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Dubai is no stranger to restaurant openings (there were over 100 last year alone). And so far, 2026 is proving to be just as fruitful.
With a slew of new restaurants having already opened in the first half of the year, there are no signs of it slowing down.
To make things easier for you (we’re always happy to help), GRAZIA highlights the hottest Dubai dining openings to have on your radar for 2026.
Le piaf
The Parisian piano bar has opened its first venue outside of Europe, situated in Dubai’s Emirates Towers. The signature velvet interiors and live music are as sultry as the menu and create a glamorous backdrop to the evening. An ideal spot for your next date night or celebratory dinner, with free-flowing cocktails and exquisite French cuisine. Experience the transformation from evening to night with Le Piaf turning into an intimate club with DJs until the early hours of the morning…you won’t regret it!
Sobremesa
Downtown’s cosy New Mexican-Spanish hideaway is now open in Souk Al Bhar. The concept is to be more than just a restaurant or a bar but a celebration of staying a little longer and focusing on long evenings and good company. They take their cocktails very seriously (both alcoholic and non) encouraging good vibes and a playful atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.
If you value quality without formality and nights filled with conversation then this is the place for you!
L’Avenue, Dubai Mall
L’Avenue, is yet another Parisian restaurant to venture to in Dubai! Located in the heart of Fashion Avenue, Dubai Mall, with one of the most desirable views and locations – the Dubai Fountains. The restaurant is true to its chic reputation, with an elegance that beckons you inside. For a sophisticated and elevated dining experience, L’avenue is your ideal dining destination.
Amaru
The immersive Latin-American-inspired restaurant opened its doors in January at Souk Madinat and does not disappoint. Amaru holds free-flowing interconnected spaces, encouraging exploration for guests both through space and cuisine. The atmosphere holds all the theatrical elements you could ask for: fire, vibes and glamour. This is definitely the next go-to spot for cocktails and ladies nights out!
Window
The 32-seater restaurant in Alserkal Avneue is the place everyone is talking about right now. Chef Gonzalo Platero puts on a show night after night with his incredible live fire cooking, attracting people from all over the UAE. The cuisine focuses towards comfort food in an impressive stylised manner. This is a must-try, and with no reservations, it feels all the more alluring and exclusive.
Gloria Osteria Dubai
Big Mamma, the group behind cult-favourite Italian restaurants worldwide, made their Dubai debut with Gloria Osteria. Located at the Ritz-Carlton DIFC, Gloria Osteria is serving a special menu curated by Chef Pietro Zamuner, bringing Italian icons with a modern twist, including Cacio e Pepe, Fiore di Zucca e Ricotta, and Bufala Caprese. A space that takes you on a trip directly to Milano.
Barrafina
From Spain’s love for sharing to London’s hustling food scene, Barrafina now lands in Dubai’s DIFC. Bringing traditional Spanish tapas with a modern flair to the heart of the city, Barrafina will be serving all of the tapas classics, including Patatas Bravas, Tortilla, and of course, Croquetas. Glammed up girl dinner, there is no better plan than to share some pinchos with your best friends on a Saturday night.
Nobu One&Only One Za’abeel
Quick-starting the year with another exciting dining moment, Nobu is opening its third location in the city this January. Located on the 24th floor of the Link at One Za’abeel, the restaurant is bringing the same well-known and beloved cuisine, but with a fresh vibe. Nobu brings a new dimension to their experience with live performances, blending high-end dining with high-end entertainment.
Dots DIFC
Blending art, dining and nightlife, DOTS is the new after-hours hotspot in Dubai. Coming from Vienna directly to DIFC, DOTS is blurring the line between creativity, connection and deliciousness under one roof. Expect exquisite asian-fusion dishes, top-notch mixologies and a party that doesn’t end. Living on their already attested motto, Eat. Drink. Dance. Repeat, this new Friday night hangout spot is one that’s definitely on GRAZIA’s to-try list.
LAVITA Beach House
La bella vita vibes are coming straight from the Italian Riviera and are soon arriving at Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah shores. Located at the One, Dorchester Collection, Lavita Beach House comes from the team behind Chic Nonna, and that means we are in for some serious fun. With seaside views, live music, and energy that lasts from the first rays to the moonshine, it’s one we can’t wait to try.
The Maine beach house
Recently opened, the Maine Beach House is where New England’s nautical meets Dubai’s glam. Although the Maine is no stranger to Dubai, with locations in Business Bay, Jumeirah Beach Residences and Studio City, this is their first seaside endeavour, located at Vista Mare on Palm Jumeirah. Their alfresco terrace and beach club loungers offer East Coast flavours perfect for a day in the sun with the whole family (and even your furry friends!)
Nammos
An old favourite, completely renewed. After closing for renovation in 2025, Nammos reopened its doors in December, 2025, with the same vibrant energy, but an elevated menu, look and feel. A Dubai icon that has defined seaside dining in the city for years, we’re thrilled to be back to celeb-spotting while indulging in the highest-quality steaks this January.
Osaka Nikkei
The to-be gastronomical star of the newly opened Mandarin Oriental in Downtown Dubai, Osaka Nikkei, brings Peruvian and Japanese flavours to the city. Located on the 35th floor of the high-rise, Osaka Nikkei provides unparalleled views of Dubai’s skyline in addition to the internationally acclaimed Latin-Japanese fusion cuisine rooted in Nikkei traditions. What started in Lima, Peru, in 2002, has become a must-visit in Dubai in 2026.
Scott’s
A London legend, Scott’s has set the benchmark for seafood dining experiences since 1851. Taking it worldwide, they are now bringing their fine-fish philosophy to Dubai. Opening in Gate Village, DIFC, you can expect nothing but their typical five-star experience, including the finest sourced fish, freshest oysters, and smooth caviar. Timeless glamour, classic dishes and that polished British seafood feel, has kept Scott’s on London’s hotspot dining map for decades, and we expect nothing else for Dubai.
Yù & Mì
Another gastronomical hotspot opening its doors at the Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Yù & Mì brings a 1960s Hong Kong feel and true Asian flavour to the tower. The energy of Yù comes from the bar, where expertly crafted Asian-inspired cocktails and curated music await you. The energy of Mì, comes from the hidden restaurant for those who step further inside. Where Yù and Mì collide, you’ll find a night of impeccable flavours, electric vibes, and panoramic views.
ZEA
Opening at the Emirates Towers this January, ZEA brings a bold and modern Mediterranean concept to DIFC. Taking inspiration from the ancient Mediterranean word, Zea, meaning ‘grain’ and ‘wheat’. The restaurant’s concept is built on the symbol of life and abundance, which Zea has provided for millions for centuries. Still today, Zea makes up many of our favourite dishes, and specifically ones we can’t wait to experience at ZEA.
