NEW IN ABU DHABI 2025: THE FRESHEST RESTAURANTS THAT JUST OPENED
Abu Dhabi’s culinary scene continues to evolve at an exciting pace, and 2025 is already proving to be a standout year for food lovers across the capital. From sleek fine-dining experiences to cozy neighborhood gems, a wave of new restaurants has opened their doors, each bringing something fresh to the table. Get ready to explore bold flavors, creative concepts, and unforgettable dishes—these are Abu Dhabi’s must-try restaurant openings of 2025 (so far).
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AMARA
A breezy, modern Lebanese restaurant on Yas Island. It emphasizes vibrant mezze and classic Levantine mains—think Batata Zahlewiyeh, Seabass Samkeh Harra, Mixed Grills, lamb chops, shawarma skewers—with playful twists and a sweet selection that includes baklava cheesecake, mille‑feuille, and kunafa.
Date of opening: February 6
Type of cuisine: Lebanese cuisine
Address: FHQX+62V – Yas Island – YS4 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
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ANKO
A serene Japanese patisserie in Saadiyat Cultural District, perched atop the teamLab Phenomena. Designed with minimalist aesthetics and inspired by oshibana (pressed-flower art), it serves traditional wagashi, yogashi, and artisanal breads alongside expertly crafted tea and coffee—no museum ticket required.
Date of opening: April 18
Type of cuisine: Japanese patisserie
Address: GCG3+WP – Al Saadiyat Island – SDN1 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
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AVLU
Aegean-inspired Greek–Turkish restaurant located in Yas Mall. The bright, courtyard-style dining space centers around a lemon tree, lush greenery, and glass walls. The menu includes grilled Greek octopus, salt‑cooked wild sea bass, slow‑cooked Turkish lamb shoulder, Iskender kebab, aubergine mille‑feuille, and more
Date of opening: January 8
Type of cuisine: Greek-Turkish cuisine
Address: Yas Mall VIP Entrance – Yas Island – YS1 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
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MAKI
Aegean-inspired Greek–Turkish restaurant located in Yas Mall. The bright, courtyard-style dining space centers around a lemon tree, lush greenery, and glass walls. The menu includes grilled Greek octopus, salt‑cooked wild sea bass, slow‑cooked Turkish lamb shoulder, Iskender kebab, aubergine mille‑feuille, and more
Date of opening: January 8
Type of cuisine: Greek-Turkish cuisine
Address: Yas Mall VIP Entrance – Yas Island – YS1 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
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MAZZALUNA
A beloved Italian trattoria with 40 years of legacy originating in New York, now part of Doğuş Hospitality’s global portfolio—Mezzaluna brought its first UAE branch to Yas Mall in early 2025. Designed to evoke a cozy, home-style Italian dining room, the restaurant features warm earthy tones, natural wooden accents, handmade ceramics, and subtle half‑moon artwork—a nod to its name.
Date of opening: February 20
Type of cuisine: Italian cuisine
Address: FJQ5+42 – Yas Island – YS1 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
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SUSHISAMBA
A beloved Italian trattoria with 40 years of legacy originating in New York, now part of Doğuş Hospitality’s global portfolio—Mezzaluna brought its first UAE branch to Yas Mall in early 2025. Designed to evoke a cozy, home-style Italian dining room, the restaurant features warm earthy tones, natural wooden accents, handmade ceramics, and subtle half‑moon artwork—a nod to its name.
Date of opening: January 23
Type of cuisine: Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisine
Address: Podium 1 Conrad, Etihad Towers – 1st St – Al Bateen – W32 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
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THE HUB BY SOCIAL
A dynamic food-hall-meets-experience zone in Masdar City. It houses multiple vendors—Bombay Canteen, Asian 5, Geppete (pizza & pasta), Double Like (burgers & lobster rolls), Tacos Los Hermanos, dessert spot Kadayifzade, and The Cafe by Social. The venue also features a retail pop-up, co-working spaces, gaming zones, and entertainment areas.
Date of opening: January 17
Type of cuisine: International cuisine
Address: Park – Masdar City – SE45 05 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
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VILLA SELENE
Mediterranean spot at Yas Links Abu Dhabi. In soft opening, offering a broad menu: starters like fried porcini, escargot bruschetta, crispy calamari; mains including baked sea bass, veal Milanese, organic spatchcock chicken, and an oyster/raw bar. Serves breakfast (acai bowls, crepes, pancakes) too.
Date of opening: January 10
Type of cuisine: Mediterranean cuisine
Address: Yas Links – Yas Island – YS3 06 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
