November's Culinary Delights: Must-Try Dining Experiences and New Restaurant Openings in the UAE

The UAE's vibrant dining scene is constantly evolving, and November brings a host of exciting new experiences and openings worth exploring. From unique afternoon teas to globally inspired restaurants and sophisticated steakhouses, there's something to tantalize every palate.

MiMi Mei Fair

London-born restaurant MiMi Mei Fair is offering an Asian twist on the traditional afternoon tea this month. Indulge in savoury delights such as duck bao, golden shrimp toast, and mala tofu quiche, alongside sweet treats like raspberry cheesecake and dark chocolate tart. A fully vegetarian spread is also available. Enjoy this experience on the garden terrace, complete with views of the Burj Khalifa, and a selection of sparkling teas and coffee. Available from November 16; Dh148 per person; Address Residences Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai.

Naranj Cafe

Syrian-Levantine restaurant Naranj Cafe has officially opened its doors in Dubai, building on its established success across Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. Named after the traditional orange trees found in Damascene and Aleppine courtyards, the restaurant celebrates Syrian culinary heritage with its signature mezze, charcoal-grilled meats, and slow-cooked specialities. With seating for 170 guests across indoor and outdoor spaces, it is an ideal venue for family gatherings. Open now; Doubletree by Hilton Dubai Al Jadaf.

Rowley's at Yas Bay

Half a century after its debut in London’s Mayfair, the renowned steakhouse Rowley's has made its way to Abu Dhabi, marking its second UAE location. Celebrated for its straightforward menu, Rowley's serves a variety of prime cuts, from Australian Angus striploin to its signature ribeye, all complemented by a house salad and unlimited fries. Diners can also look forward to daily specials and exclusive deals at the Yas Island outpost, which is the brand’s third location outside of London, following Dubai and Riyadh. In keeping with the original establishment, reservations are not accepted, making it a perfect choice for a spontaneous night out. Open now; Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.

Moonrise

Home-grown Dubai restaurant Moonrise, which first opened its doors in 2021 and has since earned a Michelin star, is celebrating its fifth anniversary with an elaborate 12-course tasting menu. This special menu features a blend of beloved past dishes and innovative new creations. Chef Solemann Haddad draws inspiration from his childhood memories in the city, from late-night street food adventures to the bustling Deira old fish market. He revisits signature dishes, including his famous grilled cheese, crafted with Hokkaido milk bread, Thai black garlic, aged Parmigiano Reggiano, and black winter truffle. New additions to the menu include a Miyazaki A5 Wagyu shawarma. Both meat and vegetarian menus are available, offering distinct interpretations of Dubai’s dynamic culinary landscape. Available now; Dh995 per person; Al Satwa, Dubai.

Broadway at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

There's a new culinary leader at Broadway, the contemporary American restaurant and bar located within Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. Chef Mirsat Yilmaz has joined as chef de cuisine, bringing a wealth of experience from leading restaurants and five-star hotel kitchens, including his previous role at Studio Frantzen at Atlantis, The Palm. Chef Yilmaz's new menu offers a fresh perspective on American classics, employing updated techniques and unexpected flavour combinations. Available now; Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental.

Jara by Martin Berasategui

A new Friday night tapas menu has been introduced at Jara by Martin Berasategui, making its scenic 18th-floor terrace an attractive destination for evening dining. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of Downtown Dubai while savouring dishes such as patatas bravas, potato and chorizo tortilla, charcoal-grilled octopus skewers, and freshly made croquetas. The experience is enhanced by live DJ sets. Available every Friday between 8:30 pm and 11:30 pm; Brunch from Dh250 for women and Dh400 for men; The Lana, Dorchester Collection, Business Bay.

Carna by Dario Cecchini

Carna by Dario Cecchini, the contemporary steakhouse situated on the 74th floor of SLS Dubai, has launched a revamped menu that highlights its exceptional butchery. New culinary creations include Wagyu coppa, ossobuco lasagne, and a classic creme caramel flan. The restaurant's sophisticated ambiance, featuring jewel-toned interiors, plush velvet furnishings, and sweeping city views, provides a refined setting for an evening out. Available now; SLS, Business Bay, Dubai.

Trio Cafe

Trio Cafe has opened its latest branch in Umm Suqeim 2, Dubai. What began as a modest drive-through coffee stop in 2021 has expanded significantly, now encompassing a series of pop-ups and permanent cafes across the Emirates. The new Jumeirah location serves a variety of specialty coffees, including V60s, Spanish lattes, and iced matchas, alongside a selection of sweet and savoury treats like honeycomb cheese toast and peanut and chocolate eclairs. Founded by Emirati coffee connoisseur Aysha bin Huwaireb, Trio has become an integral part of the UAE's burgeoning speciality coffee culture. Open now; 22nd Street, Umm Suqeim 2, Dubai.

The Fore

Saturday Brunch has made its return to The Fore, located within Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. This weekend culinary event brings together offerings from four of the hotel’s esteemed restaurants: Umi Kei, Madame Li, Mirabelle, and The Bombay Club by Chef Manav Tuli. A DJ and live singer provide the entertainment, while dedicated dessert stations and children’s activities ensure enjoyment for all ages. Available every Saturday between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm; Brunch packages from Dh500; Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab; Umm Suqeim, Dubai.

Cookery School by Chef JKP

James Knight-Pacheco is introducing a new venture with the launch of his cookery school in Dubai, named Chef Teach Me. This school is designed for both aspiring professional chefs and enthusiastic home cooks. After two decades of television appearances, podcasting, and hospitality consulting, the award-winning British-Venezuelan chef will now share his extensive expertise every Saturday, starting October 31. The classes will be held in a specially designed demonstration kitchen. Initial sessions will cover a range of topics, from dinner-party classics and breakfast essentials to fundamental fish and meat preparations. Future plans include guest chefs, community partnerships, and additional courses. Open now; Saturday sessions from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm; From Dh450 per session; The Demo Kitchen, Al Quoz, Dubai.

Jaww

Atmosphere plays a crucial role in the dining experience, and this new Abu Dhabi establishment has made it central to its identity. Jaww, an Arabic term signifying mood or energy, complements its setting with a menu that artfully blends Mediterranean and Levantine influences. Diners can anticipate refined interpretations of classic dishes, including charred eggplant and labneh with pomegranate and za’atar oil, slow-roasted lamb shank with freekeh, date pudding with saffron toffee, and mango kunafa. Open now; Al Muntazah, Abu Dhabi.

Nestt

For parents navigating the demands of remote work and childcare, Al Quoz newcomer Nestt offers a unique combination of a Euro-Mediterranean restaurant focused on fresh, scratch-made cuisine, alongside co-working spaces, meeting rooms, and a sophisticated children’s play area. The dedicated play zone, equipped with a variety of toys and activities, is designed to keep young children engaged, providing a conducive environment for parents to focus on their work. Open now; Q East by Alphabeta, Al Quoz, Dubai.

Manao

Thai restaurant Manao, which achieved a Michelin star just five months after its opening last year, and where chef Abhiraj Khatwani was recognized as Young Chef at the age of 30, has introduced not one, but two new tasting menus. Both the eight-course and 12-course menus commence with miang and lobster khanom krok. Subsequent courses feature ingredients such as king crab, white curry, and sticky rice roti. The menus conclude with white sesame ice cream and black sticky rice pudding. Available now; Wasl Vita, Jumeirah 1, Dubai.