Situated at what is essentially the base of Ain Dubai and taking up an entire upper floor in Bluewaters, Clay has taken on the ambitious challenge of representing Nikkei style Japanese food in an atmospheric, upscale dining destination.
From the street to the suite our culinary curiosity has taken us across more than 25 countries and countless cities where we’ve dived head first into what’s on offer.
From hawker stands to Michelin starred restaurants and everything in between our passion for sharing the good life with those close to us sprouts conversation and opportunity.
For this we are eternally grateful.
Thanks for stopping by.
All in Asian Flavors
Situated at what is essentially the base of Ain Dubai and taking up an entire upper floor in Bluewaters, Clay has taken on the ambitious challenge of representing Nikkei style Japanese food in an atmospheric, upscale dining destination.
There’s a lot going on at Aramada Avenue, including Cafe Isan which now has a brilliant roof top terrace to compliment their indoor space and it seems it’s the place to be - especially on weekends.
I’m not prone to get excited about places that don’t spell their names properly, and no I’m not old fashioned - it’s just that gimmicks like that (that used be cool in say the 90’s) are pretty much played out. Anyhoo….
This is not a review about bob haircuts or nostalgia though we may make glancing references to both when waxing lyrical about Mimi Kakushi.
I think I’ve been to most of the Japanese restaurants in the city and each of course has its own style and hook. That said, there are many good ones - some less so, regardless, few poses the sheer gravitas of authenticity that you’ll find at Fujiya.
Japonisme, Wabi Sabi, Ikagai, they all sound like exotic Japanese culinary delicacies. They’re not, but they are books about the various philosophies that encompass the Japanese way of life. One of these words also heralds the arrival of a new Japanese street food tavern to the Marina.
Is this really the new Home of Asian Street Food? In place of what used to be the Crab Shack, (which for whatever reason didn't quite make it), comes the highly thematic Mr Miyagi's with a fly kick in the face to the old establishment...
From Professional snowboarder in Colorado to head chef of Nobu and battler of Bad Bobby Flay on Iron Chef, seems Akira Back has an interesting story and with the W Palm finally opening we just had to check it out.
Taking inspiration from Japanese cooking techniques and blending them with Western ingredients to create an East meets West sense of fusion, Morimoto Dubai - the first Middle East restaurant to brandish the legendary Morimoto name promises to be something different and there’s only one way to find out - Brunch it!
So The Pointe is starting to hit its straps now, will many outlets finally up an running. One of the much awaited venues to open its doors is the Asian District. Based around the idea of a Hawker Hall and taking notable design cues from the likes of Mr. Miyagi’s, the Asian District presents a large and open format eatery that showcases cuisine from Japan, China, Thailand, Singapore, Korea and Vietnam.
Back in the day you could bet every Friday was all about brunching. These days, I have to admit that I don’t get along to that many. There’s a few reasons, waistline, lack of time and the value proposition has become less enticing over the years. That’s not to say that they’re aren’t some fantastic brunches out there. From high to lower end, there’s a plethora of opportunities to stuff yourself silly from midday till 4pm.
This is not a glamorous restaurant that smacks of style, however it is obvious that there is a level of passion and love that goes into the dishes at this home-style eatery that shines through in every bite.
The place seems to take a few cues from Mr Miyagi and is covered in graffiti from floor to ceiling and of course has a thousand brightly colored lanterns jammed in there too. The street art is nicely done thanks to the skills of local artist Ramy Elzaghawy. As a venue it is quite unique in so far as one whole side of it opens up directly to the sidewalk, so when the weather is with you, this will be a great night spot to people watch and munch on some Asian Street Food.
Wise Kwai is set in an intimate dining room space on the first floor of Dusit Thani's latest property in Barsha Heights. Seemingly a culinary tribute to one of Thailand's most famous movie critics, the interiors strive to deliver a cinematic feel. The styling features some quirky elements, like the wood block stamps, large overhead light boxes with Asian inspired motifs and the old school cameras and movie projector.
We visit the new Japanese - Peruvian fusion experience on the Palm called Aji.
Shrouded in mystery and located deep within the confines of the Majestic Hotel you may find Miss Wang. You will need to work hard to seek her out as she is deliberately hard to catch. To gain her culinary affections your journey will include a flight of stairs and you will need to follow the stenciled signs to find your way.
An amazing place to visit and be a part of some excellent fusion concept cuisine. The crowd is picking up a little more these days so the vibe is a little livelier, especially as ladies night gains more momentum.