Ignite Your Senses at Akabeko: Dubai's Premier Yakiniku Experience

Dubai’s dining scene just got hotter with the arrival of Akabeko, a restaurant that brings the authentic yakiniku experience to the city. Nestled on Palm West Beach within voco Dubai The Palm, Akabeko serves up the finest Japanese A5 Wagyu meat, promising a smouldering, sensory journey that will leave you craving more.

Authentic Japanese Flavours in a Minimalist Setting

Akabeko prides itself on delivering genuine Japanese flavors, crafted by Head Chef Yosuke Matusoka, who boasts 30 years of culinary expertise from around the globe. The name Akabeko, meaning "red cow," refers to a legendary animal from Japan’s Aizu region and is also a beloved children's toy, symbolized in the restaurant’s logo.

Hidden behind a discreet door, Akabeko’s interior wouldn’t look out of place in Japan. The long brown banquettes are perfect for groups, while the minimalist design ensures the focus remains on the food. An open kitchen allows diners to watch the chefs at work, enhancing the authentic experience. Daytime dining is bright and airy, thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows, while the evening atmosphere transforms into a sultry, dimly-lit space with red-hot hues.

A Culinary Journey at Akabeko

During our daytime visit, Akabeko was serene, with a Japanese soundtrack setting the mood. The polite and professional staff guided us through the extensive menu, which includes appetizers, sushi, Japanese A5 Wagyu, yakiniku sets, vegetables, signature dishes, soups, and desserts. We chose the Signature Tasting Menu, a showcase of popular dishes that cater primarily to meat lovers, though vegetarian options are available.

Akabeko’s nose-to-tail approach emphasizes sustainability, ensuring as much of the animal is used as possible. The appetizers impressed us with the crispy, meat-filled Wagyu Gyoza and the tender Wagyu Tartare, topped with a soy-marinated yolk.

The main course brought the experience to life. Akabeko uses state-of-the-art smokeless grills imported from Japan, creating a smoke- and grease-free environment. The skilled chefs manage the grill, allowing diners to sit back and enjoy the spectacle. The highlight was the Moriawase Go, featuring five cuts of Wagyu, including two prime cuts, grilled to perfection at our table. These were paired with kimchi, namul, and Ya-Kinoko vegetables like fresh mushrooms, rocket, and spinach.

Desserts and Final Thoughts

Desserts at Akabeko include a selection of Japanese fruits, ice creams, and sorbets with flavors like truffle and yuzu. The Raindrop Cake, a jelly-inspired dessert with fresh fruit inside, was aesthetically pleasing but didn’t quite satisfy our sweet tooth. However, desserts aren’t the main attraction at a yakiniku restaurant, so we recommend saving room for more meat.

In a city where dining concepts often try to cater to everyone, Akabeko stands out by embracing its niche and perfecting its craft. For a sizzling and unforgettable night out, make Akabeko your go-to destination.

For more information and to make a reservation, visit Akabeko.

Indulge in the ultimate yakiniku experience at Akabeko, where authentic Japanese flavors and premium meats come together in a minimalist, yet captivating setting. Don't miss out on this extraordinary culinary journey.

- POWERED BY FMCG HORECA BUSINESS