These were the year’s best new restaurant openings in the city.
From Dinner by Heston to Leña, Dubai saw many respectable restaurants open this year. So whether you’re in search of international heavy-hitters like Fouquet’s, La Mar and Ling Ling or local hotspots, here are Dubai’s best new restaurants of 2023.
AGORA
AGORA at The Dubai EDITION has intrigued us for a while now. For the uninitiated, an ‘agora’ was a space in ancient Greek cities that served as a meeting ground for the various activities of citizens. Now, in a similar vein, friends and colleagues are invited to gather for a botanical journey in Downtown Dubai, exploring the world of mixology through the lens of Simone Caporale. The world-renowned bartender has curated a revolutionary menu that promises an appealing mix of unique beverages, that blend classic techniques with avant-garde elements.
GO: Follow @agora_dxb on Instagram for more information.
Amuni
Amuni Restaurant & Lounge can be found in Jumeirah Emirates Towers and offers a taste of the Riviera with views of the Arabian Gulf. The concept brings together chef Alessandro Miceli and bar pioneer Jimmy Barrat. The team draws inspiration from Marbella, Porto Fino and Saint-Tropez, and the menu showcases seasonal ingredients, which include fresh fish, market vegetables, premium meats and seasonal salads. Located on the 50th floor, Amuni boasts floor-to-ceiling windows with Insta-worthy views, minimalist décor and gorgeous greenery.
GO: Follow @amunidxb on Instagram for more information.
Ariana’s Persian Kitchen
Experience the flavours of Persian cuisine at Ariana’s Persian Kitchen, where the aromas of fruits, nuts and flowers blend with meats, grains, and vegetables in a nostalgic reminder of traditional Persian households. This female-run establishment at Atlantis The Royal, led by TV chef and cookbook author Ariana Bundy, offers a contemporary take on classic Persian dishes, enriching timeless recipes with a modern flair.
GO: Follow @arianaspersiankitchen on Instagram for more information.
Atrangi by Ritu Dalmia
Celebrity chef Ritu Dalmia’s inaugural Middle East restaurant, Atrangi, impresses with its unique take on traditional Indian cuisine. The restaurant at Jumeirah Al Qasr offers an authentic yet contemporary dining experience, showcasing Ritu’s passion for lesser-known regional dishes. With indoor and outdoor seating, Atrangi’s inviting space captures the chef’s personality through playful colours and creative decor and even includes an abra ride to add to the fun.
GO: Follow @atrangi.dubai on Instagram for more information.
Berenjak
London’s Berenjak — which was awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2019 — has arrived in the UAE at Dar Wasl Mall. The restaurant focuses on Iranian dishes, with a specialisation in small mezze-style sharing plates and charcoal-grilled kebabs. As you sit down at Berenjak, you’ll have the opportunity to try Balal, a tempting dish featuring corn, chilli, lime, and chives, or Sibzamini, crispy fried potatoes served with kordi sauce and Rezet yoghurt. Berenjak takes its name from a whimsical source — the brightly coloured, toasted rice eaten as a snack at funfairs in Persia.
GO: Follow @berenjakuae on Instagram for more information.
Blue Box Café Dubai
Get your sunglasses ready because the iconic jewellery brand Tiffany & Co. has brought its famous Blue Box Cafe to Dubai Mall. With a stunning blue and white interior, this flagship café will transport you into the glamorous world of Tiffany & Co. – promising a stylish and sophisticated experience. Picture yourself indulging in a breakfast fit for a queen – and living out your ultimate Audrey Hepburn fantasy. Not only do you get a chance to literally have Breakfast at Tiffany’s, but you can also indulge in delightful croissants, apricot danishes and French butter cakes.
GO: Follow @blueboxcafedubai on Instagram for more information.
Bungalo34
Curated by restaurateur Natasha Sideris, Bungalo34 brings a touch of Greece, France and Italy onto each plate while honouring the custom of enjoying leisurely meals with friends and family. Guests can select from an array of nostalgic options such as the Strapatsada, a Greek favourite of scrambled eggs, roasted peppers, feta and crushed tomatoes. Other classics include a decadent Lobster Benedict, the Three Cheese Souffle Omelette, and a housemade Glyko Koutaliou of sweet pumpkin served on vanilla Greek yoghurt. The chic terrace also features wood-fired pizzettes, baked on the spot, topped with truffle, artichokes or stracciatella.
GO: Follow @bungalo34 on Instagram for more information.
Chez Wam
Chez Wam means “at mine” in French, and can refer to visiting someone’s place. Drawing inspiration from the phrase, the restaurant at St. Regis Gardens makes diners feel like they’ve been invited to a friend’s home. Chez Wam’s décor boasts a chef’s table and open kitchen, and tables big enough for groups. Chef Hadrien Villedieu is at the helm of the recent FACT Award winner. He has previously worked with restaurant greats including Alain Passard, Jean Pierre Vigato and Joël Robuchon. Don’t miss the beef tartare or the decadent desserts.
GO: Follow @chezwamdubai on Instagram for more information.
City Social
One of the most eagerly awaited openings of 2023, Jason Atherton’s City Social is located in Grosvenor House Dubai. The venue pairs modern European cuisine with panoramic views of Dubai’s ever-changing skyline. And in keeping with the dining style of City Social’s sister property in London, the Dubai venue has been created to give diners a venue and a menu to be enjoyed any way they wish.
GO: Follow @citysocial_dubai on Instagram for more information.
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
The Dubai outpost of London’s two-Michelin-star restaurant is now open at Atlantis The Royal. Inspired by historical British cuisine dating back to the 1300s, the restaurant comes to us from Heston Blumenthal, a chef and restauranteur known for his scientific and playful approach to cooking. Diners at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in Dubai can expect cutting-edge British cuisine across a menu that encompasses everything from the signature Meat Fruit, made with chicken liver parfait and mandarin, to Savoury Porridge, Powdered Duck Breast, and the Tipsy Cake, a trifle made with spit-roasted pineapple.
GO: Follow @dinnerbyhbdubai on Instagram for more information.
DUO Gastrobar
Straight from the streets of St. Petersburg, Russia, DUO Gastrobar has brought its European charm to the Middle East. Nestled within the trendy Dubai Hills Business Park, the restaurant merges minimalism with boho-chic vibes. Think calming whites and soothing beiges that instantly make you feel at home. With two decades of culinary experience under his belt, Chef Dmitry Blinov is no stranger to creating magic on the plate and his signatures include Burrata with Zucchini and Black Truffle, Broccoli Pate with Pine Nuts and Tuna Ceviche with Cucumber and Cilantro.
GO: Follow @duo.uae on Instagram for more information.
Estiatorio Milos Dubai
Under the leadership of renowned chef Costas Spiliadis, Estiatorio Milos is a Mediterranean seafood restaurant that promises a gastronomic journey that revolves around Hellenic cuisine, fine wine and exceptional hospitality. The menu showcases exclusively the freshest ingredients, ranging from Greek wild oysters to succulent ceviches and tzatziki, all presented in their purest form with a sprinkle of Aegean rock salt or a splash of olive oil sourced from ancient Koroneiki olive trees.
GO: Follow @milosdubai on Instagram for more information.
Eugène Eugène
Eugène Eugène offers a tranquil dining oasis at the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates. The brasserie draws inspiration from Europe’s botanical greenhouses and bustling market halls. You’ll find a striking green marble bar, an inviting conservatory, and plush rattan sofas within this enchanting space. The menu from Chef Yannis Sgard showcases exquisite ingredients infused with a contemporary twist. Expect signature dishes such as the Vanilla Tomato Tartare, Truffle Artichoke Spinach Salad, Crozets a la Truffe, Seabream a la Plancha, and Veal and Tuna Tartare.
GO: Follow @eugeneeugenedubai on Instagram for more information.
Fouquet’s Dubai
Fouquet’s Dubai has an entrance fit for a celebrity, thanks to the red carpet, velvet ropes and shiny gold logo above the door. The restaurant includes different spaces for different moods: La Brasserie, Le Café, Le Toit, Salon Diane and Studio Harcourt. Chef Pierre Gagnaire has created all of the Fouquet’s menus worldwide. Fouquet’s Dubai is no different. Expect duck confit with gherkins, Burgundy snails in garlic butter, onion soup, beef tartare and veal blanquette. In true romantic fashion, Fouquet’s Dubai has swoon-worthy views of the world’s tallest building and a photo booth in the downstairs Studio Harcourt.
GO: Follow @fouquets.dubai on Instagram for more information.
Franky’s Pizzeria
Experience the ultimate sunset spot at Franky’s Pizzeria, a rooftop Italian eatery. With a mission to create the best Neapolitan pizza in the city, diners can enjoy delicious antipasti, wood-fired pizza, and refreshing spritzes while taking in stunning skyline views. Franky’s joins Hawkerboi and Splendour Fields inside The Park in JLT, serving contemporary Neapolitan-style pizzas straight from the wood oven.
GO: Follow @frankyspizzeria on Instagram for more information.
Gimi
Hidden inside Al Wasl Vita Mall, Gimi pays homage to the hawker culture while dancing to the beats of K-pop. The name Gimi translates to “spice” in Korean and promises a journey through a myriad of tantalising tastes and textures. The Korean Fried Chicken is perfect for those seeking a mild level of spice to kick-start their culinary journey. You can enhance this with the Spicy Chicken Taco and the Chicken Satay. And don’t miss the Jinju, a vibrant blue shrimp dumpling with a perfect spicy kick. Gimi’s decor is soothing and is adorned with bamboo walls, green plants, wood blocks, mirrored ceilings, newspaper clippings, and a semi-open kitchen.
GO: Follow @gimi.dxb on Instagram for more information.
Hawkerboi
Often referred to as the Banksy of Dubai’s food scene, Hawkerboi is renowned for his secret supper clubs that draw inspiration from bustling street-food hawkers in Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. The restaurant, which has taken up permanent residence in JLT, offers a bold menu of Cereal Fried Chicken Wings, Smashed Cucumber Salad, Chicken and Truffle Shumai, Peking Style Roast Duck, Charcoal Short Ribs, and Whole Fried Sea Bass. With seating for 180 diners, the venue includes a main dining area, a bar, and two terraces.
GO: Follow @hawker.boi on Instagram for more information.
Hoe Lee Kow
Located in Dubai Hills, Hoe Lee Kow offers an innovative Korean dining experience. The restaurant serves a Korean-inspired menu, which covers everything from Chicken Wings snf Wagyu Beef Mandu to Tteobokki, HLK Ramyun Soup, and (of course) Bibimbap. We’ve enjoyed dishes ranging from grilled meat to small sharing plates. The tagline states: “Food that makes you go, Hoe Lee Kow, that’s good”.
GO: Follow @hlkbyreif on Instagram for more information.
Josette
Orange Hospitality, the team behind Alici, Il Borro Tuscan Bistro and MayaBay Dubai, opened the chic Parisian concept Josette in ICD Brookfield Place. Here, guests are invited to embark on a journey of nostalgia with refined cabaret shows that evoke the spirit of Parisian glitz and glamour. Josette’s à la carte menu offers reimagined classics such as cuisses de grenouilles, escargot, moules marinières, foie gras and crêpe Josette. Guests can also indulge in traditional French baguettes, viennoiseries and pâtisseries from the boulangerie, freshly baked in-house and handcrafted to perfection.
GO: Follow @josettedubai on Instagram for more information.
Kai Enzo
After conquering the worlds of fine dining and food delivery, culinary mastermind Izu Ani has opened a Japanese restaurant. Kai Enzo combines Eastern flavours with Western influences and aims to create an elevated dining experience. Kai Enzo’s menu draws upon two regions’ culinary traditions. The dishes combine Chef Izu’s love of Mediterranean and Japanese cuisine. The restaurant prides itself on creating high-quality, fresh dishes. The dishes include Green Bean Salad with Black Goma and Wasabi Peas, Tiger Prawns with Kimuchi Butter and Shisho Pesto, and Hokkaido Scallops in Green Apple Ponzu and Salsa Verde. Plus, there is a wide range of sushi, sashimi and charcoal grills.
GO: Visit www.kaienzo.com for more information.
Krasota Dubai
Krasota Dubai at Address Downtown is an immersive restaurant that combines visual arts and fine dining. The theatre features a circular table for 20 guests and a stunning 3D multimedia performance projected across the curved walls and table. Chef Vladimir Mukhin has crafted unique dishes for each act of the gastro-show, drawing inspiration from the respective scenes that unfold. Expect gold burgers and plenty of caviar. It’s a pricey one though.
GO: Follow @krasota.restaurant.dubai on Instagram for more information.
La Mar by Gastón Acurio
Situated on the mezzanine level of Atlantis The Royal, La Mar offers a formal dining room or comfortable seating at the raw bar. The restaurant comes to Dubai from Gastón Acurio, a Peruvian chef, restaurateur, and culinary ambassador who is regarded as one of the most influential figures in Latin American cuisine. Diners can expect King Crab Causa, Hokkaido Scallops with Avocado, Octopus with Chimichurri, and Crispy Calamari with Yuca and Aji Amarillo to start. Followed by Lomo Saltado, Grilled Lobster Cooked in Choclo Leaf, Obsie Blue Shirmp and Wagyu Beef Striploin for the main course. With an open kitchen and a charming terrace overlooking the resort’s Skyblaze Fountain, La Mer looks is one of the hottest reservations in town.
GO: Follow @lamardubai on Instagram for more information.
Leña
Get ready for a sizzling new addition to Dubai’s dining scene as acclaimed Andalusian chef Dani García brings his sleek steakhouse, Leña to Dubai. With its roots in Marbella, Leña has quickly made a name for itself with its Josper and charcoal-grilled meats, aged cuts, and signature desserts such as crème caramel and hazelnut soufflé. With interiors to match its impressive pedigree, Leña Dubai has become the talk of the town.
GO: Visit https://grupodanigarcia.com for more information.
Ling Ling Dubai
Nestled on the 22nd and 23rd levels of Atlantis The Royal, Ling Ling Dubai delivers a culinary adventure and a dynamic ambience that transitions from a dining establishment to a lounge club and a thriving nightlife hub. Showcasing breathtaking panoramas of Palm Jumeirah and Dubai’s impressive skyline, revellers can bask in nocturnal revelry. The contemporary Asian menu seamlessly fuses with sleek decor and a diverse soundtrack, promising an evening that progresses from feasting to dancing.
GO: Follow @linglingdubai on Instagram for more information.
MASTI
Challenging perceptions around traditional Indian cuisine, MASTI is raising gastronomy and mixology levels at their new location. The restaurant has shut up shop in La Mer and moved into The Dubai EDITION. Expect all of your MASTI favourites, using the bold flavours of Indian cuisine injected with a quirky global twist in dishes such as messy chicken tikka, cauliflower steak and the famous burrata butter chicken.
GO: Follow @mastidubai on Instagram for more information.
MOLI by SHI
MOLI by SHI has made its way to Dubai Hills Business Park. The décor is dazzling and combines deep red with shiny gold. The space includes statement touches, from shimmering chandeliers to dragon patterns on the curtains. Plus, thick pillars and a tiled ceiling, reflect traditional Chinese structures. MOLI by Shi’s menu showcases Chinese flavours across meat, poultry and seafood dishes. Diana Rysbaeva is the restauranteur behind the new venture, the Chinese restaurant SHI in Bluewaters, and the high-end takeaway concept Jixiang Dimsum.
GO: Follow @molidubai on Instagram for more information.
Mott 32
Located on the 73rd floor of the Address Beach Resort, Mott 32 celebrates the culture and food of modern Hong Kong. Here, diners can look forward to a menu that pays homage to the brand’s culinary creativity, savouring bold flavours of Mott 32’s gastronomy through adapted versions of its classic dishes. Here, signature dishes include the famed Mott 32 Apple Wood Roasted Peking Duck, taking 48 hours to prepare and expertly carved for patrons tableside, as well as jasmine-smoked black cod, a selection of dim sum freshly made daily, and plant-based options for those looking for a more sustainable approach. As for signature cocktails? The Fujian Negroni, Hanami, and Forbidden Rose are on the menu, all of which come with views across Bluewater Island, Palm Jumeirah and Ain Dubai from the restaurant’s open-air terrace.
GO: Follow @mott32dubai on Instagram for more information.
Nama Yōso
Nama Yōso brings a taste of Japan to the residential community of Mirdif. The Japanese restaurant in Mirdif Avenue Mall comes from the mind of FACT’s Chef of the Year 2022, Reif Othman, who tells us: “The mall is very nice, beautiful and modern. The food is going to be upper casual Japanese dining.” The menu includes sushi, sashimi and a focus on all things raw.
GO: Follow @namayoso on Instagram for more information.
Nobu by the Beach
Luxuriate at the world’s first Nobu-branded pool and beach club located in Atlantis The Royal. Relax in a personal cabana, sip on refreshing libations and delight in the melodies of local and global DJs. The menu showcases the fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, commonly referred to as Nikkei, and comprises inventive small plates, communal platters and renowned Nobu classics. And when the ambience becomes overwhelming, cool off with a rejuvenating swim in the pool or the ocean. If it’s good enough for Kanye West (who recently visited), it’s good enough for us.
GO: Follow @nobubythebeach on Instagram for more information.
Okku Dubai
We love a comeback story at FACT. So, we were excited to hear of Okku’s return to Dubai’s dining scene. The focal point of the new Okku at Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah is a 20-metre sushi bar and robata grill, designed to flaunt the brand’s culinary prowess. Elsewhere, a more relaxed atmosphere will await at the Okku Lounge, complete with luxurious seating and a glamorous bar. Expect classic Japanese cuisine and adventurous new creations. Diners can indulge in a range of classic ‘O’ style dishes that have become a staple of the restaurant’s menu, while also discovering new tastes to expand their palates. From the succulent Wagyu Beef and Foie-Gras Kushiyaki to the spicy, crunchy delight of the Tuna on Crispy Rice, each dish is made with precision and finesse.
GO: Follow @okkudxb on Instagram for more information.
Reif Japanese Kushiyaki Dubai Hills
Reif Japanese Kushiyaki’s new branch at Dubai Hills offers an elevated dining experience that builds upon the success of its original location in Dar Wasl. The new space features an alluring bar lounge, two private dining rooms, an outdoor terrace, and booth seating. Upon entering the restaurant through Astro Boy curtains, guests are greeted by the fully licensed bar and central show kitchen. To cater specifically to diners in Dubai Hills, the restaurant has introduced several new dishes such as the Aburi Scallop served with gooseberry sauce and crispy arare, Duck Gyoza with miso and chilli ponzu, and Prawn Toast.
GO: Follow @reifkushiyaki on Instagram for more information.
Row On 45
Located in Grosvenor House, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Jason Atherton’s Row on 45 offers a 17-course haute cuisine menu. The name of the restaurant draws its inspiration from Savile Row in London, which is famous for its tailored suits. What sets the concept apart is that it offers a truly tailored experience with different courses in different rooms. The site spans three spaces: Palm Champagne Room, Chef’s Kitchen and Chef’s Library. Highlights include the Hakkadoi Scallops, rich Saroma Wagyu A5, and the Brioche served with chicken butter. The chefs have sourced high-quality ingredients from Japan, and a vegetarian menu is available. Read FACT’s full review here.
GO: Follow @rowon45dubai on Instagram for more information.
Signor Sassi
Experience a slice of luxury as Signor Sassi prepares for a rooftop launch at The St. Regis Gardens on Palm Jumeirah. This Italian eatery is already popular in London and Riyadh, with previous diners including Rihanna, Lionel Richie and FACT’s editor-in-chief. Indulge in the hearty portions of classic Italian cuisine, including the must-try dishes – Burrata with Datterino Tomatoes, Spaghetti with Clams and Mullet Roe, Tagliolint with Lemon Sauce and Caviar, and the Famous Spaghettini with Lobster. Read FACT’s full review here.
GO: Follow @signorsassidubai on Instagram for more information.
SOON Nobby x True Izakaya
Inspired by Japanese gaming culture, cyberpunk, and 1980s aesthetics, SOON Nobby x True Izakaya aims have created a unique destination for foodies, party-goers, and cocktail lovers in the heart of modern Dubai. Combining authentic Japanese cuisine with neoteric pop culture, SOON pays homage to the 1980s anime and gaming culture, where the contemporary decor is fused with provocative details such as the Ahegao-style graphic floor and robot made from old Japanese electronics. The menu highlights umami flavour with dishes such as House Tofu and Tomato Salad, Aged Shima Aji, Saikyo Miso Black Cod, and Wagyu Beef Mazesoba.
GO: Follow @soondxb on Instagram for more information.
Soul Kitchen
Factory People, the Beirut-based group of artists and music enthusiasts, are bringing their vibrant Soul Kitchen to Dubai. This intimate venue offers premium dining, world-class drinks, an interactive beverage bar, and a breezy terrace with alternative music programming curated by Factory People. Guests can enjoy a unique menu that fuses Levantine and Latin American flavours, highlighting the exchange between both cultures. Signature dishes include Chicken Shawarma Empanadas, Lychee Ceviche, Sheri Fish Crudo and Tamarind Glazed Lamb Chops. The captivating cocktail menu includes Arak-Lychee Bellini, Peachy Margarita, Rum-Mango Ice Tea and the Turkish Manhattan.
GO: Follow @soulkitchendxb on Instagram for more information.
SumoSan Dubai
Sumosan has restaurants across the world in Berlin, Doha, London, Montenegro, Riyadh and now Dubai. At Sumson Dubai inside The Dubai EDITION, the chefs draw inspiration from traditional Japanese culinary techniques, and dishes range from sushi to sashimi. The menu features the restaurant’s signatures, including lobster salad, spicy king crab, truffle tiradito and salmon rice pizza. Plus, classic and speciality cocktails are created by the team’s mixologists. The venue includes J Bar, an outdoor terrace to dine and drink, and a slate sushi bar, which offers sushi masterclasses and the chance to watch the chefs at work.
GO: Follow @sumosandubai on Instagram for more information.
SushiYaki
Nestled in the heart of Souk Madinat Jumeirah, SushiYaki promises an exquisite blend of contemporary and cutting-edge Japanese cuisine. Think exceptional sushi, irresistible yakitori, and a dining experience that goes beyond the ordinary. You can even savour meticulously crafted sushi while taking in breathtaking views of the water. Whether you’re a seasoned sushi connoisseur or a newcomer to Japanese flavours, this new hotspot from the team behind Clay and SAN Beach offers Japanese dining with an edge.
GO: Visit https://sushiyaki.ae for more information.
Tagomago
Dubai boasts a plethora of restaurants situated in breathtaking locations, ranging from waterfront marvels to scenic dining options. Tagomago inside the Azure Residences lighthouse exudes a relaxed luxury, with a laidback atmosphere where you can feel the sand between your toes. As you approach the restaurant, you’ll encounter sunbeds and sofas set amidst twinkling fairy lights and swaying palm trees. The restaurant’s concept is inspired by traditional Western Mediterranean flavours, and it is ideal for sharing. The menu includes a wide range of options, such as appetizers, hot and cold starters, salads, mains from the grill, sharing plates, and even a dedicated kids’ menu.
GO: Follow @tagomagodubai on Instagram for more information.
The Citronelle Club
Pan-Asian cuisine is the current trend du jour in Dubai. So it’s no surprise that SO/ Uptown Dubai has a signature restaurant focusing on Pan-Asian specialities. The Citronelle Club boasts an intimate dining area bursting with vibrant colours, shining through multiple open kitchens and live stations. The menu at The Citronelle Club offers a sensory journey that combines bold flavours from regions in Southeast Asia and China with a French twist. Signature dishes include Yellowfin Tuna and Foie Gras, Biang Biang Frogs Legs, and Citronelle Signature Whole Roast Duck.
GO: Follow @thecitronelleclub on Instagram for more information.
The Experience by Reif Othman (TERO)
TERO provides a captivating and exclusive dining experience, discreetly accessed through a concealed entrance within the Reif Japanese Kushiyaki kitchen in Dubai Hills Business Park. This FACT Award winning culinary adventure invites guests to enjoy exquisite cuisine while engaging personally with the esteemed chef, Reif Othman. The focal point of TERO is its carefully crafted eight or 12-course tasting menu, curated to align with the culinary theme of the month.
GO: Follow @terobyreif on Instagram for reservations and more information.
The Guild
Get ready for a unique dining experience at The Guild which promises “epicurean feasts among the Nurseries, Rockpool, Salon, and Aviary.” Full of world firsts, The Guild has been conceptualised through careful research of the global dining scene, with the team travelling around the world, discovering new and exciting food trends. The buzzing day-to-night collective will take Dubai’s curiosity and adventure to new heights through an all-encompassing dining room that offers five different experiences. These include a brasserie known as The Avenue, a Champagne-tasting bar and greenhouse-esque Potting Shed, The Rock Pool housing live king crab and lobster, and The Salon, a nightclub come piano bar and lounge.
GO: Follow @theguilddubai on Instagram for more information.
The Robata
The team behind TakaHisa have opened a second restaurant inside Caesars Palace Dubai, and this one is dedicated to the art of robatayaki cookery. Like its predecessor, The Robata focuses on an omakase menu (ranging from AED 1,500 to AED 2,500 per head) using premium seafood from Toyosu Market in Tokyo and A5 Kobe beef. Diners can expect shabu-shabu, Japanese barbecue, and tempura courses amidst an upscale dining environment. For those who prefer à la carte, the menu features Wagyu Beef Yukke, Wagyu Beef Carpaccio, Wagyu Ramen and Lobster Ebi Katsu Sando, are highly recommended.
GO: Follow @robata.dubai on Instagram for more information.
Uchi
Uchi is a swanky Japanese-inspired bar and restaurant that has just flung open its doors in DIFC. Dishes like the Truffle Lobster and Uni Soba with Konbu Dashi combine Japanese tradition and modern artistry. Designed by head chef Ciprian Porumbacean, the menu spans Freemantle Octopus Millefeuille, King Crab with pea and asparagus ditaloni, Wagyu Tartar and a selection of maki rolls. Beyond the food and drinks, Uchi offers a chic and contemporary atmosphere incorporating an abundance of dark wood, marble, teal upholstery, subdued lighting and sushi counter seating in the heart of the action. Read FACT’s full review here.
GO: Follow @uchi.uae on Instagram for more information.
XU
If you’re a fan of Chinese food, then we have some exciting news. The fine-dining Cantonese restaurant, XU, has opened in Dubai. Located on the second floor of the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, XU includes a restaurant and bar, delightful dim sum and some of the best Peking duck you’ll ever eat. RIKAS Hospitality Group is behind the new concept which draws its inspiration from Cantonese cuisine but elevates it into an innovative, high-end experience.
GO: Follow @xurestaurantdubai on Instagram for more information.
Zenon
Zenon is an avant-garde restaurant and lounge in Address Dubai Mall in the heart of Downtown Dubai. The restaurant blends Mediterranean flavours with the precision of Asian cuisine, all set against a backdrop of digital marvels. Holograms come to life within this space, and walls burst with dynamic digital art, creating a dynamic AI-driven dining journey.
GO: Follow @zenondubai on Instagram for more information.
