Dubai is a marvel, and love it or hate it, there’s no denying it’s home to the best of the best, from the world’s tallest building to some of its most elaborate and impressive hotels. Here’s where the boundaries of luxury are pushed and prodded higher and higher with each new opening. Recently, we explored five new restaurants that elevate both aesthetics and culinary excellence, proving they know what they’re doing.
The Fore
The Fore, dubbed Dubai’s first “transformative dining space" at the newly opened Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. Four distinct restaurants – the Japanese Umi Kei, inspired by the art of kintsugi; the Asian fusion Madame Li; Mirabelle, a delightful Mediterranean brasserie; and The Bombay Club, curated by famed Indian chef Manav Tuli – are, come morning, transformed through nifty panels and hidden walls into a cohesive venue that serves one of the best breakfasts in Dubai for the guests staying at the Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. We were particularly drawn to the bar in the hub, where the Mango Lassi drink was just incredible. We’re still dreaming about it.
Revolver
The dimly lit restaurant in the financial district of Dubai came to us as a big surprise. In an unassuming building in the corporate lanes, it impresses you as soon as you exit the elevator on its floor. The doors open to a black wall with just one spotlight on its name. It’s hard to ignore the bullet-like bulbs on the ceiling that lead up to the star of the restaurant: the massive oven. Fire is an essential element in the creation of Revolver’s revolving menu. A custom-built wood fire grill, smoker, and tandoor create charred, bold flavours and form a central part of the dynamic open kitchen. Run by Chef Jitin Joshi, Revolver already has a secured spot in Singapore at Tras Street. From the chef’s special set experience, the Hamachi collar with Kashmiri chilli dust and the fennel heart with coconut moilee stood out for us.
Rialto Bar
Rialto Bar is an Italian bar located directly across from the Rialto Restaurant at the Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. Its cocktail menu is influenced by the cultural essence of 1950s Italy. Upon entering, you’ll notice lockers on your left, each engraved with the names of regular members. Inspired by the Venetian Carnival, the bar showcases Italy’s 20 regions, each represented by a traditional mask with unique features and colours. Each region’s signature cocktail reflects its distinct flavours and local ingredients, offering guests a genuine taste of Italy’s diverse traditions through a captivating mixology experience.
Kinugawa
Kinugawa is a refined fusion of Japanese tradition and French culinary artistry, where precision meets indulgence. Led by Head Chef Konstantin Em, it transforms authentic flavours into modern creations, blending meticulous technique with Parisian elegance. Rooted in ichigo ichie—the philosophy of treasuring each moment—Kinugawa offers a dining experience that is immersive and unrepeatable. The menu reinvents Japanese classics with bold twists, such as Gyu Shiso Butter (beef fillet with wasabi shiso béarnaise) and Taruto (sliced tuna or salmon on crispy tarts with white truffle tarama), all plated with sculptural precision.
Every detail—flavours, design, music, and hospitality—creates an unforgettable atmosphere, shaped by its surroundings while remaining distinctly Kinugawa. Here, dining is more than a meal; it’s a sensory journey where Japanese craftsmanship and French sophistication seamlessly intertwine.
Words Hansika Lohani
Date 1.05.2025