If there’s one thing Dubai does perfectly, it’s making sure your favourite meals are never too far away. This year has brought a wave of new restaurant openings. And I don’t mean entirely new names, they’re places you already know and love. But this time with fresh branches in neighbourhoods closer to you! If your tastes buds already tingling, keep reading for all the delicious details you need to know.
Also read: Top 5 Emirati Dishes You Must Try In Dubai
1. Dave’s Hot Chicken – Dubai Festival City Mall
Dave’s Hot Chicken (you know, the LA-born hotspot everyone can’t stop talking about) has officially opened its newest branch at Dubai Festival City Mall, and it’s already turning heads. Known for its Nashville-style hot chicken and cult following, this opening marks the brand’s 4th location in Dubai and 6th across the UAE, proving once again that the region is obsessed with bold flavour. This launch follows their two recent openings in Marina Mall Abu Dhabi and Al Hamra Mall Ras Al Khaimah, showing just how quickly Dave’s is spreading across the country.
What To Expect At The New Branch
Their menu stays true to what fans love – Hot Chicken Sliders, crispy Tenders, Dave’s Bites, and sides that hit the spot every time. Think creamy Mac & Cheese, fresh Kale Slaw, Top-Loaded Fries, icy Slushers, and thick, loaded milkshakes. The best part? The signature seven-level spice system, ranging from No Spice to the insane Reaper™. I’m talking a level so intense it requires a signed waiver. Whether you’re a heat lover or flavour-first kind of diner, this branch is going to be your new go-to.
- Location: Al Kheeran – Dubai Festival City – Dubai
- Timing: Open daily from 10 AM–11 PM
- Contact: 04 570 7904
- For more information visit their website.
2. PizzaExpress Live: Four Points by Sheraton Production City
PizzaExpress UAE has just launched its newest restaurant at Four Points by Sheraton Production City, giving nearby residents a fresh and convenient place to enjoy their iconic pizzas, fluffy Dough Balls, and friendly, social dining vibe. This spot is perfectly placed for communities like Jumeirah Golf Estates, Victory Heights, Motor City, Sports City, JVT, and JVC, making it a dream for anyone tired of long drives to enjoy a good pizza night. The area is quieter, easier to reach, and comes with free parking, which already makes it a win.
What To Expect At The New Branch
Here, you’ll find everything from the indulgent Queen Margherita with creamy burrata, to hearty dishes like Beef Lasagne, and sweet classics such as the Golden Caramel Dough Balls.
- Location: Me’aisem First – Dubai Production City – Dubai
- Timing: Open daily from 12 PM–12 AM
- Contact: 04 246 4550
- For more information visit their website.
3. Al Safadi: Dubai Festival City Mall
One of Dubai’s most respected Lebanese restaurants, Al Safadi, has opened a brand new branch right inside Dubai Festival City Mall. Its first ever mall-based location. For fans of authentic grills, mezze, and generous Lebanese hospitality, this is big news. With both indoor and outdoor seating and views overlooking the Festival Bay waterfront, this branch brings a relaxed yet modern atmosphere to an already iconic brand. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick lunch or a long family meal, the new setting makes everything feel extra inviting.
What To Expect At The New Branch
Al Safadi has always been known for consistently excellent food and warm service, and this new location makes the dining experience even more accessible to mall-goers, families, and tourists exploring the area.
- Location: Ground Floor, Mall Main Atrium – Al Kheeran – Dubai Festival City – Dubai
- Timing: Open daily from 8 AM–1 AM
- Contact: 600 500601
- For more information visit their website.
4. Nando’s UAE – JBR Branch
Nando’s fans, here’s something exciting, the brand has opened its biggest-ever UAE location at Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR). This two-storey restaurant gives diners double the space, a great view, and an even better atmosphere. With both indoor and outdoor seating, this Nando’s branch is perfect for beach days, after-dinner strolls, or casual meals with friends and family. And of course, it serves all the classics you love: peri-peri chicken, burgers, wraps, sides, and the brand’s famously friendly vibe.
What To Expect At The New Branch
This new opening is part of Nando’s continued growth across the Emirates, making sure fans never have to go far to get their peri-peri fix. With JBR being one of Dubai’s busiest lifestyle destinations, this spot couldn’t be better placed.
- Location: The Walk G04, Rimal 5, Jumeirah Beach Residence – Dubai Marina – Dubai
- Timing: Open daily from 9 AM–1 AM
- Contact: 600 542525
- For more information visit their website.
5. Flaky Pastry Croissant Co. – Downtown Dubai
If buttery pastries and delicate croissants make your heart happy, you’ll love this. Flaky Pastry Croissant Co. has just opened its newest branch in Souk Al Bahar, right in the heart of Downtown Dubai. This marks their 4th Dubai branch, expanding their reach to one of the city’s most visited neighbourhoods.
What To Expect At The New Branch
Known for its mix of sweet and savoury croissants, pastries, and café-style bites, this new Souk Al Bahar location brings a relaxed and cosy feel to the lively Downtown setting.
- Location: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Burj Khalifa – Downtown Dubai
- Timing: Open daily from 7:30 AM–11 PM
- Contact: +971 54 998 4434
- For more information visit their website.
