From fine dining to creative culinary gems, check out some of the tastiest new restaurants in town all set to open its doors in the UAE.
From sophisticated ambiences to dishes prepared with an innate attention to detail, be prepared to be astounded with the best served on a plate.
Dubai is a haven for food lovers, offering a wide array of culinary experiences ranging from traditional Emirati dishes to international gourmet delights. Be it fine-dining or creative culinary gems, these are some of the tastiest new spots in town. These are the places that we consider to be the all-time greats, from Michelin-starred dining rooms to impressive new openings from this list. Hence, we decided that each haven deserves a spot on the ultimate list of the best restaurants in Dubai.
In 2024, a myriad of new restaurants including Tapasake, Cala Vista, Bordo Mavi, Franky’s Pizzeria and much more opened their doors in the UAE. 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).
Ensuring everyone is updated, has curated a guide of all the must-visit restaurants to keep on your radar.
Bar des Prés
Following Paris and London, D.ream’s renowned culinary concept Bar des Prés will expand its global presence. With openings on the 51st floor, extending over 18,000 sq ft. Helmed by acclaimed Chef Cyril Lignac, Bar des Prés brings a sophisticated fusion of Franco/East Asian creations to the Dubai dining scene. This space is the go to for those who want a refreshing and vibrant atmosphere to dine with friends. It will be complemented by a spectacular 1920’s style, Art Deco bar, named ‘1920’, spanning 4,000 sq ft on the 52nd floor. This concept is opening on the 7th of December 2024.
Il Gattopardo
Alongside Bar des Prés, Il Gattopardo resides on the opposite side of the 51st floor of ICD Brookfield Place. Fusing rich Italian heritage with a London way of living, this restaurant will bring a new vision on Italian cuisine. With high ceilings and art pieces spread around the space, one will definitely feel the intimacy and timelessness of Il Gattopardo. From Pizzettes to Vitello Tonnato, this spot covers Italian local and hidden delights. This concept promise unique culinary experiences with a thoughtfully curated programme of mixology and entertainment, for residents and visitors alike. Like its neighbour restaurant, it will open its door to the public on the 7th of December 2024.
Sexy Fish
With locations in London’s Mayfair, Miami’s Brickell district, and Manchester’s Spinningfields, Dubai will be its fourth opening. With impressive (and some pretty mind-blowing) interior design, a crazy art collection and creative cuisine, we expect it to be one of the hottest restaurants in the city. Sexy Fish is known for its opulent and glamorous interiors, which is exactly what we can expect when the venue opens in Dubai.
Gigi Rigolatto
Gigi Rigolatto brings the allure of the Italian way of life to Dubai’s shores. With a curated menu and intricate design, including a lush garden, private pool, Bellini bar, kids’ circus, and concept store — an extraordinary sanctuary catering to those who appreciate the finer things in life. The restaurant is all set to open at J1 Beach in 2024.
Carbone
CARBONE Dubai will draw on the highest calibre of technique to elevate classic dishes such as Caesar Salad, Linguini Vongole, Chicken Scarpariello, and Veal Parmesan to unprecedented heights. The stunning space will feature velvety jewel-tone nooks, damask-upholstered walls accented with Venetian glass mirrors, a curated collection of fine artwork – and a buzzing terrace. Atlantis Dubai will join forces with acclaimed luxury hospitality brand Major Food Group, to bring the legendary restaurant CARBONE to Atlantis The Royal in Q1, 2025.
FZN
This 27-seat fine dining experience, will open its doors on November 8, 2024 at Atlantis The Palm. Here, guests will indulge in canapés, before being presented the day’s ingredients. Throughout the experience, diners will be able to enjoy FZN’s distinctive atmosphere, enhanced by a playlist of 300 songs personally curated by Björn himself. FZN seamlessly combines Modern European fine dining with Japanese influences.
Adaline
This classic Italian restaurant and supper club has opened in DIFC, Dubai. Adaline is set to transform Dubai’s dining and nightlife scene with their vibrant dinner experience. The restaurant is a cornerstone of Dubai’s exciting social scene. Seamlessly blending old-world charm with modern flair, and reimagining the allure of a grand, intimate dinner party. Music is at the core of the Adaline experience, with live performances designed to ignite a sense of nostalgia. Each night, guests will enjoy live bands blending jazz, modern soul, and anthems from the 1990s and 2000s. It’s open seven days a week from 5pm until late.
Jamavar
Having spread across five Indian cities, the Michelin-starred Jamavar London was the first international outpost to open its doors in 2016. Next Doha followed in 2021 and now Dubai in August 2024. On the menu, pan-Indian flavours will fuse traditional techniques with local ingredients, with dishes drawing inspiration from the Royal kitchens across Indian’s north, coast and southern states. At the helm will be culinary director Surender Mohan.
Duck & Waffle
Located in a stunning 10,000 square foot space in DIFC, designed by the award-winning NYC-based design firm ICRAVE, Duck & Waffle is set to revolutionise the dining scene with an exciting fusion of modern British and American cuisine. Taking comfort food to new heights, London’s Duck & Waffle promises to be a vibrant addition to Dubai’s dining portfolio. Guests will have the chance to indulge in breakfast, lunch, brunch, dinner, and late-night dining in the heart of DIFC, with the added delight of the decadent, signature dish, Duck & Waffle – an adventurous flavour pairing loved worldwide. It will offer a 360-degree, walk-around ‘chef’s bar’ where clever libations take centre stage. Embodying the playful nature of the brand, Duck & Waffle cocktails embrace both tradition and whimsy. A juxtaposition of nostalgic, classic mixology and fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Viva La Goa
Viva La Goa draws inspiration from centuries of cultural fusion, blending Portuguese and Indian influences to create a distinctive experience. Guests can enjoy a variety of signature cocktails, such as the refreshing Porto Tonico or the vibrant Lisbon Daiquiri, alongside delicious tapas created by the award-winning team behind Trèsind. The calming space perfectly balances sophistication with casual friendliness. This makes it an ideal spot for relaxing and enjoying great company over delicious food and drinks. The menu is a tribute to Goa’s rich culinary scene. The restaurant is open from 5PM to 12AM, Tuesday to Sunday. Viva La Goa invites guests to discover and indulge in the rich heritage of Goa, right in the heart of Dubai.
Almayass by the Sea
Discover Almayass by the Sea, a cherished Lebanese-Armenian family-run institution. Relish a seafood menu filled with mezze-style creations, fresh ingredients, and a harmony of flavours, nestled in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
