It’s natural to assume that dining in Dubai ebbs and flows along with the city’s rhythm. But this year, alongside geopolitical tensions, hospitality in Dubai has been facing more than just the summer lull. Now 6 months later, a self-aware sort of ease has become a part of the city, and crowds, traffic, and queues are back on track to their former selves. Alongside this is Dubai’s dining map, opening up once again to serve. And among the reopenings and trusted favourites, these are the hottest launches worth reserving for.
Noren | JLT
Recently opened, Noren is named after the traditional Japanese fabric curtain that serves as entrance points at restaurants and shops. That being said, Noren’s interiors don’t exactly sport those curtains but aim to be an entrance point itself. Whether it’s drinks after work or a dinner date featuring raw dishes, sushi, and king crab, Noren brings unapologetically Japanese flavours that keep the palate wanting more.
Hikiniku To Come | Al Quoz
Set to open in Q4 in Al Quoz, Hikiniku To Come will land in Dubai with only one dish on the menu: a Japanese hamburger steak. Like its name, Hikiniku (translation: minced meat), the restaurant is centred around Japanese wagyu ground in-house, which is then grilled over charcoal in front of the diners and served with rice, miso soup, and other condiments.
Rocambolesco | SO/ Uptown Dubai
If there’s anything to learn about Dubai’s dining scene, it is that we can never get enough of Italian bistros! The latest to enter the lineup will be led by Michelin-starred Chef Luigi Stinga, where Italian flavours meet a contemporary twist. Opening on September 25, the restaurant will feature indoor and terrace seating, perfect for the al-fresco dining season.
Gymkhana Dubai | Gate Village 07, DIFC
The one opening everyone has been hyped about, the Michelin-starred London restaurant has finally made its UAE debut! Currently open for dinner at Dubai’s dining hotspot, Gate Village, the Mayfair eatery is spread across two levels plus a terrace. And inspired by India’s social clubs, expect chandeliers, plush seating, and decorated ceilings. The menu is set to bring the cult-favourite dishes to the UAE crowd alongside Dubai-exclusives.
Cyrano Maison Sociale | City Walk
Joining City Walk soon is Beiruit-born eatery, Cyrano Maison Sociale. European flavours paired with Lebanese hospitality, Cyrano Maison Sociale works as an approachable neighbourhood spot, with its doors open with no particular occasion in mind. So expect to find French classics, Mediterranean recipes, and Spanish-style tapas any time of the day.
Le Guilan | Downtown Dubai
Opening this month, Le Guilan is set to bring Northern Iranian-inspired flavours, warm interiors, and views overlooking South Ridge Park and Burj Khalifa. Taking its name from the Caspian coastal province Gilan, Le Guilan aims to recreate the Persian manor houses you can find by the coast, both in taste and feeling. The table will look at traditional Persian recipes perfected with French techniques, while the atmosphere will be set with live music.
Pepe Cucina | Address Beach Resort
Recently opened to “serve slices of la dolce vita”, Pepe Cucina is the spot to head to for the days when you’re looking for something slow and comforting. Overlooking Ain Dubai, Pepe Cucina is filled with spacious air and feel-good energy. On the table, expect to find warm bowls of pasta, fried mozzarella, homemade meatballs, and more.
Duck & Rice | DIFC
London’s cult Cantonese pub kitchen concept will soon open its doors at Dubai’s DIFC district. Perfect for those late evenings after work, Duck & Rice will bring its signature drinks with Cantonese-style dishes, which will include dim sum, duck fried rice, and, of course, roast duck.
