Ikayu is a brainchild of the Kharbash family, the team behind the likes of Heal and Backyard.
Have you ever observed the precision and concentration with which a sushi chef slices a piece of yellowtail tuna? Between the emphasis on fresh ingredients and the key techniques that define it, Japanese cuisine continues to grow in popularity, its enduring appeal evident in the latest wave of restaurant openings. Now, a new spot is gearing up to join the scene: Ikayu. Rooted in modern Japanese cuisine, the homegrown eatery will open its doors in Jumeirah next week.
We’re told that Ikayu will serve up crowd favourites alongside its own twists on this trending fare. With a vision inspired by nature, the restaurant’s interiors are adorned with stone, raw plaster finishes, and bespoke handmade elements. Reflecting the simplicity and restraint that comes with Japanese minimalism, its wooden seating areas and stone-themed cutlery results in a space that is not only inviting, but also immersive, setting the tone for the meal that’s about to follow.
At the heart of Ikayu’s menu lies a symphony of flavours, with each dish a testament to the artistry of fusion cuisine. There’s the Tuna Tataki, where fresh tuna comes together with avocado, onion, and a soy-ginger dressing and a hint of chipotle. A likely crowdpleaser, the Prawn Tempura Maki will pair crispy prawn tempura with a drizzle of unagi sauce that lingers on the palate. The Soft Shell Crab Maki, meanwhile, has a shichimi aioli, tobiko and tare sauce, served with slices of creamy avocado.
Beyond the artistry of cold appetisers, Ikayu also presents a selection of hot delights that elevate the senses. Picture the Wagyu Beef Anticuchos, tender cubes of beef grilled to perfection, adorned with panca sauce, crispy onion, and a drizzle of coriander mayo, offering a savoury melody of textures and tastes.
Owned by the Kharbash family – the team behind the wholesome Heal and laidback Backyard café – Ikayu will welcome guests for lunch and dinner, its intimate setting perfect for conversations and catch-ups. Prefer a more interactive dining experience? The bar seats in front of the sushi counter provide an up-close view of culinary mastery in action.
“As the owner of Heal and Backyard, I am excited to introduce our newly launched Japanese concept to our valued guests,” says Mohamed Kharbash, who’s part of the founding team. “Our focus is not just on exquisite food, but also on creating a worthwhile, immersive experience that engages all the senses. We invite you to join us and savour the rich traditions and innovative flavours of Japanese fusion cuisine, crafted with the same dedication to excellence that defines Heal and Backyard.”
DSCVR: Ikayu. Al Thenaya Road, Jumeirah, Dubai. @ikayu.ae
