The dining scene in the capital is about to get a whole lot tastier.
Abu Dhabi’s restaurant scene is flourishing, with each new opening promising a unique gastronomic experience. From the modern Asian cuisine at 3Fils to the funky fusion food at SUSHISAMBA, there’s something for everyone. And that’s just the beginning. Read on to discover the new Abu Dhabi restaurants that should be on your dining radar in 2024.
3Fils
The expansion of the 3Fils brand will see the concept take over the space formally occupied by the nightclub ANNEX at The Abu Dhabi EDITION. 3Fils Abu Dhabi will span three levels and feature two terraces. The al fresco dining areas will overlook Al Bateen Marina, offering the perfect setting to enjoy 3Fils’ modern Asian cuisine. Like its Dubai counterpart, 3Fils Abu Dhabi promises to serve many of its fan-favourite dishes. Highlights from the menu include the Shiitake Kebab, Uni Bowl, 73-Hour Lamb Ribs, and Fremantle Octopus.
Expected opening: Winter 2024
BLU Pizzeriá
The much-loved homegrown pizza place is expanding from Dubai to Saadiyat Island, and bringing its Neapolitan-inspired creations to the city. The pizzeria draws its inspiration from Naples, Italy, which is the birthplace of the humble pizza. The wood-fired creations come with a range of toppings, which also have influences from the Middle East. The classics range from the Burrata with basil burrata, cheese and cherry tomatoes, to the Spicy Pepperoni with cheese, parmigiano reggiano and spicy salami. The creative ones range from the Short Ribs with Black Angus short ribs, caramelised onions, and truffle white sauce to the Musakhan with chicken, cheese, and sour cream sauce.
Expected opening: Winter 2024
Brooklyn Chop House
Expecting to draw big crowds to W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island, Brooklyn Chop House brings its unique twist to the capital by combining traditional steakhouse dishes with bold Asian flavours. Founded by hip-hop impresario Robert Cummins, famously known as Don Pooh, and David Thomas, the restaurant embodies the cultural fusion that makes New York so iconic. The steakhouse combines the love of art and food into one. Expect the likes of dumplings, satays, salads, soups, and, of course, their signature selection of steaks and chops.
Expected opening: Winter 2024
Goldfish
Get your chopsticks ready because Goldfish Sushi & Yakitori is set to open in Marina Mall Abu Dhabi. The restaurant from Chef Akmal Anuar offers a modern twist on traditional Japanese cuisine, from new-style sashimi to nigiri, maki rolls to caviar, and an array of yakitori skewers and clay pot dishes. Among the mains, highlights include Grilled Octopus, Australian Tenderloin, and the must-try Wagyu Sliders, which have garnered rave reviews. Goldfish Sushi & Yakitori is also committed to sourcing the finest ingredients ethically. Plus, with an open kitchen concept, guests can witness the kitchen staff working their magic firsthand.
Expected opening: November 2024
Isabel
Isabel Mayfair promises a blend of Latin and Mediterranean flavours with a menu that spans from lunch until the late hours of the night. In Abu Dhabi, Isabel will find its home at The Galleria on Al Maryah Island, with an opening slated for late 2024. Drawing inspiration from Isabel Mayfair, diners in the capital can anticipate a Gatsby-style ambience. As for the menu, expect delectable options such as Seabass Ceviche, Stracciatella, Ricotta and Spinach Ravioli and Slow-cooked Beef Short Ribs. Dessert lovers will be delighted by the signature Isabel crepes with chocolate and banana, Pistachio and peppercorn fondant with saffron ice cream and the Isabel’ Eton mess’.
Expected opening: Winter 2024
La Brasserie by Paul Bocuse
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Aldar are bringing famed French chef Paul Bocuse’s dining concepts to the capital. La Brasserie by Paul Bocuse draws inspiration from its sister restaurants in Annecy, Lyon and Paris. The menu will showcase traditional cuisine with fresh, regional and seasonal ingredients. The venue is scheduled to open at Saadiyat Grove.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
NAC Abu Dhabi
If you’ve been lucky enough to dine at NAC in London or Riyadh, you already know it’s not your average French bistro. NAC Abu Dhabi is expected to open in Marina Mall this October, promising a blend of French bistro elegance and global flavours. Whether you’re an early bird or prefer a leisurely brunch, this eatery has you covered. From a variety of egg dishes to an array of refreshing salads, you can indulge in your favourites. Standout dishes include Free-range Grilled Cajun Chicken, Salmon Paillard, and Conchiglie Pasta. Finish your dining experience on a sweet note with NAC’s unmissable desserts featuring Crushed Milk Chocolate Cookies with Frosties soft serve, French toast with raspberries and clotted cream, and the delightful Affogato.
Expected opening: November 2024
Novikov Abu Dhabi
Novikov is a restaurant brand that has locations worldwide, from Dubai to Doha. Now, the brand is set to expand to The Galleria, Al Maryah Island. If the brand’s restaurants around the world are anything to go by, diners are in for a treat. The concept combines Asian and Italian influences and boasts a celebrity clientele including boxer Anthony Joshua, singer Justin Bieber, tennis star Novak Djokovic and Olympic champion Usain Bolt. Novikov’s menus worldwide include salads, soups, seafood, and more. Dishes include Grilled Scottish Salmon with Green Beans, Oven-Baked Corn-Fed Baby Chicken, and Tagliatelle with Veal Ragu and Courgettes. The opening date for Novikov Abu Dhabi has not yet been confirmed. At the moment, the hoarding simply states that it will open soon.
Expected opening: Winter 2024
Pappas New York
Another new addition to W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island, Pappas New York is rooted in the rich culinary traditions of Greece but with a modern twist. This restaurant is all about live, wood-fired cooking and bold, fresh flavours. Expect dishes like grilled octopus, chicken souvlaki, tuna tartare, skewers and lobster pasta, all inspired by the sun-soaked coastlines of the Mediterranean. Pappas New York is a 21+ venue, so whether the Abu Dhabi version will follow suit remains a mystery.
Expected opening: Winter 2024
Restaurant Paul Bocuse
The late French chef Paul Bocuse was famous for his fine dining restaurants. Over his career, he was behind the restaurant L’Auberge do Pont de Collonges, which received three MICHELIN Stars and held them for a record-breaking 55 years. He even inspired the chef Auguste Gusteau in the animated film Ratatouille. As part of Abu Dhabi’s Culinary Development Programme, the initiative aims to attract leading international restaurant brands to the capital over the next five years. Restaurant Paul Bocuse is scheduled to open at Saadiyat Grove and will offer a fine dining experience with high-quality ingredients and high-end hospitality.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
Sakhalin Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is home to world-class dining destinations. Now, Sakhalin Abu Dhabi has been announced, and is a creative collaboration between restaurateur Boris Zarkov, chef Alexey Kogay and White Rabbit Family’s brand chef, Vladimir Mukhin. Inspired by Sakhalin Island, Russia, the location acts as a crossroad for two cultures. If the existing venues are anything to go by, Abu Dhabi is in for a terrific treat. Sakhalin’s menus around the world combine elements of Asia and the Mediterranean, from the cuisine to cooking techniques. Each dish aims to take diners on a discovery of flavours.
Expected opening: 2025 TBC
Strawfire
Acclaimed chef Ross Shonhan of Netsu-fame in Dubai is bringing Strawfire to Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental this October. The restaurant will introduce the capital to the ancient Japanese cooking technique known as warayaki. This method of cooking involves grilling over a roaring fire fueled by straw, creating a unique, smoky flavour. This sophisticated, luxurious, and rather blazing dining experience promises to ignite all your senses. Strawfire will feature the largest synthetic Shimenawa rope ever made, weighing in at a whopping 830kg.
Expected opening: November 2024
SUSHISAMBA Abu Dhabi
SUSHISAMBA can be found across the world in Dubai, Doha, London, Miami and Las Vegas. Now, the world-famous restaurant is taking over the space formally occupied by VaKaVa at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers. Designed by Lazaro Rosa Violan, the first floor comprises a restaurant and terrace, while the second floor houses a private dining room, bar, the popular SAMBAROOM, and a terrace with stunning sea views. The SUSHISAMBA brand is more than 20 years old. The concept draws its inspiration from Brazil, Japan and Peru, and combines the flavours of each country in a fascinating way.
Expected opening: November 2024
The Flame Steakhouse
Nestled in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s Marina Village, Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi harmoniously blends the opulence of Arabic and Turkish heritage with contemporary luxury. Having opened in late 2022, this architectural marvel doesn’t just offer lavish accommodations but several distinct dining destinations. The Flame Steakhouse will soon be added to the hotel’s restaurant repertoire, blending Argentinian grills with Portuguese cuisine across a 168-seat restaurant. With several live stations, you can expect to see flames.
Expected opening: Winter 2024
