The contemporary Japanese concept also has outposts in Barcelona, Madrid, Miami, and Panama City.
Japanese cuisine is all about dining etiquette — seating arrangements are symbolic, slurping is encouraged, resting chopsticks on a bowl is a no-no. But when it comes to Dubai’s latest restaurant-lounge hybrid, Salvaje, no rules apply. Anchored in the ‘wild side’ of Japanese gastronomy, the globally acclaimed concept already operates outposts in the likes of Barcelona and Miami. Closer to home, Salvaje has made its debut at Address Residences Dubai Opera in Downtown Dubai, translating to panoramic views of Burj Khalifa. Marking its second outpost in the Middle East following the launch of Salvaje Al Khobar in Saudi Arabia back in 2022.
Salvaje – ‘wild’ in Spanish – is celebrated for its innovative take on Japanese cuisine. Providing guests with a 360° approach to experiential dining, it offers world-class entertainment that sees the restaurant come alive at night with a line-up of dancers, saxophonists, fire dancers, and DJs, explaining why Salvaje remains a popular choice among A-listers.
Salvaje Dubai spans two floors and features opulent tropical-style décor, reflective of the upscale hedonism championed by the brand and curated by world-renowned interior designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán. Vibrant colours, botanical patterns, luxe materials, and striking textures are just some of the elements that come together to create the immersive atmosphere. Upstairs, the 250-capacity smart-casual restaurant offers a lively yet sophisticated dining experience for lunch and dinner, boasting an expansive terrace that can seat 70.
Downstairs, an enticing lounge by the name of SLVJ beckons with its alluring atmosphere and a capacity of 190, also featuring a large outdoor area with a capacity of 50. A prominent highlight is the group’s distinctive emblem: a nearly life-size gold rhinoceros positioned prominently in one corner of the restaurant. The lavish jungle-themed interiors offer a constant array of Instagrammable moments.
Masterminded by Fermín Azkue, Chef Partner at Salvaje World Group, the restaurant blends the tradition and mysticism of Japanese cuisine with signature flavours and techniques from all corners of the world. Hailing from Venezuela, Azkue’s culinary career spans renowned restaurants across America, Spain, and France, including Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in the United Kingdom, culminating in his pivotal role at the inaugural Salvaje outlet in Panama in 2018.
Under Azkue’s culinary leadership, Salvaje Dubai promises a menu of inventive fusion dishes paired with Spanish flair and a unique twist tailored to local tastes. From indulgent Oscietra Supreme Caviar and duck fried rice to premium selections of sushi and sizzling robata grilled steaks, its offerings paint the canvas of Japanese cuisine with global flavours and techniques to create a unique culinary experience.
For those seeking a more exclusive dining setting, Salvaje Dubai presents a distinctive omakase experience that upholds a millennia-old tradition where the chef’s creativity and discernment take centre stage in an intimate space. Elevating the dining experience will be the creations of Head Bartender Borja Goikoetxea, who infuses a touch of artistry into the beverage selection. Each concoction is exclusive to Salvaje, serving as a testament to the artistry involved — we’re told that everything from presentation to finishing touches are thoughtfully curated to complement the restaurant’s culinary offerings.
DSCVR: Salvaje. Address Residences Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai, Dubai. @salvaje.dubai
