Restaurants

In the bustling culinary scene of the UAE, Il Forno stands tall as a testament to two decades of passion for authentic Italian cuisine. Born and raised in Abu Dhabi in the year 2000, Il Forno has become a household name. From its humble beginnings in the capital, Il Forno’s culinary journey has spread far and wide. The journey began with Abu Dhabi, and now, with branches in Dubai, Al Ain, Sharjah, Ajman, and Ras Al Khaimah. Il Forno has become a true ambassador of Italian gastronomy across the Emirates. Now, bringing the taste of Italy closer to you is…

Fans of Japanese street food will already be aware of Akiba Dori as they have garnered a cult following in the region. This month they’ve opened two new outlets in Pavilion at The Beach (which is licensed) and Dubai Hills Mall. Both ready to thrill with their usual line-up of Asian-inspired bites and famous Tokyo Neapolitan pizzas. Open daily, 12pm-midnight. Pavilion at The Beach opposite JBR (04 458 1741). Open daily, 10am-mightnight. Dubai Hills Mall, Al Khalil Road (058 124 1909).

The Meydan Hotel’s fine-dining steak restaurant PRIME is reopening its doors this month. Serving up succulent prime cuts, fresh seafood dishes, chicken and vegetarian meals in a classy ambience, this dinner spot is high-end experience. Though mostly suited for race nights (as the track is unlit when there are no events on) if you’re nearby, pop in for a great steak. Opens on Sunday May 1, then open Tues-Sun 5pm-1pm. PRIME Restaurant, 5th floor, The Meydan Hotel (04 381 3111).

After opening in early May, this new concept hotspot from the Buddha-Bar is one to check out. Sat in the Grosvenor House, the large restaurant with terrace has views over Dubai Marina. Malouf is a popular name in the Levantine culinary scene, not to mention well known in Dubai and is head chef at the new location. Fans of Ruya will remember the space fondly, as this was the last restaurant to operate here. The newest venture by the famous Lebanese Australian chef is a modern take on Middle Eastern fare. The celebrity chef has dreamed up creative takes on…

New to Bluewaters Island is Vaga serving up plates of Armenian and Arabic food daily from noon until late. All the dishes on the menu will be familiar to those who like to eat Arabic and Armenian cuisine but VAGA’s presentation has aesthetic appeal due to being prettily presented. The décor across the sprawling eatery is just as stunning. Expect warm copper tones, plush velvet chairs and a mirrored spinning DJ deck which will is the main focus after dark. Open daily, noon-late, Bluewaters Island, Dubai.

China Bistro recently opened its newest branch on July 14 in Dubai Studio City. Head to the restaurant for menu of pan- Asian cuisine that includes much-loved favourites such as boa buns, bowls, dim sums and salads. It is the fourth branch in Dubai following the success of the Al Karama, Al Barsha and Discovery Gardens locations. Open daily, 11:30am-12:30am, Dubai Studio City (054 307 0988).

Named RSVP and found in Boxpark Dubai, expect generous portions of yummy food in a trendy setting from the team behind Marea and 11 Woodfire at RSVP. Don’t expect baskets of bread and towers of brie, the menu created by chef Aadel Ouaoua uses fresh produce to combine his favourite French cooking techniques with his love of classic Japanese cooking. Plates served up are filled with flavour and flair, this is one for those who like to add some joie de vivre to their dining plans. Will you be saying oui to a meal at RSVP?

The Dubai Edition’s most stylish restaurant is one of the top new restaurants to visit in Dubai, offering some of the most spectacular views in the city, impeccable service and a menu of Peruvian-Nikkei cuisine. Its stylish rooftop terrace overlooks the illuminated side of the Burj Khalifa – lighting up every half hour and mesmerising diners – while its indoor dining room is full of design touches. Inti servess modern yet authentic Latin American and Japanese cuisine and highlights include the guacamole and chips (made tableside), myriad ceviches and grilled meats. The Dubai Edition; +971 4 602 3377. @intidubai

The gold- and pink-hued 12 Chairs Caviar Bar at SLS Dubai has finally opened its doors, located on the city’s impressive 71st floor. Following on from the success in Doha, the 12-seater bar offers a ‘one-of-a-kind’ champagne and caviar experience in Dubai. SLS Dubai;  +971 607 0737. @12chairsdubai