14 exciting new dining spots to explore worldwide in 2018

From luxurious French haute cuisine in Macau to Mediterranean mezze in New York, and from classic European dishes in Nairobi to sophisticated beachside seafood in Bali, 2018 brings a variety of culinary delights to discover.

These 14 new openings are must-try destinations for food lovers eager to be among the first to experience the hottest tables across the globe.

1. La Rambla, Hong Kong

Few locations in Hong Kong are as coveted as the International Finance Center, perched right on the edge of the iconic Victoria Harbour.

Situated in a prime spot at the IFC, La Rambla offers a stunning view of Victoria Harbour, where guests can indulge in its Catalan-inspired menu and extensive drink selection on a spacious 100-seat terrace.

Chef Ferran Tadeo, previously of the legendary elBulli and under the mentorship of José Andrés, serves up plates that are both traditional Spanish and creatively innovative.

Expect top-tier dishes like 120-day aged Galician beef from Barcelona's Carles Tejedor, large red carabinero shrimp, and generous servings of paella. Don’t miss the indulgent desserts, especially the rich dulce de leche.

La Rambla, 3071 IFC Mall, Central, Hong Kong; +852 2661 1161

2. The Lord Erroll, Nairobi

Once a staple of Nairobi’s dining scene, The Lord Erroll now boasts a revamped team with Chef Isaac Arunga at the helm, new ownership by Zahra Bahlewa, and a stylish new interior that has lured in a fresh crowd.

The location itself is a major attraction for those visiting Kenya. This stunning colonial-era mansion, nestled in expansive gardens with lakes, is located in Nairobi’s most prestigious neighborhood.

But the food is equally impressive. Classic European dishes are reimagined and served with flair and finesse.

A flawless rack of lamb, Italian-style eggplant, and nostalgic desserts like bread and butter pudding or crêpe suzette keep diners coming back for more.

The Lord Erroll, 89 Ruaka Rd, Nairobi City, Kenya; +254 721 920820

3. Benjarong, Manila

Benjarong, named after a traditional Thai porcelain that symbolizes 'five colors,' is a Manila restaurant where Chef Watcharapon Yongbanthom, known as Chef Ja, serves up genuine Thai flavors.

From the open kitchen, Chef Ja and her team create dishes like see krong moo krob wan – crispy ribs with Sriracha cabbage – as well as classic favorites like pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish with peanuts and bean sprouts.

With a 28-seat bar offering views for people-watching, signature cocktails, and Thai drinks, the combination of authentic Thai cuisine and warm Filipino hospitality promises to keep Manila’s diners coming back for more.

Benjarong, Ground Floor, Dusit Thani Manila, Ayala Centre, 1223 Makati City Metro Manila, Philippines; +63 (02) 238 8888

4. Voyages by Alain Ducasse, Macau

Alain Ducasse, the French culinary icon, expands his global fine dining empire with a new restaurant set to open in Macau this spring.

As a chef who spends much of the year traveling, his latest restaurant is inspired by over three decades of journeys, particularly across Asia.

Voyages at Morpheus Hotel, City of Dreams, combines Alain Ducasse’s unique interpretations of Asian dishes alongside his own signature creations.

As expected from Macau’s premier gaming and entertainment destination, the interiors of Voyages are lavish, with Monsieur Ducasse personally overseeing every detail of the design and execution.

Voyages is located within the Morpheus Hotel, a visual masterpiece designed by the late, renowned British architect Zaha Hadid.

Voyages by Alain Ducasse, Morpheus Hotel, City of Dreams, Estrada do Istmo, Cotai, Macau; +853 8868 6688

5. Cleo, New York

Chef Danny Elmaleh, with a Moroccan father and a Japanese mother, has drawn inspiration from diverse cultures and cuisines. After studying at the Culinary Institute of America, he worked in Japan and Italy before opening his own restaurant.

The Cleo brand continues to expand its presence across the US, with its latest restaurant inside the Mondrian Park Avenue hotel in New York.

His Mediterranean-inspired dishes are designed for sharing, with Cleo focusing on social dining. Expect dishes like tuna tartare with the bold flavors of Moroccan harissa, confit duck served in a broth with matzo balls, or Japanese wagyu steaks simply grilled over charcoal.

Cleo, Mondrian Park Avenue, 444 Park Ave S, New York, NY 10016; +1 (212) 804 8880

6. Publico, Singapore

The Quayside, a fresh addition to Singapore’s evolving skyline, is a new riverside dining hub featuring a collection of chic eateries that attract both locals and visitors for an upscale dining experience by the water.

Publico Ristorante, located at the Intercontinental Robertson Quay, opened in December 2017, offering a range of Italian classics like risotto 'alla milanese' with saffron, pecorino, and red wine, as well as wood-fired pizzas.

Executive Chef Marco Turatti’s dishes are paired with a carefully selected wine and drinks menu, featuring robust Tuscan Chiantis and strong Negronis, complemented by Asia's largest collection of Amaris or bitters. Desserts like the classic Tiramisu are a must-try.

Publico, InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay, 1 Nanson Rd, Singapore; +65 6826 5040

7. China Tang, Las Vegas

While Las Vegas is known for its abundant dining options, this exciting newcomer is set to elevate the city’s culinary landscape with its expert take on Chinese cuisine.

The menu at China Tang Las Vegas is rooted in Cantonese flavors, while also drawing from the diverse culinary traditions of Sichuan, Shanghai, and Beijing.

The launch of China Tang is backed by Hong Kong-based Lai Sun, renowned for its collection of Michelin-starred restaurants across the globe.

The kitchen will be helmed by Albert Au Kwok Keung, the youngest chef ever to earn three Michelin stars at The Eight in Macau. He and his team will deliver authentic classics in a luxurious environment.

China Tang, MGM Grand, 3799 S Las Vegas Blvd, NV 89109; +1 877-880-0880

8. Taihei, Phuket, Thailand

Taihei, named after the Japanese word for 'peace,' offers a serene atmosphere nestled amidst the tranquil pools and lush greenery of the Banyan Tree resort on the idyllic island of Phuket.

At Taihei, Chef Shiraishi, originally from Kyushu with over 40 years of experience, will prepare exquisite sashimi, sushi, and a variety of other authentic Japanese dishes.

The menu also features yakimono dishes, such as pan-fried or grilled gyoza, as well as sushi-making classes for guests who wish to learn from Chef Shiraishi himself.

With a limited capacity of just 35 diners, Taihei prioritizes personalized service and an immersive culinary experience for each guest.

Taihei, 33/27 Moo 4, Srisoonthorn Road, Cherngtalay, Amphur Talang, Phuket 83110, Thailand; +66 (0)76 372 400

9. Sensus, Dubrovnik, Croatia

Boasting one of the most stunning views of Dubrovnik's ancient walled town and the sparkling Adriatic Sea, Sensus at the Excelsior Hotel already offers a spectacular setting, enhanced further by the creative cuisine of Chef Petar Obad.

Chef Obad’s unique take on Mediterranean classics and Croatian specialties draws diners in, offering as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate, with an Instagram-worthy backdrop.

A standout dish of ravioli filled with sweetbreads, truffle, prosciutto, and a sauce made from Malvasija wine exemplifies Chef Obad's skillful fusion of flavors, textures, and ingredients.

With ingredients fresh from the kitchen garden and locally grown produce, dishes like lamb with rosemary, artichokes, and onion marmalade highlight the region’s rich flavors, while the 'grandma’s flan' pays a sweet tribute to a cherished family recipe.

Sensus, Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik, Frana Supila 12, 20 000 Dubrovnik, Croatia; +385 20 353 447

10. Jean-Georges at The Connaught, London

Set within one of London’s most esteemed hotels, The Connaught is celebrated for its timeless English elegance and impeccable service, making it a top destination for discerning diners.

The latest highlight is the casual dining concept, Jean-Georges, helmed by the world-renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten.

With a portfolio of over 30 restaurants across cities like New York, Paris, and Tokyo, Jean-Georges at The Connaught reflects the chef's eclectic style, blending classical French techniques with diverse Asian influences.

Among the menu's standout dishes is the indulgent black truffle and fontina pizza, while British staples like fish and chips and afternoon tea offer a taste of local tradition.

The elegant interiors feature custom art and stained-glass windows, flooding the space with natural light and adding to the refined ambiance.

Jean-Georges at The Connaught, Carlos Place, Mayfair, London, W1K 2AL; +44 (0)20 7499 7070

11. The Lighthouse at Four Seasons Resort Seychelles

Nestled in the new Four Seasons resort on Desroches Island in the Seychelles, The Lighthouse offers a menu featuring grilled seafood, meats, and a raw seafood bar, all set in a relaxed yet refined atmosphere.

True to its name, The Lighthouse stands as one of the island’s most iconic landmarks, with a terrace bar offering stunning Indian Ocean views, perfect for enjoying sundowner cocktails.

Despite the island's remote location, the fusion of local ingredients with premium international produce ensures that discerning travelers will keep returning.

Lighthouse, Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island, Seychelles

12. Le Comptoir de Pierre Gagnaire, Capella Hotel, Shanghai

Pierre Gagnaire, the legendary French chef with multiple Michelin stars, has recently opened his first restaurant in Mainland China at the luxurious Capella Hotel in Shanghai.

Known for his avant-garde approach in his global restaurants, Gagnaire’s Capella venue focuses on elegantly executed, classic French dishes that emphasize simplicity and authenticity.

Chef Romain Chapel, who has collaborated with Gagnaire for many years, presents dishes with flawless flavors and textures, such as beef fillet with black pepper butter and pan-seared turbot paired with sweet onion syrup.

The ambiance evokes a Parisian charm, complete with the exquisite breads and pastries from the on-site La Boulangerie, while Gagnaire’s renowned desserts continue to impress.

Le Comptoir de Pierre Gagnaire, Capella Hotel, Jian Ye Li, 480 West Jianguo Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai 200031 China

13. COMO Uma Canggu, Bali

Set to open in the spring, this new beach club restaurant at the luxurious COMO Uma Canggu aims to elevate Bali’s already vibrant dining scene.

Guests can look forward to dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, showcasing a focus on contemporary ‘new world cuisine.’

Claiming to offer a contemporary spin on the classic surf shack, this all-day spot combines a relaxed vibe with sophisticated touches, featuring live acoustic performances and DJs.

The menu features local seafood, premium steaks, and dishes cooked over a wood-fired grill, offering smoky flavors. Alongside, vibrant, healthy salads and shareable plates make for the perfect post-beach meal as the sun sets.

COMO Uma Canggu, Jalan Pantai Batu Mejan, Echo Beach, Canggu, Badung 80361, Bali, Indonesia; +62 361 302 2228

14. Galvin Dubai, Dubai

Chris and Jeff Galvin, renowned Michelin-starred chefs and brothers, have brought their latest venture to Dubai, located in The Square at City Walk, one of the UAE's newest dining hubs.

The menu showcases a blend of European dishes, ranging from British classics to southern French and Italian flavors.

Expect to indulge in ceviche or tartare from the seafood bar, artisanal salumi, and succulent roast meats from the wood-fired oven and grill.

For more refined options, savor delicate preparations like Devon crab lasagne or a rich lobster bisque.

The wines featured are carefully selected from vineyards personally familiar to the Galvin brothers.

Galvin Dubai, The Square, City Walk, Dubai, United Arab Emirates; +971 4 590 5444