From ultimate spots to celebrate special occasions to exciting new offerings to indulge in, here are the things to do in the UAE in October
Shangri-La Dubai
This October, Shangri-La Dubai presents Taste of Shangri-La, a month-long celebration of Asian cuisine featuring two exceptional experiences. At Shang Palace, Chef Peter Lau offers a four-course menu blending Cantonese, Lu, and Hainanese traditions, with highlights like Coriander Squid with Salmon Roe and Braised Beef Rib in Satay Sauce. Meanwhile, Hoi An welcomes Guest Master Chef Tuyet Pham, MasterChef Vietnam finalist, with a five-course menu showcasing Vietnamese soul food, including Crispy Vietnamese Pancake, Fish Soup, and Chicken Quang Noodle.
Call +9714 405 2703.
Felicità
Inspired by the spirit of Southern Italy, the newly-opened restaurant features colourful Sicilian-inspired interiors, a lush terrace perfect for aperitivo or late-night dinners, and a hidden speakeasy serving crafted beverages with live Italian music.
Sobremesa
Sobremesa is the newest spot in Downtown Dubai, opening soon in Souk Al Bahar. Inspired by the Latin tradition of staying at the table after a meal, the 60-cover venue combines a relaxed, social atmosphere with Mexican-Spanish flavours. Chef Marco Ferreira, a Le Cordon Bleu graduate, puts a modern twist on comfort classics like quesadillas and carnitas tacos, while Beverage Director Irina Golubeva offers a bold, agave-forward drinks menu.
Ernst Biergarten
Until 26 October 2025, Dubai’s renowned Bavarian party is back as Oktoberfest takes over Ernst Biergarten. Think six weeks of steins, sausages and songs, where hearty German favourites meet frothy hops and a line-up of bands that will have you clapping along until closing time. The menu is a feast in itself, featuring crispy non-halal meat knuckle, golden schnitzel, warm pretzels straight from the oven and hops towers that keep the cheer flowing. Saturdays bring a Bavarian brunch starting at AED300, while Sundays serve a proper roast with lamb shank and mash, non-halal meat belly with crackling or a whole roast chicken with fries. For pudding, don’t miss the apple strudel and berries.
Oktoberfest: Until 26 October. Thursdays to Sundays, from 5pm till late. Sundays, from 12pm to 7pm. Saturday Oktoberfest Brunch, from 12pm to 4pm. Sunday Roast, from 12pm to 4pm. Call +9714 210 2511 or email dubai@ernstbiergarten.com.
Brunch & Cake
Brunch & Cake, known for its philosophy of In Grandma We Trust, has opened its sixth location at Palm Jumeirah Mall. Spanning 206 square metres on Level 01, the restaurant welcomes up to 72 guests in a warm and thoughtfully designed space, featuring a striking mermaid tail installation that nods to the island’s seaside spirit. The menu combines Brunch & Cake favourites with all-day dining classics, freshly baked pastries, and a new beverage line focused on matcha and coconuts, while a dedicated retail corner and Kids Menu ensure there is something for everyone.
Visit website.
Aura Bakery & Café
Aura Bakery & Café is the latest addition to Dubai’s café scene, offering a warm, modern space to enjoy artisanal pastries and expertly brewed coffee. Led by Italian Head Chef Manuel Balarini, the menu combines traditional and contemporary Italian flavours, from Pain Suisse Chocolate & Caramel and Mont Blanc to savoury croissants and freshly baked breads.
Visit website.
