New restaurants in Dubai are already setting the tone for 2026. From sky-high Japanese dining and London imports to bold Latin American hotspots and immersive cabaret dinners, the city's food scene isn't slowing down. Here are the must-try new restaurant openings in Dubai this year.
---
Nobu One Za'abeel
Opened on 17 January, Nobu's third Dubai address has quickly become one of the city's most in-demand tables. Located 230 metres above ground inside The Link at One Za'abeel, it pairs sweeping skyline views with the brand's signature Japanese-Peruvian menu.
Expect favourites like black cod miso and yellowtail jalapeño, alongside Dubai-exclusive dishes. After dinner, the space transitions into a high-energy lounge with DJs and extended bar hours — very much in tune with Dubai's late-night dining culture.
Where: The Link, One Za'abeel When: Daily
---
Barrafina DIFC
London's cult Spanish favourite made its international debut in DIFC on 26 January — nearly 20 years after first opening in the UK.
With just 55 seats, Barrafina is all about counter dining, where chefs prepare dishes right in front of you. On the menu: tortilla, gambas rojas, chicken thighs with romesco and Galician dry-aged beef, plus Dubai-only specials. The drinks list leans heavily Spanish, with vermouth, cava and regional wines taking centre stage.
Where: Gate Village 1, DIFC When: Daily, 12pm to 11:30pm
---
ZEA
Now open at Emirates Financial Towers, ZEA brings a relaxed Mediterranean lounge feel to DIFC.
The interiors feature olive tones and soft golden lighting, while the menu blends Mediterranean flavours with subtle Peruvian touches. Think fresh seafood, vibrant ceviches, fire-cooked mains and handmade pastas. Cocktails focus on herbs and citrus, with wines sourced from France, Italy, Spain, Lebanon and North Africa.
Where: Emirates Financial Towers, DIFC When: 5pm to 2am (closed Sunday and Monday)
---
Paris Paradis
Launched on 10 January at Taj Dubai, Paris Paradis brings French cabaret flair to Business Bay.
Created by the team behind the historic Paradis Latin in Paris, the show features couture-style costumes, theatrical staging and high-energy performances. It's dinner and a show, Dubai-style — with minimum spends starting from AED 800 per person.
Where: Taj Dubai, Business Bay When: Open now
---
Yú & Mì
Opened on 15 January at Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Yú & Mì channels 1960s Hong Kong glamour.
The menu spans Cantonese and Sichuan classics, including dim sum, seafood and Peking duck, served in a moody dining room with skyline views. Add DJ nights and craft cocktails, and it easily shifts from refined dinner to lively night out.
Where: Mandarin Oriental Downtown When: Daily, 6pm to 11pm
---
Amaru
Opened on 28 January at Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Amaru brings bold Latin American flavours and late-night energy to one of Dubai's most iconic settings.
The fire-driven menu by Chef Carlo Valentino includes ceviches, lobster tacos, smoky anticuchos and live-fire lamb chops. Cocktails highlight agave and cane spirits, alongside a thoughtful zero-proof selection. It's vibrant, high-energy and built for long nights.
Where: Souk Madinat Jumeirah When: Daily, 6pm to 3am
---
The Verdict
If the first weeks of 2026 are anything to go by, Dubai's restaurant scene is only getting bigger, bolder and more immersive. Whether you're after skyline views, counter dining, cabaret glamour or Latin American fire cooking, these new restaurants in Dubai 2026 deserve a spot on your reservation list.
