Latest news with #Gerbou
Emirates Woman
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Emirates Woman
14 Sheikh Mohammed-approved restaurants to experience in Dubai
Let the Ruler of Dubai influence your dining decisions… With a plethora of restaurants available in Dubai, it can be hard to choose where to go. However, we'll happily go to any place that's approved by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Here are 14 Dubai restaurants where Sheikh Mohammed has been spotted. Baoli One of the biggest new culinary hits at J1 Beach, Baoli brings the flavours of the Far East and Mediterranean together over a crowd-pleasing menu served up in a sophisticated seaside setting. And over the weekend, this lively spot saw a VIP visit from Sheikh Mohammed, who took time to check out several of the new J1 venues. In an Instagram video of Sheikh Mohammed exiting the venue, they posted that they were 'deeply honoured' to welcome the Ruler of Dubai. Sirene by Gaia A seaside iteration of the stalwart homegrown Greek restaurant in DIFC, Sirene is the world's largest luxury beach club. Having opened at the end of last year, it's quickly become one of the hottest spots in the city. Over the weekend, the venue got a visit from Sheikh Mohammed, who appeared to be on a tour of J1 Beach. The venue posted that it was a 'pleasure' to host the Dubai Ruler. Gerbou Mere days after opening, earlier this year, Sheikh Mohammed paid a visit to Gerbou. Housed in an ornate Jumeirah villa that dates back to 1987, Gerbou comes from the team behind top-tier concepts including One Michelin Star 11 Woodfire and refined French eatery RSVP. Through a collaboration with Tashkeel and its founder and director HH Sheikha Lateefa bint Maktoum, the two innovative brands have created Gerbou to redefine Emirati dining. Gigi Rigolatto Soon after Gigi Rigolatto opened its doors at J1 Beach last year, Sheikh Mohammed paid the venue a visit. From its stunning beachfront location to its exquisite cuisine, every detail is meticulously curated to offer guests an unforgettable experience. The club boasts a state-of-the-art infinity pool, plush sunbeds, and private cabanas, providing the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. The restaurant, a culinary masterpiece, serves up a delectable array of Italian dishes, from classic pasta to fresh seafood. The Bellini Bar, a signature feature of Gigi, offers a wide range of handcrafted cocktails, including the iconic Bellini, a tribute to the brand's heritage. Scalini Cucina In November 2024, Sheikh Mohammed was spotted along with other members of the Royal family at Scalini Cucina in Dubai Mall. A casual iteration of the renowned fine dining restaurant, this Italian gem is known for its irresistible home-cooked dishes crafted to perfection. Bkry View this post on Instagram A post shared by bkry (@ His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum visited Alserkal's popular bkry on 12 June 2024, and the restaurant posted the following caption to its official Instagram account: 'We were honoured yesterday by the visit of HH. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum @alserkalavenue. We are beyond thankful for your continued support.' Cipriani Dolci The Dubai Ruler spotted at the new outpost of the chic Italian eatery in January 2024 with a group. The Cipriani name is firmly a family legacy, with four generations of the Italian Cipriani family building a single restaurant that opened in 1931 into a renowned hospitality brand all over the world. In the UAE, Cipriani's upscale Italian restaurants can be found in various locations – DIFC in Dubai and Yas Marina, Abu Dhabi. Armani Hotel Last Ramadan, Sheikh Mohammed was spotted in the fashionable Armani Hotel Dubai. He broke his fast at the outdoor iftar, and the images – albeit from a distance – did the rounds on social media. The venue boasts views of Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Fountain, which twinkle away at night. Alaya View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chef Izu (@chefizu) Known for his love for food, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has given Chef Izu Ani's latest restaurant a royal thumbs up. In a video shared on Chef Izu's Instagram, Sheikh Mohammed is seen exchanging a handshake with the restauranteur outside new venue Alaya, whilst also sharing a few moments of laughter together. Masterminded by Chef Izu and one of Emirates Man's former cover stars Evgeny Kuzin, the concept is nothing short of extraordinary, with a combination of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences. CÉ LA VI View this post on Instagram A post shared by CÉ LA VI Dubai (@celavidubai) This world-famous Singaporean restaurant received the royal seal of approval after Sheikh Mohammed visited in February 2020. Known for their contemporary Asian dishes and incredible views of Dubai's sweeping skyline, the restaurant is located on the 54th floor terrace of Address Sky Views. Posing against the outdoor infinity pool, this restaurant is one of the most popular fine-dining spots in Dubai. Shanghai Me View this post on Instagram The Ruler of Dubai was seen dining out at Shanghai ME located in DIFC with others in September 2020. This establishment is famed for its culinary classics of East Asia, which all have a playful twist. Gaia View this post on Instagram In 2021, Sheikh Mohammed was spotted out in DIFC at Gaia, a restaurant founded by Chef Izu Ani. The venue serves up a fresh take on Mediterranean cuisine including seafood orzo, baked feta cheese, indulgent truffle potatoes and the unmissable mille-feuille that is nothing like you've ever tried before – trust us. Siraj Known for its authentic Emirati cuisine with a contemporary twist, Siraj is another Sheikh Mohammed-approved restaurant. It's located within the Souk Al Bahar, the world-famous Arabian Souk overlooking the Dubai Fountain. Farzi Cafe View this post on Instagram His Highness has previously been spotted at this famous restaurant in City Walk known for its fabulous Indian cuisine. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @celavi
Telegraph
01-05-2025
- Business
- Telegraph
How Dubai became an eco-friendly home to sustainable tourism
Dubai has become synonymous with modernity and innovation, but the city is also evolving as a shining example of sustainable development and eco living, shaping itself as a place where green initiatives can thrive alongside world-class attractions. Here are just some of the ways you can embrace this eco-friendly ethos while visiting. Taste and try Dubai's culinary scene offers a range of eateries that embrace sustainability and promote locally sourced and organic food, with an increasing number of plant-based options available too. One of the most notable is Lowe, a Michelin Green Star-awarded restaurant in the lush surroundings of Al Barari, where diners are treated to dishes that emphasise seasonal produce cooked over fire, giving an experience that blends fine dining with eco-consciousness. Another must-try is Gerbou, a farm-to-table restaurant that's perfect for those wanting to enjoy sustainable, locally inspired cuisine in a beautifully designed space that references traditional Emirati design. And if sustainable dining really inspires you, try Boca, the 2025 winner of the Sustainable Restaurant Award at Mena's 50 Best Restaurants and also holder of a Michelin Green Star. Boca runs on 100 per cent renewable energy, diners are encouraged to offset their meals through local environmental initiatives and the restaurant partners with conservation organisations to further their sustainability efforts. Dubai's vegan scene also continues to expand with a host of plant-based eateries throughout the city. You can now go vegan in Jumeirah at Seva Table, part of the yoga, meditation and holistic wellness centre, or visit Dubai hills for the soulful Indian dishes of Michelin-starred Avatara. Shop, mingle and explore Exploring urban communities off the beaten path is a great way to dip into low-key yet impactful experiences, mingle with Dubai's residents, support local businesses and try some great food. The Ripe Market at Academy Park is an al fresco lifestyle hub that will win over anyone who loves to shop and connect with small-scale local businesses, producers and artisans. You can buy everything from hand-made beauty products to vinyl records and vintage clothes at its outdoor stalls, all of which are presented by homegrown UAE companies. Al Quoz is a creative cultural neighbourhood that's home to all the galleries and studios of Alserkal Avenue, and is where you can also find The Farmers' Market on Saturdays, when organic farmers from all over the UAE come with freshly harvested produce, complemented by stalls selling everything from Emirati traditional snacks to handmade soaps. Sustainability is taking centre stage in Dubai's fashion scene too, with a growing number of stores and markets offering pre-loved and vintage clothing. Retold in Al Quoz is a prime example of Dubai's growing interest in circular fashion, with this flagship store selling pre-owned garments from a host of big-name brands. For those seeking unique pieces, Urban Market Concept is a pop-up market showcasing thrifted and upcycled clothing. To get 'under the bonnet' of Dubai's drive to sustainability, take a day out to explore the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, some 50km south of the city, in the desert at Saih Al-Dahal. It's now home to the world's largest single-site solar park, where a visitor center provides interactive exhibits and detailed insights into how solar power is harnessed and its role in reducing carbon emissions. Here, the Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA) Innovation Centre hosts more than 35 interactive exhibitions, welcoming visitors of all ages to learn more about renewable energy sources. It's an inspiring experience for anyone interested in sustainability, and it's a strikingly beautiful melding of 21st century technology and nature, too. Natural beauty Dubai has many beautiful protected natural areas that both showcase robust conservation efforts and offer an escape from the urban hustle and bustle. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, in the heart of the city, is one of the UAE's most important wetland reserves, serving as a crucial stop for migratory birds along the East Africa-West Asia flyway, attracting more than 450 species of wildlife to its mangroves, mudflats and lagoons. Another noteworthy spot is the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, which, at 225 sq km, makes up almost five per cent of Dubai's land mass, and is one of the largest protected natural areas in the country. Part of the legendary Empty Quarter, it was the UAE's first national park and one of its most biologically diverse environments. It hosts more than 50 plant species, 120 bird species, and 43 mammals and reptiles, and here you can expect to see sand gazelles and even desert foxes on a guided safari or an eco-friendly tour – operators include Platinum Heritage and Sand Sherpa. Making up around 10 per cent of the total land area of the emirate is Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, the UAE's first unfenced nature reserve. Head here for excellent birdwatching, stargazing and eco-friendly cycling and walking trails. Be on the look-out for wildlife too, including one of the largest populations of Arabian oryx in Dubai, as well as gazelle and 26 species of reptiles. Further afield, the Hatta Mountain Conservation Area in the foothills of the Hajar Mountains offers a mix of memorable mountain landscapes, lush green valleys and freshwater pools. Known for its cooler high-altitude climate, it's a perfect nature retreat and is just a 90-minute drive from the city. When it comes to eco-conscious places to stay, within the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve itself is the Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa. Al Maha is the heart of an eco-tourism project that is dedicated to preserving the ecology of the desert. More than 6,000 indigenous trees are planted here and the resort regularly looks at ways to reduce water and energy consumption. In Hatta, meanwhile, visitors can stay at eco-lodges such as Damani Lodges and Sedr Trailers, which provide an immersive experience reflecting local culture and heritage. Back in the city, Anantara Hotels & Resorts group includes sustainability as part of its growth and development, and its Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort was recently awarded Green Growth Certification by the Green Growth 2050 council. Similarly, the three hotels that comprise JA The Resort in Jebel Ali have reduced their environmental footprint by using solar water heating throughout the resort, from its pools to its guest rooms. Jumeirah Al Naseem, which looks out across the water to the mighty Burj al Arab, is another sustainability champion, but what makes it stand out the most is its lagoon, built as a sanctuary for sick and injured turtles, as part of the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project. You can also look out for the city-wide Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp, which has already recognised 70 hotels for achieving the highest sustainability rankings. Broaden your horizons in Dubai In Dubai, you'll find all the right ingredients for a sun-soaked trip. The sophisticated metropolis by the sea provides unforgettable experiences, from serene safaris in the desert to dining in the world's tallest building. Broaden your horizons with a trip that takes in its exhilarating mix of record-breaking architecture, traditional neighbourhoods and white-sand beaches. You'll return home with plenty of tales to share.
What's On
01-05-2025
- Business
- What's On
Dine from Dhs125 at these top restaurants this Dubai Restaurant Week
Your tastebuds (and your wallet) will thank you this Dubai Restaurant Week… Dubai Restaurant Week is back and bringing deals you can't miss this summer. Running from May 9 to 25, this is the best way to dine at some of the best, most expensive restaurants in Dubai, but for less. Tuck into two-course lunch and three-course dinner menus for a fraction of the original cost at some of the most-talked-about venues in the city – more than 100 of them to choose from this year. The deal… Each restaurant will present an exclusive set menu featuring a two-course lunch for Dhs125 or a three-course dinner for Dhs250 per person. Bookings are now open, and you can make yours on Visit Dubai or the Dubai Restaurant Week official booking partner, OpenTable. Due to limited-time menus and high demand, early reservations are highly recommended. Menus you can't miss… Jun's Lunch menu: Dhs125 Dinner menu: Dhs250 The highlights: The two-course lunch menu priced at AED125 features claypot rice specialties, while dinner guests can enjoy a three-course meal for AED250 with standouts like miso Chilean sea bass and corn-fed baby chicken in red coconut curry. Jun's, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai, daily, 12pm to 2am, Tel: (0) 4 457 6035, @junsdubai Gerbou Lunch menu: Dhs125 Dinner menu: Dhs250 The highlights: The dinner experience elevates traditional flavours with starters including charred cabbage or sea bass hadiqa, followed by mains like vegetable salona with curry leaves and rice or chicken macarona, concluding with authentic desserts such as date cake or logaimat. Gerbou, Nad Al Sheba, Mon to Fri, 7am to 11pm, Sat and Sun, 8am to 12am, Tel: (0) 4 222 6888, @gerbou La Cantine du Faubourg Lunch menu: Dhs125 Dinner menu: Dhs250 The highlights: For dinner, diners can enjoy sophisticated starters like sea bass carpaccio with ginger dressing or roasted beetroot with goat's cheese cream, followed by elegant mains such as sea bass with quinoa and Parmesan sauce or beef tartare with caper, parsley and potato crisps. La Cantine du Faubourg, Boulevard Emirates Towers, Mon to Thurs, 12pm to 2am, Fri and Sat, 12pm to 3am, Sun, 1pm to 2am, Tel: (0) 4 352 7105, @lacantinedubai Demon Duck Dinner menu: Dhs250 The highlights: The dinner experience features dishes like crispy duck with Alvin's special hummus or bang bang chicken with tangy and spicy flavours, sweet and sour chicken with lychee and Turkish delight or 48-hour short ribs with sweet pickle and kalbi sauce. Demon Duck, Banyan Tree Dubai, Bluewaters Island, daily, 6pm to 12am, Tel: (0) 4 556 6466, @demonduckdubai Studio Frantzén Dinner menu: Dhs250 The highlights: The set dinner menu features dishes like sea bass ceviche with 'tiger's milk' vinaigrette, salmon with fingerlime, baby chicken with roasted chicken aioli or roasted cauliflower with truffle and hazelnuts. Studio Frantzén, Atlantis, The Palm, Mon to Fri, 6pm to 1am, Sat and Sun, 12pm to 4pm , 6pm to 1am, Tel: (0) 54 584 3105, @studiofrantzendubai Girl & the Goose – Restaurante Centroamericano Lunch menu: Dhs125 Dinner menu: Dhs250 The highlights: At lunch, try the elotes loco corn salad with pecans and feta or refried beans crispy tostadas with miso glazed squash, and at dinner guests can explore more elevated options including ensalada de tomates heritage with Parmesan foam or duck confit with squash purée and orange-coffee reduction. Girl & the Goose – Restaurante Centroamericano, Anantara Downtown, daily, 12pm to 1am, Tel: (0) 4 575 3760, @ 21grams Lunch menu: Dhs125 Dinner menu: Dhs250 The highlights: The two-course lunch menu showcases specialties like burnt eggplant hummus, zucchini fritters and breaded chicken roll stuffed with cheese, while dinner diners can enjoy a three-course meal featuring chicken liver pate, roasted goodness salad with local burrata and slow roasted lamb shoulder in milk. 21grams, Meyan Mall, Mon to Wed, 8am to 5pm, Thurs to Sun, 8am to 11pm, Tel: (0) 50 841 5021, @ CÉ LA VI Lunch menu: Dhs125 Dinner menu: Dhs250 The highlights: The two-course lunch menu includes delights such as salmon avocado maki, main courses such as satay-marinated chicken breast with coconut rice. For dinner, diners can enjoy a three-course meal featuring starters like California maki, beetroot tartare with vegan chili yoghurt and mains like grilled salmon with asparagus jus or Korean fried chicken. CÉ LA VI, Address Sky View, Sun to Fri, 12pm to 3am, Sat, 12.30pm to 3am, Tel: (0) 4 582 6111, @celavidubai Duck & Waffle Lunch menu: Dhs125 Dinner menu: Dhs250 The highlights: The two-course lunch menu offers signature items like lobster roll with spicy Marie Rose sauce, spicy ox cheek doughnut with apricot jam. The dinner menu offers seared beef carpaccio and harissa roasted cauliflower, along with mains such as roasted baby chicken with wild mushrooms and smashed burger with cheese, pickles and onions. Duck & Waffle, Innovation Tower, Trade Centre, Mon to Wed, 7am to 2am, Thurs and Fri, 7am to 5am, Sat, 9am to 5am, Sun, 9am to 1am, Tel: (0) 4 336 9876, @duckandwaffledubai The Beam by Nick Alvis Dinner menu: Dhs250 The highlights: The dinner menu features dishes such as artichoke risotto with crispy hens egg and seasonal truffle, hot smoked salmon with brown shrimp and chive butter sauce and hot chocolate pot with frozen malt. The Beam by Nick Alvis, Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa, daily, 5pm to 11pm , Tel: (0) 4 399 5555, @thebeamdubai More top restaurants include The Artisan, Eugène Eugène, Alici, Soul Kitchen, Chez Wam, Mimi Kakushi, Lúnico, Riviera by Jean Imbert, Sucre Fine Dining, Coya, Gitano, Beefbar, Rare and Ling Ling. Discover the complete list of 103 participating restaurants here. Dubai Restaurant Week, across various locations, May 9 to 25 Images: Supplied
The National
11-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Gerbou review: Emirati style, taste and heritage celebrated in Dubai haven
It is one of the most talked-about restaurants in Dubai right now, and for good reason. Gerbou, which loosely translates as 'welcome to my humble abode', is the brainchild of Sheikha Lateefa bint Maktoum and opened this year amid much excitement, after temporarily launching as a supper club last year. The restaurant is in a recently renovated 1987 building in Nad al Sheba. Every detail is steeped in Emirati heritage: the architecture, furniture, textiles and sculptures all feature local products such as camel leather and ghaf wood. The effect is a profound one. As odd as it may sound, given a key concept of the restaurant is to celebrate Emirati history and culture, it evokes the feeling that there is nowhere else quite like this anywhere in the UAE. There is a wonderful sense that you have arrived somewhere very special when you walk through Gerbou's imposing double doors. Gerbou is elegance encapsulated. What was once an ornate Jumeirah villa is now a palace in all but name, and the regal arches carved into the exterior walls reinforce this majestic aesthetic. The nods to all things Emirati are unmissable. The reception desk, the first thing you see as you enter, is crafted from a fallen ghaf tree. Take a moment to look up, though, because the wildflower chandelier is the showstopper. It is breathtaking. Immediately struck by our elaborate, stylish surroundings, my dining partner and I are directed through the main restaurant area. It has a vast open-plan layout with a central bar where staff serve Gerbou's selection of juices, smoothies, mocktails and more. The light and breezy atmosphere makes it feel homely. We visit in winter, so the vast outdoor seating area is irresistible. It is as spacious and luxurious as the interior, with an open-plan kitchen lined by tables and chairs. It is also shaded by ghaf trees, meaning it is an option even in the warmer months. Gerbou celebrates Emirati cuisine with a farm-to-table approach, and incorporates outdoor underground pit cooking to bring a distinctive smoky flavour to every dish. The menu also features a mixture of small plates and sharing platters for couples or groups to tuck into and enjoy together. My dining partner and I opt for small plates to start our evening. We share the feta and pistachio dip (Dh35), and the cashew hummus dip (Dh35), which are both served with mushroom crackers. We combine these with a date salad (Dh55). It is a light, relaxed and healthy opening to our dinner, which also has an authentic feel to it. The date salad pays homage to its Arabic heritage and the hummus boasts a level of creaminess which seems only possible when the recipe is Palestinian. We follow the subtlety of these starters with a contrast: a zaatar and cheese khubz (Dh55) to share. A wonderful example of the underground pit cooking Gerbou is so rightly proud of, the khubz has a smoky flavour, and my dining partner and I fight over who can polish off the last slice. The only issue is what comes next, because leaving room for a main course after this is no easy feat. We decide to share the chicken machboos (Dh160), which is another traditional Middle Eastern dish of spiced rice with roasted chicken cooked in broth and toasted nuts. The chicken is cooked beautifully but what makes it stand out is the smokiness from the pit. The meat has an irresistible combination of succulence, coated in a smoky and crispy exterior. I recommend the leg meat for this course. For dessert, I go for the aseeda loaf (Dh50), which our server says is spiced with the 'holy trinity' of Emirati spices: rose, cardamom and saffron. My dining partner opts for the sago pudding (Dh65). Despite appearing hearty and heavy, both provide a light end to an evening meal packed with Emirati flavour and heritage. The standout dishes for me are the small plates we started with. Their simplicity is the key and their freshness is irresistible. They are a good choice to order for a group of diners. As for what I might avoid, perhaps the khubz, but not for a bad reason – it is delicious, but almost too much so. It is very easy to eat so much of this cheesy feast that you leave little room for the delightful dishes to follow. A three-course meal at Gerbou can cost between Dh120 and Dh465. At the higher end of the price range are the seabass hadiqa (Dh125), prawn zaatar (Dh190) and the Taste of Gerbou (Dh150), an intricate date cake shaped like the restaurant building. The three most modestly priced dishes across starters, mains and desserts are the vegetable broth shorba (Dh25), the chicken arseeyah (Dh60) and the logaimat (Dh35). Gerbou's head chef is Ionel Catau, who brings with him swathes of international experience. He tells me salt is his favourite ingredient because it has 'the power to transform any dish, whether savoury or sweet'. 'It enhances flavours, balances profiles, and brings depth to ingredients in unexpected ways,' he says. 'I also appreciate acidity in all its forms as it adds brightness, contrast, and highlights the natural essence of every component.' He says his approach to food is guided by a combination of humility and curiosity. 'I see cooking as a way to tell stories – where every dish reflects a journey, a memory, or a tradition,' he explains. 'Blending heritage with technique, I let local flavours shine while elevating them with precision and care.' 'For me, food is about more than just taste; it's about connection. Whether through the comforting familiarity of a chicken machboos or the refined artistry of a Bahraini loomi kabab, my cooking invites diners to experience both warmth and discovery in every bite.' For vegan diners, he suggests the selection of sorbets, while the date salad gets Catau's nod for vegetarians. His choice of starter is a combination of the feta and pistachio dip and the cashew hummus dip, both with mushroom crackers. For a healthy choice, he recommends the dahl stew with Arabic bread. For seafood lovers, he suggests the prawn zaatar, and for meat eaters, it is the lamb chops with asparagus. Last but not least, his favoured dessert option is the aseeda loaf with pistachio gelato. Gerbou is in Nad Al Sheba 1, Dubai. It is open daily from 6.30pm to 2am. You can book via or on 04 222 6888. This review was conducted at the invitation of the restaurant
What's On
11-03-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
9 new restaurants in Dubai to check out right now
Dubai's dining scene never slows down, and this March, it's heating up with an exciting line-up of new restaurants in Dubai. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly Korean grill, a soulful celebration of Emirati cuisine, or a playful night of crazy golf with friends, there's no shortage of new restaurants in Dubai, and March is looking deliciously diverse. Here are the best new restaurants in Dubai to add to your foodie bucket list this March. Ken by Kamatsuda Meat lovers, rejoice – Ken is the dining experience you've been waiting for. Opening this February, this sleek Japanese restaurant is all about melt-in-your-mouth Awa Wagyu, flown straight from Japan and served in an exquisite omakase-style menu. Paired with fresh seafood prepared with precision, Ken's focus is craftsmanship and flavour. Whether you're a lover of Wagyu or just feeling adventurous to try something new, Ken promises a dining experience that's as exciting as it is delicious. Ken by Kamatsuda, The Dubai EDITION Hotel, Downtown. @kenbykamatsuda Hanu Nestled in the serene surroundings of St Regis Gardens on the Palm, Hanu promises a unique twist on contemporary Korean cuisine. This intimate eatery, brought to you by Sunset Hospitality (the minds behind Sushisamba and Baoli), is one of the new restaurants in Dubai to look forward to, offering an atmospheric blend of traditional and modern design, complete with Korean artwork and a private dining lounge centred around a striking pine tree. Expect bold flavours with a show-stopping highlight: 'Meat Me at the Grill.' Guests can play grill master as tables feature bespoke charcoal grills, with waiters preparing premium cuts of meat tableside. Paired with serene alfresco views and innovative dishes like oversized kimbap handrolls, Hanu offers a dining experience as playful as it is delicious. Hanu, St Regis Gardens, Nakheel Mall, Palm Jumeirah, opening March. @hanu_dubai Gerbou A love letter to Emirati culture, Gerbou is a homegrown gem opening this February in Nad Al Sheba. Meaning 'welcome to my humble abode,' Gerbou combines sustainable dining with deep-rooted cultural reverence. Housed in a renovated 1987 building, its design reflects warm Arab textures with a modern twist, creating a cosy yet refined ambiance. The menu dives deep into traditional Emirati flavours with a modern touch, making it a perfect spot to honour heritage or simply enjoy a soulful dining experience that feels distinctly Dubai. Gerbou, Nad Al Sheba, opening February. @gerbou Girl & the Goose Girl & the Goose is a space built on history and home-style comfort. A terracotta-framed entrance sets the tone, leading into an intimate dining room with rust-red furniture, rattan details, and traditional arches. At the centre, an open kitchen brings diners up close to the action, where Chef Gabi prepares dishes with the same warmth and energy as her supper club days. The menu leans into bold, time-honoured flavours. Crispy duck flautas are rich and smoky, balanced by a tart and spicy salsa. The nacatamal de pollo, a traditional masa dish slow-cooked in banana leaves, is soft and deeply satisfying. Steak tacos come stacked with herby chimichurri and chili mayo, while Nicaraguan empanadas bring a mix of sharp goat cheese and caramelised onion. It's Central American food with a sharp point of view –rooted in tradition but made for today. Girl & the Goose, Restaurante Centroamericano, Anantara Downtown, daily, 12pm to 1am, Tel: (0) 52 772 9888, @ Swingers For a playful twist on dining, check out Swingers on Bluewaters Island. Spanning 22,000 square feet over two floors, Swingers is a crazy golf venue with three creative courses inspired by classic English themes. Highlights include a hot air balloon course and Dubai-exclusive speakeasy lounge for private events. Whether you're rallying the crew for a night of friendly competition or planning a fun group hang, Swingers blends mini-golf madness with laid-back, cool vibes. Swingers, Bluewaters Island. Tel: (0)4 557 6309 . @swingers_uae Dine by day, dance by night at KIRA & LITT The team behind CLAP is back with KIRA Restaurant and LITT Bar Club, opening March 14 at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. Two sides of the same light – KIRA offers a menu rooted in Mediterranean and Japanese flavours, with a focus on wild-caught seafood, robot-fired meats, and handcrafted pasta. The terrace is a laid-back outdoor space with uninterrupted views of Burj Al Arab. As the night moves on, LITT picks up the pace. Located inside KIRA with its own entrance, it's a nightlife spot built around music, atmosphere, and an incredible cocktail list that puts agave spirits at the forefront. Ready to experience both worlds? Reservations are now open. KIRA Restaurant, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab Hotel, opening March 14, daily 12pm – 2am. @kirarestaurant LITT Bar Club, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab Hotel, opening March 14, Tuesday to Saturday 9pm – 3am. @littbarclub Folly Brasserie Foodies were heartbroken when Folly and its Madinat Jumeirah sibling, Publique, closed their doors in 2024. But true to his promise, Gates Hospitality founder Naim Maddad is bringing Folly back with a fresh new chapter. Now known as Folly Brasserie, this iconic spot gets a fresh start at Address Montgomerie in Emirates Hills, promising a new chapter that feels just as exciting as the original. While the details remain under wraps, the excitement for this new restaurant in Dubai is building for its February debut. Expect the same culinary excellence Folly fans adore, now in a stunning new setting. Folly Brasserie, Address Montgomerie, Emirates Hills. @follydubai Revolver Dubai's vibrant dining scene welcomes Revolver Dubai, an electrifying new restaurant that blends South Asian spice and fire-driven techniques with modern innovation. Originally a Michelin Select in Singapore, Revolver Dubai now sets its sights on Dubai, bringing an immersive and theatrical dining experience to The Opus by Omniyat, Business Bay. At the heart of Revolver Dubai lies an open wood-fired grill, brazier, and tandoor, where Chef Jitin Joshi, a Michelin-starred veteran with 27 years of experience, masterfully elevates world-class ingredients through bold and innovative techniques. Expect an edgy, high-energy spectacle that transforms traditional South Asian flavors into modern culinary artistry. The standout dishes promise an explosion of flavours, like the lobster manchurian, an original and classic from Revolver Singapore; this dish is made with Australian rock lobster and a sauce from Tangra in Kolkata where immigrants from China / Tibet settled and created a cuisine with their original recipes and local ingredients. The portobello mushroom steak is marinated in ginger garlic paste and house-ground spices for 24 hours, grilled for a smoky depth, and paired with lentil-based brown butter hummus and charred Madras onions. Revolver Dubai, The Opus by Omniyat, Business Bay, Tel: (0) 4 257 9334, reservations@ The Beam A fresh new dining experience is lighting up Dubai's culinary scene with the arrival of The Beam. Set within the lush surroundings of Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa, this homegrown concept by Chef Nick Alvis is all about a laid-back bistro-style experience. The menu features simple flavours, with a focus on seasonal, responsibly sourced ingredients. Whether you're craving the freshest seafood from the restaurant's signature counter or unwinding with a drink at the terrace bar, The Beam is a must-visit for those who love great food without the fuss. The Beam, Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa. @thebeamdubai Images: Supplied/Instagram
