A Flavorful Japanese-Peruvian Fusion with a Karaoke Twist

Dubai’s culinary scene has long been home to diverse and unique dining experiences, and the latest addition to this vibrant mix is Ren. Located along Sheikh Zayed Road in the Grand Plaza Movenpick Media City hotel, Ren brings together the flavors of Japan and Peru in a chic, modern setting. But it’s not just the food that makes this spot stand out—there’s also a fun karaoke twist that makes Ren an exciting destination for dining and entertainment.

A Bold Fusion of Japanese and Peruvian Flavors

Ren is part of the Apparel Group’s first licensed restaurant, and its innovative menu blends the best of both Peruvian and Japanese cuisines, known as Nikkei cuisine. While renowned spots like Coya and Nobu have long been serving this fusion, Ren offers a fresh take with its bold and interactive flavors. Whether you’re a fan of ceviche or sushi, Ren has something for everyone, taking the traditional dishes of both cultures to new heights.

Where to Sit and What to Expect

Ren is a two-level restaurant with a vibe that mixes sophistication with fun. The dining area on the ground floor offers an intimate atmosphere, seating just 46 guests. Ideal for a date night, the booths are covered with wooden slats and frosted glass for privacy, making it a cozy choice for a quiet evening. The space is elegantly designed with mahogany wood accents and mood lighting, creating a warm ambiance.

For those who prefer a bit more excitement, the karaoke room on the first floor is the highlight of the venue. With a Dh1,500 minimum spend for up to 15 people (fully redeemable on food and drinks), the karaoke room is a perfect choice for groups looking to have fun while enjoying delicious food. It’s equipped with comfy couches, great acoustics, and an eclectic playlist—ideal for a night out with friends.

While the karaoke room may steal the spotlight, Ren’s main dining area is equally charming with its open kitchen, sprawling bar, and private dining room. A grand staircase adds to the overall elegance of the space, and the lounge music keeps the atmosphere lively but not overpowering.

A Peek at the Menu

Ren offers a variety of Nikkei-inspired dishes that will leave your taste buds tingling. For appetizers, the miso eggplant fries (Dh49) were a standout. With a crunchy exterior and tender interior, these fries are paired with a zesty miso-yuzu mayo that perfectly complements the creamy texture of the eggplant. The trio of tacos (Dh39 for three) was another winner, with crispy shells and a tangy mayo-lime dressing that elevated the dish.

Although the Wagyu korokke (Dh44) and truffle-mushroom gyoza (Dh59) didn’t fully impress—particularly due to the lack of truffle flavor in the gyoza—the appetizers are balanced out by the incredible mains.

The seafood bomba hotplate (Dh112) was a showstopper. Featuring a medley of fish, prawns, squid, and black Spanish bomba rice, this dish is rich in flavor and served piping hot. The addition of coriander sauce adds an extra layer of freshness to this otherwise hearty dish. Yakisoba rice noodles (Dh69) were equally satisfying, with a spice-sauce blend coating the noodles and fresh veggies for added crunch.

Should You Order?

If you're a fan of seafood, the seafood bomba is a must-try, with its rich, flavorful combination of seafood and perfectly cooked rice. However, if you're looking for something lighter, the edamame with Maldon salt and olive oil (Dh24) or egg fried rice with mixed veggies (Dh49) might be more up your alley.

For dessert, the tres leches milk cake (Dh44) is a standout, offering a subtly sweet treat that’s rich in flavor without being overpowering. The cherry blossom ice cream and coconut sorbet with caramelized pineapple (Dh39) also offer refreshing endnotes to a satisfying meal.

Save or Splurge?

A meal at Ren can range from Dh112 for a more casual three-course meal to Dh357 for a splurge-worthy dining experience. While some dishes, like the tuna tataki with miso leche de tigre (Dh124) and grilled blue fin tuna in huancaina sauce (Dh189), are on the higher end, there are plenty of reasonably priced options for those who prefer to keep it light. You’ll find many appetizers and sides in the Dh20-50 range, making Ren a flexible option for any budget.

Meet the Chef: Luis Eduardo Mora Vargas

The culinary talent behind Ren is Costa Rican chef Luis Eduardo Mora Vargas, whose 10-year career includes stints at restaurants like Barra Lima and Pure Breeze Farm in Costa Rica. His menu at Ren showcases his love for fresh seafood, bold flavors, and balanced ingredients. Chef Mora recommends the sea bass ceviche and beef cheeks with Japanese curry for meat lovers, while the nama yasai (crisp seasonal vegetables) and miso eggplant fries are great choices for vegans and vegetarians.

For dessert, the tres leches cake is a personal favorite of Mora’s, reimagined with a subtle sweetness that lets the cinnamon and vanilla flavors shine.

Final Thoughts

Ren offers a unique dining experience where the fusion of Peruvian and Japanese cuisine meets fun and interactive dining. Whether you're there for the food or the karaoke, Ren delivers an exciting and flavorful experience for everyone. Located in the Grand Plaza Movenpick Media City, the restaurant is open from noon to midnight and is a great spot for both intimate dinners and group celebrations.

For reservations, call 050 670 4922.