11 New Regional Restaurants To Have On Your Radar
Barrafina
DIFC, Dubai
Barrafina brings a taste of London’s much-loved Spanish tapas scene to the heart of Dubai, making it a great addition to the ever-evolving DIFC dining scene. Set in Gate Village 01, the cosy restaurant centres around an open kitchen and counter-style dining. Diners can expect seasonal Spanish tapas, from the signature tortilla and gambas rojas to croquetas and crowd favourite the pan con tomate, alongside Spanish wines, sherry and cava.
Visit BARRAFINA.COM
Sutēki
Dubai Harbour
Sutēki is for meat lovers, bringing an entirely Wagyu-focused dining experience to Dubai Harbour. The restaurant has a cool, art-house feel, with low lighting, warm wood, eclectic artwork and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the waterfront. The menu explores wagyu in all its forms, from gyoza, croquettes and tataki to beautifully grilled cuts and Japanese-style steak. At the same time, the drinks list offers rare Japanese whiskies, sake and minimalist cocktails. It’s a beautiful yet delicious spot, with scenic harbour views that add to the atmosphere. If you’re heading over on a Thursday, be sure to try the sizzling sutēki cheeseburger – it’s not to be missed.
Visit SUTEKIDUBAI.COM
KIGO
DIFC DUBAI
KIGO is an intimate 44-seat restaurant melding together the traditions of sushi omakase and kaiseki, with seasonal tasting menus that change throughout the year depending on what’s at its best. Tucked away in the Four Seasons DIFC, the setting is beautifully understated, with warm tones, natural materials and a bold Aji stone sushi counter at the heart of the room, creating a calm, transportive atmosphere. Led by head chef Akinori “Aki” Tanigawa and sushi head chef Daihachiro Ebata, the dining experience focuses on exceptional Japanese produce, handcrafted technique, and delicate presentation.
Visit KIGODUBAI.COM
Clap Of Flour
Dubai Canal
Clap of Flour is a picturesque new Italian spot on Dubai Canal near Safa Park, bringing handmade pasta, freshly baked pastries and good coffee to the waterfront. The relaxed, welcoming space feels warm and welcoming, with wooden tables, natural light and plenty of cosy corners. Pasta is the star of the show, with fresh dough rolled daily at the restaurant’s dedicated pasta bar, while the menu also offers Italian favourites, pastries and coffee throughout the day.
Follow @CLAPOFFLOUR
Le Piaf
Dubai
If you’re looking for some Parisian glamour in Dubai, tucked inside Emirates Towers is Le Piaf, a lively French-Mediterranean dining experience that effortlessly turns into a late-night party. The interiors are dark, dramatic and chic, with plush velvet seating, moody lighting and an intimate atmosphere that gets livelier as the evening goes on. The menu combines French favourites with Mediterranean influences, while the drinks and entertainment make it truly unique.
Visit LEPIAF-RESTAURANT.COM
Athar by The Q Lab
Mirdiff, Dubai
If you’re looking to try Emirati cuisine with a contemporary twist, Athar by The Q Lab is a new all-day spot worth knowing about. Located at Chef’s Society in City Centre Mirdif, the restaurant celebrates UAE heritage through its food, hospitality and design, taking inspiration from the warmth of traditional Emirati homes and the communal majlis. The menu brings together comforting local favourites, including lamb machboos and chicken madrooba, jami cheese and watermelon salad, alongside classic options such as burgers and sandwiches. Emirati coffee and specialty coffee make it a great stop any time of day.
Follow @ATHARBYTHEQLAB
TANSŌ
Jumeirah, Dubai
TANSŌ is a fresh take on Japanese dining, set in a Jumeirah villa and bringing together seasonal Gulf ingredients with Japanese technique. The two-level space exudes a cool contemporary atmosphere with bold colours and cool art. The menu is playful and creative, with dishes such as hamachi with apple, Omani lobster with dashi mayonnaise and A5 Wagyu striploin ishiyaki, alongside a changing seasonal menu that celebrates local produce.
Follow @TANSODUBAI
Solenn
Abu Dhabi
Solenn has just arrived at The Arcades at Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, bringing its colourful Mediterranean charm to the capital. Overlooking the horse field and grandstands, the restaurant features open views and a relaxed setting that’s made for long lunches and leisurely evenings. Behind the concept is chef Grégoire Berger, whose experience at Michelin-starred Ossiano brings a refined touch to the menu without taking away from Solenn’s easy-going atmosphere. The dishes take a fresh, modern approach to Mediterranean cuisine with an Arabic twist, combining seasonal ingredients, seafood, herbs, citrus and warming spices across generous sharing plates. And don't forget to order the baklava-based millefeuille to finish off your meal on a sweet note.
Visit THESOLENN.COM
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Le Guilan
Downtown Dubai
Le Guilan is set to bring a contemporary take on Persian cuisine to Downtown Dubai this September, with scenic views overlooking South Ridge Park. Inspired by the lush landscapes and rich culinary traditions of Gilan, Iran’s Caspian coastal province, the all-day restaurant blends classic Persian recipes with European technique and a more modern approach to presentation. The menu ranges from slow-cooked short ribs with chocolate jus to saffron French toast, alongside freshly baked bread served with fermented black garlic butter. The interiors take inspiration from the grand manor houses of early twentieth-century Persia, with soft tones, rich textures and art. There’s also a botanical terrace overlooking the park and Burj Khalifa.
Follow @LEGUILAN.DXB
Chubby Fish
Beirut
Chubby Fish is bringing something fresh and fun to the Gemmayzeh dining scene, serving up Japanese hand rolls, sashimi and nigiri in a lively, laid-back setting. The restaurant centres around an open hand-roll counter, with around 60 seats spread between the indoor dining room and terrace, making it as much about the atmosphere as the food. Alongside the sushi, expect cocktails, playful dishes including fish and Wagyu burgers, and soft-serve desserts. Come in the evening, when the energy shifts up a gear, with DJs taking over at weekends and the restaurant staying open late.
Follow @CHUBBYCHUBBYFISH
Handow
Beirut
Handow is a new open-fire Asian kitchen in Achrafieh. Built around a live kitchen and the art of robata, the restaurant combines Asian-inspired flavours with smoky, fire-led cooking, with dishes served straight from the pass so guests are right in the middle of the action. The atmosphere is relaxed and social, with a contemporary space and outdoor casual seating that makes it an easy choice for dinner with friends.
Follow @HANDOWBEIRUT
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