Dubai’s dining scene never stands still, and April is proof of just how dynamic the city’s culinary landscape can be. This month’s openings reflect a growing appetite for both creativity and comfort, spanning cosy neighbourhood gems, refined waterfront spots, and chef-driven concepts. Here are seven of the most talked-about restaurant openings in Dubai this April, already drawing crowds and setting the tone for where to dine next.
1. Yesterday
Yesterday is an Emirati-owned concept that blends a love for vinyl with Neapolitan pizza, creating a ‘listening pizzeria’ where music takes centre stage alongside the food. A high-quality sound system defines the space and an open kitchen centred around a glowing wood-fired oven. The concise menu features just two starters and four pizzas. If you want a unique dine-and-listen experience that combines great sound, quality pizza, and a thoughtfully curated, minimalist vibe, this spot is well worth a visit.
Where: Avenue Mall – Middle Parking Area – Ground Floor – Nad Al Sheba – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
When: Monday to Thursday from 4 pm to 12 am and Friday to Sunday from 4 pm to 1 am
2. Solenn
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Solenn brings a taste of Greek-Mediterranean living to the waterfront at Marsa Boulevard, blending fresh seafood, vegetables, and bold flavours in an upscale-casual setting. The menu spans mezze like smoked muhammara and beetroot falafel, Josper-grilled meats, and comforting mains, alongside pastas and indulgent desserts, all served with signature charcoal taboon bread. It’s a great choice for a relaxed yet refined dining experience with creek views, offering bold flavours in a stylish, cosy setting.
Where: Al Kheeran – Dubai Festival City – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
When: Sunday to Thursday from 5 pm to 12 am and Friday to Saturday from 5 pm to 1 am
3. The Garden Project
The Garden Project is a seasonal open-air concept bringing a fresh, easygoing vibe to Dubai’s social scene. Designed as a preview of the forthcoming Hills Club, this temporary pop-up reimagines the space as a lively yet relaxed gathering spot. Guests can enjoy alfresco dining, laid-back afternoons, and sunset hangouts complemented by live music, refreshing drinks, and popular street food offerings from Freedom Pizza. With its welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere, it’s quickly becoming a go-to destination for casual meetups and unhurried weekends this April.
Where: Montgomerie Golf Club – Al Thanyah Fourth – Emirates Hills – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
When: Sunday to Saturday from 12 pm to 12 am
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4. Mama Thai
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Mama Thai by Zen brings the warmth of Thai home cooking to Dubai, adding a cosy touch to the Neighbourhood Food Hall in Motor City. The menu features beloved classics made with carefully selected ingredients, including comforting curries like Massaman and Green Curry, popular street food such as Pad Kra Pao and Khao Soi, and staple dishes like Pad Thai and Pad See Ew noodles. Guests can also enjoy fresh options like Som Tum salad and Tom Yum soup, along with traditional desserts like banana roti.
Where: Neighbourhood Food Hall, Retail G06 – Green Community Motor City – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
When: Sunday to Saturday from 12 pm to 10:30 pm
5. Oliva
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Oliva offers a refined take on Italian cuisine, celebrating timeless recipes and fresh ingredients, with a focus on high-quality extra-virgin olive oil. Diners can enjoy classic starters like bruschetta and burrata, signature pastas such as creamy Alfredo and seafood linguine, as well as wood-fired pizzas, risottos, grilled meats, and fresh seafood. The menu is rounded off with indulgent desserts like tiramisu and cannoli, making Oliva a top choice for Italian dining in Dubai.
Where: Orra Harbour Tower – Shop 1 – Marsa Dubai – Dubai Marina – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
When: 24 hours
6. La Famiglia Dubai
La Famiglia presents a sophisticated interpretation of classic Italian cuisine, where tradition meets modern elegance. The concept is built around the idea of sharing and connection, brought to life through carefully curated dishes that honour Italy’s culinary roots. The menu spans everything from starters like seafood tartares, burrata, and delicate carpaccios to handmade pastas, gourmet pizzas, and rich risottos. A selection of premium meats and seafood mains adds depth to the offering, while the dessert menu elevates familiar favourites with a contemporary twist.
Where: Dubai Sports City – LaFamiglia – Al Hebiah Fourth – Dubai Sports City – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
When: Sunday to Saturday from 8 am to 12 am
7. Window
WINDOW is a cosy, chef-led dining concept by FYTE Hospitality that redefines modern comfort food. With just 32 seats, the intimate space features an open kitchen focused on live-fire cooking. Led by chef Gonzalo Platero, the menu highlights seasonal ingredients, transforming simple dishes into exceptional plates. Combining warmth, flavour, and creativity, WINDOW is a delightful addition to Alserkal’s dining scene.
Where: Alserkal Avenue – Unit 39 – 3 St – Al Quoz – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
When: Sunday to Thursday from 12 pm to 10:30 pm (Monday Closed) and Friday to Saturday 12 pm to 12 am
These new restaurants in Dubai showcase the city’s evolving food scene, making this list a handy guide for planning your next dining experience this April.
Cover Image Courtesy: Mama Thai/ Instagram and Solenn/ Instagram
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First Published: April 13, 2026 4:57 PMFAQs
What kind of dishes can I expect at Solenn?
Solenn serves Greek-Mediterranean cuisine with dishes like smoked muhammara, beetroot falafel, Josper-grilled meats, fresh seafood, and charcoal taboon bread.
Why is WINDOW at Alserkal Avenue considered a unique dining experience?
WINDOW is a 32-seat chef-led restaurant in Alserkal Avenue featuring live-fire cooking, seasonal menus, and a focus on elevated comfort food.