Barrafina Dubai is set to open on Monday 26 January in Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), marking the first international restaurant from the London-based Spanish group in almost two decades. The opening introduces the brand’s counter-focused dining format to the UAE, following its long-established presence in London.
Known for its open kitchens and counter seating, Barrafina Dubai will operate with just 55 seats. The compact layout places chefs at the centre of the experience, with dishes prepared directly behind a marble and stainless steel counter. This approach mirrors the structure used across the group’s existing locations and reflects a consistent emphasis on visibility and pace within the kitchen.
A counter-led Spanish menu
The menu at Barrafina Dubai draws on dishes that have defined the group’s London restaurants, alongside plates developed specifically for the Dubai location. Core items include the classic Spanish tortilla, gambas rojas and chicken thighs with romesco. These sit alongside daily specials such as clams with salsa verde and a rotating selection of Galician dry-aged beef.
Between lunch and dinner services, the restaurant will introduce a pared-back para picar menu. This shorter offering focuses on small plates including white anchovy tostada, prawn croquetas and Spanish bikini sandwiches filled with tuna belly and caviar. The structure is intended to accommodate afternoon dining without extending into a full service period.
Barrafina Dubai follows the group’s long-standing focus on ingredient-driven cooking and regional Spanish references. Daily specials will vary according to availability, consistent with the format used across the brand’s UK locations.
Drinks programme rooted in Spain
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The drinks list at Barrafina Dubai centres on Spanish producers, with a particular focus on wines, vermouths and boutique cava. A concise cocktail list complements the food menu, keeping the emphasis on classic formats rather than experimental mixes.
As with the food offering, the beverage programme reflects continuity with the group’s London restaurants, where Spanish wine forms the backbone of the list.
Barrafina’s expansion beyond London
Barrafina was founded by brothers Sam and Eddie Hart and currently operates five restaurants in London. These include locations in Covent Garden, King’s Cross and London Bridge, alongside the original Soho site which opened in 2007 before relocating to Dean Street in 2016.
Quick Summary – Barrafina Dubai
- 📍 Location: Dubai International Financial Centre, Dubai
- 🍽 Cuisine: Modern Spanish tapas
- 📅 Opening date: 26 January
- 👨🍳 Format: Counter dining with open-theatre kitchen
- 🪑 Capacity: 55 seats
- 🍷 Drinks focus: Spanish wines, vermouths and cava
