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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
What's On
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
5 of the best restaurants in Dubai this week: May 26 to 29
Here's what's cooking this week… New week, new reasons not to cook and book a table instead. From chef collabs to menus made for golden hour, here's what's catching our eye (and appetite) at 5 of the best restaurants in Dubai right now. HANU For one night only, HANU at St. Regis Gardens is hosting a culinary crossover worth clearing your calendar for. On May 28, Chef Kyung Soo Moon joins forces with Emirati pitmaster Hattem Mattar for a one-off menu layering refined Korean tradition with smoky barbecue. Offer: Expect creative plates like Sujuk Gyoza with kimchi hummus (Dhs68), Cast Iron Scallop with prosciutto and kimchi butter (Dhs95), Smoked Duck Tteokbokki with black sesame (Dhs82), and a Wagyu Bulgogi Bibimbap reimagined with Mattar's signature smoke (Dhs98). Dessert? Kunafa Bingsu (Dhs65) – a sweet nod to both cuisines. When: May 28 Where: HANU, St. Regis Gardens, Palm Jumeirah Contact: (0)4 278 4844. @hanu_dubai Magadan Set against one of Dubai's most iconic sunset backdrops, Golden Hour at Magadan is giving your afternoons a serious glow-up. Offer: Golden Hour menu with sushi, seafood appetisers, and cocktails Timings: Daily from 3pm to 7pm Location: Magadan, The Club, Palm West Beach Contact: (0)50 407 1735. @magadandubai Derwandi Derwandi, known for its lively Lebanese vibe, has launched 'From Sea to Table' at both Dubai and Abu Dhabi locations. This seafood-focused set menu highlights coastal Beirut dishes with a modern twist. The menu features mezze, char-grilled seabass, shrimp fatteh, and Samkeh Harra Beiroutiyeh, all served with Derwandi's signature warm hospitality. Offer: From Sea to Table set menu Timings: Available now, lunch and dinner Location: Derwandi, Jumeirah 2, Dubai Contact: (0)4 385 0800. @derwandi OAnjo Located above the city at Sheraton Mall of the Emirates, OAnjo invites diners to skip the menu and let the chef take the lead. Its Omakase Experience is a rotating tasting menu built around seasonal Japanese favourites and a few surprises. Offer: Omakase tasting menu, priced at Dhs150 for 3 courses, Dhs180 for 5 courses, Dhs210 for 7 courses Timings: Tuesday to Sunday Location: OAnjo, Sheraton Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Contact: (0)4 377 2007. @oanjo Atrangi by Ritu Dalmia Atrangi at Al Qasr has introduced a new menu that leans into the kind of Indian food most people rarely see outside of home kitchens. Designed by chef Ritu Dalmia, it's a deep cut into lesser-known regions, with dishes that span from coastal spice to hearty grains and preserved meats. Offer: New à la carte menu now available Timings: Daily, lunch and dinner Location: Atrangi by Ritu Dalmia, Jumeirah Al Qasr, Dubai Contact: (0)4 366 6750. @atrangidubai > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
What's On
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
5 of the best restaurants in Dubai this week: May 19 to 22
Five reasons to not cook this week… Dubai's food scene is always in full swing, and if your calendar isn't already filling up with lunch dates and dinner plans, it's about to. From buzzy reopenings to menu glow-ups, here are 5 of the best restaurants in Dubai to check out this week. Taverna Greek Kitchen What: A beloved homegrown Greek gem returns with a new aesthetic Vibe: Elegant Greek taverna meets modern Dubai – bright, breezy, and right on the water, with a live Greek singer Menu: A mix of comforting classics and creative twists: daily-changing Skopelitiki pie, sea bream ceviche with Bloody Mary vibes, roasted sea bass with Mediterranean veg, and grilled whole calamari. Don't miss the prawns saganaki. When: Now open; live Greek singer every Monday from 9pm Where: Souk Madinat Jumeirah @ HANU x LÉGUME Four Hands Omakase What: A two-night omakase by Chef Kyung Soo Moon (HANU) and Chef Sung Si-woo (LÉGUME), where fire meets flora across 12 inventive courses. Vibe: Minimal and intimate, set at HANU's omakase counter with just ten seats a night. Menu: A 12-course tasting where fire meets flora. Chef Kyung Soo Moon (HANU) brings signatures like soy-marinated prawn, mushroom galbi and seabass steeped in three Korean jangs. Chef Sung Si-woo (LÉGUME) brings seasonal, Seoul favourites – think kumquat stuffed with waxy corn, chickpea gnocchi, and yeast-roasted cauliflower. Priced at Dhs690 per person. When: May 21 and 22, two seatings per night at 6pm and 9pm Where: HANU, St. Regis Gardens, Palm Jumeirah @hanu_dubai Jones the Grocer What: The neighbourhood favourite drops a new menu by Chef Ben Warren Vibe: Laidback and always buzzing – perfect for midweek lunches, casual dinners, or weekend catch-ups Menu: The new lineup brings together classics and inventive global flavours. Starters include wagyu bresaola with figs and a smoked duck and date salad. Sandwiches get an upgrade with beef and truffle or truffle chicken sliders. For mains, expect comforting dishes with a twist like pea and mint risotto, and Dan Dan noodles with a punch. New burger highlights include the gochujang chicken and a classic double patty cheeseburger. Finish with something sweet – hot mango pie, chocolate lava cake, or lemon and vanilla posset. Drinks? Think berry foam lemonade, mango mousse iced matcha, and orange coffee. When: Available now Where: All Jones the Grocer locations across Dubai @jonesthegrocer Also read Your bar twin: Some of the best bars in Dubai for every personality 14 of the most unique party venues in Dubai to rent 9 of the best restaurants in Dubai to watch the sunset Floral Saffron Croissant at Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk What: A limited-edition croissant infused with the delicate flavours of Middle Eastern saffron blossom, layered with date sponge cake, orange marmalade, and finished with saffron crème brûlée Vibe: A graceful mix of French pastry artistry and local inspiration. Menu: Part of Sofitel's La Haute Croissanterie collection, this croissant offers a unique twist on a classic, with buttery, floral notes and a nod to regional flavours. Also available as part of the Blossoms afternoon tea experience. Priced at Dhs32 per croissant, Dhs195 per. When: Now through August 31 Where: Bijou Patisserie, Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk @sofiteltheobelisk Prime68 Business Lunch What: A daily business lunch menu offering two or three courses, crafted for quick but quality mid-day dining with views. Vibe: Chilled out yet polished. Menu: Start with classics like French Onion Soup, Caesar Salad, or Gambero Rosso Carpaccio. Mains feature Stanbroke Black Angus Filet Mignon, Norwegian Salmon, or the Prime68 Burger. Finish with desserts like Eton Mess or Chocolate Mousse. All paired with stunning views of Dubai's skyline. Priced at Dhs125 for two courses, and Dhs148 for three courses. When: Daily from 12pm to 3pm Where: Prime68, JW Marriott Marquis Dubai @prime68dxb Images: Supplied/Instagram > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
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
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.
