02-05-2025
8 new restaurants in Dubai you'll want to try this May
Dubai's always got something new cooking, and May is no exception. This month, there's an exciting lineup of new restaurants in Dubai to explore. From classic French dining to innovative plant-based cuisine, here are 8 new restaurants in Dubai to check out this May. Click through the gallery 3 of 12
The much-loved cafe from Al Quoz has just dropped its second location, this time in the middle of the lush, green oasis that is Al Barari. Think matcha in the garden, French-Japanese flavours with a twist, and a vibe that makes you want to stay way past lunch. Expect the same creativity that made the original a cult favourite, now served with a side of nature. The all-day menu is stacked with hits like the Katsu Beef Burger, Okonomiyaki Omelette, and French Onion Ramen (yes, that's a thing, and yes, you need to try it). There's also a fresh drop of NETTE merch in-store, so you can take a piece of the cafe home with you. Between the breezy garden seating, good coffee, and slow-living energy, this one' definitely worth the drive.
NETTE, Al Barari. Tel: (0)4 329 4800. @nettedxb
Set inside the gleaming new Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, Bombay Club brings a modern twist to Indian dining in Dubai. The space is playful yet polished, with pops of green and orange, rattan textures and bold animal prints setting the tone. Behind the kitchen are chefs Manav Tuli and Kumaran Balaji, drawing on their experience from India to Hong Kong to create a menu that celebrates the vibrant flavours of Western India. Think baked guinea fowl samosas instead of the usual deep-fried triangles, tender Wagyu beef cheeks with mint and cinnamon, and tandoori red snapper that's a standout. It's the kind of place where ordering a little bit of everything feels just right, especially when naan arrives fresh and puffy and the masala basmati rice keeps getting refilled. Outside, the open-air terrace overlooking the marina makes it a strong contender for date nights or laid-back evenings with friends, especially when the weather is playing nice.
Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, Jumeira St, Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai
Brasserie Lutetia, now open on the second floor of Sofitel Dubai Downtown, brings a taste of Paris to the city's core. Putting a modern spin on the traditional French brasserie, the space is both stylish and relaxed, serving classic French and Mediterranean dishes with a sustainable twist, thanks to its use of hydroponic farming. From morning croissants to leisurely lunches and evening drinks, Brasserie Lutetia delivers great food, a vibrant vibe, and plenty of charm.
Brasserie Lutetia, 2nd Floor, Sofitel Dubai Downtown, breakfast from 6.30am to 10.30am, lunch from 12.30pm to 3.30pm, dinner from 6.30pm to 10.30pm.
INA is here, the highly-anticipated fire-cooking concept at J1 Beach just touched down, and it's bringing the renowned Chef Glen Ballis to Dubai to bring the venue to life. INA will complete the circle of 13 restaurants at J1, a beachfront destination unlike any other in the city. This is the perfect time to open the venture, as guests will be able to enjoy the full potential of the restaurant with outdoor seating built for the winter months, with an open-air retractable roof, from where they will be able to view the industrial-style grill directly, located off of the main dining space.
INA, J1 Beach. @
This one's for the pizza lovers. Moon Slice, the cult-favourite pizzeria, just landed in Dubai Mall's new District wing, bringing its signature pizzas with it. Cool, low-key and all about quality. Expect authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas, fresh pastas, and more.
The District, Dubai Mall. @moonslicepizza
Music Loves Company is a cafe by day, bar by night, and a live entertainment hotspot all in one. Expect everything from chilled coffee catch-ups to late-night comedy and gigs, with great food and drinks to match. The vibe is a laid-back, social space where music lovers, coffee enthusiasts, and comedy fans can hang out. Whether you're here for a relaxed afternoon or to catch a live show, the vibe is always lively. The menu features coffee, fresh juices, hearty wraps, colourful salads, and sweet treats like stuffed cookies and banana bread. The cocktail list is fun, with drinks inspired by classic song lyrics.
Music Loves Company, Expo City. @wearemlc_
Now open at Dubai Creek Harbour, Kiyoshi brings a sleek yet welcoming spin on contemporary Japanese dining to one of the city's most scenic spots. It's the first homegrown concept by Fuse Holding, blending artisanal touches with bold flavours and a space that shifts effortlessly from day to night.
Dubai Creek Harbour, Dubai. @ kiyoshidubai
Located inside the Al Safa Park Art & Design Library, FORMA is a homegrown concept in Jumeirah that's all about food, design, and culture in one space. the space flows between indoor and outdoor seating, ideal for casual meet-ups or low-key dining. the menu features creative options from bacon pistachio and miso corn pizzas to fried burrata with honey and crispy prawn with samyang dip. Drinks are just as playful, with options like coffee popcorn, hisbiscus watermelon, and a solid matcha lineup.
Al Safa Art & Design Library, Jumeirah. @formauae
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