Restaurant review: CHAR x Around The Block
Located inside Nad Al Sheba Mall, CHAR is the latest flame-fired concept from the team behind Around The Block, a homegrown Emirati café brand known for switching things up with every new venture. It's the laid-back coffee haunt you know and love; the grill is lit, the lights are dimmed, and CHAR takes over. Expect bold, char-driven flavours, smoke-licked meats, and cold plates that strike a balance between rich and refreshing. The Vibe
This isn't a high-speed, high-energy kind of place. Instead, CHAR leans into a more relaxed rhythm. It's rather casual, with open flames visible from your seat and a soundtrack that keeps things mellow. The setting evolves throughout the day from a morning coffee shop to low-lit grill bar and the transformation works. The Food and Drinks
The food is where CHAR hits its stride. The chicken shawarma, assembled live in front of you, is a standout. Rich, juicy, and wrapped with house pickles for that ideal balance of punch and tang. The wagyu tenderloin comes bathed in a zaatar truffle butter that elevates it to indulgent perfection. And the Moroccan bread, pillowy and heavy on parmesan, makes for an excellent starter (if you're into cheese). Don't miss the street corn, which brings a good amount of kick and umami thanks to generous parmesan and spice.
To drink? The Coal Cola is CHAR's take on a cleaner, fresher cola, and the Yuzu Kick feels like ginger ale's sharper, cooler cousin. Both are non-alcoholic and exclusive to the venue. Refreshing, surprising, and worth ordering twice, the coffee is a must try, too. The Service
The team is friendly but very laid-back, so don't expect fine-dining polish. The staff move at a relaxed pace, and their casual approach sets the tone across the space and suits a mellow evening.
Something to note: the kitchen closes for an hour around 5pm to prep for dinner service, so time your visit accordingly. What to Order
• Moroccan bread• Street corn• Chicken shawarma • Wagyu tenderloin
• Yuzu Kick and homemade Coal Cola What's On the Bill
Expect to spend around Dhs350 to Dhs450 for two, depending on how many plates and drinks you try. The value is in the flavour and originality. The Final Say
What's On Verdict: Thoughtful, smoky, and refreshingly different. CHAR has all the ingredients to become a cult favourite, but go with patience and a big appetite.
Location: CHAR x Around The Block, Nad Al Sheba Mall, Dubai
Times: Daily, 7am till late
Contact: @charconcept | @aroundtheblock
Reservations: Walk-ins
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