Zuma

Zuma Restaurant Review:

This trendy izakaya-style Japanese concept has been at the forefront of the culinary scene since it opened its doors in 2009. Located in Dubai’s International Financial Centre (DIFC) and with a 300-person seating capacity, Zuma is a powerhouse serving the business lunch crowd plus a steady stream of dinner guests (there’s always a long waiting list for a table, so be sure to book ahead). The kitchen’s approach to modern Japanese cuisine as well as its execution of the menu set a high bar, with dishes ranging from sliced yellowtail with ponzu and pickled garlic, to asparagus with wafu sauce and sesame. There are several specialty items, too, including the miso-marinated black cod, and impeccable sushi displays. Chocolate fondant is among the best of the desserts, with its caramel/chocolaty liquid interior, as is the green tea and banana cake complemented by coconut ice cream and toffee sauce. Although Zuma’s bartenders pride themselves on their drink-making craft with signature cocktails such as the raspberry and passion fruit martini, the wine program comprises a 3,000-bottle cellar and saké from every corner of Japan.