Barrafina needs little introduction to London’s most dedicated foodies. Since opening its first site on Frith Street in Soho in 2007, the brand has built a devoted following across five locations in the capital, earning a reputation as one of the city’s most consistent destinations for Spanish food done well. Now, Barrafina Dubai has arrived as the group’s first international opening, taking up residence in Gate Village 01 within DIFC.
Red and marble in Gate Village
The space itself is compact and deliberately unfussy. Bold red accents run through the interior, from arched alcoves to the glossy curved canopy above the open kitchen, set against travertine-style walls and marble-topped tables. Crimson leather bar stools line the counter, from which diners can watch the kitchen in action, and a handful of booths fill the remaining floor space. It is intimate by DIFC standards and noticeably more casual than many of its neighbours. Reservations are accepted for the main dining room, while the counter remains walk-in only, in keeping with the original Barrafina philosophy.
The menu at Barrafina Dubai follows the format familiar to fans of the London locations: para picar (small bites), tortillas, seafood, meat, vegetables and desserts. It is a focused list, free from unnecessary flourish, with pricing that reflects the DIFC postcode. Spanish wines dominate the drinks list, with a solid selection available by the glass, alongside sangria, Spanish cocktails and a short beer menu.
The dishes worth ordering
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We started with the marinated olives, citrus and herb marinated gordal olives that arrived plump and glossy. They were enjoyable, though on the salty side. The pan con tomate, sourdough with garlic and tomato, was a simple pleasure done correctly: good crust, well-seasoned tomato and quality olive oil, nothing more needed. The padron peppers came blistered and lightly salted, exactly as they should be.
The prawn croquetas stood out as one of the best dishes of the evening. Two generously sized rounds, fried to a deep golden crisp, with a bechamel interior that was smooth and rich. A small quenelle of alioli and a cross of chive on top finished them cleanly. Alongside the croquetas, the patatas bravas delivered the familiar combination of crispy fried potatoes, brava sauce and alioli with satisfying results.
Of the larger plates, the chicken romesco was the clear highlight of the night. Crispy chicken thighs arrived on a pool of deeply flavoured romesco sauce, topped with toasted nuts. It was well-executed and came together with confidence. We also ordered the arroz de mariscos, a creamy bomba rice with seasonal seafood, mussels prominent among the toppings. The dish was comforting and generously portioned, with a good depth of flavour from the stock.
Ending on a sweet note
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The desserts proved to be a strong close to the meal. The Basque cheesecake, made with idiazabal cheese in the traditional recipe, was rich and subtly savoury, with a properly burnished top. Our waiter recommended pairing it with their signature martini, which is a combination well worth trying. The pina catalana was the standout of the two: vanilla custard and ice cream served inside a whole pineapple with a caramelised sugar crust on top, it was a clever and genuinely enjoyable end to the evening.
Service throughout was warm and attentive. Staff were knowledgeable about the menu and the wine list, offering suggestions without pressure. The atmosphere in the room built steadily as the evening progressed, with the open kitchen adding energy to what could otherwise feel like a quiet space. Barrafina Dubai carries the same spirit as its London counterparts: good Spanish cooking, a lively counter, and a room that rewards those who are happy to settle in for the evening.
Quick summary – Barrafina Dubai
- 📍 Location: Gate Village 01, DIFC, Dubai
- 🍽 Cuisine: Spanish tapas
- 💸 Price range: Mid to high (AED 35–195 per dish)
- 🥂 Signature experience: Counter dining and walk-in bar seating
- ✨ Ambience: Lively and casual, with a chic DIFC edge
- ⏰ Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 12pm–12am
