The newly reopened Tabu subverts the dinner and a show trend in Dubai with surprises and a symphony of Middle East meets Japan
Tabu might have relocated from the skytop to be a little closer to the ground at The St. Regis Downtown, but the expectations and enigma have only skyrocketed since. Established as an avant-garde dining experience, the newly revamped space on the mezzanine floor brings you a mature convergence of Middle Eastern and Japanese aesthetics and flavours.
Think panoramic views of Dubai’s most iconic buildings, contemporary interiors, mood lighting, an enormous dining room and the aromas of shisha and salmon. Welcomed with a refreshing drink, your palate is readied for a meal that promises a symphony of flavours.
Under the dynamic duo of The St. Regis Executive Chef Juan Luis and Head Chef of Tabu, Mohamad Alshemali, the menu marries techniques and ingredients from both cuisines to craft culinary genius.
Theatre is the mantra here, seamlessly woven into the fabric of Tabu. Whether it’s a captivating performance or an unexpected culinary flourish, the element of surprise elevates the dining experience. But more on that later.
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The evening kicks off with a Chef ’s Selection of nigiri and maki, each delivering on the theatrical element. From a sauce drizzled on the tableside to smoked cloches unveiling colourful rolls, each bite is a treat for all your senses. Unsurprisingly, the Wagyu Beef Kushiyaki was a unanimous favourite, tender to a fault and as juicy and flavourful as you can imagine.
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The mixed drinks on offer do more than lift spirits, with the knowledgeable team eager to guide you on the best pairings. As you sip on the delightful concoctions of bitter, sweet and tangy, the views both outdoors and inside cater to the extravaganza and then some.
While they may have departed from the staged shows, the roaming entertainment lives on. A wandering samurai geisha, characters that seem to have leapt straight out of manga and a resident DJ work in cahoots to keep you stimulated as you wait on the next course. It’s a beguiling mix of silly and weekend debauchery and makes for the perfect ‘Gram opportunity.
The menu continues to delight with Slow Braised Wagyu Beef Short Rib, served with perfectly cooked Japanese rice and shiitake mushroom. When a meal starts with tableside service and ends with bickering over the last spoonful of umami packed rice, you know it’s a good plate of food.
A meal at Tabu would be incomplete without sampling the signature ‘Black ’, a black cod complete with black miso-gomae sauce, quinoa and caviar. Apart from being a stunning sight, the fish is flaky to a fault, making for a buttery bite. The sauce is far from overwhelming and serves its purpose to hero the protein with every spoon.
It must be said that for all the style, there is ample substance at Tabu. As you conclude the evening with a trio of colourful mochi ice cream or savour the impeccably crafted baklava with camel milk ice cream, you can sink back into the luxe seats knowing it was an evening well spent.
With its impeccable service, breathtaking views, and unexpected moments of delight, Tabu has firmly established itself as a must-visit destination for discerning gastronomes in Dubai.
For reservations, call 052 950 1309
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