With the new year comes a slew of new restaurants joining the bustling culinary and hospitality scene in Dubai. Below are some of the best launches worth checking out soon.
August
August is a French baroque-inspired restaurant and lounge located on the 12th floor of The Address Fountain Views, offering guests a first-of-its-kind experience with specially curated and distinctive rooms. The unique concept comes to life in three spaces: The Dining Room is meant for socializing over a meal with drinks; The Cocktail Room also labeled the Speakeasy Space is the place to be on weekends as it offers the comfort of a house party alongside smoke and a laser show and a range of beverages; and The Terrace Garden is an outdoor space featuring calming greenery, views of the glittering Dubai skyline, a state-of-the-art sound system, playing host to some of the city’s best DJs. Curated by head chef Juan Pablo Rey Nores, August will serve up French-Mediterranean cuisine favorites such as wagyu carpaccio, escargot, and foie gras brioche, sea bass papillote, steak frites, caramel fondant, crepes suzette, and more.
The venue has been conceptualized by Limestone Lab, the Experience Design Studio while the interior and creative direction was brought to life by Zeina Ladki, founder of FLTRD. What’s more, the restaurant will also contribute to the art scene by hosting art galleries every month, with the first one being Ayyam Gallery.
Babylon
A brand new addition to Dubai’s nightlife, Babylon—inspired by its namesake bygone city—is located in the heart of DIFC and promises electrifying entertainment with an elevated culinary experience. Expect thrilling never-before-seen shows that aim to take your breath away with dramatic musical and dance performances, theatrics, and bold costumes, all as you dig into a curated menu featuring the best flavors from around the world. The indulgent menu takes after the historic city while combining fresh ingredients with traditional cooking techniques, to offer dishes like Wagyu beef tataki, lamb katsu; smoked lobster, alongside favorites like Neapolitan pizzas, sushi, and a selection of pastas. To complement the food, Babylon’s mixology plays with the four elements, serving up a range of sweet, sour, and sharp flavors.
The space has been designed by world-renowned Lázaro Rosa-Violán, with the interiors drawing on the opulence of the historic city and the designer’s signature use of structure, shape, and acute sense of space. Think, beautiful ornaments, bold floral patterns, and rich foliage, that aim to transport guests from DIFC to the legendary hanging gardens of Babylon, as well as striking fabrics, eye-catching textures, and luxe materials in a rich color palette.
Mott 32
Mott 32 has chosen the 73rd floor of the Address Beach Resort as the location of its newest outpost. Known for celebrating Hong Kong’s culture and culinary scene, the restaurant is named after Manhattan’s first Chinese convenience store which opened in 1891, and serves as the center of the city’s Chinatown today. This is also where the venue derives its dynamic cosmopolitan vibe while combining traditional Chinese cooking with modern culinary techniques. Guests are welcomed into a stunning indoor area designed by the acclaimed Joyce Wang Studio, featuring an East-meets-West design that blends New York’s industrial style with the grand cityscape of Hong Kong. The restaurant also houses an open-air terrace with stunning views of Bluewater Island, JBR, Palm Jumeirah, and Ain Dubai.
Mott 32 kitchens are globally helmed by Lee Man Sing, an award-winning Cantonese chef who specializes in using fresh ingredients from sustainable producers to maintain the quality of the food from both local and overseas suppliers. At its Dubai outpost, guests can expect a menu featuring adapted versions of its classic dishes. The restaurant’s signature offerings include a 48-hour apple wood roasted peking duck, jasmine flower smoked black cod, and a selection of freshly-made dim sum, as well as plant-based alternatives.
Bund
Tucked inside DIFC hotspot Shanghai Me is the reimagined Bund Lounge, welcoming guests to a world of decadence inspired by the 1930s era in the Chinese city and named after its iconic district. Bund pays tribute to the prohibited parties of that time, and will host captivating live sets by renowned DJs. Reflecting old-world glamour, the space features opulent and richly decorated interiors where guests can enjoy a range of delectable beverages, including classic and contemporary signature cocktails and tailor-made concoctions. Music to groove and dance the night away to on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday features a selection of classic 90s, afro, soul, funk, and retro house beats.
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