I was recently in the mood for sushi and knew Izakaya is a highly recommended place to visit, and I obviously couldn’t miss the opportunity to satisfy my cravings. The restaurant’s meticulous design harmoniously blends modern sophistication with subtle traditional Japanese elements. Lively, funky and experiential, Izakaya is the Japanese word for Social Sushi and is known to be a great place to share food and fun with friends. So I put it to the test, and here is a review of my experience.

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Featuring Dubai’s only robatayaki grill, Izakaya also has a tempting teppanyaki and sushi menu with authentic Japanese delights like Wasabi and Green Tea Ice-cream. A cool and upbeat place to socialize, Izakaya showcases integrated Japanese influences of cutting-edge technology, quirky pop music and unique Harajuku-styled servers. Izakaya has also won 3 What’s on Awards:
~ Favourite Japanese Restaurant 2017 – What’s On Dubai
~ Favourite Japanese Restaurant below AED 400 – What’s On Awards Dubai 2018
~ Favourite Japanese Restaurant below AED 400 – What’s On Awards Dubai 2023

 My Initial Thoughts

The ambiance at Izakaya was immediately striking and was carefully curated by the attentive staff, who demonstrated a deep understanding of the importance of creating a captivating environment. The discreet yet attentive service seamlessly complemented the ambiance, ensuring that every moment was filled with a sense of sophistication and refinement.

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The open layout of the restaurant allowed for a seamless flow throughout the restaurant. They offered a variety of dining spaces, each exuding its own distinct charm. Whether nestled in cozy booths or seated at the elegant Teppanyaki tables, every corner of the restaurant provided an intimate setting for guests to enjoy their culinary journey. I sat at the Teppanyaki tables so that I could have an up close and personal view enjoy the teppanyaki experience.

And Now What We All Have Been Waiting For, How Was The Food At Izakaya?

At first glance you could clearly tell the menu showcased a tantalising fusion of traditional Japanese cuisine with innovative contemporary twists. The sushi offerings at Izakaya were a true testament to the chef’s mastery of the craft. Each meticulously crafted piece was a work of art, beautifully presented on elegant plates. The freshness of the seafood, the expertly seasoned rice, and the delicate touch of wasabi combined harmoniously, creating an exquisite symphony of textures and flavours.

The theatre of the open kitchen revealed skilled chefs expertly grilling an array of succulent meats, seafood, and vegetables over glowing charcoal. The smoky aromas permeated the air, heightening my anticipation for the culinary treasures that awaited. The charred exterior and tender interior of each dish, infused with tantalising marinades and spices, showcased the artistry and precision of Japanese grilling techniques.

Teppanyaki: Igniting Your Senses With Culinary Magic

Picture a sizzling stage, bathed in the warm glow of dancing flames, where skilled chefs masterfully orchestrate a symphony of flavours right before you. The aroma of perfectly marinated meats, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices fills the air, enticing your taste buds with each aromatic swirl. The rhythmic clanging of spatulas against the iron griddle creates a captivating beat, building anticipation for the exquisite feast about to unfold. Your gaze fixes upon the chef’s expert hands, effortlessly manoeuvring the ingredients with a graceful finesse that borders on artistry. As the first morsel of succulent meat lands on your plate, seared to perfection, your senses awaken with delight. Every bite is a harmonious blend of smoky char, tender juiciness, and a symphony of complex flavours that dance upon your palate. Teppanyaki, a world where culinary prowess meets sensory bliss, beckons you to succumb to its allure, leaving you forever transformed by the magic of the grill.

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And finally no dinner is truly ever complete without dessert, and what an experience it was here. The dessert selection offered a delightful green tea Mochi paired with freshly sliced seasonal fruit. The soft and tender green tea Mochi had a mild sweetness that perfectly complemented the fragrant and earthy flavours of the tea. With each bite, the chewy texture of the Mochi combined harmoniously with the juicy fruits. It was a delightful treat and a perfect end to the dinner.

The Overall Izakaya Experience

Izakaya absolutely succeeded in creating an environment that was a true escape from the ordinary. From the moment I entered, I felt transported to a world where time slowed down, allowing me to savor every moment and indulge in the culinary wonders before me. I spent enjoyable moments with my friends the entire evening and created budding memories that will last a lifetime.

The knowledgeable and passionate team goes above and beyond to ensure that every guest feels valued and cared for throughout their dining experience. It is a place where all the elements of an exceptional dining experience seamlessly come together, creating an enchanting atmosphere that lingers in the memory long after the meal is over. It was a most enjoyable dining experience that I hope I can recreate again very soon.

Located in JW Marriott Marquis Dubai in Business Bay, open from 6pm to 12am daily, you can make a table booking here or call make a reservation on this number +9714 414 3000. And see their website here.

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