Latest news with #Hanu
What's On
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- What's On
Review: Hanu, an interactive new Korean restaurant
In Dubai's burgeoning restaurant scene, a handful of restaurants make an instant impact. Sushisamba was one such restaurant, which brought a trifecta of excellent views, dishes and vibes to the Palm Tower in 2021. The man who can be credited with much of the success on the culinary front is chef Kyung Soo Moon, the restaurant's then-executive chef. But now he's turned his attention back to his roots for Hanu, a modern interpretation of Korean cuisine. Found at St Regis Gardens, it's in good company with restaurants like Leña, Aretha, Chez Wam and Tresind Studio among its neighbours. Once inside, we're met with dark and moody interiors with intricate attention to detail. Rich dark walnut woods, striking artworks and Korean pine trees lace the traditional with more contemporary accents befitting of a glamourous new Dubai restaurant. You enter through the lounge and bar where a DJ spins enigmatic beats that are thankfully not overpowering, through to a table in the restaurant. If you're unfamiliar with Korean BBQ, the knowledgeable team are on-hand to make recommendations, and confidently talk us through the concept and must-try dishes. The wagyu beef gyoza (Dhs68) are one such dish, piping hot parcels of Japanese A5 wagyu short rib and shiitake mushroom encased in a dough that's the perfect level of crispy and tender. Forget everything you know about vegetables and order the Korean fried cauliflower (Dhs65), coated in a spicy sauce and served with a side of yuja radish to balance the heat. The almost-too-pretty-to-eat beef tartelette (Dhs110) is another playful interpretation of classic Korean flavours, with a soft quail egg marinated in soy sauce, served on top of a tartelette of beef jongjorim, a layer of caviar giving it a Dubai elevation. To truly get a taste of Korean BBQ, order the 'Meat Me At The Grill' (Dhs365 per person), where you'll be served four cuts of premium meat with a selection of sides, condiments and a stew. It's a generous offering – much like it would be if you dined at Chef Moon's family home – given added wow-factor with the meats cooked on the charcoal grill built into each table. Each buttery cut of meat is full of flavour and perfectly cooked, from the Australian Black Angus to the Japanese A4 Wagyu striploin. For dessert, a beautifully presented golden pear delight (Dhs63) is a light and fresh way to end the meal. Diced Korean pear is paired with a walnut crumble and a scoop of tonka bean ice cream. Verdict: A focus on quality cuisine and service makes this a restaurant deserving of a place on your foodie bucket list. Hanu, St Regis Gardens, Palm Jumeirah, 6pm to 1am Sun to Weds, 6pm to 2am Thurs to Sat. Tel: (0)4 278 4844. @hanu_dubai > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Khaleej Times
18-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Dubai restaurant review: Hanu offers a journey into Korean culture
S omething that was painfully missing from Dubai's fine dining scene was a truly high-end Korean restaurant. When it comes to Japanese, South American, or Mediterranean cuisine, Dubai diners are spoilt for choice — but luxury Korean dining was the hole in the city's foodie heart just waiting to be filled. Then along came Hanu. The cool calm of Korean culture floods the senses the second you walk through the doors. The interiors are adorned with soft charcoal tones, embossed with traditional Korean patterns and symbolic imagery across the walls and ceiling. As we sat down, we were instantly drawn to the gold circular grill built into our table, and our minds immediately began whirring with visions of high-grade meats sizzling on the hot grates. We were given a warm welcome by our waiter, Travis, who talked us through the menu — a collection of fresh interpretations of traditional Korean dishes. We tried the A5 Wagyu gyoza topped with bamboo, which were delicious from their crispy bottoms to their oozing centres — the ideal first bite. We also opted for the KFC (Korean Fried Cauliflower), a perfect marriage of sweet and spicy. Travis suggested we try the raw red prawn, marinated for 24 hours in a soy and citrus concoction — a refreshing bite that played beautifully off the richer starters. For the main event, we couldn't wait to try the 'Meat Me at the Grill' — a series of highly graded beef cuts, grilled at the centre of our table and served with an array of kimchi and traditional Korean pickles. The meat parade began with Australian Black Angus, followed by Australian Wagyu MB 6-7, then Japanese Wagyu striploin, and finally the Yangnyeom Short Rib Galbi. This decadent selection of rich, fatty, flavour-packed cuts epitomised Korean BBQ and showcased Hanu's commitment to quality ingredients, bold flavour, and elevated dining. The beautifully grilled meats didn't overpower the senses, thanks to the in-table BBQ's golden grates, which cleverly vented stronger smells away from the diner. As the chef explained, this seemingly small detail can dramatically enhance the experience — a perfect example of the careful attention Hanu gives to each individual guest. The meat course was accompanied by steamed rice and a traditional kimchi stew or Budae Jjigae (Army Stew), which was deliciously warming with a real kick. We also enjoyed a bowl of cold noodles, mixed with wafer-thin sliced mushrooms and fresh herbs — a dish that beautifully counterbalanced the heat, fat, and acidity of the mains. The dining experience came to a harmonious close with some Hodugwaja — Korean walnut pastries. These sweet, doughy pockets, filled with red bean paste and chopped walnuts, were served on a bed of whole, unshelled walnuts for extra flair. This experience was hard to fault — from the calming surroundings to the warm, friendly service, the spectacular food, and the non-pretentious theatrics, it was truly something special. A perfect spot for a birthday or any kind of celebration.
What's On
14-03-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
Hanu is now open from today: A new era of Korean food in Dubai
Hanu is about to change how you think about Korean food in Dubai… After much anticipation, Hanu – the new Korean fine-dining restaurant – has finally opened it doors, today. At What's On we were lucky enough to get a sneak peek before now. Let me tell you – this place is a whole vibe, worth every bit of the wait. We got our first look (and taste), and everything about it tells me it's set to stand out in Dubai's ever-growing scene. No doubt – Hanu brings a new era of Korean food in Dubai, and it's got our foodie stamp of approval. The vibe View this post on Instagram A post shared by What's On Dubai (@whatsondubai) The journey starts at the entrance – a hammered bronze door that swings open into a space that's equal parts tradition and edge. Think modern Korean dining room meets royal heritage. Dark walnut wood, carved beam ceilings, gold accents, intricate artwork, antique Korean furniture, and stacked roof tiles – every detail is intentional. The lighting? Just right – dimmed, warm, easy on the eye, and setting the perfect chill mode. The chef And then, there's Chef Kyung Soo Moon. Born and raised in Seoul, with 24 years of global experience at spots like Sushisamba, Attiko Dubai, and Sachi, he's not just running the Hanu kitchen, he's the heart of it all. Before we even sat down, he took us on a tour, sharing stories about Korean cuisine, art, and traditions with a level of passion that you could feel. I never thought I'd have a favourite chef in Dubai, but then I met Chef Moon. The food Now, let's get into it – the food. There's a saying that 'the secret ingredient is always love,' and that's exactly how this meal felt. Every dish reflected Chef Moon's passion for Korean cuisine. We kicked things off with a selection of Korean Seasonal Hansang Snacks, Kimchi Arancini, Beef Tartelette with Caviar, and the one we couldn't stop eating – K.F.C. (Korean Fried Cauliflower), which was the kind of crispy, addictive bite you'd want a whole bucket of. Meat Me at the Grill Then came the main event: 'Meat Me at the Grill.' Chef Moon himself was at the table, grilling crispy Bulgogi – thinly sliced, 24-hour marinated beef – along with other cuts so tender they barely needed chewing. If you love your meat, this is where you need to be. But if you don't? The vegetarian options hold their own. For a more traditional fix, the Sotbap rice dishes bring comfort and depth, while the Korean specialties include classics like Kimchi Stew and Grilled Lamb Chop Galbi. The Prawn Soy Jang and Seafood Ceviche are perfect for those who like their flavours raw. And if you're into oversized Kimbap hand rolls, they've got those too. Dessert sealed the deal. Matcha Bingsu, a green tea shaved ice that was light and refreshing, followed by Hodugwaja – warm, crispy Korean walnut cookies filled with red bean paste and actual walnuts. The kind of bite you pop into your mouth, thinking you'll stop at one, and suddenly, they're all gone. So, was it worth the hype? Absolutely. Walking into Hanu felt like stepping into a world of its own – every plate, every detail, a testament to Korean tradition with a modern twist. And Chef Moon? it's safe to say he's earned a special place in my list of culinary legends. Will I go back? No question. Verdict: A must-try, especially for meat lovers – Hanu has earned our foodie stamp of approval. Hanu, Nakheel Mall, St. Regis Gardens, Palm Jumeirah, open from March 14. Tel: (0)4 278 4844. @hanu_dubai Images: Supplied
What's On
12-03-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
10 new restaurants in Dubai to check out right now
Dubai's dining scene never slows down, and this March, it's heating up with an exciting line-up of new restaurants in Dubai. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly Korean grill, a soulful celebration of Emirati cuisine, or a playful night of crazy golf with friends, there's no shortage of new restaurants in Dubai, and March is looking deliciously diverse. Here are the best new restaurants in Dubai to add to your foodie bucket list this March. Ruby Ru by Iris The team behind Iris has launched Ruby Ru by Iris, now open at The Marriott Marquis Dubai, Jewel of the Creek. Inspired by Parisian sidewalk cafés, this open-air bar and restaurant offers 180° views of Dubai's skyline. Step through its arched entrance into a stylish terrace with a sleek bar and chic dining area. The space balances classic elegance with modern design, featuring rich marbles, warm woods, and soft fabrics. The menu brings French-Japanese flavours to the table, with highlights like Wagyu Beef Sando, Octopus Tiradito, Japanese-Style Hot Stone Steak, and Whole Sea Bass. Ruby Ru by Iris, Marriott Marquis Dubai, Jewel of the Creek, Port Saeed, Dubai. @rubyrudubai Ken by Kamatsuda Meat lovers, rejoice – Ken is the dining experience you've been waiting for. Opening this February, this sleek Japanese restaurant is all about melt-in-your-mouth Awa Wagyu, flown straight from Japan and served in an exquisite omakase-style menu. Paired with fresh seafood prepared with precision, Ken's focus is craftsmanship and flavour. Whether you're a lover of Wagyu or just feeling adventurous to try something new, Ken promises a dining experience that's as exciting as it is delicious. Ken by Kamatsuda, The Dubai EDITION Hotel, Downtown. @kenbykamatsuda Hanu Nestled in the serene surroundings of St Regis Gardens on the Palm, Hanu promises a unique twist on contemporary Korean cuisine. This intimate eatery, brought to you by Sunset Hospitality (the minds behind Sushisamba and Baoli), is one of the new restaurants in Dubai to look forward to, offering an atmospheric blend of traditional and modern design, complete with Korean artwork and a private dining lounge centred around a striking pine tree. Expect bold flavours with a show-stopping highlight: 'Meat Me at the Grill.' Guests can play grill master as tables feature bespoke charcoal grills, with waiters preparing premium cuts of meat tableside. Paired with serene alfresco views and innovative dishes like oversized kimbap handrolls, Hanu offers a dining experience as playful as it is delicious. Hanu, St Regis Gardens, Nakheel Mall, Palm Jumeirah, opening March. @hanu_dubai Gerbou A love letter to Emirati culture, Gerbou is a homegrown gem opening this February in Nad Al Sheba. Meaning 'welcome to my humble abode,' Gerbou combines sustainable dining with deep-rooted cultural reverence. Housed in a renovated 1987 building, its design reflects warm Arab textures with a modern twist, creating a cosy yet refined ambiance. The menu dives deep into traditional Emirati flavours with a modern touch, making it a perfect spot to honour heritage or simply enjoy a soulful dining experience that feels distinctly Dubai. Gerbou, Nad Al Sheba, opening February. @gerbou Girl & the Goose Girl & the Goose is a space built on history and home-style comfort. A terracotta-framed entrance sets the tone, leading into an intimate dining room with rust-red furniture, rattan details, and traditional arches. At the centre, an open kitchen brings diners up close to the action, where Chef Gabi prepares dishes with the same warmth and energy as her supper club days. The menu leans into bold, time-honoured flavours. Crispy duck flautas are rich and smoky, balanced by a tart and spicy salsa. The nacatamal de pollo, a traditional masa dish slow-cooked in banana leaves, is soft and deeply satisfying. Steak tacos come stacked with herby chimichurri and chili mayo, while Nicaraguan empanadas bring a mix of sharp goat cheese and caramelised onion. It's Central American food with a sharp point of view –rooted in tradition but made for today. Girl & the Goose, Restaurante Centroamericano, Anantara Downtown, daily, 12pm to 1am, Tel: (0) 52 772 9888, @ Swingers For a playful twist on dining, check out Swingers on Bluewaters Island. Spanning 22,000 square feet over two floors, Swingers is a crazy golf venue with three creative courses inspired by classic English themes. Highlights include a hot air balloon course and Dubai-exclusive speakeasy lounge for private events. Whether you're rallying the crew for a night of friendly competition or planning a fun group hang, Swingers blends mini-golf madness with laid-back, cool vibes. Swingers, Bluewaters Island. Tel: (0)4 557 6309 . @swingers_uae Dine by day, dance by night at KIRA & LITT The team behind CLAP is back with KIRA Restaurant and LITT Bar Club, opening March 14 at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. Two sides of the same light – KIRA offers a menu rooted in Mediterranean and Japanese flavours, with a focus on wild-caught seafood, robot-fired meats, and handcrafted pasta. The terrace is a laid-back outdoor space with uninterrupted views of Burj Al Arab. As the night moves on, LITT picks up the pace. Located inside KIRA with its own entrance, it's a nightlife spot built around music, atmosphere, and an incredible cocktail list that puts agave spirits at the forefront. Ready to experience both worlds? Reservations are now open. KIRA Restaurant, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab Hotel, opening March 14, daily 12pm – 2am. @kirarestaurant LITT Bar Club, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab Hotel, opening March 14, Tuesday to Saturday 9pm – 3am. @littbarclub Folly Brasserie Foodies were heartbroken when Folly and its Madinat Jumeirah sibling, Publique, closed their doors in 2024. But true to his promise, Gates Hospitality founder Naim Maddad is bringing Folly back with a fresh new chapter. Now known as Folly Brasserie, this iconic spot gets a fresh start at Address Montgomerie in Emirates Hills, promising a new chapter that feels just as exciting as the original. While the details remain under wraps, the excitement for this new restaurant in Dubai is building for its February debut. Expect the same culinary excellence Folly fans adore, now in a stunning new setting. Folly Brasserie, Address Montgomerie, Emirates Hills. @follydubai Revolver Revolver Dubai has landed at The Opus by Omniyat, bringing its fire-fuelled South Asian flavours from Singapore to Business Bay. At its heart, an open wood-fired grill, brazier, and tandoor set the stage for Michelin-starred Chef Jitin Joshi's bold approach to cooking. Expect a menu built on smoke, spice, and technique, with standouts like the signature lobster Manchurian and the portobello mushroom steak, marinated for 24 hours before hitting the flames. Revolver Dubai delivers a unique twist on traditional South Asian flavours, setting a new standard for flavour-packed dining in the city. Revolver Dubai, The Opus by Omniyat, Business Bay, Tel: (0) 4 257 9334, reservations@ The Beam A fresh new dining experience is lighting up Dubai's culinary scene with the arrival of The Beam. Set within the lush surroundings of Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa, this homegrown concept by Chef Nick Alvis is all about a laid-back bistro-style experience. The menu features simple flavours, with a focus on seasonal, responsibly sourced ingredients. Whether you're craving the freshest seafood from the restaurant's signature counter or unwinding with a drink at the terrace bar, The Beam is a must-visit for those who love great food without the fuss. The Beam, Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa. @thebeamdubai Images: Supplied/Instagram
Emirates Woman
03-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Emirates Woman
A guide to the best events in the UAE this March
Life by Alice Holtham-Pargin 5 hours ago It's March in the UAE, which means alfresco workouts, lovely iftars, and a stunning new hotel stay. Here are 10 brilliant new things to do in Dubai and Abu Dhabi in March 2025. From March 14: Check-in at a dazzling new address Long-awaited Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab is open for stays from March 14. Promising elevated stays in an oceanic-inspired setting, the property is set in perfectly landscaped gardens and will house an array of room categories with balconies, pampering Talise spa and gourmet restaurants. A fine dining collection of almost a dozen places to drink and dine will include a sleek new steakhouse, The Cullinan; Japanese-Mediterranean fusion fare at Kira; and Kinugawa, a modern Izakaya that hails from the South of France. Room rates start AED4,465. From March: Tuck in at a new homegrown restaurant View this post on Instagram A post shared by HANU Dubai (@hanu_dubai) Opening this month at St Regis Gardens is Hanu, a new homegrown concept from Sunset Hospitality – the culinary creators behind Signor Sassi, Sushisamba and Mott 32 in Dubai. While the city may be saturated with Italian, Japanese and Mediterranean restaurants, Hanu promises a new take on contemporary Korean cuisine, a largely untapped market in Dubai's dining scene. At the culinary helm, chef Kyung Soo Moon, responsible for making Sushisamba one of Dubai's most talked-about dining destinations, who promises to present bold takes on Korean classics. Tables featuring charcoal grills will allow for interactive dining, where guests can grill their own meat to order. @hanu_dubai Daily: Shop 'till you drop at a Sporty & Rich pop-up View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sporty & Rich (@sportyandrich) Started by influencer Emily Oberg a decade ago, Sporty & Rich is the elevated athleisure brand inspired by the images of the jet-set enjoying sporting pursuits from the 80s and 90s. Graphic logos and slogans adorn soft cotton pieces that include hoodies and sweats and sports and tees, ideally for dressing up or down. You've been able to shop Sporty & Rich at Bloomingdales online for some time, but you can also visit the brand's cafe and pop-up at Bloomingdales Dubai Mall for a limited time. View this post on Instagram A post shared by RUBY RU by Iris (@rubyrudubai) From the team behind Iris comes Ruby Ru, a lovely new outdoor bar at Marriott Marquis Dubai, Jewel of the Creek. Gazing out over 180-degree views from the terrace, Ruby Ru is a relaxed ode to the cosy cafes that line pretty Parisian sidewalks with its laidback decor and charming feel. On the menu, enjoy French-Japanese plates designed to share, while the cocktail menu promises refreshing sips perfect for sunsets with friends. @rubyrudubai Tuesdays and Sundays: Find your zen with yoga by the beach View this post on Instagram A post shared by SEVEN (@sevenwellness) Take your workout alfresco this month with SEVEN Wellness. The emporium of all things fitness and wellness in Al Quoz is teaming up with chic Verde Beach to offer new yoga classes by the beach every Tuesday and Sunday. Wake up with a session so serious stretching backdropped by Burj Al Arab views and the sounds of the gently lapping waves with a 9am class on the beach. You'll need to bring your own mat and water, and can stick around afterwards for a healthy breakfast of avo toast or an acai bowl with coffee or healthy juices (paid separately). Book via the Seven Wellness app. @sevenwellness Burj Al Arab's first ever Ramadan tent, Al Dina, promises to be a dazzling setting for iftar this Holy Month. A collection of three rotating iftar menus have been curated by chef Solayman Hasan, Al Iwan's head chef, and promise elevated Arabic cuisine laced with contemporary flair. Guests can look forward to live cooking stations serving chicken shawarmas and mixed seafood barbeques, plus regional dishes like vegetable tagine, chicken biriyani and veal harries. @jumeirahburjalarab Daily: Stretch it out at a new Pilates studio Newly opened in Jumeirah is Plume, a two-floor space that's transformed a whitewashed villa into a beautifully zen wellness studio. On the ground floor, quiet spaces for relaxation and remote work feature alongside a Bali-inspired plunge pool and yoga studio, while upstairs, reformer Pilates classes take place in a lovely and bright studio. There's also a space for private Pilates classes and sports massage. Get your first class for AED89, then AED190 thereafter. @ Until March 29: Enjoy suhoor at an open-air pop-up Saadiyat Nights may be over, but the beautiful open-air venue in Abu Dhabi remains open this month for Layali Ramadan, a suhoor under the stars from 9pm to 3am. An array of dining options have been arranged for visitors to enjoy treats from Lento, Aptitude cafe, Glaze Bakehouse and more, as well as being able to shop at a souk-like experience and enjoy local performances and games. On weekends, activities like calligraphy and henna offer more local flavour. @saadiyatnights March 21 to 23: Be amazed by an illusionist America's Got Talent's logic-defying illusionist Rob Lake will perform at Dubai World Trade Centre for three nights this March. Prepare to be dazzled by the kind of tricks you never thought possible at the family-friendly show. Tickets start from AED195. March 8 + 9 & 15 +16: Be part of a creative community at Alserkal Avenue For two weekends this Ramadan Alserkal Avenue presents Interrupting Patterns. Cutting across forms and genres of poetry, performance, film, and theatre, the programme explores what unfolds when you loosen your grip and break from routine. Expect live performances at The Yard, a tatreez circle where guests can stitch their own stories at Kave, special screenings at Cinema Akil, plus there's creative workshops for writing, illustration and photography. It's happening 8pm to midnight both weekends.
