The Best New Restaurants in Dubai

Dubai’s dining scene is ever-evolving, with fresh concepts launching almost every week. From chic brasseries and celebrity imports to inventive homegrown gems, the city has quickly become one of the world’s most dynamic culinary capitals. These fresh arrivals bring distinctive settings, bold design and the kind of energy that keeps Dubai firmly at the forefront of global dining.

Whether you’re searching for a date-night destination, a weekend brunch spot or a lively evening out with friends, these restaurants deliver on all fronts. Each offers something unique – from waterfront views and fusion menus to award-winning chefs and playful interiors – making them must-visits for anyone looking to stay ahead of the curve.

APOLLO

Set on Palm Jumeirah at Palm Views West, Apollo is the latest creation from the team behind Rascals and Za’ Za’ Slice. Its interiors lean into retro cool, with deep burgundy walls, patterned sofas and marina-facing windows that flood the space with natural light. The atmosphere is equal parts stylish and relaxed, giving it the versatility of a neighbourhood bistro with Dubai polish. By day it feels breezy and casual, while by night it shifts into a moody, design-led setting perfect for laid-back evenings.

The menu reimagines global comfort food with playful twists, delivering nostalgic flavours in elevated form. Signature dishes include prawn sesame toast, clam linguine and duck confit paired with arroz nikkei. The Apollo Burger, built from dry-aged Wagyu, is already a cult favourite, while the caramelised popcorn ice cream offers a sweet finale. Come for a sunset dinner on the terrace or a weekend lunch that lingers into the afternoon – Apollo thrives on its come-as-you-are approach to dining.

JARDIN DES ARTS

Located within Address Montgomerie in Emirates Hills, Jardin des Arts transports guests straight to Provence. Its terrace overlooks a serene lake, bringing countryside calm to the heart of Dubai. Inside, rustic-chic design details – from floral accents to vintage furniture – create a charming and light-filled atmosphere. With its breezy ambience and elegant touches, it feels like a French escape just minutes from the city.

The menu focuses on Provençal flavours crafted with finesse. Breakfast highlights include truffled scrambled eggs and rich brioche pain perdu, while later meals feature butter-poached lobster risotto and a classic duck leg confit. Desserts are as pretty as they are indulgent, with lavender crème brûlée as the standout. It’s the kind of place that works equally well for a romantic evening or a sun-soaked brunch with friends.

THE BANC

Imported from North London, The Banc has taken up residence in Business Bay’s Renaissance Hotel. The interiors span two floors, with a terrace and shisha lounge alongside art-filled walls and a playful vault door that nods to the venue’s origins. By day the mood is stylish and contemporary, but as night falls, live DJs and an energetic crowd transform it into a party-leaning hotspot. With its bold design and buzzy atmosphere, it’s quickly become one of Dubai’s liveliest openings.

Its “Mediterrasian” menu combines Mediterranean and Asian flavours with an emphasis on quality produce. Bluefin tuna tataki and Alaskan king crab legs headline the seafood, while a 1.2kg Wagyu tomahawk is the choice for carnivores. Desserts like white truffle ice cream and yuzu-matcha pavlova add inventive flair. Pair it with cocktails such as the balsamic-infused Postman Negroni, and The Banc becomes a perfect spot for dinner that effortlessly flows into nightlife.

KUMO

Housed in a converted Jumeirah villa, Kumo channels the intimacy of Kyoto’s family-style restaurants. The decor combines natural wood, bonsai details and minimalist touches, while nostalgic accents like origami and vintage toys add character. The space feels serene, with a dedicated matcha bar and sushi counter offering theatre and calm in equal measure. For those seeking a quieter pace, it’s a refreshing retreat away from the city’s bustle.

The kitchen celebrates Japanese comfort food with authenticity and warmth. Diners can expect sashimi and sushi prepared with precision, izakaya-style bites perfect for sharing, and hearty ramen bowls for cooler evenings. Flavours balance tradition with innovation, creating dishes that feel familiar yet exciting. With attentive service and a relaxed flow, it’s best enjoyed for a slow weekend dinner or an unhurried evening with tea and sake.

CHAR

Located at Nad Al Sheba Mall, CHAR is a dual-concept venue shifting from café by day to grill bar by night. The interiors reflect this split personality: sleek wood and bright tiles during daylight, transforming into an amber-lit space with steel accents once the grills fire up. Central to the design is the open flame station, which anchors the dining room and sets the mood for smoky indulgence. It’s a fresh concept by Around The Block, one of Dubai’s most dynamic homegrown groups.

The menu centres on bold, smoke-infused flavours straight from the grill. Expect dishes like butterflied shrimp with spiced butter, smoky baba ganoush, and tender chicken skewers charred to perfection. Comfort-driven yet modern, the plates are made for sharing, with sides adding freshness and balance. Alcohol-free, CHAR serves inventive mocktails and teas, making it a welcoming choice for casual dinners or group outings.

MAYG

Dubai Design District’s MAYG delivers East-meets-West fine dining in an intimate, polished space. With plush seating, maroon accents and a sculptural ceiling inspired by drifting clouds, the interiors are both dramatic and serene. Led by Chef Aadel Ouaoua, who brings Parisian expertise to Dubai, MAYG is a sophisticated addition to d3’s creative quarter. It’s a venue that feels purpose-built for elegant evenings and special occasions.

The French-Japanese menu combines precision with artistry. Dishes include salmon ceviche with mango and shiitake, Wagyu striploin with veal jus and oak smoke, and a chocolate dessert that layers indulgence in multiple textures. Each course is crafted as much for presentation as for flavour, creating a memorable progression from start to finish. Whether dining as a couple or celebrating with friends, MAYG promises an experience that lingers long after dessert.

GEISHA

Set high in DIFC’s Emirates Financial Towers, Geisha brings a sultry, dramatic flair to the city’s dining landscape. Red velvet tones, candlelit tables and panoramic skyline views combine to create a glamorous setting. Designed as an immersive experience, the restaurant flows seamlessly into late-night energy with live performances and DJs. By blending dinner and nightlife, Geisha ensures every visit is a multi-sensory event.

The Pan-Asian menu showcases dishes from across the continent, with sushi and sashimi taking centre stage. Korean barbecue plates, Thai curries and artful maki rolls round out the offering. Cocktails infused with Asian ingredients add to the sense of theatre, making it a complete evening experience. Arrive for dinner, stay for the after-hours energy – Geisha is where DIFC meets after-dark allure.

MADAME LI

Madame Li, at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, exudes timeless elegance with jade-green tones, carved wood and Oriental motifs. Large windows and a terrace overlooking the Arabian Gulf add light and views to the opulent interiors. Helmed by Chef Mehmet İpar, the restaurant combines refined design with culinary artistry rooted in Pan-Asian traditions. It’s an inviting space, equal parts polished and welcoming.

Dim sum is the star, from truffle morel dumplings to playful wagyu handbag parcels. Peking duck, wok-fried Wagyu beef and miso-glazed Chilean seabass headline the mains, each crafted with flair and balance. Desserts like matcha crème brûlée bring the experience full circle, pairing tradition with creativity. With its banquet-style service and brunch options, Madame Li is as suited to celebrations as it is to intimate dinners.

MIRABELLE

Mirabelle, also at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, channels Côte d’Azur chic with a terrace overlooking anchored yachts and the Arabian Gulf. Inside, light woods and Riviera-inspired art bring a casual yet elegant brasserie feel. Overseen by French chef Sacha Enjalbert, it embodies the relaxed glamour of southern France. Whether for sunlit lunches or golden-hour drinks, Mirabelle sets a breezy, elegant stage.

The French-Mediterranean menu spans tuna tartare with avocado and piquillo peppers, escargots baked in garlic butter, and Provençal-style sea bass in a bouillabaisse broth. For heartier tastes, chargrilled lamb chops and steak tartare bring classic bistro comfort. Finish with orange-scented crème brûlée and a glass of Provençal rosé for Riviera perfection. A versatile choice, Mirabelle suits lazy weekend lunches or understated date nights.

THREE BROS

At Wasl 51 in Jumeirah, the Michelin-starred Orfali Brothers have opened Three Bros, an intimate 22-seat diner. Retro interiors with maroon booths, patterned flooring and playful sculptures set a nostalgic mood. Despite the casual setting, the Orfalis’ fine-dining pedigree shines through, making it one of Dubai’s most in-demand reservations. It’s a celebration of family, flavour and creativity.

The menu delivers inventive yet comforting bites. OB Croquettes with Comté and truffle mayo are a must, while the Wagyu cheeseburger has quickly become a crowd favourite. From sour cherry-topped Wagyu kebabs to gourmet pizzas from the wood-fired oven, each dish feels indulgent yet approachable. With house iced teas in place of alcohol, it’s a relaxed spot that delivers big on flavour and heart.