After a summer hiatus, many of Dubai’s much-loved restaurants are making their grand return, much to the delight of local food lovers. Some have reopened after a seasonal break, while others have undergone impressive transformations, complete with revamped interiors and exciting new menus. Here’s your guide to the Dubai dining scene, showcasing who’s back and who’s set to reopen very soon.
Now Open
Buddha-Bar
Buddha-Bar, a staple in Dubai Marina since 2005, has returned with a fresh new twist. The restaurant reintroduces its famed Pan-Asian menu, featuring old favourites like lobster dumplings and handmade dim sum, under the new theme Red Tsuki, part of the Sakura’s Secret dining experience. This new concept draws inspiration from the red moon, creating an immersive atmosphere with live performances and stunning visuals.
Where: Grosvenor House Dubai, Dubai Marina
When: Sunday-Thursday 7pm to 1am; Friday-Saturday 7pm to 2am
Contact: @buddhabardubai
Shimmers
Shimmers is back and ready to serve its Aegean-inspired menu right on the beach at Jumeirah Mina Al Salam. With breathtaking views of the Burj Al Arab, guests can indulge in Greek favourites like lobster orzo, chicken souvlaki, and the signature Shyros. The restaurant also offers nightly entertainment, featuring a resident DJ alongside live musicians. Starting October 1, Shimmers will offer a new three-course business lunch as well.
Where: Jumeirah Mina Al Salam, Madinat Jumeirah
When: Dinner daily, 5pm-1am; lunch from October 1
Contact: @shimmersdubai
Hakkasan
The Michelin-starred Cantonese dining destination, Hakkasan, has resumed service at Atlantis The Palm as of September 23. Renowned for its dim sum and expertly crafted seafood and meat dishes, it continues to impress under the guidance of executive chef Andy Toh. The restaurant has also unveiled a new drinks menu to complement its offerings.
Where: Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah
When: Wednesday-Sunday 6pm to 12.30am; Monday-Tuesday closed
Contact: @hakkasandubai
Andaliman
Andaliman has found a new home on the 24th floor of The Link at One&Only One Za’abeel, offering stunning views of the city. Chef de cuisine Ismawan Dzabir has curated a menu that showcases the vibrant flavours of Indonesia, including dishes like slow-braised beef rendang and seafood grilled over coconut-husk charcoal. A new feature, the Sambal Trolley, allows diners to select their preferred level of heat for their dishes.
Where: The Link, One&Only One Za’abeel, Za’abeel
When: Daily, 12pm to 11pm
Contact: @andalimandubai
Scalini
Scalini Dubai has unveiled a stunning transformation in its new location at Restaurant Village. With a fresh Mediterranean aesthetic, the restaurant incorporates Sicilian-inspired decor and has refreshed its menu. Diners can now enjoy dishes like Sicilian red prawn crudo and tableside beef tartare amidst warm timber and vibrant citrus trees.
Where: Restaurant Village, Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, Jumeirah
When: Sun-Thu 12pm to 11pm; Fri-Sat 12pm to 12am
Contact: @scalinidubai
Tattu Dubai
Tattu Dubai has reopened its doors on Level 74 of Ciel Dubai Marina after a temporary closure. The restaurant boasts a magnificent suspended cherry blossom tree and offers an array of Asian-inspired dishes. Guests can enjoy panoramic views from the Sky Lounge and Terrace on Level 81, with exciting new features such as a weekday business lunch and daily sunset experiences planned.
Where: Levels 74 and 81, Ciel Dubai Marina
When: Restaurant & Bar: Mon-Thu 12pm to 12am; Fri-Sun 12pm to 1am; Sky Lounge: daily 5pm-late
Contact: @tattudubai
Reopening Soon
Lion in the Sun
For fans of open-fire Mediterranean cooking, Lion in the Sun is set to reopen on September 25. Located on the 62nd floor of Mandarin Oriental Downtown, it features a stunning open-air terrace with sweeping city views and a unique full-moon installation above, making it an ideal spot for a romantic evening.
Where: Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Dubai
Reopening date: September 25
Contact: @lioninthesundubai
Ninive
Ninive, one of Dubai’s most enchanting outdoor dining venues, will re-emerge on October 1 at Jumeirah Emirates Towers. The restaurant is set within a contemporary urban garden design, complete with low seating and flickering lanterns. Its diverse menu will showcase flavours from across the Middle East and North Africa, featuring new dishes in a refreshed setting.
Where: Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Sheikh Zayed Road
Reopening date: October 1
Contact: @ninivedubai
Tapasake Dubai
Tapasake Dubai is gearing up for its autumn relaunch at One Za’abeel. This reopening promises new elements, including a new restaurant and outdoor Sky Lounge, providing a seamless transition from daytime pool enjoyment to evening festivities. Diners can anticipate an innovative Wafu-inspired menu blending Japanese culinary techniques with Mediterranean flavours, set against a stunning backdrop.
Where: One Za’abeel, Za’abeel
Reopening: Autumn 2026
Contact: @tapasakedubai