From a hidden dining room overlooking Dubai’s skyline to Persian flavors in Riyadh and French Riviera-inspired dining in Doha, these new restaurant openings are giving the region’s food scene fresh reasons to explore.
The GCC’s dining scene continues to evolve, with new concepts bringing fresh flavors and experiences to the region. This season, established names are expanding, international favorites are finding new homes, and ambitious kitchens are creating destinations of their own.
From Dubai’s latest fine-dining address to a new coastal restaurant in Qatar, these four openings deserve a place on your dining radar.
1. 1206, Dubai: A Hidden Room with a New Story
Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab has added another dining destination to its impressive collection. Named after a once-hidden room on the resort’s fourth floor, 1206 opened on October 30.
The restaurant places seasonality and ingredient-led cooking at the centre of its experience. Head Chef Stephanie Haywood brings experience from Michelin-starred kitchens across the UK, Scandinavia, and the GCC.
Her approach draws on British culinary traditions, with French, Mediterranean, and Scandinavian influences. Whole-ingredient cooking, fermentation, curing, and open-fire techniques help shape the menu.
The setting adds another reason to visit. Guests can enjoy uninterrupted horizon views stretching from the Burj Al Arab towards the Burj Khalifa. It is an intimate addition for diners who appreciate thoughtful cooking and understated luxury.
2. TAPASAKE, Dubai: Japanese Precision Meets Mediterranean Flair
TAPASAKE returns to Dubai on November 12, bringing a refreshed dining experience to One&Only One Za’abeel. The restaurant previously built its reputation around Japanese-led cuisine and striking skyline views.
Its new chapter combines Japanese precision with Mediterranean influences. The menu follows a sharing-style approach, bringing the two culinary traditions together through a fresh selection of dishes.
However, the experience extends beyond the restaurant. A new Sky Lounge adds an outdoor setting for sunset drinks, music, and late-evening gatherings.
The venue also plans to bring back its celebrated infinity pool. Together, the restaurant, lounge, and pool create a day-to-night destination above the city.
3. Berenjak, Riyadh: Persian Comfort Comes to VIA Riyadh
London-born Berenjak has found a permanent home in Riyadh after attracting diners through an earlier pop-up. The restaurant opened at VIA Riyadh on April 2, bringing its take on Persian cuisine to the Saudi capital.
Founded by Kian Samyani, Berenjak takes inspiration from Tehran’s traditional kabab houses. Its menu centres on charcoal-grilled kebabs, fragrant rice, stews, and generous sharing plates.
The experience encourages guests to gather around the table. Fresh bread, mazeh, and dishes designed for sharing create a relaxed approach to dining.
Its arrival adds another international name to VIA Riyadh’s growing restaurant collection. More importantly, it brings a distinctive Persian dining experience into the capital’s increasingly diverse food scene.
4. LPM, Doha: A Taste of the French Riviera
La Petite Maison is bringing its French Riviera-inspired dining to Qatar for the first time. Its new restaurant on Al Maha Island is scheduled to open in November.
The concept combines the brand’s signature French-Mediterranean cooking with a relaxed waterfront setting. Guests can expect fresh ingredients, seafood, and familiar favorites prepared à la minute.
The location gives the Doha restaurant its own personality. Indoor dining spaces meet outdoor terraces and a private terrace inspired by the French Riviera.
Set against the marina, the new address aims to balance polished hospitality with a laid-back coastal atmosphere. It also marks another step in Al Maha Island’s development as a dining and entertainment destination.
A New Season for Gulf Dining
Together, these four destinations reflect the GCC’s expanding appetite for distinctive dining experiences. Some build on established international reputations, while others introduce new interpretations of familiar culinary traditions.
From Riyadh’s lively restaurant scene to Doha’s waterfront and Dubai’s skyline, the region continues to offer more reasons to explore beyond the usual table.
