Dragonfly Review: Four Must-Try Dishes at Reif Othman’s New Japanese Restaurant in Dubai

If you’re looking for a unique dining experience that blends modern Japanese cuisine with theatrical flair, Dragonfly is the place to be. Located at The Lana Promenade in Business Bay, this new restaurant is the latest collaborative venture between renowned chef Reif Othman and the Bulldozer Group (also behind Not Only Fish and Frou Frou). Dragonfly offers a refreshing take on traditional Japanese dishes, with a menu designed to surprise and delight even the most discerning food lovers.

The Venue: A Stunning Space with a Touch of Drama

Dragonfly isn’t just about the food—it’s also about the atmosphere. Situated in the waterfront promenade of Business Bay, the restaurant exudes a sense of elegance and simplicity. The large windows and high ceilings give the space an expansive feel, in contrast to the often cramped or overly intimate spaces you find in many restaurants. Upon entering, you’re greeted by life-size kokeshi dolls, setting the tone for the theatrics that follow. The pièce de résistance, however, is the giant dragonfly sculpture that hangs above the dining area, adding a whimsical and striking touch.

With both indoor and outdoor seating options, Dragonfly offers a versatile setting for any occasion. The dining tables with rotating centrepieces are a fun, interactive element, while the central bar and after-dinner mezzanine area provide a relaxed space to unwind.

But while the ambiance is impressive, it’s the food that truly steals the show.

1. Salmon Tataki with Asian Pesto

Chef Reif Othman is known for his ability to combine simplicity with bold flavours, and his Salmon Tataki with Asian Pesto is a perfect example. This dish is a crowd-pleaser for good reason: the fresh salmon is paired with a delightful Asian pesto made from coriander and yuzu leaves. The addition of ponzu truffle sauce brings a rich, umami depth to the dish, while the shio kombu adds a briny punch. It’s a dish that balances earthy, citrus, and salty flavours to create a harmonious and indulgent experience. As simple as it sounds, this dish is a flavour explosion in every bite.

2. Wagyu in Nori Bread with Tonkatsu Sauce

One of the standout dishes at Dragonfly is the Wagyu in Nori Bread with Tonkatsu Sauce. Chef Othman’s sando (Japanese sandwich) gets a fresh twist with charcoal powder and seaweed incorporated into the bread. The Wagyu is cooked to perfection, its buttery texture playing beautifully with the crisp, airy nori bread. The tonkatsu sauce adds a sweet and umami richness, though some may wish for a bit more of the tangy-sweet sauce to balance the meat’s richness. Despite that, this sando remains one of the most memorable dishes on the menu, showcasing Othman’s deft touch with flavour and texture.

3. Dragonfly Battera Zushi

For something a little more interactive, try the Dragonfly Battera Zushi. This dish reimagines traditional sushi by making it a DIY experience. Served on a wooden plank with nori on the side, the concept invites diners to wrap their sushi with the nori themselves. It’s a playful take on sushi, but the flavours are undeniably luxurious. The combination of uni (sea urchin) and caviar provides a rich mouthfeel, while the yukke sauce brings it all together with a kick of spice. The deconstructed nature of this dish may not appeal to everyone, but for those who appreciate the fun side of dining, it’s an absolute hit.

4. Crystal Toast

Lastly, Othman’s Crystal Toast is a true showstopper. It’s sushi on toast—but not as you know it. The "toast" is made from crystal bread, which is transparent and almost looks like plastic (don’t worry—it’s entirely edible). The dish is an artful take on sushi, with raw fish elegantly placed atop the crystal bread. The bread itself has a subtle sweetness that contrasts with the delicate texture of the raw fish. This dish is not only visually stunning but offers a delightful textural contrast between the crispness of the bread and the softness of the fish, creating a truly unique eating experience.

A Bold New Take on Japanese Cuisine

Chef Reif Othman’s vision for Dragonfly is to bring something new and exciting to the table—literally. With dishes like the Salmon Tataki, Wagyu in Nori Bread, Dragonfly Battera Zushi, and Crystal Toast, the restaurant pushes the boundaries of Japanese cuisine in the best way possible. It’s a celebration of fresh ingredients, bold flavours, and playful presentation.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional Japanese food or you’re looking to try something new and innovative, Dragonfly offers a dining experience that’s both extraordinary and unforgettable. The fusion of exceptional food with the stunning atmosphere makes this restaurant a must-visit for anyone in Dubai.