The season ahead will bring Michelin-lauded chefs, food trucks, homegrown eateries and more.
As the host of one of the world’s most diverse mega-events, Expo City Dubai is no stranger to bringing together the cultures and traditions of countries far and wide. It’s no wonder, then, that this future-centric mini-city has unveiled a long-term F&B vision that unites and celebrates culinary concepts from across the globe. Spanning innovative first-to-market concepts by Michelin-recognised chefs, UAE debuts from international brands, and returning appearances from Expo 2020 Dubai favourites, Expo City Dubai is once again home to a vibrant dining scene. Taking bona fide foodies on an immersive journey through the most authentic specialities of India, Italy, Lebanon, Africa, Vietnam, and beyond, it promises to be a dining spot unlike any other in Dubai. Here’s what to expect.
Culinary Masters
Based in London, Chef Rohit Ghai is welcoming diners at Expo City Dubai to Gup & Shup, his latest destination that blends authentic Indian street food with contemporary fusion creations. Elsewhere, Athanasios Kargatzidis of Baron fame has taken the helm of Assembly Mezze & Skewers, a tribute to the flavours of the Middle East. Here, he puts the charcoal grill centre stage, combining the artistry of fire with fresh, quality ingredients.
Meanwhile, those with a taste for Levantine flavours will adore AJEENÉ, the latest brainchild by Chef Faisel. Renowned as one of the world’s most famous Emirati chefs, he already runs two successful restaurants in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, collaborating with dozens of leading chefs from across the globe along the way. Presenting tempting choices, the menu includes a classic selection of freshly baked manakeesh, chicken shawarma served with the works, and saffron milk cake.
Up-and-coming Palestinian-Jordanian chef Sara Aqel is also bringing her unique take on Mediterranean cuisine to Expo City Dubai with her new restaurant, SAFAR. The founder of Dara Dining by Sara Aqel and the driving force behind the region’s first female-led restaurant, Fi’lia, she is passionate about female empowerment and creating amazing dishes that tell a story. Another noteworthy addition is PXB by famed vegan entrepreneur, Loui Blake. His new concept offers a diverse selection of sustainable, plant-based menus that promote a conscious and holistic approach to wellness. With PXB spanning a café, a studio, and a rooftop restaurant, the multidimensional space will host workshops, events and more.
Authentic Eats
Fans of smash burgers and Philly cheesesteaks can indulge in the juicy bites from Philly Jawn, the first international outpost by Ghost Burger in Washington DC. Just as exciting is the launch of Hideaway, the spirited sibling of iconic London establishment Hide by world-renowned chef Ollie Dabbous. Visitors on the lookout for Emirati flavours, meanwhile, can head to the new Al Wasl Plaza Café, where Emirati date cakes and sweet treats made from camel milk reside on an eclectic menu that also features innovative sandwiches such as truffle egg mayonnaise on Hokkaido milk bread.
Food Philanthropy
Another exciting hotspot for those in search of a caffeine fix, the eco-focused Q Coffee is more than just a café — it’s a celebration of Rwandan heritage, culture, and coffee, offering tastings and workshops in coffee-making and fair-trade practices. The concept is proud to have contributed to the financial independence of more than 720,000 female farmers in Rwanda.
Returning Favourites
UAE residents will be delighted to see the return of many outlets from Expo 2020 Dubai. This includes gooey vegan dessert specialist Floozie Cookies, legendary London bakery Bread Ahead, authentic Lebanese hotspot Grand Beirut, and many more. After making its breakthrough as the world’s first authentic African dining hall at Expo 2020 Dubai, Alkebulan is also returning with a whole new line-up of chefs who specialise in everything from gourmet dishes to West African street food and Pan African bakes.
Homegrown Heroes
Last but not least are the leading homegrown brands at Expo City Dubai. Yamanote Collective will present the first all-day-dining concept from UAE-born Japanese bakery Yamanote Atelier, while Vietnamese Foodies will launch its eighth outpost. A new branch of Reform Social & Grill, Dubai’s first authentic British gastropub, will also make its debut.
GO: Visit www.expocitydubai.com for more information.
