New Restaurant Openings In Abu Dhabi
Article by
Rachael Partington
-
January 22, 2025
TAPARELLE
MANARAT AL SAADIYAT
Brought to you by the team from the ever-popular Niri, Taparelle has opened at Manarat al Saadiyat and is an instant hit with a range of Abu Dhabians. It’s great for a late afternoon drink, a later-in-the-day Saturday brunch, daily French breakfast and anyone who loves great Mediterranean food done well. Brunch has definitely made our ‘best in Abu Dhabi’ list and this fabulous new opening sports some of Abu Dhabi’s best pizzas, ably made by pizzaiolo Davide. Taparelle was the opening of 2024 and we predict it going from strength to strength in 2025 - already it’s one of Abu Dhabi’s best pizza restaurants and best places for everything from breakfast to an after work drink. Expect to spend around AED200 per person without alcohol.
Timings: Daily 7.30 - 12AM
Booking: 02 657 5832
AVLU
YAS MALL
This Greek/Turkish outlet in Yas Mall is one of Abu Dhabi’s most Instagrammable spots, and is perfect for breakfast, a light lunch or a fairly sumptuous dinner. Dishes come awash with fresh ingredients, and will definitely hit the spot with anyone who loves a bit of Greek food. The manti is superb and the mocktails will set your hearts racing - these are adult drinks that look pretty, exactly what we want in a mocktail.
Timings: 10AM - 10.30PM
Booking: 058 552 8582
OFF RECORD
AL QANA
This fab new hangout spot at Al Qana is great for anyone who wants some Gen Z food, fabulous hot chocolates and conversely, a great gelato stand. Shop for fabulous casual clothing, vibe to the DJ tunes and enjoy the digital art while downing a Reuben sandwich, Off Record’s own brand of drinks and great coffees.
Timings: 8AM - 11PM
Contact: 02 626 0860
PINCODE BY KUNAL KAPUR
THE GALLERIA AL MARYAH
Welcome back to Abu Dhabi Chef Kunal Kapur: we’ve missed you! This new outlet in the Galleria Al Maryah serves some of the most delicious Indian food, with everything from sarson ka saag and makki ki roti to dal halwa done right and a falooda that’s calling Abu Dhabi kids to the table. Chef Kunal’s innovative approach is clear to see across the menu and Pincode sports an interior that celebrates Indian heritage and exemplary craftsmanship. It’s a great option for a mid-week lunch with the girls (the business lunch is only AED89!) or a dinner with the family, where you can expect to spend around AED200 for 2 people. If you haven’t been to this great Indian restaurant in Abu Dhabi yet, you must!
Timings: 10AM - 11PM
Booking: 052 778 1081
FAHID BEACH CLUB BY BARBOSSA
FAHID ISLAND
Fahid Beach Club is kind of like Wonder Woman: during the day, it’s an amazing beach, great for the family and one that accepts four-legged friends - let’s face it, there aren’t many dog friendly beaches in Abu Dhabi so this one gets an immediate tick from us.
By night, Wonder Woman spins around to become one of Abu Dhabi’s hottest night spots, with DJs visiting from all over the world including Mario Bazouri, Liwaa, Neo, Silfox and tons more. The vibes are strong, the mood is high.
All day, feast on Mexican food by Barbossa - don’t miss the incredible tacos and fajitas, and outstanding drinks on offer.
Timing: Wednesday - Sunday from 12PM - 2AM
Booking: 056 358 4458
STRAWFIRE
EMIRATES PALACE MANDARIN ORIENTAL
Strawfire is one of Abu Dhabi's best restaurants and embodies the idea of dinner and a show all at once: the regular strawfire blazes as everything from premium cuts of meat to oysters and even avocado are cooked in this reimagined waryaki style. From the bright flames to the smell of smoke and even the tiny straw particles drifting through the air of the glassed-in open kitchen, it’s an immersive experience.
The menu boasts an interesting range of dishes, all immaculately presented and tasting exceptional. If there's one restuarant you absolutely must try this year, Strawfire is it: it's quite possibly Abu Dhabi's best Japanese restaurants.
Timings: daily from 6PM
Bookings: 02 690 7999