Dubai is about to get a taste of Spain with the arrival of Barrafina, a popular tapas restaurant that’s set to open before the end of 2025. Located in DIFC Gate Village 1, this will be the first of several Barrafina locations to open across the Middle East.
The restaurant concept is all about sharing — because as the saying goes, sharing is caring. The idea for Barrafina comes from the Spanish roots of brothers Sam and Eddie Hart, who grew up in Mallorca. Their parents, Tim and Stefa Hart, run the MICHELIN-starred Hambleton Hall in the East Midlands, which adds a nice culinary pedigree to the family’s food empire.
Barrafina first opened its doors in 2007 on Frith Street in Soho, London. It quickly became a hit, making history as the first non-reservation restaurant to earn a MICHELIN star. Over the years, the brand has expanded across London.
What makes Barrafina stand out is its open kitchen, where guests can sit at the counter and watch the chefs work their magic. It’s an immersive experience that lets you see the preparation up close while enjoying the delicious tapas. The menu is simple yet flavorful, offering a variety of classic Spanish dishes, complemented by a selection of cavas, sherries, and wines.
While the full menu for the Dubai branch hasn’t been released yet, you can expect to see some of the London favorites like seafood, meats, and vegetables. One standout from the London menu is the classic tortilla — made with eggs, potatoes, and, of course, a lot of love.
Dubai’s dining scene is already packed with diverse and exciting options, and Barrafina’s arrival will definitely add to the rich mix of international flavors available. And if you’re always on the lookout for new spots, check out some of the best new restaurants in Dubai in 2025 — there’s always something fresh and exciting to discover.
