Abu Dhabi new restaurants are giving the capital another reason to plan ahead, with Italian names, steak-frites, waterfront dining and a golf-meets-dinner concept all on the way. The coming openings point to a dining scene that is becoming broader, busier and more destination-led.
For residents, that means more than another dinner list. The new names spread across Abu Dhabi Canal, Saadiyat Grove and Yas Bay, so the next wave of restaurants should add energy to several parts of the city.
Cipriani Is Heading To Mondrian Abu Dhabi
Cipriani is one of the biggest names on the upcoming list. The Italian favourite is preparing to open at the new Mondrian Abu Dhabi on Abu Dhabi Canal.
Diners can expect a polished Italian experience built around handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, Mediterranean dishes and waterfront views. For anyone who knows the brand from Dubai, the capital opening should be one of the most watched arrivals.
Momofuku Will Land At Saadiyat Grove
Momofuku is also coming to Abu Dhabi, with a first capital location planned for Saadiyat Grove. The brand has a strong international following and is known for bold flavours rather than quiet background dining.
Saadiyat Grove already has the ingredients for a lively dining district. A name like Momofuku should help it attract diners who want a dinner booking that feels like an occasion.
Rowley’s Brings Steak-Frites To Yas Bay
Rowley’s is preparing to bring its steak-frites format to Abu Dhabi after building recognition in Dubai. The concept is straightforward: steak, unlimited fries, salad and sauces.
The Yas Bay setting gives it a waterfront edge. It should work for date nights, group dinners and visitors who want a classic meal before or after entertainment in the area.
Five Iron Golf Adds A Social Sports Angle
Five Iron Golf is opening a large venue at Yas Bay Waterfront. The concept mixes restaurant, sports bar and golf simulator space, which makes it different from a standard dining room.
Guests can swing a club, watch a game, order burgers, share plates and drinks, then stay for the social atmosphere. That format fits Abu Dhabi’s growing interest in activity-led hospitality.
Oro Verde Joins The Yas Bay Line-Up
Oro Verde is another Italian concept planned for Yas Bay Waterfront. Fewer details have been released, but the positioning points to stylish surroundings and proper Italian cooking.
For Yas Bay, the important detail is variety. Adding more dining formats gives residents and visitors extra reasons to stay in the district rather than treating it as one-stop entertainment.
Why These Openings Matter
The capital’s dining scene has been moving beyond hotel-only special occasions. New restaurant clusters now compete for repeat local visits, weekend bookings and destination dining.
The mix of celebrity-chef energy, familiar Dubai names and activity-led concepts should help Abu Dhabi appeal to different types of diners. Some will chase famous brands. Others will want casual waterfront plans or family-friendly sports dining.
Dubai Bliss readers can pair these openings with our guide to Abu Dhabi events this week. For official dining inspiration across the capital, explore Visit Abu Dhabi restaurants.
Planning Note
As with all fresh city updates, details can change after a venue, operator or organiser adjusts timings, prices or access rules. Check the official page or venue channel before leaving, and keep a backup option ready if plans depend on weather, parking, late-night service or limited spaces.
FAQs
Which Abu Dhabi new restaurants are coming soon?
The current list includes Cipriani, Momofuku, Rowley’s, Five Iron Golf and Oro Verde. They cover Italian dining, steak-frites and social sports hospitality.
Where will Cipriani Abu Dhabi open?
Cipriani is planned for Mondrian Abu Dhabi on Abu Dhabi Canal. It is expected to bring Italian dishes and waterfront views.
What is Five Iron Golf?
Five Iron Golf combines golf simulators, a restaurant and a sports bar. The Abu Dhabi venue is planned for Yas Bay Waterfront.
Should diners book early?
Yes, once reservations open. High-profile launches often attract early demand, especially during soft-opening periods and first weekends.