In a city constantly chasing the next new thing, finding a place that feels both fresh and considered is rare. Dubai’s dining scene is known for its theatrics, but every now and then, a restaurant emerges that feels like it was designed to draw you in slowly – through atmosphere, detail, and the promise of something just under the surface. XU is one of those places.
Tucked away on the second floor of Kempinski Mall of the Emirates, XU doesn’t make a grand entrance. Instead, it reveals itself gradually past a softly glowing corridor and into a space that’s equal parts opulent and offbeat. Lanterns swing overhead, mirrored ceilings distort the light, and velvet banquettes in animal prints bring a touch of playful decadence. Whether seated by the open kitchen or out on the secluded terrace, guests are met with an experience that feels curated yet effortlessly cool.
The food follows suit. Rooted in Cantonese cuisine with accents from across Southeast Asia, the menu plays with texture, heat, and richness. Dishes like the Chef’s signature XU Cherry Wood Peking Duck, Chicken Hot Pot with eryngii mushrooms, and King Soy-glazed Wagyu Ribeye are standout signatures, while the dim sum offering ticks all the classic boxes – think Chicken Shumai, Har Gow, and Crispy Cheung Fun. Seafood lovers can go off-menu with diver scallops or lobster, and those looking for something stronger can lean into the bar’s cocktail list, where each drink nods to Chinese cinema or pop culture.
During the week, the energy is more understated. The Business Lunch (Monday to Friday, noon to 3pm) offers a chance to escape the rush with a clean, concise set menu that still packs a punch. Two starters and a main – options like Duck Rolls, Steamed Sea Bream, and Mapo Tofu – are served with jasmine rice and bok choy, making for a quick lunch that doesn’t sacrifice flavour or finesse.
Saturdays, though, are when XU fully leans into its flair for storytelling. Brunchflix, the venue’s weekly movie-themed brunch, transforms the space into a live set. Each month, a new cinematic theme shapes the music, décor, and entertainment. There are DJs, roaming performers, and interactive food stations, all building toward the restaurant’s signature karaoke session. It’s theatrical, yes, but with a dose of self-awareness that keeps it grounded (and fun).
As part of the RIKAS Hospitality Group – the team behind Mimi Kakushi, Ninive, and Lana Lusa – XU joins a portfolio known for stylish dining with substance. But it holds its own by offering a more enigmatic energy. There’s detail in every corner, but nothing feels overly polished. You could visit twice in a week and still spot something new.
For those looking to step out of the obvious, XU offers something that lingers – a reminder that dining, when done right, can still surprise you.