residences Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai. Visit mimimeifair.com or call (04 570 0825).

Ninive Beach

Ninive Beach is one of the first Middle Eastern-inspired beach clubs in Dubai, featuring a blend of Arab artistry and modern luxury. The venue includes a turquoise-tiled pool, Moroccan-inspired cabanas, and a restaurant serving dishes inspired by Lebanese, Iraqi, Turkish, and Moroccan cuisines. With both indoor and rooftop dining, Ninive Beach promises a unique blend of heritage, modernity, and entertainment.

Open daily from 10 am to 2 am. J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1. Visit ninivebeach.ae or call (04 498 4200).

Prime52

Prime52 Steakhouse, located on the 52nd floor of Dubai Marriott Harbour Suites, offers an upscale dining experience featuring expertly cooked cuts of meat and signature sides. This refined venue promises personalized service that will leave a lasting impression on every guest.

Open Monday to Saturday from 6 pm to 1 am. Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites. Visit marriott.com or call (04 319 4000).

Sexy Fish Dubai

Sexy Fish Dubai, a contemporary Japanese restaurant located on the 11th floor of DIFC’s Innovation One Building, is the fourth opening for this trendy brand. With stunning interior design and a remarkable art collection, it is set to be one of the hottest dining destinations in the city. The menu features a fusion of Asian and European influences, including dishes like black cod and king crab, all while offering nightly mermaid-themed entertainment.

Open daily from 5 pm to 2 am. Level 11 – Innovation One, DIFC. Visit sexyfish.com or call (04 381 9000).

Siena

Siena, nestled within the Grosvenor House hotel, adds a fresh Italian flair to the Dubai Marina dining scene. With a focus on wholesome food and a warm atmosphere, head chef Alessandro Mirabelli crafts a menu that celebrates classic Italian comfort food while showcasing his gourmet skills. Dine on dishes like gamberi rossi siciliani and homemade tagliolino, all within a beautifully designed space adorned with Mediterranean-inspired décor.

Open daily from 6 pm to 11 pm. Grosvenor House, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Dubai. Visit marriott.com or call (04 399 8888).

November 2024 Openings

Almayass by the Sea

With branches in Abu Dhabi, Kuwait, and Riyadh, Almayass has now brought its mezze-style dishes to Dubai, offering delicious options like manti, kabab karaz, and kibeh karaz. Since its inception in Beirut in 1996, Almayass has gained a reputation for serving generational recipes with a modern twist.

Open daily from 10 am to 2 am. J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1. Call (04 214 5999).

Casa Amor

Known as one of the most exclusive beach clubs in the French Riviera, Casa Amor blends the flavors of the South of France with subtle Latin influences, creating a lively atmosphere with great music. Guests can enjoy a world-class bar offering premium drinks and signature creations crafted by expert mixologists.

Open daily from 9 am to 11 pm. Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai Jumeirah 3. Call (04 834 8278).

Dragonfly

Dragonfly, launched by Bulldozer Group in collaboration with chef Reif Othman, is a Japanese concept at The Lana Promenade. The menu offers a fusion of Japanese and Pan-Asian flavors, featuring dishes like Beijing duck and bikini sandwiches topped with otoro and caviar. As night falls, Dragonfly transforms into a lively venue with guest DJs and an impressive drinks menu, all while overlooking the magnificent Dubai skyline.

Open daily from noon to 2 am. The Lana Promenade, Business Bay. Call (04 834 8278).

FZN by Bjorn Frantzén

FZN, the sibling of the acclaimed Frantzén in Stockholm, promises a unique tasting menu experience across two floors. Showcasing modern European cuisine with Japanese influences, the nine-course tasting menu features top-notch ingredients. The experience begins in a stylish living room with canapés, followed by a guided house tour and an exquisite dinner.

Tuesday to Saturday, 7 pm (last seating at 8:15 pm). Atlantis, The Palm. Visit restaurantfzn.com.

Khadak

Khadak introduces a nostalgic twist to Dubai’s food scene with its all-day Indian dining concept, founded by chef Naved Nasir. Located in Villa 426 on Al Wasl Road, the restaurant offers modern interpretations of traditional Indian street food, featuring dishes like slow-cooked Khadak raan and bheja akuri, a rich lamb brain and egg preparation.

Open Monday to Friday from noon to midnight, and Saturday to Sunday from noon to 1 am. Villa 426, 12 Al Wasl Rd. Visit khadak.com.

Studio Frantzén

Studio Frantzén marks chef Björn Frantzén’s debut in the Middle East, offering a blend of French-Asian gastronomy with Nordic influences. Set in a modern Scandinavian space, the restaurant features a 20-seat open kitchen and a bar serving Nordic mixed drinks. The extensive grape cellar boasts over 1,300 labels, while the interactive dessert room delights with treats like cloudberry waffles.

Open daily from 6 pm to 1 am. Atlantis, The Palm. Visit studiofrantzendubai.com.

October 2024 Openings

Adaline

Step back into the jazz age at Adaline, located in DIFC. The dining room features golden art-deco lighting and cozy tables, with a grand piano setting the stage for live music every night. This contemporary supper club, created by Fundamental Hospitality, promises a delightful experience with classic Italian dishes and a carefully curated mixed-drink selection.

Open daily from 5 pm until late. DIFC. Visit adaline-restaurants.com.

Argianos

Argianos invites guests on an exquisite journey through French and Italian flavors, with a menu curated by Turin-born chef Alessandro Bertinetti. Highlights include coastal clam and shrimp linguine and handmade gnocchi al pomodoro e basilico. In the evenings, the venue transforms into a Hollywood-style bar called Slapsy.

Open Monday to Saturday from 4 pm to 11 pm. Conrad Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road. Visit argianos.com.

Gigi Rigolatto

Gigi Rigolatto captures the essence of elegant Italian culture, offering a lively atmosphere that appeals to both foodies and party enthusiasts. The menu features classic Italian cuisine, complemented by its ‘Bellini Bar’ offering traditional and modern variations of the beloved peach drink. The venue accommodates 240 guests, including a dedicated kids’ club.

Open daily from 10 am to 1 am. J1 Beach, La Mer. Visit gigi-restaurant.com/dubai.

The Spaniel

The Spaniel, a new British brasserie on Bluewaters Island, offers a refined dining experience that combines classic British charm with contemporary flair. Led by chef Will Stanyer, the menu features traditional favorites alongside inventive dishes, all set within a two-floor venue that includes a downstairs dining area and an upstairs bar.

Open Sunday to Thursday from noon to midnight, and Friday to Saturday from noon to 1 am. Bluewaters Dubai. Call (04 55 43 728).

September 2024 Openings

Coterie Kitchen

Following its success at Ibn Battuta, Coterie Kitchen has launched a second location in the Meydan area. Celebrated for its inviting atmosphere and delightful food, this unlicensed venue offers an all-day dining experience featuring comforting British classics, such as fish & chips and stone-baked flatbreads.

Open daily from 8 am to 11 pm. District One, Meydan. Call (050 291 1345).

Isabella Cucina Italiana

Located in Emirates Hills, Isabella Cucina Italiana presents a delightful fusion of traditional and modern Italian cuisine. Signature dishes include woodfired pizza al tartufo and gnocchi di patate ai gamberi risotto. The inviting decor creates an atmosphere perfect for romantic dinners or family gatherings.

Open daily from 11 am to 1 am. Call for reservations.

Jamavar Dubai

Jamavar, situated in the Opera District, provides a luxurious dining experience inspired by Indian royal cuisine. The menu features a range of Northern and Southern Indian dishes, including butter chicken and lobster curry, set within a glamorous dining room and vibrant outdoor terrace.

Open daily from noon to 2:30 pm and 6 pm to 11 pm. Address Residences, Opera District. Follow on Instagram @jamavardubai or call (04 553 7852).

Scalini Cucina

The beloved Italian restaurant Scalini has launched “Scalini Cucina” at Dubai Mall, combining casual dining with signature royal blue decor. The menu showcases classic and innovative Italian dishes, including tableside pasta served in a Grana Padano cheese wheel, along with a selection of pastries and desserts.

Open daily from 10:30 am to 11 pm. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai. Call (04 554 9885).

August 2024 Openings

Ikayu

Ikayu offers an authentic Japanese dining experience, featuring incredible sushi crafted right before your eyes. This intimate restaurant in Umm al Sheif invites guests to enjoy a cozy atmosphere while savoring dishes like shrimp tempura and expertly prepared sashimi.

Open daily from 1 pm to 11 pm. Al Thanya, Jumeirah. Call (04 591 9136).

Sufret Maryam

Sufret Maryam elevates Levantine cuisine, continuing the legacy of Bait Maryam. Led by chef-owner Salam Daqqaq, the restaurant’s menu features refined dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, from delicious mezze to innovative main courses.

Open daily from noon to midnight. Wasl 51, Jumeirah 1. Visit sufretmaryam.com or call (050 417 2272).

TOTÓ

TOTÓ, the sister restaurant of Tatel, is inspired by classic Italian cinema, with a menu that pays homage to the 1988 film Cinema Paradiso. Highlights include duck cannelloni and authentic carbonara, complemented by a dessert menu featuring creamy burrata cheesecake.

Located on Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai. Visit sevenrooms.com/toto or call (04 215 2000).

Wandr

Wandr, a new café in JLT, serves up ‘fast food, slowed down’, offering healthier versions of global comfort food. With unique flavors such as Filipino pandesal ice cream and mushroom shawarma, this lakeside café also features a rainbow matcha that’s sure to impress.

Open daily from noon to 10 pm. Cluster T, JLT. Visit wearewandr.com or call (055 161 1003).

July 2024 Openings

Bread Ahead DIFC

London-based Bread Ahead has opened its second location in DIFC, following the success of its Mall of the Emirates and pop-up at City Centre Mirdif. The bakery offers sourdough pizzas, filled doughnuts, and a grab-and-go menu featuring salads and sandwiches.

Open daily from 8 am to 10 pm. North Gate, DIFC.

The Hart Brasserie

The Hart Brasserie, located in Sobha Hartland, offers an all-day dining menu with weekly promotions like curry nights and Sunday roasts. Created by the team behind Reform Social & Grill, the restaurant features hearty dishes like full English breakfast and beef chorizo.

Open daily from 8 am to 11 pm. Sobha Hartland Estates.

June 2024 Openings

Akabeko

Akabeko, located on West Beach, introduces the first Japanese A5 wagyu-focused “Yakiniku” experience in Dubai. Guests can enjoy a variety of Japanese Wagyu cuts, including signature truffle ice cream, all in a cozy setting that respects the art of grilling.

Open daily from noon to 4 pm and 6 pm to 11 pm. Voco Dubai the Palm Hotel, West Beach. Follow on Instagram @akabeko_dxb.

Osteria Funkcoolio

Chef Akmal Anuar has launched Osteria Funkcoolio in Port De La Mer, an intimate Italian restaurant that defies convention with its innovative Itameshi creations. The menu features unique dishes such as burrata with frozen tomato and tajarin pasta with chicken ragu.

Open Wednesday to Monday from 3 pm to 11 pm. Port De La Mer, Jumeirah 1. Follow on Instagram @funkcoolio.

Patty&Bun

London’s beloved burger joint Patty&Bun has made its permanent home at Jumeirah’s Boxpark, serving dry-aged patties made from grass-fed beef in brioche buns. With favorites like the “Ari Gold” cheeseburger and a Dubai-exclusive chicken strips option, it’s a must-visit for burger lovers.

Open daily from noon to midnight. Box Park, Wasl Road. Follow on Instagram @pattyandbunuae.

TATEL Dubai

TATEL, located in Downtown Dubai’s Hotel Boulevard, offers Spanish cuisine with an international flair and live entertainment throughout the week. The menu features Mediterranean dishes elevated with truffle, along with a Prohibition-era-inspired bar and several private dining spaces.

Open daily from 7 pm to 2 am. Hotel Boulevard Autograph Collection, Downtown Dubai. Visit tatelrestaurants.com/dubai or call (04 215 2121).

Tonton

Tonton, a new bakehouse by Basil Yassin, owner of YAVA, is now open, offering freshly baked pastries, traditional croissants, and a signature TonTail—a unique twist on classic sfogliatella. The café also serves freshly brewed coffee and a variety of sweet treats.

Open Tuesday to Sunday from 8 am to 8 pm. Wasl 51, Al Wasl Road. Call (058 998 5272).

May 2024 Openings

Aretha

From Rikas Hospitality Group, Aretha is not just a live music venue but an immersive experience that transports you back to the Jazz Age. The restaurant features classic dishes like Dover sole meunière and wagyu beef Rossini, along with stunning live entertainment that will make each visit memorable.

Open Tuesday to Sunday from 7 pm to 3 am. St. Regis Gardens, The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm. Follow on Instagram @arethadubai.

Lana Lusa

Lana Lusa has relocated to an exquisite new space at the Four Seasons Private Residences, offering a refined dining experience with an extended menu that includes diverse Mediterranean flavors. The ‘Portuguese Heritage’ section features recipes inspired by the founder’s grandmother.

Open Monday to Thursday from noon to 1 am, and Friday to Saturday from 9 am to 1 am. Four Seasons Private Residences Dubai, Jumeirah 2. Visit lanalusa.com or call (04 380 1515).

JUYI Restaurant & Lounge

JUYI Restaurant & Lounge combines a nightclub atmosphere with dinner experiences, offering a fusion of Japanese fine dining dishes. With options for afternoon tea and shisha, JUYI provides a leisurely space to unwind while enjoying exquisite cuisine.

Open daily from noon to 3 am. Paramount Hotel, Business Bay. Call (04 267 7888).

The Showhouse

The Showhouse, created by the team behind Asia Asia and Lock Stock & Barrel, offers a unique dinner and show experience featuring French-Mediterranean dishes. Guests can enjoy a theatrical dining atmosphere with an à la carte menu that includes a selection of starters and mains.

Open Wednesday to Thursday from 7 pm to 1 am, Friday from 8 pm to 1 am, and Saturday from 1 pm to 5 pm and 7 pm to 1 am. InterContinental Dubai Marina. Visit solutions-leisure.com/-showhouse.