First sitting: September dining experiences to try and new restaurant openings

As the UAE's dining scene continues to flourish, several notable first sittings and new restaurant openings have caught the attention of locals and visitors alike. Orfali Bros, a restaurant renowned for its culinary excellence, is set to begin its new season with a Sunday lunch experience, offering guests a taste of authentic Syrian cuisine.

The menu features a selection of dishes, including hummus, muhammara, kibbeh nayeh, tomato salad, bulgur salad, kibbeh mashwieh with walnuts, bone marrow and cucumber yoghurt, and haytaliyeh – milk curd, burnt syrup and mastic ice cream. The set meal is priced at Dh295 per person, with additional options available for those who wish to customize their feast.

In addition to Orfali Bros, several other establishments have made their debut in the city. MonChef, a private catering company, has opened its first permanent restaurant, La Lupa, in the Dubai Design District. The Mediterranean-inspired eatery offers a diverse array of dishes, from breakfast and antipasti to risotto, seafood and steak. The atmosphere is designed to be both relaxed and sophisticated, with natural materials, earthy tones and soft lighting creating an inviting ambiance for diners.

Meanwhile, Murmur, a newly established fine-dining restaurant in Sharjah, aims to showcase the rich tapestry of Gulf flavors combined with global influences and culinary storytelling. The menu features creative twists on traditional dishes, such as arancini reimagined as the Emirati rice dish machboos, Wagyu short-rib hummus paired with braised beef and truffle, and signature musakhan lasagne that layers beef musakhan ragout with fried onions.

As the city transitions from summer to autumn, several restaurants are gearing up for the return of business lunches. Jamavar, a Michelin-starred Indian restaurant located in Downtown Dubai, is introducing a new business lunch menu featuring starters like Chandni Chowk ki aloo tikki, chicken with cream cheese, black pepper and sun-dried-tomato yoghurt, and a cherry, pepper and coconut sorbet to conclude the meal.

The establishment continues to uphold its commitment to providing high-quality dining experiences that cater to the demands of a busy lifestyle.

Meanwhile, Intended, a coffee and sweet treat shop founded by Emirati entrepreneur Afra Al Darmaki, has found a permanent home in Abu Dhabi. The small café specializes in gluten-free, refined sugar-free, and artificial flavor-free treats, including coconut cloud espresso and date-walnut cookies made with fruit from Al Darmaki's family farm in Al Ain. The menu will evolve seasonally, ensuring that each visit offers a unique and delightful experience.

For those seeking a more communal dining experience, The Spaniel British brasserie on Bluewaters Island is introducing a sharing feast concept. Every Sunday, guests can enjoy a roast dinner featuring roast beef and chicken, slow-cooked lamb, and an assortment of accompaniments, such as Yorkshire puddings and cauliflower cheese. The restaurant is designed to accommodate groups of four or more, providing a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for friends and family to gather and enjoy a hearty meal together.

Lastly, wellness enthusiasts can now explore a new dining experience at Paus, a wellness space located in Gymkhana. The cafe offers an evening dining menu featuring Italian classics, with a cozy atmosphere that encourages conversation and shared experiences. The serene surroundings and thoughtful menu choices make Paus an ideal destination for those seeking to unwind and connect with loved ones over a delicious meal.