These are the new restaurants in Abu Dhabi that you should visit if you can make a reservation…
Keeping track of all the new restaurant openings in the capital is a full-time job. But if you love finding the latest hotspots for dinner and drinks before anyone else, these are the culinary hotspots to see and be seen at this month. Here are the best new restaurants in Abu Dhabi to try this month.
New restaurants in Abu Dhabi: March 2025
Public
Known for its legendary tiramisu, Public has officially made its way to the capital with an opening in Al Bateen Marina. At the moment, Public Abu Dhabi will only be serving coffee and desserts, and they plan to expand their menu soon. So, expect the likes of pizzas, pasta and much more on the agenda. However, the tiramisu is the star of the show at Public Abu Dhabi. Served tableside from a family-size bowl, this dessert is presented with theatrics by the staff. It features a blend of smooth and creamy mascarpone cheese without being sticky, combined with perfectly soft and moist biscuits. Topped off with a drizzle—or more if you like—of espresso, this Tiramisu is as good as it gets.
GO: Follow @public on Instagram for more information.
Rosemary Restaurant
Located within Bab Al Qasr Hotel on the Abu Dhabi Corniche, Rosemary Restaurant brings a Mediterranean-fusion menu to Abu Dhabi. Nestled within an address known for its grand design and impeccable service, you can expect to indulge in flavourful sharing platters, grilled octopus, paella and much more. An array of Sangria flavours will also be available for you to try, be it fruity or spicy. And like the namesake, you can also prepare to enjoy several rosemary-infused mocktails.
GO: Visit www.millenniumhotels.com for more information.
Seed & Bloom
Rooted in community and nature, Seed & Bloom at Al Raha Gardens Plaza offers cosy indoor seating and a tranquil covered terrace perfect for lingering or grabbing a quick coffee and pastry on the go. The menu from Head Chef Kevin McNulty celebrates seasonality and simplicity, offering daily-baked goods and globally inspired dishes with a Western foundation. Highlights include the Blooming Focaccia with whipped feta and spiced honey, pulled beef Bloom Benedict, and the vibrant Muhammara Risotto. Designed as a hub for local life, Seed & Bloom hosts everything from baking and ceramics classes to flower arranging and educational talks.
GO: Visit https://seedandbloomcafe.com for more information.
New restaurants in Abu Dhabi: February 2025
Amara
The menu at Amara Yas Island puts Lebanese food in the spotlight, and is superb for sharing. The menu spans hot and cold mezze, salads, mains and pastries. Cold mezze includes Batata Zahlewiyeh with potatoes, grated bottarga and garlic confit; Seabass Samkeh Harra with seabass and salsa; and Lebanese Southern Frakeh. The mains feature Levantine classics. Dishes include Mixed Grills with chicken and lamb; and Shawarma Skewers with pickles and dips. Pastries span the Middle East to Europe. Dishes range from Chocolate Fondant to Mille-feuille, and Baklava Cheesecake to Kunafa with Cheese.
GO: Follow @amararestaurantabudhabi on Instagram for more information.
Mezzaluna Abu Dhabi
A touch of New York has arrived in Abu Dhabi with the opening of the Italian restaurant Mezzaluna at Yas Mall. With a 40-year history, the restaurant is famous for its Italian flavours, high-quality ingredients and pizzas made with 48-hour fermented dough. Mezzaluna’s menu showcases timeless, traditional home-cooked staples of Italy. The menu spans appetisers, salads, and pizzas with a light and airy texture, while the desserts include Mamma Cakes. The venue aims to be charming and cosy and make guests feel like they are visiting a home.
GO: Follow @mezzaluna.ae on Instagram for more information.
Steki
A popular dining spot from Fujairah, Steki has expanded from Umbrella Beach to Marina Mall in Abu Dhabi. Steki translates to “a hangout place for friends” in Greek, and that’s exactly the vibe it aims to deliver. The menu showcases Greek classics with a modern twist. Start your meal with mezze platters, Psarasoupa or Dolmadakia. For mains, indulge in highlights such as Beef Giouvetsi, Chicken Souvlaki, and Spetsiota. Focusing on fresh and local produce while celebrating the richness of the sea and the simplicity of Mediterranean flavours, this restaurant promises a memorable meal.
GO: Visit https://steki.ae for more information.
Vero
Located within Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi, Vero Italiano brings a true taste of Italy to the capital. The restaurant offers a refined dining experience that promises to transport guests to the Amalfi coast. Inspired by traditional Italian homes, the restaurant is designed to be welcoming, rustic, and effortlessly elegant. Begin your meal with the likes of Beef Carpaccio, Braised Octopus or Burrata, and then move on to the mains with a hearty selection of pastas and pizzas. And, of course, no Italian feast is complete without dessert so choose between the Panna Cotta or the classic Tiramisu — or both.
GO: Visit www.rixos.com for more information.
New restaurants in Abu Dhabi: January 2025
AVLU
Located in Yas Mall, AVLU pays homage to the Aegean coastline. The highlight of this charming restaurant is its courtyard-inspired dining area, which features a lemon tree in the centre and murals on the walls. The menu blends Greek and Turkish traditions with a modern twist. Expect to indulge in Grilled Octopus, Iskender Kebab, Salt-Cooked Wild Seabass and Slow-Cooked Turkish Lamb Shoulder. Each dish is served with olive oil from the Aegean coastline so that your experience is as close to authentic as possible.
GO: Visit www.avlurestaurant.com for more information.
Bosnian House
In the Middle East, there are not many restaurants showcasing Bosnian cuisine. That has changed, thanks to Bosnian House, which has expanded from Dubai to Marsa Al Bateen in Abu Dhabi. Bosnian House draws inspiration from old-age recipes. At the heart of the menu is the Cevap, which translates to kebab. The small pieces of minced meat are rolled, and cooked on a charcoal grill. Pita is added to the dish, and it is served for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Other highlight dishes include Begova Corba Soup, Bosnian Sapska Salad, Bosnian Kebab and Baklava. The team prides itself on offering an authentic experience, and all of the staff –including the chefs, managers and founder – are from Bosnia.
GO: Visit https://bosnianhouse.net for more information.
Maki
Maki offers an ideal spot to indulge in Japanese flavours along the Al Qana waterfront. The restaurant’s interiors blend traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary urban flair and samurai artwork. The menu at Maki offers a variety of options, each designed to showcase the precision and artistry of Japanese cuisine. The chef’s recommendations include the Katsu Sando, Ryujin Shrimp Roll, Samurai Brisket Roll, Seafood Miso Soup, Wagyu Brisket Gyoza and San Sebastian Crème Brûlée. Whether you’re a sushi lover or a ramen enthusiast, this one’s for you.
GO: Visit https://maki.ae for more information.
Villa Sélène
Overlooking the greens at Yas Links Golf Club, Villa Sélène blends coastal charm with sleek contemporary design, offering a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. The menu celebrates Mediterranean flavours, featuring signature dishes like succulent Baked Sea Bass, Lobster Salad, Prawn Tartare, and Ragatoni Al Ragu. With panoramic views of lush fairways and tranquil waters, Villa Sélène is ideal for romantic dinners or lively gatherings.
GO: Visit www.viyagolf.com for reservations and more information.
