🇦🇪 From Dubai to London: UAE-Based Restaurants and Cafés Expand into the UK Capital

LONDON: A wave of popular UAE-based restaurants and cafés has arrived in London, bringing flavors of the Gulf to one of the world’s most vibrant food cities. These brands, originally rooted in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, are now catering to both local Londoners and loyal Gulf visitors with signature menus and stylish interiors.

🌟 Tashas — Elegant Café Dining

First launched in South Africa in 2005, Tashas quickly became a UAE favorite with its upscale, made-to-order dishes. Its new location in London’s Battersea Power Station marks a milestone for founder Natasha Sideris. The London branch features a curated dinner menu, signature cocktails, and the warm hospitality regulars know and love. “Our UAE-based customers say it feels like home,” says Sideris.

GAIA, Shanghai Me & La Maison Ani 

🍜 Kinoya — Ramen with Soul

Dubai’s Michelin-recognized Kinoya has brought its izakaya-style ramen to Harrods. Led by Chef Neha Mishra, Kinoya’s London menu features miso and shoyu ramen alongside Japanese side dishes adapted for the British palate. Known for its cozy, soulful dining, Kinoya is now adding a touch of Tokyo to central London. 

🍽️ GAIA, Shanghai Me & La Maison Ani — Dubai's Luxury Hospitality

Hospitality group Fundamental Hospitality has introduced three of its hit concepts — GAIA, Shanghai Me, and La Maison Ani — to Mayfair and Hilton Park Lane. With GAIA’s seafood market and Greek-Mediterranean cuisine, and the upcoming Shanghai Me launch, founder Evgeny Kuzin says the aim is to bring “consistency, authenticity, and excellence” to London’s demanding food scene.

🍦 Saddle — A Sweet UAE Staple Goes Global

Originally a dessert concept in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, Saddle opened in South Kensington in 2024. Known for its specialty coffee, soft serve, and crepes, the London location has become a hit with Gulf tourists and locals alike.

☕ Koub — Emirati Coffee Culture in Belgravia

With minimalist interiors and a rotating seasonal menu, Koub on Elizabeth Street brings Emirati flavors like saffron, dates, and cardamom to London’s coffee scene. “It’s a nostalgic space for Gulf students and residents,” says co-founder Sheikha Alnuaimi.

“Many of our Gulf clients have told us the aroma of our Emirati coffee reminds them of home. Koub has become a nostalgic space for students, tourists, and long-term residents alike,” she added.  

🍔 Parker’s — Off-Menu Vibes and Instagram Secrets

Popular for its “find the key” concept and secret social media menus, Parker’s now operates near Oxford Street. From truffle fries to Lotus milkshakes, Parker’s continues to attract a cult following, now on both sides of the globe.

🍵 Filli Café — Zafran Chai with a Global Flavor

From a single shop in Dubai to branches around the world, Filli Café has made its mark in East London with its signature Zafran chai. The saffron-infused tea remains the top-seller, loved by Emiratis, expats, and curious tea-lovers alike.

🔎 Why This Matters:

The expansion of these UAE dining concepts to London reflects not only the globalization of Gulf cuisine but also the powerful connection between Middle Eastern culture and European culinary trends. With high demand from GCC tourists and London’s diverse food scene, this trend shows no signs of slowing down.Kinoya