Dubai has welcomed a wave of new restaurants so far in 2024. From innovative concepts to global flavours, these fresh hotspots are redefining the city’s gastronomic landscape.
Aretha
Step back in time at Aretha, a live music venue that celebrates the swinging sixties and soulful seventies. From the creators of Twiggy by La Cantine, Lana Lusa, and Eugene Eugene, Aretha promises an unforgettable experience in Dubai. Music lovers can enjoy smooth soul and funk from both local and international artists. Located in the vibrant St. Regis Gardens, Aretha boasts retro-chic decor that brings back the golden age. With its rose gold counter and stunning stage design, every corner of Aretha radiates charm and charisma.
Akabeko
Akabeko introduces Dubai to its first Yakiniku dining experience at Palm West Beach. Set in the stylish voco Dubai The Palm, this spot invites diners to grill their own A5 wagyu over a tabletop stove. Unique to Dubai, Akabeko offers twelve distinct wagyu cuts. For those who prefer, the Yakiniku Moriawase platter lets the chefs choose for you. Signature dishes include the spicy Supreme Wag-Yukke tartar and the indulgent Akabeko Donburi with wagyu steak, uni, caviar, and truffle. End your meal with their signature truffle ice cream.
Lana Lusa
Lana Lusa, a beloved Portuguese restaurant, has moved to a stunning new location at the Four Seasons Private Residences on the Dubai Canal. This relocation marks a new chapter, offering a refined and elegant dining experience. The expanded menu now features diverse Mediterranean flavours and a ‘Portuguese Heritage’ section with recipes inspired by the founder’s grandmother. Soon to be licensed, Lana Lusa aims to offer unique Portuguese wines and creative drinks in celebration of its beautiful new setting.
Rare
Rare, a steakhouse in the new C2 district, offers a vibrant atmosphere perfect for group gatherings. Led by head chef Ryan Bernando, Rare combines European-influenced fare with a New York lounge and Parisian brasserie aesthetic. An impressive brass-trimmed chandelier greets diners, who can choose between a spacious outdoor terrace and cosy indoor booths. Rare promises a lively yet intimate dining experience.
Cala Vista
Cala Vista, located in Jumeirah Mina A Salam Hotel, offers Italian-inspired dining against the stunning backdrop of Burj Al Arab. Towering olive trees, lemon-adorned plates, and Mediterranean-inspired decor create a serene setting for long lunches and relaxed evenings. With a private pool and ocean views, Cala Vista ensures a picturesque dining experience.
jumeirah.com/calavista, @calavistadubai
Kokoro
Kokoro, the UAE’s first hand roll venue, is located in Alserkal Avenue. The name means ‘heart’ in Japanese, and the restaurant offers an intimate dining experience where guests interact with sushi masters. Chefs Daniel Lee and Patrick Pham prepare fresh sushi and hand rolls live, using only the finest ingredients to ensure culinary excellence with every bite.
Babushka
Babushka, situated at Pavilion at The Beach in JBR, offers a modern twist on traditional Slavic cuisine. This two-story restaurant specialises in Georgian dishes like octopus satsivi and khinkali. Its contemporary take on classic recipes makes Babushka a unique dining destination.
DuangDy
DuangDy Dubai, created by renowned chefs Bo Songvisava and Dylan Jones, celebrates Thai food with sustainable practices. This Dubai debut presents age-old recipes in a modern setting, offering a unique culinary experience. The restaurant aims to respect the land and serve artful Thai cuisine.
Maison de la Plage
Maison de la Plage, on Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeirah, brings the elegance of the French Riviera to Dubai. Chef Izu Ani and restaurateur Evgeny Kuzin focus on fresh, market-inspired ingredients. The relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for beachside dining.
Bisou
Bisou Dubai blends Middle Eastern and French cuisine, resulting in unique dishes like Foie Gras terrine with apricots and dates. Inspired by the romance between a French librarian and an Arabic poet, the decor features literary touches throughout the space. Chefs Vladimir Chistyakov and Alexander Loshinin helm this innovative restaurant.
Ronin
Ronin, located at FIVE LUXE JBR, offers gourmet sashimi and rolls with a fun twist. Led by celebrity chef Sin Keun Choi, the restaurant combines Japanese fusion cuisine with Instagrammable flair. Open for dinner, Ronin features dramatic interiors and stunning beach views, perfect for an unforgettable dining experience.
SHIMA
SHIMA, in One Palm Jumeirah, Dorchester Collection, blends vibrant Japanese flavours with serene Arabian Gulf views. Chef Koyi Tanabe crafts dishes with premium ingredients and artistic flair. The menu integrates seasonal flavours with traditional techniques, offering a harmonious dining experience.
La Dame de Pic
La Dame de Pic Dubai, led by acclaimed chef Anne-Sophie Pic, offers intricate French cuisine. Located at The Link, One&Only One Za’abeel, the restaurant combines French elegance with culinary excellence. Chef Pic’s innovative menu uses unexpected ingredients and refined techniques, promising a unique dining adventure.
oneandonlyresorts.com/ladamedepic, @ladamedepicdubai
Riviera by Jean Imbert
Riviera by Jean Imbert, at The Lana in Business Bay, takes you on a culinary journey to the south of France. Open daily from 7 am, the restaurant serves inventive Mediterranean fare. The interior features rich botanical colours, while the terrace offers stunning views of Burj Khalifa and the Dubai skyline.
dorchestercollection.com/riviera-by-jean-imbert, @rivierabyjeanimbert
Sushiyaki
Sushiyaki, located in Souk Madinat Jumeirah, celebrates sushi and yakitori. Created by the team behind Clay and SAN Beach, the restaurant offers contemporary Japanese cuisine. Head chef Jolbi Huacho’s menu features dishes like salmon tuna tacos, wagyu striploin, and black cod, all with stunning views of the Madinat waterways.
