Sharjah may be recognised as the Cultural Capital of the Arab World, but the emirate has never really been considered a place for foodies… until now.
If you’ve ever visited Reif Japanese Kushiyaki in Dar Wasl or Time Out Market, you’ll have a fair idea of what to expect from the newly opened Nomani. Acclaimed Chef Reif Othman’s latest venture showcases a penchant for quality food and value for money, in its presentation of Japanese and Korean street food staples in a truly unique environment.
Situated inside the UAE’s only heritage hotel – The Chedi Al Bait Sharjah – Nomani’s restaurant space is beautifully conceived with Japanese artworks and an open kitchen, encouraging diners to take a seat in a comfortable booth or within the central courtyard and admire the team of chefs working tirelessly on plate after plate of top-notch dishes. However, the most in-demand seats can be found outside beneath the only circular wind tower in the Middle East.
Followers of chef Reif will recognise familiar takes on dishes from his other venues, yet there are still plenty of new things to entice repeat guests. Nomani’s menu focuses on the sushi rolls, sashimi and nigiri upon which chef Reif has built his reputation. Yet diners can also discover an appealing range of sharing starters, including Raw Otoro Ssambap, Salmon Tataki, Crispy Baby Squid, Reif Fried Wings, Grilled Avocado and Shrimp & Chicken Mandu (AED 68). The latter are plump Korean dumplings, generously stuffed and topped with ginger and chilli soy. As Reif puts it, “every dish is a signature.”
While Nomani successfully presents high-quality food at affordable prices, there are several higher-priced items you should splurge on, and the Wagyu Galbi Sando (AED 168) is one such example. We’re impressed by the precision and flavour profile achieved by Rothman and his team through generously sliced Wagyu beef rib eye, slathered with sweet bulgogi and kimchi mayonnaise and sandwiched between a fluffy milk bread that is quite literally to die for. Elsewhere, the Grilled Marinade Wagyu Ribs (AED 188) come served on a sizzling tabletop barbecue amidst galbi sauce and lettuce leaves, encouraging diners to get their hands dirty while preparing their own tantalising wraps.
It’s recommended to order several dishes to share because you’ll want to try everything! A dish such as the Kimchi Udon with velvety Onsen Egg (AED 68) offers Japanese noodles in a seductive yet fiery broth that is full of depth and plentiful enough for two diners to share. The Burrata and Tomatoes (AED 68) is generously portioned, undeniably creamy and served with Kimchi melon. Whilst the Korean Seafood Pancake (AED 78) brings a sweetness to the delicate yet filling pancake topped with a moreish choganjang sauce and bonito flakes.
With food this good, it’s easy to over-order (as we did). Show some restraint and ensure you leave room for dessert because the Kabosu Lime Marshmallow Tart (AED 48) is quite simply a textural marvel! Similarly, the Chocolate and Caramel Gochujang Fondant (AED 68) takes some time to prepare but is well with the wait with its seductive oozing centre.
Service is casual but effortless as the team flit from the open kitchen to the tabletops with ease and a friendly demeanour. So, if it’s street food and a sense of comfort you’re after, the restaurant is well worth a visit and the 30-minute drive from Dubai. Nomani marks a turning point for dining in Sharjah, offering an upmarket concept that is the talk of the town.
DSCVR: Nomani, The Chedi Al Bait Sharjah, 79 Corniche Street, Al Shiokh, Sharjah. @nomani.ae
