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: 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.
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.
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.
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.
