Dubai, UAE – 24 June 2026
DIFC Square is set to welcome the UAE’s first authentic New York-style deli with the opening of Hudson & Rye on 30 June.
The concept, developed by a team of New Yorkers, will bring a traditional delicatessen experience to Dubai’s financial district, introducing a menu inspired by the classic neighborhood delis that have long been a staple of New York City life.
Taking its name from the Hudson River and rye bread a cornerstone of many deli sandwiches Hudson & Rye will serve a range of signature dishes including Reubens made with house-cured pastrami or roasted turkey, tuna melts, cheeseburgers and other deli favourites. The menu will also feature classic sides such as potato pancakes, pickles and onion rings, alongside desserts including New York-style cheesecake, black-and-white cookies and toasted coconut cake.
Breakfast will be available daily, with offerings inspired by traditional New York morning fare, including the restaurant’s signature Breakfast Buddy, featuring egg, cheese and a choice of protein or potato pancake served on a house-made biscuit.
Founded by entrepreneurs Emma Zabinsky Csillag and Daniel Ross-Leutwyler, known as Chef Dan, together with a group of partners, Hudson & Rye is the first in what is planned to become a wider UAE expansion, with ambitions to open up to 10 locations over the next five years.
Chef Dan, who has more than two decades of industry experience and previously helped relaunch New York institution S&P Lunch, said the concept was created to address a gap in the UAE market.
“New York delis are about more than just food they’re part of the fabric of the city,” he said. “We wanted to create a place that delivers that same sense of familiarity and authenticity, while staying true to the flavors and traditions that make the deli experience unique.”
Saleh Al Akrabi, Chief Real Estate Officer at DIFC Investments, said the opening reflects the growing appeal of DIFC as a destination for hospitality and lifestyle concepts.
“As DIFC Square welcomes its first tenants, additions such as Hudson & Rye contribute to the wider experience within the development and support the needs of the businesses, employees and visitors who choose DIFC,” he said.
Hudson & Rye will operate from 8am to 8pm Monday to Thursday, 8am to 9pm on Fridays, and from 9am to 9pm on weekends. Delivery services through Careem, Deliveroo and Talabat are expected to launch in July, alongside catering and in-house delivery options.
