In a city where beach clubs are as abundant as grains of sand, Tagomago —the lovechild of La Cantine Du Faubourg, Ninive, and Mimi Kakushi—must do more than just turn heads to stand out. Channeling the spirit of Tagomago Island in Ibiza, this charming destination weaves Spanish staples and fresh seafood into the fabric of Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah.
Tucked away at the base of the palm’s trunk, Tagomago welcomes beachcombers to its sandy abode with a charming, lighthouse restaurant building. If there’s one thing the designers learned, it is how to wicker their way into Instagram’s heart; wooden furniture wrapped in ship rope and beachy vibes make for one very photogenic place.
“Tagomago’s ambiance is so relaxed, it’s practically napping in a sunhat”
Tagomago’s ambiance is so relaxed, it’s practically napping in a sunhat. Say adios to throbbing electro tunes and hola to the mellow embrace of Spanish guitar melodies— a welcome respite from the norm, even if it tiptoes towards cliché. Fashionable patrons bask in the Dubai sun, sharing plates of tantalizing bites, albeit rather grudgingly.
Drinks at Tagomago aren’t merely a sidekick either; the sangria jugs—red, white, and sparkling rosé—are the belles of the beach, be it beside the water or complementing your dining experience. Service at Tagomago is as impressive, particularly given the restaurant’s magnetic draw for Dubai’s elite. Alas, our pleas for ice were ignored. Perhaps they were merely drowned out by the establishment’s overwhelming popularity.
Tagomago’s Spanish cuisine is as satisfyingly unpretentious as it is delicious. The tortilla, croquets, sautéed mussels, and clams are authentic and filling, while the squid ink paella satisfies the cravings of four seafood aficionados—or two particularly ravenous diners.
When all is said and done, Tagomago brings a refreshing touch of Spanish charm to Dubai’s Palm. It boasts a relaxed and unpretentious ‘Spanish seaside’ atmosphere, and caters to both the eye and the palate. It’s good food by the beach. In the end, isn’t that what life is all about?