As the festive season approaches, Dubai’s vibrant culinary landscape is gearing up to transform into a haven for gastronomic delights and celebratory cheer. The city, known for its cosmopolitan charm and luxurious lifestyle, is set to host a spectacular array of dining experiences that promise to elevate the New Year festivities to new heights.
This year, Dubai’s restaurants are not only embracing the spirit of the season but are also rolling out enticing offers, curated menus, and enchanting ambiances to ensure that residents and visitors alike can revel in the joyous occasions with indulgence and flair. From elegant fine dining establishments to cozy eateries with a warm and inviting atmosphere, there’s something for every palate and preference.
Dubai Newsweek explores the restaurants in Dubai that are set to enchant diners with festive magic, offering an unforgettable blend of delectable cuisines, festive decorations, and special promotions.
Whether you’re seeking a lavish feast or a glamorous New Year’s Eve celebration, Dubai’s dining scene is ready to provide a feast for the senses, ensuring that your holidays are filled with delicious memories and the joy of shared moments.
Signor Sassi
Prepare for a night of unparalleled glitz and glamour as Signor Sassi, the jewel in the crown of Italian dining, invites revelers to “A Night In Bellagio” this New Year’s Eve.
For one enchanted evening, Signor Sassi which embodies high-end Italian glamour, will be reminiscent of the iconic movie, Casino. The venue renowned for luxury, will open its doors wide, inviting guests to indulge in an unforgettable experience that pays homage to the magnetism of Bellagio.
Step into a world of timeless allure as Signor Sassi unveils all of its luxuriously appointed spaces. As well as the luxe art-deco bar, opulent dining room adorned with a captivating olive tree at its heart and the picturesque Il Giardino di Sassi featuring a mesmerising fountain, will all be open ready to welcome guests. Design highlights include Venetian Maurino inspired chandeliers, lush greenery, and meticulously curated decor that transports guests straight into the lavish ambiance of the 70’s and 80’s.
Prepare to be enthralled as the night comes alive with a DJ set. Meanwhile, live entertainment will grace the entire evening, ensuring all senses are indulged until the early hours.
Not to be outdone, the culinary voyage embraces the essence of Italian cuisine. The à la carte menu celebrates the country’s rich history and timeless elegance, where tradition meets innovation and passion is infused into every dish. The meticulously crafted menu – served by Signor Sassi’s charismatic and charming staff – is a testament to their commitment to excellence, taking guests on a true gastronomic journey.
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From authentic Italian delicacies with a modern twist, to innovative, artfully crafted cocktails, fine wines and Champagnes, every element is designed to impress, including the dress code. Come in your most glamorous attire, embodying the spirit of Bellagio’s decadence.
A Night In Bellagio takes place on 31st December from 7pm until late. Dress in glitz and glamour attire and secure your place at this exclusive event, as reservations are essential. The minimum spend for the evening starts from Dhs2,000 per person.
Chic Nonna
Chic Nonna, the avant-garde restaurant for Florentine flavours, invites guests to step into a world of mystery and glamour this New Year’s Eve with “A Night with the Sopranos.”
As the clock strikes twelve, guests can enjoy the breath-taking views of Burj Khalifa’s fireworks from the terrace of Chic Nonna’s restaurant and Salotto’s balcony, offering a panoramic view of the city’s skyline.
Starting at 8pm, guests can enjoy festive dishes from Chic Nonna’s menu, celebrating the joyful season. Indoor and outdoor seating is available, where guests can relish exclusive dishes.
A talented DJ will spin tunes into the evening, setting the perfect ambience for a night of celebration. Salotto, the fabulous bar lounge, boasts the perfect New Year’s Eve ambience with a combination of 70’s style decor and contemporary luxe. Starting at 8 pm, guests can revel in delicious festive dishes from the menu, while enjoying some jazzy live music before the DJ takes over the venue until closing.
Wise Guys
As the echoes of Thanksgiving fade away and the magic of Christmas begins to fill the air, Wise Guys, Dubai’s authentic sandwich shop which brings the old school vibe of New York style delis, is thrilled to bridge the gap between these festive holidays with the introduction of The Moist Maker.
Inspired by Ross Geller’s stolen sandwich on the beloved sitcom Friends, the Moist Maker will delight every taste bud. With tantalising layers of joy packed between pillowy slices of Brioche bread, diners can bite into a festive symphony of smoked turkey, truffled mashed potatoes, herb mayonnaise, and melted provolone and Kashkaval cheeses. To enhance the flavours, the sandwich is generously drizzled with gravy, alongside a delightful dollop of cranberry sauce, adding a touch of sweetness.
Whether you’re nostalgic for Thanksgiving or simply craving a sandwich that will delight your tastebuds, Wise Guys has got you covered. Head to the shop nestled in DIFC and discover a meal that feels like a reunion with old friends.
Kai Enzo
As the year nears its end, Kai Enzo, Chef Izu’s newest rooftop restaurant that combines Japanese and Mediterranean flavours, is excited to reveal its upcoming New Year’s Eve celebration: the Hanabi New Year’s Eve Party.
Embracing the essence of “Hanabi,” the Japanese word for “fireworks,” the event vows to capture the exhilaration, beauty, and vivacity of fireworks, promising a gastronomic feast, lively ambiance, and awe-inspiring views of Burj Khalifa, with doors opening at 7:00 pm.
Located Hyatt Centric Jumeirah, La Mer, Kai Enzo will present an exclusive dinner with a special set menu curated by Chef Izu for this memorable occasion, beginning at 8:00 pm. The evening will continue with lively DJ entertainment, setting the celebratory tone for an unmissable afterparty lasting from 12:00 am to 3:00 am.
The menu boasts a range of appetizers known as “Zansai” in Japanese cuisine including miso aubergine with a shisho hazelnut crust, King crab gyoza with ginger wasabi sauce, fresh oyster with ponzu pearls, and confit duck breast with an orange glaze.
Sushi and Sashimi enthusiasts will be delighted by the offerings including Kinmedai sashimi, salmon belly sashimi, otoro sashimi, scallops aburi and ebi tuna maki with caviar. The culinary adventure extends to simmered delights known as “Nimono” featuring spicy mussels with cherry tomato dashi. The curated menu also offers Wagyu kushiyaki with garlic chips and truffle sauce as a grilled or pan-fired option.
The “Agemono” or deep-fried selection boasts tempura maitake, okra, and kushi fish with wasabi mayo, promising guests a crispy and flavourful experience. Guests can also indulge in options like the charred veal chop with black pepper sauce with sides including crispy baby potato with yuzu cream, or grilled asparagus with tare glaze and chili.
For a delightful ending to the culinary adventure, the dessert selection features white chocolate roll cake with raspberry and yuzu, miso butterscotch with ponzu caramel, green tea cake with sudachi mascarpone and milk ice cream and homemade nama chocolates.
In addition to the main dining area, which boasts an elegant ambiance centered around the central bar, Kai Enzo’s new terrace offers an exquisite setting for an extraordinary Hanabi New Year’s Eve Party. Guests can enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience with stunning views of the Dubai skyline, and revel in the perfect Dubai weather while witnessing the spectacular New Year’s fireworks at Burj Khalifa.
Kai Enzo’s specially curated New Year Eve’s set menu starts at Dhs850 for the Main Dining Area and at Dhs1500 for the Terrace experience.
Limonata
The festive season in Dubai is the perfect time to bask in the glorious weather, taking full advantage of all the city has to offer. Limonata, the recently opened beach restaurant on Club Vista Mare, has been injecting some seriously sunny Italian vibes to Palm Jumeirah.
Inspired by the vibrant nostalgia of 1960s Italian coastal charm and infused with contemporary luxury, this stunning beach restaurant is set to create unforgettable festive season with a Christmas Day Brunch and sizzling NYE celebration.
The entertainment will be upbeat and tasteful, adding to the chic, coastal ambience. The little ones can expect kid friendly activities to keep them entertained, with a special kid’s menu on NYE.
Askim
Dubai’s newest Levantine and Turkish food restaurant, Askim is offering customers a spectacular evening ringing into the New Year 2024, at their stunning location in Downtown Dubai. Translated to “love” in Turkish, Askim has lived up to be the ideal destination for a romantic and flavorful escapade this season.
With the New Year’s Eve in Dubai being the most fun, celebrated events, Askim offers iconic views of Downtown Dubai skies. The restaurant that serves up a storm with their fusion of Turkish and Syrian dishes will be serving a special set menu to customers.
A few dishes that food lovers can expect to find on this menu include: Askim Salad, Fattoush Eggplant, a mix of scrumptious hot and cold mezze including Yalanji, Muhammara, and meat.
The main course options include hearty grills, Sea Bass and Chicken in Lemon Sauce. The menu also comes with desserts like Baklava ice cream, Cotton Candy Ice cream and a New Year Cake! Beverages like Turkish tea, water and special new year drinks are also included.
Eunoia by Carine
Eunoia by Carine, the renowned French Mediterranean-inspired restaurant by Chef Izu Ani, has announced its spectacular New Year’s Eve Disco Party.
Promising an evening of glitz, groove and exceptional dining, the restaurant is set to showcase an undoubtedly glamorous experience at its prime location at Hyatt Centric, Jumeirah on Sunday December 31st, with doors opening at 7:00pm.
To celebrate the New Year’s arrival, Eunoia by Carine presents a specially curated à la carte menu, inviting guests to an exclusive New Year’s Eve celebration. Commencing at 8:00pm, this culinary extravaganza promises a unique dining experience tailored for the festive occasion, offering an array of captivating dishes and beverage selections to tantalize various tastes.
Among the offerings, guests will find traditional starters such as pumpkin custard and chestnut soup, followed by delightful main courses including foie gras of duck liver accompanied by brioche and chutney, gnocchitti pasta draped in creamy truffle sauce, dover sole served with Meunière sauce and almonds, corn-fed marinated chicken with a delectable sauce Périgourdine, and a flavourful grilled Tomahawk served with roasted potatoes and Brussels sprouts.
To complement these dishes, an assortment of sides including grilled vegetables, baby carrots, zucchinis, parsnips and mixed mushrooms, will enhance and diversify this exceptional dining experience.
Eunoia by Carine invites its guests to join an exceptional culinary experience and Disco party to welcome the arrival of 2024 in style.
The dinner experience starts at Dhs600 per person. Additionally, guests can enjoy vibrant beverage options, including house beverages starting from Dhs350 per person. At midnight, a complimentary glass of bubbly awaits to toast the new year, setting the tone for a joyous year filled with cherished moments with loved ones.
VAGA Restaurant
VAGA Restaurant, nestled in the heart of Bluewaters Islands, invites everyone to celebrate the holiday season with a range of exceptional festive offerings.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Palm and Marina shoreline, VAGA promises an unforgettable experience for all, filled with delicious food, beverages and festive cheer!
This Christmas Eve, VAGA invites guests to indulge in a Late Xmas Brunch on Saturday, 24th December. From Dhs299, visitors can revel in a festive spread featuring a premium package that includes a turkey roast, adding a touch of tradition to their celebrations.
As the clock ticks towards the New Year, VAGA prepares to host a New Year’s Eve Celebration on Sunday, 31st December. Boasting unrivalled views of the firework displays on the Palm and Marina, guests can immerse themselves in a gastronomic journey.
Starters include the VAGA Beetroot Salad, Truffle Seabass Carpaccio, Lobster Kibbeh, and Honey-Glazed Wagyu Short Ribs. Main courses include VAGA Khorovats and VAGA Truffle Manti, while desserts feature Burnt Cheesecake with Pistachio Cream and Mango Carpaccio with Coconut Sorbet.
To further enhance their experience, VAGA will also offer guests signature cocktails and drinks as they enjoy performances by the renowned International Singer Maria Krivets, all the way from Saint-Petersburg.
Prices range from Dhs1,200 to Dhs2,000, for indoor, outdoor, and terrace options including a selection of beverages. Families with kids can opt for kids-only seating on the ground floor.
Finally, VAGA will welcome the New Year with an All-Day New Year Brunch on Monday, 1st January, priced at Dhs 299.
Guests can relish the diverse flavours in a relaxed atmosphere, setting the tone for a fabulous year ahead.
In addition to these festivities, VAGA will also offer a Whole Turkey Roast at Dhs999 that will be available from the 1st week of December until the end of January.
Orders must be placed 48 hours prior to pick-up, with convenient arrangements through Careem (taxi fee borne by the guest). In addition, its Armenian Gata will be available from the 1st week of December until the end of January. Orders can be placed during operational hours and picked up within one hour.
VAGA also invites guests to mark their calendars for upcoming events including the NY VAGA Party on Tuesday, 2nd January, the Armenian Christmas with Authentic Armenian Food on Saturday, 6th January and Old New Year Eve on Saturday 13th January.
Nawab restaurant
As the year gracefully concludes, Nawab, the authentic Indian restaurant nestled in the heart of Jebel Ali Recreation Club, extends an invitation to a truly distinctive New Year’s Eve soiree. Celebrated for its distinctive blend of traditional Indian flavours, Nawab promises an extraordinary evening brimming with festivities and culinary excellence.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Jebel Ali Recreation Club, Nawab’s New Year’s Eve celebration on December 31st, from 9:00 pm to 1:00 am, presents an exclusive opportunity to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new in grand style.
Guests may Indulge in celebration with a selection of exquisite packages tailored to cater to every palate and preference.
Choose from unlimited soft beverages at Dhs249, revel in the night with limitless house drinks for Dhs389, or elevate the experience with unlimited premium drinks at Dhs489.
For young guests under 12, a special package is available at Dhs99. Each package not only includes unlimited drinks but also promises a culinary journey featuring the finest Indian dishes crafted to leave a lasting impression on taste buds. Every dish, from the pillowy Dahi Ke Kebab to the aromatic Goan Fish Curry and the enticing Rajisthani Lal Maas, is a testament to the authenticity of India.
Make this New Year’s Eve truly special with Nawab at Jebel Ali Recreation Club. Diners are advised to reserve a table now for an enchanting night of celebration and gastronomic delight.
Black Tap
Black Tap, the iconic burger and CrazyShake® joint is spreading the holiday cheer with a lineup of exclusive Christmas and New Year’s Eve offers. From festive cocktails to spectacular New Year’s Eve offers, Black Tap invites guests to indulge in a memorable experience.
Delight in the festive spirit with Black Tap’s Christmas offers, available across JBR, Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates. Immerse in the holiday magic with a range of delights, from Crazyshake® milkshakes to Mini Shakes, festive cocktails and more.
Enjoy the merriment with three delightful cocktails – Chocolate Martini, The Grinch and Christmas Punch – available at JBR from 14th to 31st December, priced at Dhs58. Dive into the enchanting holiday magic with Festive Mini Shakes, available from 5th to 25th December, featuring The Snowman (Toasted Marshmallow Shake), Mr. Kringle (Strawberry Shake) and Yule Tree (Red Velvet Pudding Shake). Don’t miss the showstopper – the Festive Crazyshake® – launching on 14th December and available across all Black Tap venues!
For burger enthusiasts, relish the Juicy Lucy Burger, available from 14thDecember. Plus, savour the exclusive Dhs125 burger & beer deal featuring the Juicy Lucy Burger at JBR from 14th to 25th December.
1484 by Puro, Ras Al Khaimah
In the spirit of the holiday season, 1484 by Puro, the UAE’s highest restaurant, has announced the launch of its festive offering — a magnificent Christmas-themed special menu. Perched atop the majestic Jebel Jais mountains in Ras Al Khaimah, guests are warmly invited to indulge in thrilling mountain activities and relish an unforgettable dining experience with breathtaking views.
This Christmas, 1484 by Puro presents an irresistible à la carte menu offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the 25th and 26th December.
Guests, accompanied by their families and friends, are invited to savor the festive Christmas-themed menu from 12pm until 7pm. Every dish and drink is artfully created to capture the essence of Christmas, allowing them to relish an exquisite selection.
For the Christmas food specials, the restaurant serves everyone’s favorite gingerbread pancake stack for breakfast, served all day.
Lunch and dinner feature a diverse selection of starters, salads, and mains. Starters include spiced butternut squash soup and beetroot cured salmon. Salads include roasted pumpkin salad and a Christmas salad featuring all-natural mixed green leaves, green apple, brie cheese, cherry tomato, red radish, red onion, toasted walnut, and dijon dressing. Mains include sous vide turkey breast and a Christmas traditional turkey stuffing risotto, while desserts feature Christmas pudding and minced pies.
As a licensed restaurant, 1484 by Puro offers a wide selection of beverages. Christmas drinks include virgin mulled wine, pumpkin spiced latte, Christmas mojito, and peppermint pina colada — all available for Dhs35.
Nestled in Ras Al Khaimah’s stunning mountainous landscape and positioned 1,484 meters above sea level, 1484 by Puro provides incredible panoramic views of Jebel Jais, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to celebrate the holidays in the great outdoors.
Daikan Izakaya at Yas Bay Abu Dhabi
As 2023 draws to a close, Daikan Izakaya at Yas Bay invites guests to join them for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration filled with signature ramen, delectable izakaya dishes and unbeatable Daikan vibes.
Available for one night only on December 31, the exclusive New Year’s Eve experience stars a curated menu of hand-selected Daikan favourites.
Served from 8pm, guests are encouraged to relax, absorb the vibrant ambiance of the waterfront restaurant, and enjoy five courses of renowned Daikan signatures such as ramen bowls, grilled meats and tasty bites.
Ensuring that the celebrations continue right through until midnight and beyond, guests can also pair their nibbles with a choice of premium quality free-flowing beverage packages.
Providing the perfect way of ringing in the New Year, Daikan is offering a choice of two unique and beautiful seating options.
Guests are welcome to dine out on the terrace in front of spectacular firework views, or within the atmospheric restaurant. Meanwhile, little diners are also invited to join in the fun with their own special kids’ package.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
