Revisit before summer takes over
Tucked away in Nad Al Sheba Gardens, The Square has quietly become one of Dubai’s most exciting low-key dining destinations. It’s polished without being pretentious, packed with homegrown names and global favourites, and built for everything from casual coffees to long, lingering dinners. Here’s your guide to where to eat first.
Asma Restaurant
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Come hungry and bring friends – Asma is all about sharing. Drawing inspiration from across Lebanon, Jordan, Palestine, Egypt and Syria, the menu leans into generous plates and bold, familiar flavours elevated with a modern touch. Expect fragrant rice dishes, smoky grilled meats and warm pastries designed to pass around the table. The open-air setting makes it especially appealing for relaxed, sunlit lunches that stretch into the afternoon.
Cipriani Dolci
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Italian elegance arrives in the form of Cipriani Dolci, where all-day dining meets timeless Venetian charm. The menu covers everything from tramezzini and delicate pastas to beautifully executed desserts, while the signature pastry vitrine is a showstopper in its own right. It’s polished but easy-going – ideal for a refined coffee break or a light meal that doesn’t compromise on quality.
Home Bakery
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This is comfort dining done right. Home Bakery blends the warmth of a neighbourhood café with the precision of a serious bakery, serving everything from breakfast plates to indulgent afternoon treats. Think buttery croissants, freshly baked cookies and stacked sandwiches, all delivered with a sense of nostalgia that makes you want to stay a little longer than planned.
KLAY
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A modern spin on Emirati comfort food, KLAY reimagines humble favourites like paratha and karak through a contemporary lens. It’s casual, quick and full of character – perfect for a laid-back bite that still feels distinctly rooted in local culture.
Kokoro Hand Roll Bar
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Minimalist, intimate and quietly impressive, Kokoro Hand Roll Bar focuses on doing one thing exceptionally well. Sit at the counter and watch as each hand roll is prepared fresh to order, with chefs slicing and rolling right in front of you. The result? Clean flavours, premium ingredients and a dining experience that feels personal from start to finish.
Maxzi
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What started as a gourmet grocery concept has evolved into one of Dubai’s go-to burger spots. Maxzi keeps things simple but seriously satisfying, with smashed wagyu patties layered into soft buns and finished with classic toppings. Whether you opt for a double or go all in with a triple, this is comfort food with a premium edge.
Omar Odali
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If you’re in the mood for something sweet, Omar Odali is a must. Dedicated to the art of knafeh, this spot blends tradition with a more refined, contemporary presentation. Expect crisp textures, rich fillings and just the right level of sweetness – each bite feels like a celebration of heritage with a modern twist.
SLRP
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Ramen takes centre stage at SLRP, where Japanese inspiration meets a bold, modern attitude. The kitchen plays with flavour, texture and umami, delivering bowls that are rich, comforting and full of personality. It’s casual, energetic and built around the joy of a really good slurp—exactly what you want from a ramen spot with edge.
Temple Creamery
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Ice cream, elevated, if that’s even possible. Temple takes unique flavour combinations to a new level, churning new combinations regularly. But besides the ice cream, this is also a your one stop shop for all your sweet tooth needs, as they serve coffee and a whole array of desserts.
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Curious, expressive, and always chasing new ideas, Zainab sees creativity as a way of life. She thrives on discovering new perspectives, connecting with people, and turning inspiration into something tangible. Her work and her world reflect a balance of intuition, imagination, and authenticity.
Contact me: zainab@nommemag.com
