the HUNTR's picks: 99 of the most exceptional openings of 2025

Sexy Fish DIFC: Theatrical Japanese dining with London flair

London's celebrated concept arrived in DIFC with its signature theatrical design – coral reef ceilings, mermaid murals, and a glittering octopus at reception. Martin Brudnizki Design Studios created spectacle here, but the kitchen backs it up with well-executed Japanese cooking across raw preparations and robata grilling. The black cod in spicy miso lives up to its reputation, and even the vegetable dishes – sweet potato with coconut wasabi, zucchini tempura with honey and buckwheat – show real thought. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the Dubai skyline, with an outdoor terrace putting you right in the middle of that view. It's a venue where the visual ambition is matched by substance on the plate.

Beurre Dubai: French pastries and speciality coffee in Al Khawaneej

A proper French bakery in an unlikely corner of Al Khawaneej's industrial district. The in-house team produces impeccable viennoiserie throughout the day, with the mille feuille's whisper-thin layers and perfectly laminated pecan croissant both demonstrating real technique. A Parisian-style takeaway window captures the spirit of morning coffee runs, while inside, clean lines and warm wood create an inviting space. The specialty coffee programme holds its own alongside the pastries. For those willing to seek it out, Beurre delivers French precision in an unexpected location.

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A secret villa in Nad Al Sheba offering delicious matcha and hot chocolate creations: Meet Toto

An Emirati-owned home business serving hand-whisked Japanese matcha and hot chocolate from a family villa in Nad Al Sheba. You order via WhatsApp, drive up, and receive your drinks on a tray through your car window – a uniquely personal experience. The signature hot chocolate arrives with chocolate pearls that add crunch to each sip, while the matcha with salty vanilla foam brings out the tea's pure flavour. Every matcha drink is whisked by hand using premium Japanese tea, and the hot chocolate recipe has been perfected for balance. It's charmingly simple and the drinks are worth the trip.

A Normal Day Dubai: Homegrown all-day dining in Dar Al Wasl Jumeirah

A homegrown concept with real artistic identity, housed in the former Myocum space in Dar Al Wasl. Co-founder Aidha Badr's paintings punctuate the deliberately raw interior – vibrant corals and pinks against unfinished concrete walls. The menu spans breakfast through dinner with proper range, and the casarecce with trapanese pesto and melting burrata emerged as a clear standout. Mokha 1450 powers the specialty coffee programme. It's a space that balances sophistication with accessibility – somewhere you can drop in for morning coffee or settle into dinner.

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Taqueria Freedah: A chef-owned authentic Mexican street food restaurant in Jumeirah

Three Mexican chef-owners run this four-table spot on Jumeirah Street with quiet intensity. Chef Jorge Rodriguez visits the market daily to select ingredients himself, and that hands-on approach shows in every dish. The tortillas are handmade – slightly irregular, as proper handmade versions should be – and the signature birria comes from hours of slow cooking, the beef yielding easily with deeply developed flavours. No reservations are accepted, seats are limited, and you may need to wait. It's some of Dubai's most authentic Mexican food, made without shortcuts or compromise.

Gerbou Dubai: Authentic Emirati cuisine and hospitality in Nad Al Sheba

Gerbou is a collaboration between Her Highness Sheikha Lateefa Bint Maktoum of Tashkeel and Atelier House Hospitality, breathing new life into a historic 1987 building in Nad Al Sheba. Every element has been considered – dining tables, cutlery, custom furnishings – all created with Emirati and UAE-based designers. The kitchen, led by chef Ionel Catau and pastry chef Sahar Al Awadhi, honours local ingredients while giving nostalgic Emirati classics a contemporary touch. Service operates at fine dining level, with staff registering guest preferences and greeting returning visitors by name. Above all, Gerbou offers something rare in Dubai – a glimpse into Emirati hospitality and culture.

Lost in Tokyo Dubai: Authentic Edomae sushi at Marsa Boulevard

What started as an underground supper club now occupies a cabin-like structure at Marsa Boulevard that feels plucked from a Tokyo backstreet. The omakase experience showcases fish flown directly from Tokyo's markets, prepared using centuries-old Edomae techniques – gentle curing, precise ageing, rice seasoned with red vinegar. This isn't about Instagram moments or fancy promises. It's about serious chefs who've spent years mastering their craft, working with quiet precision at a blonde wood counter. The restaurant only operates during winter season before the team returns to their original supper club, Sushi Amemiya.

AVANTCHA Tea Bar & Shop: Sophisticated tea sanctuary in Al Quoz

A minimalist tea sanctuary in Al Quoz dedicated to the ancient art of tea appreciation. AVANTCHA sources nearly all its teas from premier growing regions in China, with matcha specifically imported from Japan, and the 26-page menu functions as both catalogue and educational guide. Chef Reif Othman's tea-infused pastries – including a jasmine basque cheesecake and genmaicha castella – demonstrate a kitchen that understands balance. An interactive scent station allows visitors to experience teas before selecting, demystifying what could otherwise feel intimidating. In a city that often celebrates excess, this is something more nuanced – tea drinking elevated from routine to mindful ritual.

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Girl & the Goose Dubai: Authentic Central American cuisine in the Burj Khalifa Area

The UAE's first restaurant dedicated to Mesoamerican cuisine, born from Chef Gabriela Chamorro's beloved supper club. The menu draws from seven Central American nations – Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Costa Rica, Belize, Nicaragua, and Panama – blending traditional flavours with contemporary influences. One private dining room has been meticulously recreated to mirror her original supper club, complete with the same table, chairs, and wall design. Dishes like the wild corn salad and watermelon ceviche showcase her ability to fuse street food traditions with refined technique. The space feels more like stepping into someone's cherished home than a conventional restaurant.

Klay Dubai: Innovative Paratha Buns in the Dubai Mall's The District

From the team behind Karak House, Klay transforms the humble paratha into something extraordinary. The kitchen treats this traditional flatbread with the precision of pastry chefs – achieving layers that shatter delicately while maintaining structural integrity around generous fillings. The signature smash burger encased in paratha manages to be simultaneously flaky and sturdy, with high-quality beef and caramelised onions creating real depth. The Cereal Karak adds crunchy cereal to their already exceptional chai, triggering nostalgic memories of childhood breakfasts. It's a concise menu executed with care, tucked into The District at Dubai Mall.

The Cullinan Dubai: Sophisticated steakhouse dining on Jumeirah's seafront

Named after the world's largest rough diamond, The Cullinan opened in mid-March 2025 at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab with uninterrupted views of the Burj Al Arab. The enormous open kitchen is the centrepiece – a theatrical stage where you watch chefs work while aromatic wafts of grilling meat fill the air. An in-house meat sommelier curates premium cuts from Japan, Australia, and New Zealand, while the kitchen demonstrates equal skill with seafood preparations and technically accomplished dishes like the steak tartare mille-feuille. The Wagyu Gold Sando – 7+ Wagyu striploin in buttery marble brioche with truffle mayo and caviar – may be the most indulgent sandwich in Dubai.

Kira Dubai: Mediterranean-Japanese Fusion in the Marsa Al Arab Hotel

Kira marks the first venture from AlphaMind, a collaboration between Addmind Hospitality (the team behind Clap and Sucre) and ADMO Lifestyle Holding. The restaurant blends Mediterranean warmth with Japanese precision at Marsa Al Arab, with striking Burj Al Arab views from its outdoor terrace. A glass-fronted kitchen showcases chefs at work beside fresh seafood displays, and the culinary team demonstrates particular skill with Japanese techniques – the O-Toro carpaccio and Japanese Wagyu Nigiri with truffle both delivered disproportionately large flavour impact. The adjoining LITT bar transitions the space from daytime dining to evening entertainment with craft cocktails and DJs.

Shalwa: A celebration of Khaleeji culture by an iconic homegrown brand

Independent's – the group behind SALT, Parker's, Somewhere, and more – unveiled their first new concept in five years with Shalwa. It's a celebration of Khaleeji heritage through food, design, and community engagement, housed in The District at Dubai Mall. The striking red façade gives way to an interior that feels like an intimate Khaleeji home reimagined for contemporary diners. What makes Shalwa particularly significant is its community-driven approach – the team has launched a nationwide call for family recipes, building a living archive of Emirati and Khaleeji culinary traditions while working with local food suppliers and farmers.

Hanu Dubai: Contemporary Korean cuisine on the Palm Jumeirah

Chef Kyung Soo Moon orchestrates a Korean dining experience on the Palm Jumeirah that feels both ancient and utterly contemporary. Fermentation is celebrated, fire is harnessed, and dishes like the Kimchi Arancini – his mother's kimchi rice dressed in Italian clothes – speak with a distinctly Korean accent. The Meet Me at the Grill experience brings four premium cuts to built-in table grills, cooked tableside by servers who know exactly when to flip and when to rest. The bar holds its own too – the Gochujang Highball somehow makes fermented chilli paste work in a cocktail. The space itself feels like entering the secret lair of a Korean design collective, with faux Korean pines and ceramic lights setting the stage.

Lahkee Dubai: Wok-fired brilliance in Al Safa's tiniest kitchen

A husband-and-wife operation tucked inside Al Safa Complex, cooking pan-Asian cuisine with a Filipino soul from a kitchen barely larger than a ship's galley. The counter seating transforms diners into audience members for a tightly choreographed performance – and the cooking backs it up. The wok work here achieves proper wok hei, that elusive smoky "breath of the wok" that separates professionals from pretenders. The Ube Mango Sticky Rice reveals the kitchen's Filipino heritage, while dishes like the wagyu kushiyaki wrapped around enoki mushrooms show confident restraint. In a city where "concept" often trumps substance, Lahkee feels personal – like you've been invited into someone's cherished memory.

KEN by Kamatsuda: Sublime wagyu omakase in Downtown Dubai

Chef Ken Kamatsuda's omakase at The Edition Hotel showcases Awa Wagyu beef with a marbling score of 12, produced in extremely limited quantities annually and rarely available outside Japan. Approximately 90% of ingredients come directly from Japanese producers, many through relationships established during his time as a judge for Japanese culinary awards. The Gokan Omakase unfolds with the deliberate pacing of theatre – from A5 wagyu tartare with Hokkaido scallops and caviar to the Yakisukiyaki, where Chef Ken personally cooks paper-thin slices tableside and spins cotton candy to finish. The space doubles as a gallery for Japanese artistic expression, featuring works by calligrapher Bisen Aoyagi and floral artist Ryota Hagiwara.

Kurasu Dubai: Japanese specialty coffee in Dar Wasl Mall

Kyoto's specialty coffee concept arrived in Dubai in April 2025, bringing authentic Japanese coffee culture to Dar Wasl Mall. The minimalist aesthetic creates calm amidst the mall's bustle – natural materials, clean lines, and an atmosphere that invites lingering. Hand-dripped specialties showcase beans sourced and roasted with meticulous attention, while Japanese-influenced pastries like the Chocolate Coffee Mousse Pain Suisse demonstrate the same precision. With successful outlets across Hong Kong, Singapore, Bangkok, and Indonesia, Kurasu's Dubai opening represents genuine expansion of Japanese specialty coffee into the region.

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Forma Dubai: Artisanal pizza hidden inside a library in Jumeirah

Hidden inside Jumeirah's Al Safa Art & Design Library, Forma delivers handcrafted pizzas in a space inspired by its bookish neighbour. The Six Cheeses pizza showcases technical excellence with its roasted garlic base and light ricotta foam that prevents richness overload. But the real surprise is the Miso Corn – flame-roasted corn, crispy onions, nachos, jalapeños, and sour cream creating remarkable depth despite having no meat. Belhasa Hospitality took a measured approach here, initially opening with limited service before expanding into a full restaurant that plays to its strengths. Free parking behind the building is a Jumeirah rarity.

GABA Dubai: East Asia meets Studio 54 in Dubai Marina

A dual-concept venue in Dubai Marina – an authentic Asian tea room at the entrance that conceals a vibrant cocktail bar behind a hidden door. Certified tea masters conduct ceremonies with over 40 rare Asian teas by day, while the space transforms into Studio 54-inspired exuberance by night with zebra print wallpaper, DJ sets, and cocktails built on a tea foundation. Chef Juan Esteban Torregrosa, trained at Le Cordon Bleu Lima and Astrid & Gastón, brings precision to Japanese-inspired small plates. The drink programme divides cocktails into Mind, Body, and Soul categories – each creation designed as a moment of balance between spirits, teas, and botanicals.

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Parka Bakehouse: Artisanal Emirati bakery in Nad Al Sheba

An Emirati-owned bakery concept from the team behind Ganache and co, bringing their successful Sharjah formula to Nad Al Sheba. Glass counters showcase freshly baked goods while the kitchen turns out breakfast plates that transform the morning meal into something worth savouring. The Avo Egg Puff delivers audible crunch – layers of crisp pastry topped with creamy avocado, scrambled eggs, feta, and tomato. The Pistachio Eggs reimagine a breakfast classic with poached eggs atop vibrant spinach-pistachio sauce. Weekend queues of eager visitors speak to what they've built here.

The Townhouse Dubai: Wagyu burger perfection in DIFC

Six Emiratis with a passion for perfect patties opened this minimalist burger spot on the fourth floor of DAMAC Park Towers in DIFC. The space is tiny – just enough room for a handful of diners inside – but delivers a disproportionately impressive experience. The Mad Burger features double wagyu patties with distinctively crisped edges, double American cheese, homemade pickles, and caramelised onions on toasted milk buns. The textural contrast between crisp patty exterior and soft bun demonstrates remarkable restraint and attention to detail. It's a delivery-first concept, so call ahead to check availability.

Kumo: Incredible Japanese cuisine in a converted villa on Al Wasl

Independent's first elevated casual dining concept – a significant evolution for the team behind SALT, Parkers, and Somewhere. Housed in a converted villa on Al Wasl Road, Kumo takes its name from the Japanese word for "cloud." One minute you're on bustling Al Wasl, the next you're in what feels like a sophisticated Japanese residence. The space divides thoughtfully between a dedicated matcha bar, an open sushi counter, a main dining room, and outdoor seating. The A5 wagyu nigiri with togarashi butter is exceptional, and both the wagyu sando and burger prove the kitchen can excel with heartier offerings too – exactly what you'd expect from the team behind the GCC's most famous burgers.

Milk Haus Dubai: Artisanal bakery and coffee concept in Nad Al Sheba

The team behind Jumeirah's homegrown Milk Bakery brought their second location to Nad Al Sheba Mall – a compact space serving as both takeaway counter and dine-in café. Specialty coffee comes from Denmark's respected La Cabra, organic matcha from Kagoshima, and signature bakes arrive daily from the original kitchen. The Emirati Breakfast Bun stands out – a handcrafted saffron bun with cream cheese, sesame, and fennel seeds that captures traditional Emirati breakfast flavours in pastry form. The Seventies-inspired interior with warm wooden tones creates a cosy, nostalgic atmosphere despite the limited footprint.

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The Grey Al Khawaneej: Design-forward dining in Dubai's Al Khawaneej

The Grey's second location carves out its own identity in Al Khawaneej while maintaining the brand's design philosophy – natural materials, strategic lighting, and that balance between calm and energy. The menu shows focus and international influence through precise cooking. The Hokkaido Souffle Pancake comes with blackcurrant jam cutting through vanilla cream, the Lobster Roll combines sweet meat with yuzu aioli on buttery brioche, and the Wagyu Beef Donburi impresses with sticky rice soaking up sweet-spicy soy. The space embraces the "third space" concept – neither work nor home, but somewhere for real connection.

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The Meld Concept: A creative multi-brand space and cafe in Jumeirah 1

Founded by the Emirati Al Ghurair sisters, The Meld brings together fashion, design, and florals in one thoughtfully curated space in Jumeirah 1. Permanent fixtures Fold and florist Kadi Boutique sit alongside rotating consignment brands, with 1502 Chocolate adding artisanal confectionery and FLTR operating as the in-house café. The distinctive concrete exterior and desert landscaping make it immediately recognisable. It's a platform where independent brands can thrive collectively – the kind of place that rewards regular visits with fresh discoveries.

Apollo: All-day dining and comfort food on The Palm Jumeirah

In a stretch of The Palm where international hotel restaurants and chain concepts dominate, Apollo arrives as a rare homegrown contender. TABLE4TWO – the team behind Rascal's and Za'Za – brought their community-focused sensibility to Palm Views West, trading casual comfort for something more polished while keeping prices accessible. The Peruvian grilled octopus showcases expert charring, the ceviche classico presents melt-in-your-mouth sea bass, and even the mac and cheese elevates the comfort classic with real cheese and herbed crumbs. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame The Palm and Dubai Harbour beyond, transforming the view into living artwork.

DIME: Homegrown American diner and burger restaurant in Al Satwa

Table4Two's retro-inspired diner in Al Satwa strips away the noise of endless menu options to focus on mastering two signature burgers exceptionally well. Everything is house-made – buns baked fresh daily, pickles crafted in-house, proprietary sauce developed through months of testing. Custom lighting fixtures were personally sourced from New York by founder Talal Hizami. The Classic arrives with double cheese, ketchup, mustard, diced onion, and pickles on a homemade milk bun. The Dime showcases the house sauce alongside sliced onions and double cheese. Milkshakes are thick enough to require proper effort through the straw – exactly as they should be.

MODU: Multifunctional furniture and design studio in Jumeirah

Architect and designer Omar Al Gurg's physical manifestation of his creative vision – a Jumeirah villa where furniture transcends traditional boundaries to become interactive art. The Spikes collection features quirky wooden cones with adjustable pegs that slot into countless configurations. The Nu collection transforms glass-reinforced concrete blocks into whatever arrangement your space demands. The warm terracotta and timber palette, exposed wooden beams, and burgundy carpet create intimate zones throughout. Every surface invites interaction, from smoothly sanded timber elements to precisely engineered concrete components that lock together with satisfying precision. Visits are by appointment only.

Mokha 1450 Coffee Priorists: A high-end specialty coffee boutique in Emirates Towers

Mokha 1450's Emirates Towers outpost represents the brand's most sophisticated expression – a glass-fronted space where corporate convenience meets artisanal coffee. The dramatic coffee bar of gleaming stainless steel topped with striking red marble captures the feeling of a five-star hotel bar, but with coffee mixology instead of alcohol. As pioneers in Dubai's specialty coffee culture, they build direct relationships with female-owned farms across Ethiopia, Yemen, Colombia, and Jamaica, securing beans most roasters can't access. The Jamaica Blue Mountain paired with 70% cocoa infused with blackberry, blueberry, and cinnamon creates those rare moments when both elements become greater than their individual parts.

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CHAR: Fire-driven grill restaurant in Nad Al Sheba Mall

Fire cooking takes centre stage at this Nad Al Sheba Mall concept, which transforms from Around the Block's morning coffee sanctuary into something altogether more primal from 2 p.m. onwards. Chef Abdi orchestrates a menu that respects grilling traditions while embracing contemporary interpretation – his chicken shawarma skewer reimagines familiar Middle Eastern flavours through unexpected presentation. The open kitchen ensures every seat offers a view of the flames, creating natural theatre without gimmickry. The wagyu tenderloin with zaatar truffle butter, pink peppercorns, and sweet black garlic shows what happens when quality meat meets proper fire mastery.

Oppidan: Italian-inspired comfort food in a beautiful Umm Suqeim villa

Outset's latest venue transforms a sun-kissed villa on Al Wasl Road into a neighbourhood gathering place for Italian-inspired comfort food. Designed by Bone studio, the space features handcrafted Moroccan zellige tiles in ochre and yellow tones – each one unique in its subtle variations. The open kitchen serves as the restaurant's beating heart, with pasta rolled and shaped in full view. Founder Rashed Al Tayer's handwritten signage reinforces the emphasis on individual character and community connection. The 48-hour slow-cooked short rib ragu fettuccine demonstrates why patience matters in Italian cooking, and the anchovy capers pizza showcases handmade dough at its finest.

Rationed Cafe: Drive-thru specialty coffee in Nad Al Sheba

Tucked into a residential villa in Nad Al Sheba 2, this Emirati-owned drive-thru announces itself through striking vertical timber cladding and sage-green Arabic signage – an architectural moment carved quietly into the suburban landscape. What sets it apart isn't just the setting but the service: baristas who greet each car with the kind of enthusiasm typically reserved for old friends, warmth that feels refreshingly unscripted rather than performative. The bilingual branding and thoughtful integration into the neighbourhood fabric speak to a distinctly local sensibility. Less a corporate invasion of the suburbs than a business that grew organically from its surroundings.

Kima Izakaya: Authentic Japanese comfort food in Jumeirah Lake Towers

This compact JLT spot captures the communal spirit of a neighbourhood izakaya – vintage Japanese movie posters on the walls, natural wood furnishings, woven-rope stools, and skilled chefs working their craft at the open counter. The Spanish-owned, Polish chef-led operation takes a straightforward approach to Japanese comfort cooking, proving the izakaya experience doesn't require alcohol to succeed. The Kima Karaage achieves that coveted balance of crackling exterior and juicy interior that marks genuinely skilled Japanese frying. The house-made mochi – available in matcha, salted caramel, strawberry cheesecake, and occasionally coconut – is worth the visit alone.

The Growhouse by One Life: Farm-to-Fork Café in Alserkal Avenue

One Life's most ambitious project brings their sustainable philosophy to Alserkal Avenue, combining café culture with an on-site indoor farm featuring at least 23 different plants and vegetables. The design by Fadi Sarieddine draws inspiration from Al Quoz's industrial heritage – exposed piping against grey walls, soaring ceilings, and strategically placed greenery transforming the warehouse aesthetic. Beyond serving food, The Growhouse functions as a community hub for sustainability workshops and events. The expanded kitchen is three times larger than their sister locations, feeding both walk-in diners and the brand's growing catering operations across Dubai.

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Wave Dubai: Mediterranean flavours and Emirati hospitality in Mirdif

The beloved UAE brand – already established across Abu Dhabi, Khor Fakkan, Sharjah, and Dibba – extended their Mediterranean-inspired, Emirati hospitality approach to Mirdif. IDST's interior design features warm terracotta and sand tones with handcrafted Moroccan zellige tiles, while Wave's signature scent of tea leaf and cardamom greets guests upon arrival. The V60 Geisha is their best seller, and the Khameer Babka has proven particularly popular with Emirati guests. It's the kind of reliable neighbourhood spot that works for casual breakfasts, long leisurely lunches, or work sessions powered by specialty coffee.

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Jona's Burger: A homegrown burger joint in Nad Al Sheba's Avenue Mall

From the team behind DIFC's Orijins specialty coffee shop and No5 Cafe, this Nad Al Sheba burger joint operates with impressive dedication – everything prepped fresh daily, house-made sauces, and wagyu patties that justify the attention. The JB Classic covers essential burger territory with proper technique that respects the premium meat, while the Jammy Boy showcases kitchen creativity through smoky bacon jam, crispy shallots, and chipotle mayo. The house-made nuggets achieve that crucial tender interior/crispy exterior balance that separates good nuggets from forgettable ones. Open daily until 1 a.m.

Julith Coffee & Roastery: Dubai's homegrown coffee roastery with focus pods and specialty matcha

A two-storey roastery in Al Quoz filling the gap between serious specialty coffee and functional workspace. The ground floor features visible roasting operations and theatre, while the upper level provides dedicated coworking with soundproof focus pods for calls and meetings. Competition-grade beans rotate through specialty lots, the matcha programme includes the surprisingly successful Matcha Colada combining pineapple, coconut water, and matcha, and the food menu shows real ambition – including a Japanese A5 Shabu Shabu burger. The atmosphere shift between floors feels deliberate and successful.

Bocasu: Industrial warehouse hiding a bonsai garden, specialty coffee and premium sushi in Al Quoz

From the street, Bocasu's stark black exterior offers only the faintest hint of what lies within – two sentinel bonsai trees beside an unmarked entrance. Step inside this Al Quoz warehouse and discover one of Dubai's most genre-defying concepts: part coffee roastery, part bonsai nursery, part premium Japanese restaurant. The name tells the story – Bo for bonsai, Ca for café, Su for sushi. German owner Tim Albermann partnered with Japanese chef Yu Hasegawa to create a food menu that transcends typical café boundaries entirely. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase an impressive bonsai collection that guests can observe, appreciate, and purchase. Even the washrooms embrace the theatrical, featuring projection mapping that creates an immersive digital forest experience.

piehaus: Fresh phyllo pies and casual cafe vibes in Alserkal Avenue

Within Alserkal Avenue's creative corridors, piehaus transforms humble phyllo pastry into what founder Stasha Toncev – the mastermind behind 21grams – calls "works of heart." The dramatic double-height ceiling creates an airy atmosphere, anchored by an oversized sculptural pendant light. Traditional Balkan baking techniques meet Dubai's dining scene in both sweet and savoury creations – from the phyllo brunch layered with smoked salmon, runny egg, avocado, and caviar to the goat cheese, bacon, and honey pie with fresh thyme. Tables are equipped with Georg Jensen utensils, adding unexpected Scandinavian design elegance to the arts district setting.

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MAYG: Fantastic chef-driven French-Japanese fine dining in Dubai Design District

Executive Chef Aadel Ouaoua's French-Japanese fusion restaurant in Dubai Design District operates on the philosophy of "simplicity and complexity" – restrained flavour palettes achieved through precise technical execution. Cloud-inspired chandeliers drift across the main dining space, with red accents appearing strategically as a respectful nod to the Japanese flag. The tableside ceviche, where boiling dashi broth is poured over sashimi-cut salmon, exemplifies the theatrical elements that elevate the experience. The business lunch at 95 AED for three courses represents remarkable value for this level of cooking. Chef Aadel makes it a point to engage personally with diners, using feedback as essential input for his creative process.

Shanasheel Restaurant: A grand Iraqi dining palace in Jumeirah

An imposing stone archway in Jumeirah frames the entrance to one of Dubai's most theatrical dining experiences. The restaurant takes its name from the traditional wooden bay windows that once graced Baghdad's historic homes, and every architectural detail pays tribute to that golden age of Mesopotamian culture. Behind glass walls, bakers work at traditional stone ovens, turning out pillowy Iraqi bread throughout service. The massive space unfolds across two floors with soaring brick archways, an elaborate cascade chandelier, and jewel-toned stained glass windows filtering daylight into pools of turquoise and amber. The kitchen team sources specific spices and follows time-honoured techniques – this is serious Iraqi cuisine in palatial surroundings.

Three Bros Bistro Dubai: Syrian heritage and reimagined comfort food in Jumeirah

The three Syrian brothers behind the iconic, award-winning Orfali Bros did it again. Just a stone's throw from their original, Three Bros Bistro brings elevated casual dining to Wasl 51 in Jumeirah 1. Where Orfali Bros pushed fine dining boundaries, this takes a different path – Syrian culinary traditions meeting global influences in a more relaxed setting. The Japanese "pidza" – a cushion of sourdough topped with cabbage, prosciutto, okonomiyaki sauce, and dancing katsuobushi flakes – blurs culinary boundaries in the most delightful way. The fermented drinks programme, including Smoked Kombucha and Sour Cherry Tepache, proves that elevated casual dining can be every bit as sophisticated.

People: Homegrown elevated casual dining in Al Khawaneej

A homegrown concept from the creative minds behind GOAT Burger transforms Al Khawaneej Walk into a meeting point where food, culture, and community converge. BONE designed the theatrical yet intimate space around an open Majlis-inspired layout, with a dramatic sunken U-shaped seating arrangement conceived as an anchor for sharing and dialogue. Executive Chef Sameer Bhalekar – a protégé of Gordon Ramsay and Thomas Keller – brings 16 years of experience across New York, London, Barcelona, and India. The billionaire wagyu crispy rice pairs premium beef with shiitake duxelles and roasted pepper aioli in a combination that shouldn't work but absolutely does. The Aseeda panna cotta offers a sophisticated nod to local flavours through saffron caviar and Emirati blend.

Khao Soi: Authentic Northern Thai flavours in Al Karama

A narrow shopfront in Al Karama's bustling streets, run by a Thai wife and American husband duo whose approach centres on authenticity over adaptation. They recreate the exact flavours they serve in Northern Thailand, without compromise – sourcing ingredients from Thailand and preparing noodles in-house daily. The small space accommodates just 16 seats across four tables, with weathered concrete walls displaying vintage Thai advertisements and movie posters. The signature Khao Soi delivers Northern Thai comfort at its most authentic: in-shop made egg noodles swimming in aromatic coconut milk broth with khao soi curry. No reservations accepted, and expect a brief wait during peak hours.

Homebrew Coffee: Nostalgic specialty coffee in Al Satwa

A gorgeous Al Satwa space where 90s Dubai nostalgia meets thoughtful sourcing. Founder Ania Kubow, a web developer who has called Dubai home since 1988, is building more than a café – she's creating a space where genuine connections form naturally, with plans for coding workshops and community events. The communal table anchored by a living tree draws people into shared conversation over quality coffee. The menu celebrates local sourcing, from nearby roasted beans to za'atar and labneh that bring back childhood memories. Chips Oman served alongside sourdough sandwiches captures the spirit perfectly. It's rare to find this level of specialty coffee and matcha in Al Satwa.

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MAZMI Cafe Al Fahidi: Historic café in Dubai's iconic heritage quarter

Within the coral stone walls of a beautifully restored 1950s merchant's house, MAZMI marks its second outpost in the Al Fahidi Historic District. The restored house – built from coral stones sourced from the sea, African timber, and Omani plaster – showcases traditional Emirati construction at its finest. Mohammad Al Mazmi and his Italian wife Ilaria have created a space where traditional Emirati hospitality meets quality coffee service, with natural light filtering through traditional wooden screens onto contemporary furnishings. The central courtyard provides a serene outdoor retreat beneath mature trees. A boutique hotel expansion upstairs, mirroring their original Creekside concept, is in the works.

Fin & Bone: Gourmet butcher and fishmonger in Dubai's Al Barari

From the people behind Cassette and Nette, a proper butchery and fishmonger tucked into Seventh Heaven at Al Barari. Head Butcher Richard Douglas, whose background includes some of Dubai's finest establishments, dry-ages cuts for 45 to 90 days until they develop proper depth. The Wagyu selection covers serious ground: Mayura from South Australia, W-Black Australian, and Miyazakigyu from Japan. The fish comes from Scottish suppliers who know their business – finding decent cod in Dubai usually requires effort, but here it simply appears as part of the regular rotation. Douglas makes his own butters, pickles, rubs, and mayonnaise. The staff actually understand their products beyond basic descriptions.

Middle Child: All-day eatery, gourmet grocer and cookbook shop in Alserkal Avenue

Lebanese chef Lynn Hazim – who transitioned from a decade at Google to pursue her passion for food – brings together three distinct pleasures under one roof in Alserkal Avenue: an all-day eatery, cookbook shop housing over 500 titles, and gourmet grocer. The pappardelle Bolognese was one of the best we've ever had, with fresh pasta and a five-hour slow-cooked beef ragu that tastes like time and care. Towering bookcases invite browsing while honey-toned timber shelving and a striking yellow mosaic column anchor the space. The aesthetic strikes a balance between library, larder, and cultured eatery. Middle Child addresses a gap in Alserkal's predominantly café-driven offerings, providing a proper lunch and dinner destination.

71 Steak and Grill: Homegrown steakhouse serving delicious wood-fired meat in Nad Al Sheba

A homegrown UAE steakhouse concept that started in Ajman in 2017, now with its first permanent Dubai location at Nad Al Sheba Mall. The focus has remained consistent: premium Black Angus and Wagyu beef prepared over open charcoal flames, with Mediterranean techniques and Middle Eastern spices applied to the cooking. The coffee steak stands out – a marinated flank rubbed with coffee and spices that adds depth without dominating. Chefs work behind a maroon marble counter where smoke rises as meat hits the grill, creating natural theatre without gimmickry. It's an excellent all-rounder for anyone who takes their meat seriously but wants to skip the formality of a dress code.

Studio Julie Lemke: Bespoke facials in a dreamy space in Al Quoz

Danish esthetician Julie Lemke, alongside managing partners Rebecka Noejdh and Lea Jarrar, created an intimate skincare studio in Al Quoz that feels deliberately personal – designed to evoke the warmth of a friend's home rather than the sterility of a treatment room. Julie brings over a decade of Dubai experience and international training across more than 30 countries. Her philosophy centres on working with the skin rather than against it, adapting treatments to Dubai's particular climate challenges. Each treatment begins with a detailed questionnaire she reviews thoroughly before arrival. The buccal massage – an internal cheek technique releasing facial tension – creates visible lift and glow that holds for days rather than hours.

Binge: Emirati dessert brand redefining luxury pastry in Dubai

A homegrown Emirati dessert brand that's rewritten the rules of how we enjoy fine pastry. Rather than presenting finished creations, Binge delivers build-your-own dessert sets with premium components you assemble fresh at home – micro choux or mini financiers alongside refrigerated elements and toppings, all in thoughtfully designed packaging. The format prioritises enjoyment over ceremony, accessibility over intimidation. Because you assemble each serving fresh, textures remain distinct – nothing gets soggy. You can return to the box throughout the week, building a small bowl as an afternoon pick-me-up or creating a proper dessert course for dinner guests. Delivery-only across Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Fuloong Sushi Omakase: Intimate Japanese omakase in Umm Suqeim

An 8-seat omakase counter in Umm Suqeim that shouldn't exist where it does – a stone's throw from the beach, next door but one to Lila Taqueria. Chef Lemon, from the Himalayas with Japanese training, offers two set menus where fish arrives weekly from Japanese markets and dishes unfold through chef-led storytelling. The Emperor's Jewels progression includes A5 wagyu tartare with caviar, otoro dusted with edible gold placed directly onto your hand, and citrus silk dessert that lingers in memory. With only three nightly seatings and advance booking essential, the intimacy is genuine. At 599 AED for this calibre of ingredients and experience, the value is frankly fantastic.

Bonus for HUNTR Members: HUNTR Members receive 100AED off of all set menus here. Not a member? Download the HUNTR: City Guide app here and join us today.

Kiyomi: Korean comfort food in Dubai's International City

A six-seat Korean counter in International City run by Korean owner Insung Cha, focusing on authentic comfort food staples like kimbap, cupbap, tteokbokki, and japchae. The narrow space features a long counter facing an open kitchen partially concealed by a decorative curtain. The bulgogi cupbap – tender, well-marinated beef over fluffy rice – proved the standout, while the chicken gangjeong showcased perfectly cooked pieces with crispy exterior and garlicky sauce. Most dishes land between 25 and 35 AED. No reservations, just leave your number at the counter during busy times. It's an eat-and-go kind of place for when you're craving the real thing without fuss.

Savryn Dubai: African fine dining in Jumeirah's Wasl Vita

A 28-seat fine dining restaurant in Wasl Vita bringing a rare perspective to Dubai – African cuisine with Middle Eastern influences from 26-year-old Egyptian chef Shehab Medhat, who spent years cooking across Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, and Nigeria. The 465 AED tasting menu showcases bold, layered flavours that most Dubai kitchens wouldn't attempt: ostrich sambousek with Kenyan mint yoghurt, fufu crab croquette with coconut-vanilla sauce and caviar, golden ribs with African curry and Zanzibar coconut chutney. The kitchen encourages eating with your hands, using East African flatbread to mop up every bit of sauce. Dramatic red velvet curtains and warm crimson ceilings create an intimate, jewel-box atmosphere.

Paus Club Dubai: A homegrown wellness sanctuary in Umm Suqeim

The brainchild of two Dubai-based sisters, this expansive Al Wasl Road wellness sanctuary revolves around four pillars – love, health, work, and play. A beautifully landscaped courtyard centres around a magnificent mature tree, with padel courts, movement studios, reformer Pilates, spa facilities, and an eatery where jewel-toned interiors meet warm wood accents. Specialty coffee comes from homegrown Cypher Roastery. The changing facilities are stocked with Aesop products and Dyson hair dryers. Community events include Slow Morning sessions combining mobility practice with mindful art activities. It's a sanctuary that feels worlds away from typical fitness venues.

Maison Mer: Regional French dining on Pearl Jumeira's beautiful coast

Nikki Beach Hospitality Group's standalone dining concept on Pearl Jumeira commits to a specific regional focus rather than painting "French Riviera" with a broad brush – this is Provençal cooking, from Nice to Marseille. Corporate Executive Chef Alessandro Pizza brings over 20 years of French Riviera experience. Anchovies, goat cheese, artichokes, figs, garlic – the building blocks handled properly. The design channels a coastal maison through limestone archways, travertine-lined promenades, and pieces sourced directly from Provençal antique boutiques. There's genuinely rare boat access if you happen to arrive by water. The terrace with scalloped parasols and mosaic flooring begs for long lunches drifting into evening.

FŌM: A high-tech women-only beauty spa in Nad Al Sheba

An Emirati-owned women-only beauty spa in Nad Al Sheba Mall where science meets serenity. Three core rituals: Immersive Head Spa combining microscopic scalp analysis, lymphatic massage, and LED therapy; High-Tech Facials using Korean machinery and Italian formulations; and Aerostyling that feels editorial yet effortless. The space channels calm luxury through poured concrete, warm lighting, and cobalt blue accents. Every treatment begins with consultation and analysis, delivering visible results for the woman who moves fast but values her peace. Butterfly pea tea arrives between stages, its indigo hue shifting as temperature changes.

Bonus for HUNTR Members: HUNTR Members receive 20% off all treatments here. Not a member? Download the HUNTR: City Guide app here and join us today.

Solenn: Chef Gregory Berger's Mediterranean restaurant at Marsa Boulevard

Chef Gregory Berger's Greek-inspired pop-up at Marsa Boulevard captures coastal Mediterranean dining where the food is rooted in tradition but executed with contemporary finesse. The outdoor space wraps you in warm yellows and creams, punctuated by terracotta vessels and fresh flowers, with Creek views as backdrop. Mocktails crafted with in-house syrups deserve as much attention as the food – the Tropical Saffron arrives in a bird-shaped glass, the saffron adding earthiness that grounds the pineapple. The Salmon Carpaccio "Amalfi Coast" filters Italian coastal cooking through Japanese precision. A patinated green piano sits in one corner – functional, apparently.

Villa Coconut: Egyptian-Mediterranean dining with El Gouna soul in DIFC

TLT Concepts brings El Gouna's coastal energy to DIFC, combining Egyptian-Mediterranean dining with craft cocktails in a space that shifts from business lunches to vibrant evening gatherings. Hand-woven cladding visible from Gate Avenue signals Egyptian craftsmanship, while inside, carved ceilings and pottery ornaments sourced from Cairo artisans create residential warmth. The Hawawshi with Love elevates Egyptian street food – crunchy flatbread concealing Black Angus beef enriched with foie gras. Hidden within the restaurant, the Lava Room speakeasy accommodates 30-40 guests in a golden cave-like space with its own bar and DJ booth.

Tezukuri Dubai: Japanese precision, handcrafted temaki and a listening bar in Downtown Dubai

Chef Neha Mishra of Kinoya and Panchali Mahendra of Atelier House Hospitality created an intimate temaki counter in Downtown Dubai's Opera District, led by Osaka native Chef Tatsuya who's been cooking since 16. The name means "handmade" – a philosophy evident in everything from the Hokkaido Nanatsuboshi rice to the aged red akazu vinegar made through traditional slow fermentation. Hand rolls are shaped and passed directly to guests within seconds of completion, before the nori softens and the moment passes. The uni hand roll at 200 AED proved absolutely exceptional – the kind of bite that brings tears with its perfection. A hidden listening bar operates behind a secret door.

Of The Earth Alserkal Avenue: Local produce, specialty coffee and all day breakfast in Al Quoz

A homegrown farm-to-table café in Alserkal Avenue where local produce takes centre stage alongside specialty coffee. The concept grows some of its own produce on private farms, connecting diners with UAE agriculture. The Signature Sourdough Flatbread arrives with poached local eggs atop whipped feta, finished with sesame chilli crunch – properly chewy sourdough with that slight tang providing structural integrity. The double-height warehouse space features white arches creating alcoves, a communal terrazzo table, and sage-green accents throughout. It functions exceptionally well for working sessions, with free WiFi and enough table space to spread out properly.

Zayed National Museum: Abu Dhabi's national museum on Saadiyat Island

First opened on December 3 2025, Zayed National Museum chronicles 300,000 years of human history through the values and vision of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Foster + Partners' five soaring towers rising like a falcon's wing mid-flight aren't decorative flourishes but load-bearing structures functioning as thermal chimneys – engineering as storytelling. The Our Beginning gallery dismantles the "nation without history" misconception immediately: a 300,000-year-old stone tool from Jebel Hafit, the 8,000-year-old Abu Dhabi Pearl proving deep maritime traditions. Jack Burlot's 1974 photographs humanise the Founding Father by showing a leader working rather than posing. Al Masar Garden stretches 600 metres as a biographical timeline through desert, oasis, and urban landscapes.

Cocina Tres: Coastal Mexican dining in Business Bay

The team behind Honeycomb Hi-Fi marks their third venture with a coastal Mexican restaurant where corn ships from Oaxaca to be ground fresh daily on a custom molino. Dramatic lighting casts shadows across terra-cotta floors while backlit tiger masks keep watch over the ceviche bar. The design takes inspiration from Mexican architect Luis Barragán – deep red accent walls meeting turquoise panels, rough plaster surfaces, wooden beam ceilings. The pescado zarandeado, a whole local fish grilled Nayarit-style and brushed with red adobo, creates depth beyond simple grilled fish. Everything connects back to Mexico – the furniture, ceramic plates, even the artisans who created the textured wall finishes.

Isola Space: Design gallery and café in Business Bay

Milan-based Isola Design Group's first permanent physical venue anywhere – even Milan only has offices. The Business Bay space brings together exhibition gallery, concept store, café, and co-working under one double-height roof, with no membership or entry fee required. Every chair, lamp, and table serves double duty as both functional furniture and purchasable design object – you might end up taking home the stool you've been sitting on. Exposed blue ceiling ducts create a bold overhead canvas, while neon cube stools and sculptural seating in unexpected colour combinations fill the space. Exhibitions rotate every month or two, keeping the experience fresh for regulars.

Womanly: A women-only wellness space, cafe and more in Jumeirah 3

French entrepreneur Laetitia Martins created a women-only wellness space in a converted Jumeirah villa where holistic treatments, movement classes, and specialty coffee coexist under one roof. Laetitia notably performs many signature treatments herself – a rarity in Dubai's spa scene. The Dream Machine, a French-made device combining stroboscopic light with meditative soundscapes to shift brainwaves into deep relaxation, is a rare find in Dubai. The ground-floor lounge doubles as café and co-working space – drop in for a matcha without booking a treatment. Intimate class sizes and private treatment rooms are designed to feel safe and unhurried.

The Sandwich Box: Late-night smash burgers on Sheikh Zayed Road

That neon-lit yellow sign glowing against the Dubai skyline near the Museum of the Future tells you everything you need to know – a no-frills smash burger joint open until 5 a.m. daily. Patties are smashed to order on a hot griddle, cheese melts into crispy-edged beef, and nothing on the menu breaks 32 AED. The space commits fully to its aesthetic with red-and-white colour scheme, neon signs declaring "Wanna Smash?" and only seven or eight high chairs available. The Seasoned Fries deserve particular mention – generously dusted with a savoury spice blend that elevates them beyond standard chip-shop fare.

Gelato Del Mar: Artisanal gelato in Al Barari

A burst of sunshine yellow against Al Barari's quieter streets, where a Serbian and Emirati husband-and-wife operation churns out house-made gelato with lower sugar than most. The production kitchen sits behind glass, and every scoop comes with the knowledge it was made metres from where you're standing. Flavours lean creative: milk chocolate with Earl Grey tea and bergamot, matcha with strawberry jam in balsamic, banana lemon honey. The committed colour palette – sunshine yellow dominating everything from the fluted counter to cups, cones, and staff uniforms – makes an immediate impression.

Taqueria El Primo Dubai: Homegrown Mexican, chef-led eatery in Jumeirah

Chef Jonathan Colin spent years running K'iin Supper Club from his Downtown Dubai apartment, serving seven-course Mexican dinners to guests sitting among plates imported from Yucatán. El Primo represents the natural evolution – a taqueria bringing a taste of Mexico to Al Wasl. The name means "the cousin" in Spanish, and the vibe matches: walk-in casual, family-style portions, zero pretence. That open kitchen with its huge pan where meats sizzle on a spinning trompo tells you everything. The Oxtail Birria at 80 AED for three tacos justified its premium price – impossibly tender meat in rich birria consommé, served alongside extra consommé for dipping.

TakaHisa Downtown: Japanese fine dining and a licensed bar on the Dubai Canal

The second outpost from the team behind TakaHisa at Banyan Tree Dubai, perched on the fourth floor of Volante Tower 1 where floor-to-ceiling windows frame the Dubai Canal and Burj Khalifa. Seafood flies in from Tokyo's Toyosu Market six times a week, and Ozaki beef – one of Japan's rarest wagyu brands – features prominently. A dedicated sushi master works behind the sleek omakase counter. The terrace is the real showstopper: sunken seating wraps around a long fire pit, framed by water features, with mature olive trees at the corners and uninterrupted panorama stretching to the Burj Khalifa. Authentic Japanese breakfast from 8 a.m. is a rarity in Dubai.

The B Club: Specialty coffee and sleek vibes in Abu Dhabi

An Emirati-owned specialty coffee shop in Abu Dhabi where exceptional coffee meets an impressive organic matcha programme. The owners have established a direct relationship with a small Kyoto farm, becoming the sole GCC distributor of their organic matcha – a partnership that began when they took on what was the Japanese producer's first major order. After extensive testing with various milks, they've committed exclusively to oat milk pairings for traditional matcha, believing this delivers the most refined flavour profile. The V60 showcasing Colombian beans stands as one of the finest pour-over coffees encountered in the capital. The intimate space with limited indoor and outdoor seating creates an atmosphere that feels intentionally curated, encouraging connection over quick transactions.

Bonus for HUNTR Members: Collect stamps for the HUNTR Coffee, Specialty Tea & Matcha Cards here. Not a member? Download the HUNTR: City Guide app here and join us today.

teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi: Boundary-defying art in Saadiyat Cultural District

teamLab brings a revolutionary art concept to Saadiyat Cultural District where visitors don't just view art – they become part of it. Digital butterflies respond to your movements, mirror balloons reflect light in mesmerising patterns, and shimmering water features transform as you walk through them. In one room, thousands of digital suns shift as people move through. In another, visitors wade through ankle-deep water while digital koi fish dart around their feet, leaving trails of light. The international art collective comprises artists, programmers, engineers, mathematicians, and architects – their collaborative approach results in installations that feel both technologically advanced and deeply connected to natural phenomena.

Barbassi Abu Dhabi: Artisanal focaccia sandwiches in Mina Zayed Port

From the founders of Marmellata comes a compact canteen-style shop within Mina Zayed Port complex focusing on just five meticulously crafted focaccia sandwiches. The family connection runs deep – Barbassi is named after the owners' youngest son Sebastian, currently studying hospitality in Switzerland with hopes he'll return to take over. What makes this spot truly distinctive is its exclusive selection of vintage Sicilian fruit soft drinks – the only place in the UAE where you'll find these classic refreshers. The mushroom sandwich with oyster mushrooms and truffle labneh, Swiss cheeses, garlic confit, and fried onions on house-made sesame focaccia stands out.

Novikov Abu Dhabi: Mediterranean fine dining in Al Maryah Island

Restaurateur Arkady Novikov's remarkable story began with a rejected McDonald's application in Moscow and evolved into a $300 million empire spanning 50+ restaurants worldwide. This Abu Dhabi outpost within Galleria Mall's luxury wing brings Mediterranean sophistication – marble surfaces catching warm golden lighting, abundant olive trees, dramatic open kitchen, and a grand piano anchoring the dining room for evening performances. The scallops crudo with caviar and truffle proved luxurious where each element enhanced the others. The distinctive red and white checkered chairs add playful contrast to the polished marble floors.

Bamo's Bakehouse Abu Dhabi: Matcha drive-thru in Al Mushrif Villa

Operating from a traditional villa surrounded by vibrant greenery in Al Mushrif, this Emirati-owned home business turns a simple coffee run into something more ceremonial. Order through the Beanz app, drive up to the garden pickup point, and friendly staff emerge with wooden serving trays in hand. The Salted Vanilla Matcha showcases classic preparation with smooth, salty vanilla foam that enhances rather than masks the tea's earthy complexity, while the Matcha Crunch Delight – served in clear glass to show off its beautiful layering – combines matcha with rice crisps and vanilla soft-serve. Colourful handpainted signs reading "take a little COFFEE BREAK" dot the garden.

3Fils Abu Dhabi: Homegrown modern Asian dining in Al Bateen

That dramatic chandelier spiralling through three storeys of waterfront sophistication draws your eye upward before the marina views pull you back to earth. This sleek interpretation of the Dubai flagship commands Al Bateen marina with quiet confidence. Chef Jovani creates Abu Dhabi exclusives like the A5 Wagyu Claypot and Filipino-inspired Vanilla Flan reflecting founder Ahmed Abdul Hakim's philosophy: complexity distilled into something achingly simple and brilliant. The ground floor revolves around a horseshoe-shaped sushi counter carved from dramatic stone, with the Mean Leaf – tempura oba leaf supporting tuna, mango tartare, and beluga caviar – justifying every dirham.

ETHR ClubHaus Abu Dhabi: Specialty coffee and contemporary dining in Masdar City

The second ClubHaus location following Sharjah's success, this Emirati-owned concept creates community space in Masdar City's Eco Park. Design elements draw inspiration from the UAE's seafaring heritage – mother of pearl glazed tiles, sandy sea shell aggregate flooring, large wooden columns resembling traditional dhow boat hulls, and flowing curtain sail canopy installations. The in-house bakery produces fresh pastries daily, specialty coffee is powered by QC roastery, and signature matcha comes from Japan. The merch section showcases curated concept brands including HAY, The Monocle, and PENCO.

Bonus for HUNTR Members: Collect stamps for the HUNTR Coffee, Specialty Tea & Matcha Cards here. Not a member? Download the HUNTR: City Guide app here and join us today.

Blu Pizzeria: Neapolitan wood-fired pizzas on Saadiyat Island

Emirati entrepreneur Abdelrahman Alteneiji expands his Neapolitan pizza concept from Dubai to a waterfront spot at Sunrise Residences on Saadiyat Island. The menu is intentionally tight – just seven pizzas, all wood-fired on sourdough bases that take time to develop properly. Subtle Middle Eastern influences run through the toppings without overcomplicating Italian foundations. Twin wood-fired ovens positioned opposite each other transform pizza preparation into theatre. The Short Ribs pizza – black Angus beef with caramelised onions and truffle white sauce – justifies its reputation as the Dubai bestseller.

Stead Bakery: Homemade sourdough and specialty coffee in Al Rahah

A bright corner space in Al Raha where owner Rashed's vision materialised simply: "a birth of a friend who knows well the snacks you like, a homeSTEAD where you feel comfortable." Within weeks of opening in Summer 2025, regulars already feel at home, families stop by with children, and the sourdough sells out before closing. The philosophy centres on natural ingredients – stone ground wheat sourdough with naturally fermented starter, flaky croissants without pre-packed fillings, balanced sweetness that doesn't overwhelm. The Dubai Bun combines pistachio butter with homemade chocolate and toasted kunafa.

Amina: Award-winning Chef Mariam's theatrical Emirati restaurant in Reem Mall

Chef Mariam Al Mansoori – the first Emirati to win France's prestigious "Best of Gastronomy" Gold Award in 2024 – creates contemporary Emirati cuisine in a space that feels like stepping through a portal into a lavishly appointed palace. Royal red velvet, golden accents, ornate wallpaper, and crystal chandeliers create an atmosphere equal parts French château and Emirati majlis. The shrimp biryani proved a masterclass in technique and flavour – seafood tender and juicy, saffron rice fragrant and perfectly spiced, requiring no accompaniments to shine. Her philosophy centres on preserving and modernising Emirati home cooking traditions drawn from her mother's and grandmother's recipes.

Slice 45: Drive-thru Italian-style pizza in Al Qana

A drive-thru food truck serving pizza by the slice isn't revolutionary on paper, but Slice 45 executes the concept with uncommon care. The Emirati-owned operation – from the team behind Aptitude at Louvre Abu Dhabi – keeps its menu to just six pizzas, all made with house-made dough and finished with a signature spicy honey that's earned a genuine following. At Al Qana's Drive Thru zone, it delivers on a simple promise: quality slices, generous portions, no fuss. The kind of place Abu Dhabi's casual dining needed.

Super Classic Cafe Abu Dhabi: Specialty coffee and pastries in Al Bateen

Uninterrupted quiet is increasingly rare in urban Abu Dhabi, which makes this roughly 30-square-metre space from the Otaku team all the more welcome. Tucked inside one of Al Bateen's public parks, Super Classic Cafe keeps things focused: specialty coffee, freshly baked sourdough pastries, nothing more. The park setting does the heavy lifting – natural shade, open air, tables facing greenery rather than traffic – while shell+core studio's design favours warm restraint over attention-seeking interiors. A cafe built for conversation at a comfortable volume.

ETHR at The Library: Specialty coffee meets equestrian heritage on Jubail Island

ETHR's outpost at Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts represents something quietly significant: an Emirati-owned specialty coffee brand finding its most striking home yet within a landmark cultural institution. The kiosk format is simple, but the setting – a research library housing over 10,000 volumes on horsemanship, surrounded by Spanish-inspired architecture and views of terracotta roofs – elevates the experience. It's contemporary coffee culture meeting heritage preservation, and the combination works.

Bonus for HUNTR Members: Collect stamps for the HUNTR Coffee, Specialty Tea & Matcha Cards here. Not a member? Download the HUNTR: City Guide app here and join us today.

Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts: Classical horsemanship on Al Jubail Island

Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts is the world's fifth school of classical horsemanship and the first outside Europe. That fact alone warrants attention, but what makes ADREA remarkable is its ambition: an 18,000-square-metre campus on Jubail Island uniting equestrian performances, accredited education, a gallery with 173 rare artefacts, the UAE's first bespoke saddle-making atelier, and a 20,000-book equestrian library. It's a genuine cultural institution grounded in the Arab tradition of Furusiyya, where the bond between horse and rider becomes living art.

Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi: World-class museum in Saadiyat Cultural District

The region's largest museum opened this year on Saadiyat Island, and it justifies the scale. Housing Stan – one of the world's most complete T. rex skeletons – alongside the 4.6-billion-year-old Murchison Meteorite, the Natural History Museum spans 13.8 billion years of Earth's story across multiple galleries. What elevates it beyond spectacle is the Lost World of Abu Dhabi section, where fossils unearthed locally reveal that seven million years ago, the UAE was a lush savannah. Children under 18 enter free, and the interactive elements engage without veering into gimmick territory.

ARC: An open-air pavilion serving pizza and specialty coffee at the Louvre in Abu Dhabi

From the Aptitude team comes this open-air pavilion on the Louvre Abu Dhabi grounds, where a sculptural concrete frame glows amber at sunset. The menu stays deliberately compact – pizzas with Middle Eastern and international influences, QC Roastery coffee, ceremonial-grade matcha – and the outdoor-only format makes it a cooler-months destination. ARC works because it doesn't overreach: it's a post-museum pitstop, a casual date spot, a family gathering place, all enhanced by one of Saadiyat's best sunset views.

Sesame Al Ain: Specialty coffee and seasonal bites at the Al Ain Museum

A winter-only outdoor café within the grounds of Al Ain Museum might sound niche, but Sesame – from the team behind Dips in Jumeirah – makes a compelling case for the drive. The setting does much of the work: plush seating scattered across landscaped grounds, heritage architecture as backdrop, and the kind of unhurried atmosphere that rewards lingering. The menu stays deliberately tight, but the burnt burrata cheesecake alone justifies a visit. It's specialty coffee with cultural context, available only during the cooler months.

Mina Creamery: Artisan ice cream in Abu Dhabi's Mina Zayed

Ice cream as a medium for memory and regional flavour rather than just dessert – that's what Anant Singh and Emirati ice cream writer Rihab Al Gurg have built at Mina Creamery. The MiZa shop rotates through combinations like salted saffron with halwa, olive oil with za'atar, and Filipino-inspired creations, all rooted in ingredients the founders grew up eating. The space itself is joyful maximalism: hot pink walls, block-print textiles, curated provisions. For anyone tired of predictable scoops, this is the Abu Dhabi address.

ANOOK Cafe: Desert-inspired retreat in Bani Yas

In Bani Yas – a part of Abu Dhabi often overlooked – Emirati photographer Moza has built exactly the kind of coffee spot that rewards the drive. ANOOK celebrates its raw surroundings rather than disguising them: floor-to-ceiling windows frame sand and open sky, while inside, mid-century furniture in deep terracotta and crimson sits against warm wood panelling. The menu is coffee-focused for now, but the atmosphere is the point. A homegrown concept designed for slow coffee and unhurried conversation.

ETHR ClubHaus Sharjah: A speciality coffee shop and contemporary restaurant in Al Mamsha

ETHR's Sharjah outpost brings the Emirati-owned brand's specialty coffee and matcha programme to Muwaileh Commercial, pairing it with an all-day dining menu that spans açaí bowls to chicken katsu. The space makes clever use of materials – smooth stone against industrial metalwork and natural wood – while floor-to-ceiling windows keep things bright. It's a refined but welcoming addition to Al Mamsha, and another expression of a homegrown brand that continues to expand thoughtfully across the Emirates.

Bonus for HUNTR Members: Collect stamps for the HUNTR Coffee, Specialty Tea & Matcha Cards here. Not a member? Download the HUNTR: City Guide app here and join us today.

Jae's Bunsik: Authentic Korean comfort food and specialty coffee in Sharjah

Bunsik – Korean for simple, convenient everyday meals – gets a proper UAE home at this Al Jada café co-founded by Emirati Arwa Alblooshi and South Korean SungJae Moon. The space doubles as vinyl-spinning coffee shop and casual Korean kitchen, with a custom blend developed alongside Dubai's Grandmother Roastery to mirror authentic Korean café profiles. The food respects traditional preparations without demanding cultural education from diners: kimbab, tteokbokki, ramyun, and a hotteok (sweet pancake) that alone justifies the visit. Industrial concrete meets warm timber throughout, and records actually spin on working turntables. It's the kind of cross-cultural collaboration that feels genuinely considered rather than concept-driven.

Bait Elowal: Emirati heritage dining and cultural shopping in the Heart of Sharjah

Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi's vision for Bait Elowal recreates the warmth that once welcomed merchants returning from distant lands with tales, treasures, and flavours from across the Silk Road. The beautifully restored two-storey heritage house in Sharjah's Heart district operates simultaneously as restaurant, gallery, and cultural retail space – with a bookshop, handcrafted pottery, and traditional textiles integrated throughout. The kitchen creates dishes that tell ancient trading stories whilst honouring Emirati traditions, and the courtyard's green Zellige-tiled fountain provides the soundtrack. It makes cultural preservation feel contemporary, sophisticated, and utterly delicious. For anyone seeking Emirati hospitality at its most thoughtful, this is the address.

Al Tawe: Emirati seafood in Sharjah's Industrial Area

Seashells cascade down whitewashed walls and woven pendants cast warm light across wooden tables – Al Tawe evokes the feeling of the Gulf coast in an unlikely corner of Sharjah's Industrial Area. Named after the Emirati dialect word for "well," this family-run seafood restaurant celebrates the UAE's fishing heritage through both its coastal-inspired interiors and a menu anchored by traditional preparations. The open kitchen with its glass display counter builds trust through transparency, and the custom crockery decorated with Arabic-inspired blue geometric patterns shows genuine investment in the details. Most mains hover between 50 and 70 AED, making it accessible for regular visits. The open grilled biah – beautifully seasoned, perfectly grilled, served with lemon pickles – is the dish to order.

Shuweihi: A traditional Saudi tea house in Sharjah

The aroma hits before you've stepped through the door – warm spices, black tea leaves, and something unmistakably comforting. Shuweihi brings the traditional Saudi tea house experience to Sharjah, a homegrown concept from Saudi entrepreneur Shamma Ibrahim where karak and specialty black teas take centre stage alongside small homemade bakes. The interior reads like a grandmother's sitting room reimagined for modern day: white lace curtains, skirted sofas, framed paintings depicting Gulf leaders sharing tea. The menu is refreshingly narrow – just exceptional tea done properly, with prices firmly in the accessible range. For anyone seeking an antidote to the usual café formula, this Saudi-inspired tea house offers a welcome change of pace.