Dubai is no stranger to high-end Japanese restaurants.
Heck, it’s become one of the most popular cuisines on the planet. So any new Japanese restaurant wanting to make a name for itself on the dining scene either must do something notably different – or be notably great to stand out. And that’s where Katsuya comes in.
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Katsu means victory in Japanese, and this location is betting on its new location, service and fusion-focused food brings it the win in this crowded genre of cuisine.
The new restaurant – located in Jumeirah’s Al Naseem Hotel – was actually designed by the celebrated French designer, Philippe Starck. In fact, if the roof was to be removed it the floorplan would look like a Bento box. As such, the restaurant is all straight lines and compartments, and looks visually stunning. There’s also an outdoor terrace, overlooking Jumeirah’s rescue turtle lagoon.
The food is certainly more contemporary than traditional, including dishes such as the Edamame Hummus, which is exclusive to this Dubai location. However, all the usual Japanese staples are there in some way shape or form, including the Wagyu Tenderloin Yakitori.
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But one of its signature dishes is surely the Hollywood Roll. So named after Chef Katsuya’s Hollywood Location – which was his first – the roll has become popular amongst the location’s celebrity clientele.
The roll is a combination of warm and crunchy on the inside – thanks to the shrimp tempura – and raw and creamy on the outside, thanks to the albacore tartar.
In fact, this amazing roll is one of the most popular dishes ordered across all Katsuya’s locations, which span as far and wise as South Beach and Las Vegas.
