Here’s a quick rundown of all the new Abu Dhabi restaurants that have been unveiled
Looking to try a new culinary destination this year? You’ve come to the right place. From outdoor restaurants to magnificent lounge spots, here’s everything you need to know about what’s upcoming in the capital and where to dine.
Strawfire
The new venue introduces Warayaki, a traditional Japanese cooking method, to the UAE capital, combining the ancient technique with a modern dining experience. Warayaki, which originates from Japan’s Kochi Prefecture, involves cooking food over straw-fired flames, imparting a unique smokiness and depth of flavour to each dish. At Strawfire, Chef Shonhan will showcase a selection of dishes that highlight fresh, high-quality ingredients, all prepared over an open flame. Strawfire will offer a varied menu, with options including à la carte dishes, a signature tasting menu, and a Chef’s Omakase experience. To accompany the food, the restaurant will feature live entertainment, with a DJ playing Jazzy House and NU Disco on weekdays and a live jazz band on Fridays and Saturdays.
Visit website. Call +971 2 690 7999 or email moauh-restaurants@mohg.com.
Nalu Surf Club
Nalu Surf Club at Surf Abu Dhabi brings a relaxed Californian ambience with its coastal-inspired interiors and stunning views. Executive Chef Denis Placereani’s menu combines bold Latin American spices, global comfort dishes, and Asian-inspired creations such as Huevos Rancheros, Thai Crab Omelette, and Lobster Catalan.
Visit website.
Soraya
The newest culinary gem at Yas Mall offers a unique dining experience that celebrates Persian-inspired cuisine with a modern twist. The menu features beloved classics like Mast o khair, Lamb koobideh, Chicken joujeh, and Ghaymeh bademjan, alongside innovative dishes such as the Persian Caesar, Cheese fatayer, and Giant halva profiteroles. Complementing the meal, Soraya offers a refined selection of non-alcoholic beverages, including traditional Doogh, refreshing Sharbat, and a variety of teas.
Call +97156 509 0504.
Eataly
Eataly has expanded its presence in the UAE with a new location at Reem Mall. Offering a comprehensive experience encapsulating “Eat, Shop, and Learn,” Eataly provides Abu Dhabi residents with access to freshly prepared Italian cuisine, including signature pizzas, pastas, salads, and artisanal gelato. The establishment features various dining options, from full-service restaurants to quick-service counters, catering to diverse schedules. Additionally, the in-house store offers over 1,500 Italian products, including fresh produce, premium ingredients, and gift items, both in-store and through online delivery platforms.
Visit website.
Bord Eau by Nicolas Isnard
Michelin-starred Chef Nicolas Isnard brings his innovative French cuisine to the capital with the launch of Bord Eau by Nicolas Isnard at the Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri. From the reimagined French favourite, the Modern onion soup 2.0, to the vibrant tastes of Thailand showcased in a delectable Duck Breast dish complemented by corn, passion fruit, black garlic, and a velvety peanut sauce, Isnard will showcase his skills honed at renowned establishments in his native south of France.
Visit website.
Kō
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara has forged a partnership with Kō, the creative mind behind 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant, to establish a permanent Japanese fine dining destination in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s Empty Quarter. Beginning in September 2024, Kō will take up residence at the resort’s rooftop restaurant, Suhail, overlooking the expansive sand dunes. This collaboration promises to bring a speak-easy vibe to the desert, offering haute Japanese cuisine and innovative beverages amidst a timeless oasis setting.
Call +9712 895 8700.
Porto Gina
InterContinental Abu Dhabi introduces Porto Gina, its newest culinary venture overlooking the Yacht Bay, dedicated to bringing the essence of La Dolce Vita to Abu Dhabi. Led by Chef Andres Luduena, Porto Gina offers a menu celebrating simplicity and authentic Italian flavours, featuring signature homemade pastas, fresh antipasti, and hearty mains.
Call +97150 483 7824.
SUSHISAMBA
In partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers will introduce the globally acclaimed SUSHISAMBA to the UAE capital in April 2024. Inspired by the cultures and cuisines of Japan, Brazil, and Peru, the eclectic menu features traditional Japanese tempura and sushi, Brazilian churrasco and moqueca, and Peruvian anticuchos and seviche. The venue spans two floors with a restaurant, terrace, private dining room, bar, SAMBAROOM, and sea-view terrace. SUSHISAMBA offers a fully immersive experience with live entertainment including dancers, DJs, and musicians, and is set to host special events like ladies’ night and a Saturday brunch.
Call +9712 811 5666.
Al Safadi
Al Safadi, the well-established family-run restaurant chain, is set to open its inaugural branch in Abu Dhabi, situated in the lively Al Qana district. Embracing the essence of authentic Lebanese flavours and warm hospitality, the new restaurant invites guests to savour signature dishes from a thoughtfully curated menu, showcasing the diverse richness of Lebanese cuisine with monthly and seasonal delights. Whether indoors or outdoors, diners can enjoy these culinary delights while appreciating breathtaking views.
Visit website.
Alya
Alya, a new dining destination in Abu Dhabi located at Beach Rotana Residences, presents a sophisticated and elegant experience, featuring a unique artichoke menu that blends Oriental classics with exciting twists. Curated by renowned chefs, the dishes showcase a flawless fusion of Lebanese ingredients and international flavours, prepared in an open kitchen for diners to observe.
Call +9712 555 0018.
Sand & Koal
Sand & Koal, is a reflection of both the al fresco dining location and the cuisine it offers, symbolizing day and night respectively. Positioned along the beachfront, the venue provides a laid-back atmosphere for casual lounging, leisurely lunches, picturesque sunset drinks, and torch-lit fine dining. The menu boasts wholesome vegetable-based recipes, raw, smoked, and charred seafood, unique meat cuts, grilled skewers, and delightful crudos. Dishes are skillfully finished table-side, emphasising entertainment and interaction, with minimalistic plating allowing the natural flavours to shine and be enhanced by smokiness from the grill.
Call +9712 690 7999 or email moauh-restaurants@mohg.com. Visit website.
MR KIM
The Korean Steakhouse & Gastrobar, located within Yas Mall, celebrates Korea’s culinary heritage and the luxurious essence of a steakhouse. Expect a wide array of premium Wagyu cuts, including Japanese A5, Australian MB9+, and USDA PRIME selections, along with non-Wagyu options to cater to diverse steak enthusiasts. Drawing inspiration from Kangnam-gu, the interiors evoke a blend of nostalgia and contemporary flair featuring unique interpretations of Korean and Emirati symbols gracing the walls, conveying stories of resilience and cultural heritage.
Visit Instagram.
Antonia Trattoria
Antonia has unveiled its latest addition, “Antonia Trattoria,” a 150 sqm restaurant with a charming and playful ambience, adorned with mint greens and iconic Italian art posters. Menu highlights include “La Scarpetta,” a dish of slow-braised Beef Ragu with focaccia, and an aperitivo board with Italian cheeses and cold cuts, Pizza Al Taglio, authentic pastas, and traditional main courses, complemented by a selection of beverages. Inspired by his grandmother, Chef Simone Federici’s passion for preserving tradition with creativity shines through in every aspect of Antonia Trattoria, especially its 72-hour fermented sourdough base pizza.
Call +9712 667 2554.
KARAZ
KARAZ reimagines traditional homemade recipes from Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine, offering a unique contemporary dining experience. Named after the cherry, which symbolizes joy and love in the Levant region, KARAZ blends the culinary and cultural heritage of these areas in its cuisine and design. Located in Yas Mall Abu Dhabi, the restaurant strives to provide an opulent and entertaining dining experience, featuring live entertainment and remastered Levantine cuisine.
Somewhere
Known for its innovative approach to Mediterranean cuisine and its commitment to capturing diverse cultural essences, Somewhere offers a unique gastronomic experience. More than a restaurant, Somewhere embodies the spirit of exploration, catering to travellers seeking curated experiences inspired by various destinations.
Visit website.
La Perle Café
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Introducing the all-new coffee shop nestled within Reem Mall, exuding an aura of refined elegance. Tuck into signature specials such as Zaatar and cheese croissant, La Perle signature milk chocolate cake, Nutella croissant roll, Rose with pistachio falooda, and Almond croissant.
Ba:TE
Nestled within Eastern Mangroves, the brand-new restaurant boasts an extensive menu featuring contemporary Japanese dishes with a Korean and Peruvian twist. Led by Culinary Director and Executive Chef Eric Jung, Ba:TE by Wawa Dining offers signature dishes including Chicken karaage, White asparagus tiradito, Spicy umami ceviche, and Gyuniku wagyu gyoza. Don’t miss the exquisite JUMAK Bar, which draws inspiration from traditional Yangban social clubs and seamlessly integrates various art forms such as music, singing, and dancing.
Call +9712 632 5272. Visit Instagram.
José by Pizarro
José by Pizarro transports you to the heart of the vibrant and colourful streets of Seville with an unforgettable Spanish tapas experience. Offering a unique blend of high-end and casual, the tapas bar is the brainchild of award-winning chef, restaurateur, and author, José Pizarro, who is renowned for his London venue José Tapas Bar Bermondsey. Diners can expect a selection of authentic Spanish dishes prepared by Chef Pizarro’s expert team, grape pairings, Spanish hops, and more while dining at José by Pizarro’s cosy and intimate setting. Tuck into signature specialties that include spicy Chicken croquetas, Prawn fritters, and Potato tortilla. For big sharing-style plates, the menu features Spanish red tuna tartare, traditional Lamb meatballs, and free-range Chicken paella.
Call +9712 811 5666. Visit website.
La Serre
The renowned French Parisian street café and bistro is now located at the largest shopping mall in Abu Dhabi, Yas Mall. Menu highlights include Croissants, Pains au chocolat and Organic eggs benedict, Toasted bagel with smoked salmon, French onion soup, Grilled prawns, and Cordon bleu.
Visit website.
Dangereux
James Soo Yong Kim, CEO of White Hospitality, has unveiled the brand’s 2023 plans with the launch of five flagship fine-dining outlets—Dangereux (Mamsha, Saadiyat), White Izakaya (Yas Mall), and White Smoke Steakhouse (Al Seef Walk) Day and Nite (Al Seef Walk), and Provador (Reem Island), all inspired by James’ passion of cuisines from across the globe. Michelin star chef Llorenc Sagarra will be joining White Hospitality as the co-chef for Les Dangereux with previous experiences that include 14 years as the Head Chef of the Internationally renowned Mugartiz of Spain, awarded 2 Michelin Stars and named no 21 on World’s 50 Best. The upcoming new restaurant is further in partnership with Mohamed Juma Al Bawardi of Al Bawardi Enterprises / EMDAD and incorporates a farm-to-table concept from White Farms, a 52-greenhouse organic farm in Al Ain.
Visit website.
Belgrave Abu Dhabi
Belgrave Abu Dhabi is welcoming diners to indulge in authentic Persian flavours with a blend of Eastern and Western cuisines. Helmed by Amin Ebra, head chef and founder of the restaurant and brother Honey Ebra, the menu displays the family’s love for food with each dish catered to every palate. The London-born restaurant’s latest outpost draws inspiration from the Silk Road that connected India and Persia, which is also showcased through its modern interiors inspired by the British and Persian royal families, adorned with chandeliers, marble floors, and Persian rugs, to name a few.
Call +9712 584 8383.
Love Vibe
The team behind Dubai’s iconic pink cafe, VIBE, is bringing a new concept to the capital. Love Vibe offers an elevated dining experience and pastel interiors of blush pink, sage green and cool grey, alongside its luxurious gold and marble finishes.
Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi.
BB Social Dining
BB Social Dining has opened its doors at the Rosewood Hotel in the heart of Al Maryah Island. Taking inspiration from contemporary culture, the venue allows diners to immerse themselves in European culture whilst indulging in international flavours. BB Social Dining will provide a sophisticated dining experience whilst supporting sustainable initiatives. The brand is driven to create a menu with produce sourced from local farms.
Visit the website or Instagram.
Keep checking this space for all the new Abu Dhabi restaurants opening in 2023.