Located in d3, the restaurant is rooted in the fusion of French and Japanese cuisine.
Few culinary connections are as simpatico and deep-seated as that between France and Japan, and for good reason. Food is about more than sustenance in both countries; it’s a form of art, one that’s deeply intertwined with social interactions and cultural identity. Just ask Aadel Ouaoua. The acclaimed chef of RSVP Dubai fame has opened the doors to his latest venture MAYG in Dubai Design District, bringing with it the intersection of French and Japanese culinary craft and sophistication.
The Executive Chef boasts over two decades of experience spanning continents and stemming from renowned kitchens in Paris, London, Barcelona and Rome, shaping his culinary approach as we know it today. From meticulously sourced ingredients to the final presentation, every dish at MAYG reflects his extensive experience and clarity of style.
The interiors of this new fine-dining eatery were designed with a strong artistic vision. Whimsical elements such as cloud-inspired chandeliers float above the main dining area, paired with copper accents that echo the materials used in the kitchen. The colour red, meanwhile, appears throughout the space as a nod to the Japanese flag. There’s also a private dining room that offers a more intimate experience, featuring bonsai details and cherry blossom motifs.
MAYG operates with the philosophy of “simplicity and complexity”, a principle drawn from Japanese cuisine where restrained flavours demand the utmost precision. While the flavour palate remains simple, the execution to bring them to the plate is fairly technical. This ethos is reflected in every dish, where the richness of French techniques seamlessly blends with the delicate umami flavours and precise preparation of Japanese cuisine.
Sustainability is a core value at MAYG. The team emphasises sourcing ingredients locally whenever possible to minimise the carbon footprint associated with travel. While Japanese fish, oysters, scallops, and certain meats are imported to ensure authenticity, a significant portion of the produce is locally sourced directly. At the heart of MAYG’s success, says Ouaoua, is the dedicated and diverse team that has brought the restaurant to life.
“Our purpose as chefs is to make people happy,” he explains, making it a point to personally engage with guests as part of his creative process. MAYG recently celebrated its soft opening, with a business lunch set to launch soon. A sushi bar and an outdoor terrace are also in the works as we speak.
Discover: MAYG. Building 11, Dubai Design District, Dubai. @maygdubai
