By Hayley Alexander
2022 has already seen an array of new and exciting restaurant openings across the city. Whether you’ve friends in town to impress, seeking a perfect family feast spot or it’s your turn to book date night – Raemona have you covered.
Ekai
Less than a month old, Ekai is the new kid on the DIFC block. Ekai is a brilliant choice for a date-night, or a ‘let your hair down’ night, offering the perfect combination of dining and nightlife. This venue is floor to ceiling in lavish furnishings, with Southern French and Mediterranean influenced cuisine.
Check it out: Waldorf Astoria, DIFC 04 422 4589
LENTO
Following on from LENTO’s success in the capital founder Faisal Naser, decided to branch out to Dubai. Expect smashed burgers, Emirati fish n chips, honey lasagna and lots of homemade flavours. Head to this trendy spot with the girls for a lazy Sunday catch-up, or a chilled day-date, especially if your date is into music, there’s a DJ-booth and classic vinyl décor.
Check it out: Al Wasl Road, 04 252 5968
Jamie’s Italian
This casual dining spot is perfectly placed in The Dubai Mall, lower ground. After a long shopping spree at the largest shopping mall in the world head to Jamie’s Italian for some good Italian grub. Tuck into homemade pizzas, bowls of fresh pasta, colourful salads and if you’ve room – sweet desserts (there’s always room for gelato!). A trip to Jamie’s Italian is perfect for a family treat, and no doubt deserved with all the completed steps.
Check it out: Lower ground, Dubai Mall 04 362 7500
Ernst
Located on the first floor of the trendy 25 Hours Hotel, you will find an authentic Bavarian experience. Perch yourself on the wooden benches, enjoy a cold beverage and roll up your sleeves for a Bavarian dinner: Bavarian sausages – Weisswurt, Sauerkrut – German white cabbage and traditional Bavarian pretzels. Sports fans you’re spoilt for choice with the selection of televisions inside and outside – this could be your new local next season.
Check it out: 25 Hours Hotel One Central, 04 210 2511
Eunoia by Carine
Eunoia, recently launched by well-known chef Izu Ani at the new chic hotel, Hyatt Centric Jumeriah, perfectly located along the bustling La Mer Beach. This airy French – Mediterranean restaurant comes with a gorgeous a sea view, which makes a perfect day-to-night venue. Opt for shakshuka for breakfast, and lobster linguine for dinner – this spot is where you’ll have low-key flavorsome lunches with the girls.
Check it out: Hyatt Centric, Jumeirah Dubai La Mer, 04 302 1241
Eat Greek
The linen drapes, warm wood and textural accents are giving us ‘breezy Greek seaside’ vibes. If you’re staying in the UAE this summer, head to this Greek eatery for all the Grecian isles feels, and mouth-watering meats, seafood and specialties such as horiatiki and moussaka. This restaurant is perfectly located in Dubai Mall, suitable for catch-ups after shopping or over a delicious lunch.
Check it out: Dubai Hills Mall, 04 554 2003