Opened in 2021, casual Japanese dining restaurant Kinoya quickly established itself as a rising star in Dubai’s culinary scene. The menu focuses on ramen and izakaya (traditional Japanese snacks typically enjoyed in a group setting after work), and the combination of authentic food and décor transports diners from the bustling heart of Dubai to the streets of Japan.
Kinoya is located in Onyx Tower 2 and is split into four main areas; ramen bar, main dining room, private chef’s table, and two tatami private dining rooms. The simple, quaint, uncluttered style is reminiscent of a traditional Japanese izakaya, and its simplicity allows the food and the warm, welcoming atmosphere to take centre stage. There’s a cool and trendy feel to this space, along with a warm and welcoming environment essential for any izakaya. Kinoya has proved immensely popular with Dubai residents, and this popularity is reflected by the buzzing atmosphere.
The menu is split into three: izakaya (snacks), yakitori (skewers grilled over charcoal), and more filling ramen dishes. Authentic Japanese elements are in the spotlight; donabe, onsen tamango, dashi and omurice all feature. Among the most popular dishes are the wagyu tsukune skweres dipped in egg yolk and soy sauce, burnt butter scallops, and the onsen egg on rice with dashi. The food is simple, casual and delicious, and the dining experience focuses on good food and good times.
Kinoya also offers a plethora of signature cocktails (some with their ingredients listed, others ominously entitled things like ‘brewing at night’), wines, whiskeys, spirits and beers.