Dubai: The new Restaurants you need to know about

Dubai’s restaurant scene is thriving like never before. A new wave of dining destinations has emerged, ranging from vibrant rooftop hotspots and beachfront favourites to understated brasseries. Each venue offers a fresh perspective, defined by sleek, design-forward interiors, unforgettable experiences, and a globally-inspired approach to flavour.

Whether you’re a resident, a newcomer, or visiting on holiday, these ten restaurants perfectly capture the essence of Dubai’s evolving dining landscape – innovative, creative, and made for everything from leisurely lunches to unforgettable late nights.

ILIĀNA

Opened in March 2025 at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, Iliana is all about relaxed coastal elegance. Inspired by the Greek islands, the space is crisp and light, with natural stone, whitewashed textures, overlooking the sea and the iconic Burj Al Arab. It also features a chic pool club, making it as much a place to hang out as it is to dine.

The menu is firmly rooted in the Mediterranean, but nothing feels too formal or overdone. It leans into seasonal produce, grilled seafood and slow-cooked meats—think salt-baked sea bass or lamb shoulder with herbed orzo. Fresh, simple, confident.

RUBY RU BY IRIS

Launched in February 2025 at the Marriott Marquis in the Jewel of the Creek, Ruby Ru is a rooftop restaurant that mixes Parisian flair with Tokyo cool. The look is bold: mirrored walls, velvet seating and city views for days. It shifts seamlessly from early evening to full-on night out.

The menu is fun and fast-paced, perfect for sharing. Expect fusion favourites like Wagyu beef sandos, yuzu tuna tartare, miso-marinated black cod and truffled rice. Desserts riff on French classics, and the cocktail list is strong.

KEN BY KAMATSUDA

Opened in March 2025 at The Dubai EDITION Downtown, Ken is a pared-back omakase experience that puts the focus firmly on the food. The room is calm and minimal, with soft lighting and natural wood, offering a welcome pause from the noise outside.

The menu changes with the seasons and centres on top-tier Awa Wagyu and ultra-fresh seafood. Standouts include toro nigiri with uni, and a dashi-steamed egg custard with truffle. It’s intimate and precise, without feeling too serious.

FROU FROU

Opened in January 2025 at The Lana Promenade, Frou Frou leans into vintage French glam in a big way. There’s gold trim, velvet banquettes, layered table settings—a mood that’s more playful than stuffy, and just the right amount of over the top.

The food has a similar energy. Classic dishes like foie gras escargots and lobster bisque sit alongside soufflés flambéed at the table and a thoughtful cheese selection. The cocktails are paired with perfume-inspired notes, just because.

BLUME DUBAI MALL

Blume opened in late 2024 inside Fashion Avenue, and its interior is unlike anything else in Dubai Mall. Styled like a vintage train carriage, it’s all dark wood, patterned upholstery and gold detailing, with a terrace that opens out to Burj Khalifa views.

The menu is globe-trotting but well balanced, bringing together flavours from Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Lobster thermidor, truffle risotto and a theatrical baked Alaska are just a few of the dishes that balance flair with flavour.

SEXY FISH DUBAI

Opened in December 2024 at Innovation One in DIFC, Sexy Fish is bold, shiny and unapologetically high-energy. The design is full-on glamour—Damien Hirst sculptures, aquariums, shimmering gold—but it somehow all works.

The food delivers big flavours: Japanese-influenced plates like crispy duck and watermelon salad, caramelised black cod, and over-the-top sushi platters served on dry ice. It’s a go-to for when you want dinner to feel like an event.

BÂOLI

Arrived on November 2024 at J1 Beach, Bâoli brings a taste of the French Riviera to Dubai. It’s got cabanas, a poolside sun deck, and a soundtrack that leans upbeat as the sun sets. The interiors blur the line between beach club and fine dining.

On the menu: Mediterranean meets Asian. Yellowtail carpaccio, rock shrimp tempura and wagyu tataki sit comfortably next to truffle risotto and grilled langoustines. Everything is shareable and designed to complement the mood.

AFRICAN QUEEN

Also at J1 Beach, African Queen opened in December 2024 as a Dubai take on the iconic Beaulieu-sur-Mer original. The space mixes breezy Riviera charm with Dubai polish—think white tablecloths, palms, and front-row sunset views.

The food is Mediterranean with gentle North African influences. Dishes like grilled red snapper, slow-roasted lamb, and spiced ratatouille are served with restraint and a sense of tradition. Understated, in the best way.

GIRL & THE GOOSE

Opened in March 2025 at Anantara Downtown, Girl & the Goose is the first permanent space from Chef Gabi, known for her cult supper club. The vibe is low-key but well put together—warm terracotta tones, wood-fired oven, and shelves stacked with spices.

The food is personal and flavourful. Expect short ribs glazed with tamarind, truffle arepas, and oxtail empanadas. It’s comfort food, elevated just enough to feel special.

TÊTE-À-TÊTE

Tête-à-Tête opened in October 2024 at FIVE Luxe JBR, offering a beachfront setting that balances style with ease. Blush tones, Art Deco touches and a sea-facing terrace make it feel quietly indulgent without trying too hard.

The kitchen keeps things classic: steak frites with béarnaise, duck à l’orange, and champagne-poached pear tart. It’s polished, but not formal—a place for long lunches, date nights and impromptu celebrations.