Dubai’s dining scene is about to get a whole lot tastier.
Dubai’s restaurant scene is thriving, with each new opening promising a unique gastronomic experience. From superb Spanish offerings at Barrafina to a jubilant Japanese izakaya experience at Zuma Beachhouse, there’s something for everyone. And that’s just the beginning. Read on to discover the new Dubai restaurants that should be on your dining radar in 2026 (and beyond).
AVLU Dubai
After a strong debut in Abu Dhabi, AVLU is heading to Dubai with a second location scheduled to open this December on Palm Jumeirah. The concept first made waves at Yas Mall earlier this year, where its relaxed elegance and coastal flavours drew steady crowds. AVLU’s culinary direction brings the shores of Greece and Türkiye to the table. The menu balances familiarity with finesse, using high-quality produce and olive oil sourced from the Aegean to anchor the flavours. Signatures include Grilled Greek Octopus with a clean, smoky finish, Salt-Cooked Wild Seabass that locks in moisture and minerality, and Slow-Cooked Turkish Lamb Shoulder.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
AY-VY
Located in DIFC’s Al Fattan Currency House, AY-VY Dubai is pitched as a Pan-Asian social club shaped by food, music, and design, created for guests who want theatre as much as dinner. The kitchen borrows discipline from Japanese technique, fire from Southeast Asia, and depth from Chinese classics, then reframes them through a modern lens. The omakase and sushi counters slow the tempo for close-up craft, while the robata delivers smoke and theatre across signature dishes such as Grilled Black Cod in Shacha Sauce and Peking Duck with Caviar & Foie Gras folded into a steamed bao. The bar is described as an apothecary: a studio for liquid expression that plays with fragrance, flavour, and form.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
Cake & Bubbles
Dubai’s dining scene is about to get a little sweeter. Cake & Bubbles, the London concept created by celebrated Spanish chef Albert Adrià, is heading to DIFC Square, adding a polished patisserie and Champagne bar to one of the city’s most talked-about new developments. For those unfamiliar with the name, Cake & Bubbles first made its mark at Hotel Café Royal on Regent Street in London, where it built a following for pairing elegant desserts with an extensive Champagne and sparkling wine list. Signature items on the menu include The “Cheese Cake” to Share, made with Baron Bigod cheese, hazelnut and white chocolate, as well as the Classic Basque Burnt Cheesecake with a burnt finish and a creamy, almost flan-like texture. Other standouts include the Cakes & Bubbles Corks, Matcha & Yuzu Slice, Passion Golden Egg and After Eight.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
Cafe Sofi
If you’ve lived in the UAE, chances are you’ve crossed paths with a tashas restaurant. The group is bringing another of its concepts from South Africa to Dubai, called Cafe Sofi. Cafe Sofi was launched in 2025 in South Africa and is a personal culinary venture by restaurateur Natasha Sideris. The concept is inspired by her mother, Sophia Electra. Her recipes transformed ordinary ingredients into hearty dishes featuring English and Greek flavours. The food is described as an “intimate indulgence,” featuring a mix of salads, cakes, and classic plates. Expect options like fried eggs and avocado on toast for breakfast, and move on to beef burgers, pastas, and more for mains. And for desserts, you can expect to dive into tiramisu with salted caramel, pineapple heaven cake, honey cake and much more.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
Chotto Matte
Opening its doors in early 2025, Chotto Matte will find a home at The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC. This addition promises to bring the best of Nikkei cuisine – a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavours – to Dubai. Based on its offerings in other cities, you can expect sushi, raw plates, and robata grill. These will include favourites such as Jumbo Prawn Tempura, Wagyu Beef Gyoza, Black Cod Aji Miso and much more. Desert lovers are in for a treat as well, with Matcha Crepe Cake, Mochi Ice Cream, and more items on the menu.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
Duck & Rice
Duck & Rice, the much-loved London concept that blends British pub culture with a serious Cantonese kitchen, is preparing to open in DIFC, marking the brand’s first location outside London. The opening will bring one of Soho’s most distinctive dining names to Dubai, adding another heavyweight to the city’s ever-growing restaurant scene. The new outpost in DIFC Square is expected to carry the same character that made the London original such a draw, combining bold design, a buzzy social energy and a menu that balances comforting classics with crowd-pleasing signatures. The food will be central to the appeal. Signature dishes from the London menu include the eponymous Duck & Rice, served with Cantonese roast duck, jasmine rice and cucumber, as well as the Cantonese House Roast Duck. Elsewhere, dishes such as Curry Soft Shell Crab, Lobster Laksa and Crispy Duck Fried Rice reflect the kitchen’s broader range, while dim sum remains a key part of the brand’s legacy.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
Gymkhana
Gymkhana has made a name for itself as one of the finest Indian restaurants in the world – and now, it’s making its debut in Dubai. Originally launched in London, with an outpost in Riyadh, the celebrated concept is preparing to open its doors in the landmark DIFC location. The restaurant draws its inspiration from the gymkhana clubs of colonial India and is renowned for its refined take on classic Indian cuisine. The menu features biryanis, curries, kebabs, sabzis and tikkas. Plus, FACT favourites such as the Chettinad Duck Dosa with Coconut Chutney and Kid Goat Methi Keema with Salli and Pao
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
Hey, Tiger
Backed by the team behind Brass Monkey, Hey, Tiger in Motor City is expected to blend food, drinks and atmosphere into one cohesive experience. The venue is set to lean into a dark, immersive aesthetic, with interiors imagined around rich red tones, industrial grey brick-style flooring and warm, low lighting. At the heart of the space will be a central bar, framed by wooden tables, stools and counter seating that encourage both casual drinks and longer evenings. On the culinary side, Hey, Tiger will focus on bold Asian flavours with a modern approach. Although the full menu has yet to be unveiled, early details suggest a line-up of Japanese-inspired dishes designed for sharing, alongside comforting, flavour-packed plates suited to a relaxed group setting. The drinks programme is also expected to play a major role in the concept, with the bar positioned as one of the venue’s defining features rather than a supporting element.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
Hikiniku To Come
Japanese chefs are known for their commitment to mastering every dish they serve. That same unwavering dedication comes to life in Dubai with the launch of a new restaurant, Hikiniku To Come. Located in Al Qouz, the venue will specialise in meat and rice. Neither a burger nor a traditional steak, the signature dish sees fresh beef ground every morning, grilled over charcoal in front of you, and served atop steamed rice in a traditional hagama pot. The concept aims to turn meat and rice into an art form. Brought to the UAE by FYTE Hospitality, the same team behind the popular handroll bar Kokoro, Hikiniku To Come will open in 2026.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
Jon & Vinny’s
Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo are the masterminds behind Jon and Vinny’s. The restaurant was created in Los Angeles, where it became a casual spot for celebrities. Chrissy Teigen, John Legend, Jay-Z, and Beyoncé are among the names spotted sharing slices of pizza. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Jon and Vinny’s Dubai will offer a menu that celebrates traditional Italian-American dishes without the fuss. The pizzas, made with 48-hour fermented dough, are perfectly charred for an irresistible flavour and include L.A. Woman, which piles local burrata upon a base of tomato and basil, and Tiber Island featuring fennel sausage, mushrooms and olives. Jon and Vinny’s Dubai will draw inspiration from its sister restaurants in Los Angeles, Riyadh, and Jeddah, showcasing Jon & Vinny’s signature bold green colour palette with a cosy, minimalist design. Guests will recognise the signature green pizza boxes, high ceilings, softwood accents, and neon signage—all coming together to create a warm, inviting atmosphere with a familiar neighbourhood charm.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
L’Abysse Dubai
The French chef Yannick Alléno has made a name for himself worldwide with his MICHELIN-starred restaurants. He has opened restaurants in London, Monaco, and Paris. He will soon open L’Abysse at One&Only The Palm in Dubai. The restaurant already exists in Monte Carlo, Osaka, and Paris, where it holds two MICHELIN stars. Yannick will be teaming up with sushi master Yasunari Okazaki for the Dubai restaurant. The concept will combine French and Japanese influences. The food menu is described as a tribute to precision, with sushi pieces presented like works of art. Dishes include Cuttlefish Tagliatelle, Fire Grilled Langoustine, and Scallops enlivened with meadowsweet. Guests can also enjoy wine and sake pairings, choosing from sought-after sakes.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
LAVITA Beach House
LAVITA Beach House is set to become the ultimate destination for sun-soaked days and lively nights at One Palm Jumeirah Dorchester Collection. The club boasts stunning views of Palm Jumeirah, making it a prime location. The concept draws its inspiration from Italy’s glamorous coastal lifestyle and will feature live music and entertainment, ranging from local performers to international acts. La Vita comes from the team behind the FACT Award-winning Chic Nonna and L’Amo Bistro del Mare.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
Le Café LPM
Set to open in Jumeirah, Le Café LPM will take up a prime spot at Across H by Huna, located just opposite Café Kitsuné, Cipriani Dolci and NAC, making it a fitting home for LPM’s next chapter. Inspired by the South of France, the space will feature muted colours and textures with pops of green. It will be airy by day, shifting to a more intimate space as the sun sets. The highlight of the cafe will be its patisserie, featuring delicious baked goods. The concept itself hints at exactly that kind of all-day ease: relaxed mornings and long lunches. In other words, it’s designed to be the kind of place you drop into for a quick coffee and end up staying for hours. Whether you’ll actually manage to snag a table, though, remains to be seen.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
LucyLu
The Beirut-born speakeasy LucyLu will soon land in the emirate with the same mischievous spirit that made it a cult favourite. Opening on 25 Jump Street, the city’s first licensed dining strip, the speakeasy features a discreet entrance and a mood that switches from intimate to electric as the night unfolds. Expect classic cocktails reimagined with a house twist, served with precision and crafted to pair with Latin-inspired plates. Based on the concept in Beirut, the Latin-leaning menu features Chicken Tacos, Marinated Salmon and Tuna Tostadas, along with snackable bites.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
Monte-Carlo Club 1863 Restaurant
Are you feeling lucky? Dubai is set to welcome a touch of Monte Carlo, courtesy of Monte-Carlo Club 1863. Opening in autumn 2025, the restaurant showcases the city-state’s cuisine, and here’s what to expect. Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer is behind the expansion of the Monte-Carlo Club 1863. The company has been in operation for over 160 years. Its hotel portfolio includes Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo and Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
Oltremare
Italian restaurant Oltremare will soon open in Downtown Dubai, just moments from Dubai Mall’s Fashion Avenue. The new venue comes courtesy of Fortune Family, the London-based hospitality group known for concepts rooted in culture and craftsmanship. Named after the Italian word for “beyond the sea”, Oltremare offers a contemporary take on classic Italian dining. At the helm is Chef Emanuele Pollini, a Romagna-born talent bringing a personal philosophy to the kitchen. From day to night, the venue shifts gears, transforming into BLITZ, an in-house late-night lounge where cocktails and music lead the experience into a more intimate, social rhythm.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
Osaka Nikkei
Hailing from the vibrant culinary scene of Peru, Osaka Nikkei is set to open on the 35th floor of the soon-to-launch Mandarin Oriental Downtown Dubai. Set high above Downtown Dubai’s gleaming skyline, the restaurant will offer a vibrant fusion of Japanese elegance and fiery Peruvian flair. Signature dishes likely to grace the Dubai menu include Clasico Tiraditos, Crispy Quinoa Rolls, Hotate Nissei Scallops, Osaka Nigiris, Pisco Ribs, Rocoto Aburi and Tako Truffle. Mains like the Osaka Steak are rich in umami, while desserts such as Yuzu Cheesecake and Miso Lucuma add a sweet yet sophisticated finish.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
Papakha
Dubai’s ever-evolving restaurant scene is about to welcome a knockout addition. UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov is all set to open his very own restaurant and cafe, Papakha. The name Papakha carries deep meaning. You might remember Khabib Nurmagomedov proudly wearing his papakha after every UFC victory, paying homage to his Dagestani heritage and identity. For food, you can expect the restaurant to celebrate traditional Dagestani flavours. Here, you’ll indulge in hearty comfort food, and of course, coffee.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
Pavyllon Dubai
Yannick Alléno is setting his sights on Downtown Dubai. The multi-decorated French chef, who now counts 17 Michelin stars across his global portfolio, has revealed that Pavyllon Dubai will open at the soon-to-open Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Dubai. If Pavyllon London is any indication, Pavyllon Dubai will likely serve breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. Diners can look forward to a menu that blends classical technique with regional expression, featuring dishes such as Charcoal Grilled Blue Lobster, Modern Beef Fillet Stroganoff, and Roasted Crown of Pigeon with Legs Confit. Cocktails and Champagne by the glass are very much part of the ritual, setting a celebratory tone from the first pour.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
Scott’s Dubai
Scott’s has made a name for itself in London. The long-running restaurant, famous for its spectacular seafood, is located in Mayfair and Richmond. Now, it will expand and open between Babylon and Zuma in DIFC. In 1851, the concept started as an oyster warehouse by the fishmonger John Scott. The brand evolved into Scott’s Oyster Rooms and a seafood restaurant. In 1967, it relocated to Mount Street, Mayfair, and is renowned for its fine-dining British fish and shellfish dishes and its A-list clientele.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
Shinobi Handroll Bar
Opening on Al Wasl Road in May 2026, Shinobi is being positioned as an underground handroll bar, one that brings together food, music, art, street culture and craft in a single setting. Rather than leaning into the formality often associated with Japanese dining, Shinobi appears to be chasing something more atmospheric and immediate, with a mood shaped as much by the soundtrack and setting as the handrolls themselves. Inside, neon signs illuminate a subway train that doubles as a seating area. Industrial features punctuate the space, from tiling and brickwork to a small merch store. At the centre of it all sits the U-shaped counter, where diners can watch the chefs at work as they produce premium, made-to-order handrolls. Though what’s on the menu is still to be revealed.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
Soraya
Dubai and Abu Dhabi have long shared a lively culinary exchange, with standout concepts regularly crossing city lines in search of new audiences. The latest restaurant preparing to make that move is Soraya, the much-loved Persian dining destination from Abu Dhabi, which is now set to expand to First Avenue Mall in Dubai. The menu is expected to spotlight Soraya’s best-known dishes, with a line-up that reflects the depth and variety of Persian cooking. The à la carte menu features main dishes such as smoky skewers (kabobs) of marinated meats and vegetables, mixed grill platters, ghormeh sabzi (lamb shank, herb and kidney bean stew), laban immo (lamb meatballs and lamb shank, yoghurt and dried mint), grilled prawn ghalieh (grilled prawn, tomato and tamarind sauce) and more. An array of salads and pickles is also available, along with a plethora of dips and spreads ready to be slathered over homemade hot bread.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
Suelo
The taste of Spain is coming to the UAE. The new restaurant Suelo will open in Dubai, aiming to bring fine flavours to the city. The restaurant can already be found in Paris, France, and has a firm following of foodies. The concept features Mediterranean dishes, with a particular emphasis on Spanish cuisine. While the Suelo Dubai menu has not yet been unveiled, the original menu spans starters, salads, signature dishes, sides and desserts. Signature dishes include a Seared Red Mullet Fillet, Piquillo Peppers with tuna, and Wagyu Bikini. Plus, the desserts include Basque Cheesecake, Chocolate Fondant, and Churros with salted butter and caramel sauce.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
Taiga
Positioned as Dubai’s first traditional teppanyaki restaurant, Taiga aims to deliver a dining experience that combines culinary precision with performance. At its core is the teppanyaki counter, where chefs prepare each dish in full view of guests, turning dinner into something immersive and indulgent. Flames, technique and timing are all part of the appeal, but the concept also places a strong emphasis on ingredient quality and refined execution. It is a format that suits Taiga’s theatrical spirit, but the ingredients are just as much a talking point as the presentation. Seafood will be flown in from Tokyo’s Toyosu Market five times a week, while the meat offering will showcase A5 Wagyu, including Kobe, Matsusaka and Ozaki beef.
Expected opening: 2026 TBC
Cazibeli
Bringing Turkish cuisine to the forefront at Gran Meliá Dubai Jumeirah, Cazibeli is a homegrown concept inspired by the sofra tradition. Expect communal, family-style dining with decor that blends Arabic and Art Deco. With a bistro area, a bar, a show kitchen and an alfresco shisha lounge with stunning vistas, your evenings are about to reach new heights.
Expected opening: 2027 TBC
Crazy Horse Dubai
Crazy Horse from Paris is just one of the new Dubai restaurants making its way to East Park. debut in the region. Bringing together dance, music and a whole lot of fun. Crazy Horse in Paris has a long history, dating back more than 70 years. The original venue has welcomed a range of famous performers, including Dita Von Teese and Carmen Electra. Visitors can expect to see acrobats, live music, and entertainment. While the location for Crazy Horse in Dubai has not yet been confirmed, it has opened locations worldwide. Today, the signature show is Totally Crazy!, featuring 90 minutes of fun and fantasy.
Expected opening: 2027 TBC
Jondal Dubai
Jondal can already be found in Ibiza, Spain, and the restaurant specialises in seafood. Chef Rafael Zafra is at the helm of the restaurant. He was born in Seville and began working in restaurants at the age of 16. Jondal in Ibiza’s menu is divided into from the sea, specials from the sea, caviar specials, meat and sides. Specials include Mediterranean Sea Cucumber with noisette, Sting Raw with pickles and fresh herbs, and Whole Octopus A La Gallega. Meats include Cured Rubia Gallega, Grilled Suckling Lamb Chops, and Wagyu Carpaccio with foie and parmesan.
Expected opening: 2027 TBC
Novikov Beach
Known for its fusion of Mediterranean flavours with Asian influences, Novikov Beach promises a refined yet immersive coastal escape from the hustle and bustle of Dubai. Located at the upcoming Gran Meliá La Mer, Novikov Beach will offer a chic, sophisticated lounge experience for all guests. Expect cosy day beds, a pool offering breathtaking sea views, and direct access to the beach, where you can dip your toes. Once open, this beach club is set to become a go-to destination for those looking to unwind in style.
Expected opening: 2027 TBC
Park Chinois Dubai
Park Chinois will be expanding from the United Kingdom to the United Arab Emirates. The original restaurant is in Mayfair, London, and it will now open in the Gran Meliá Dubai. The restaurant will occupy the rooftop space, offering guests panoramic views of the sun and sea. Park Chinois takes pride in offering high-end Chinese cuisine. While the menu for Park Chinois in Dubai has not yet been unveiled, the menu in London is available for lunch and dinner, spanning dim sum, duck, meat, fish and seafood and draws inspiration from 1930s Shanghai.
Expected opening: 2027 TBC
Rubia Gallega
Already a favourite at Expo City, Rubia Gallega is making its move to the coast. The Spanish steakhouse celebrates Galician beef in all its marbled glory, paired with a curated wine list. Expect bold flavours, beautiful cuts, and a sleek, sophisticated setting when it opens at Gran Meliá Dubai Jumeirah.
Expected opening: 2027 TBC
Salama
A Moroccan restaurant hailing from France, Salama is one of the latest names gearing up to join Dubai’s burgeoning food scene. With roots in Cannes and Saint Tropez, the restaurant’s decor will feature a sophisticated fusion of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences. Classic dishes such as The Bride’s Fingers and Chicken Pastilla are sure to delight those looking for a taste of tagine and Moroccan spices. With excitement already building, Mohamed Hedi Mardassi, the founder of Holdmar Group, has been vocal about his plans to bring the restaurant to Dubai this year.
Expected opening: 2027 TBC
Zuma Dubai Beachhouse
Located adjacent to the Gran Meliá Dubai, there’s no doubt that Zuma Dubai Beachhouse will be a buzzing lifestyle hub for those seeking some downtime in the city. With a resident DJ on the deck and comfy day beds by the pool, this venue will also boast a lounge and a bar, along with a 140-metre-long beachfront with views of the Arabian Gulf. As expected, no Zuma experience is complete without some food, so prepare to be treated to an izakaya menu at this coastal location. Zuma Dubai Beachhouse will be open for lunch and pool bookings every single day.
Expected opening: 2027 TBC