SushiYaki The Japanese-Peruvian Fusion Restaurant In Dubai Is A Culinary Sensory Overload
Visitors to SushiYaki can sit around the sushi bar, watching sushi and sashimi being made | Photo provided by SushiYaki
With an ethos of the Japanese concept of 'Ikigai' meaning ‘reason for being,’ dining is an experience that should not be rushed, rather savored
Ensconced in Souk Medinat Jumeirah is SuskiYaki, an edgy yet authentic Japanese restaurant that opened its doors in December 2023. Under the direction of Head Chef Jolbi Huacho, the restaurant is all about modernizing traditional Japanese fare, particularly sushi and yakitori.
Photo provided by SushiYaki
Visitors can dine outside but as temps are currently hot and humid in Dubai, dining inside is better. Once you enter you’ll notice the Asian paper umbrellas hanging from the ceiling, which contrasts well with the red leather seating. The AI illustrated interiors are “a harmonious fusion of tradition and technology,” according to the restaurant. There’s a very earthy colorscape to SuskiYaki from the wood accented walls, wooden floors, and copper colored tables, which meshes well with the foliage wall and Japanese murals of geisha girls. Towards the back of the restaurant is where the sushi art happens at a station where chefs create sushi and sashimi dishes. Surrounding the sushi station are dining tables where you can watch the dishes being made up close.
It’s some of the best sushi you’ll find in Dubai | Photo provided by SushiYaki
The wait staff are kind and knowledgeable, guiding visitors around the menu, of which Chef Jolbi brings a wealth of knowledge from his culinary experiences in South America, North America, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. While you must absolutely try the sushi if you’re a connoisseur of raw fish, there are other taste bud popping items. A good place to start is the Yuzu Green salad made with mixed Asian lettuce, yuzu dressing, kumquats, lychee, mixed capsicum, orange pearls and yuzu furikake. The flavors or citrus and slight sweetness make for a bold salad.
The Salmon Tuna Taco is an oh-so noteworthy must-try of tuna and salmon packed into three mini taco shells with avocado, crispy shiso, soy sauce, sesame oil, cress, and citrus chalaca. It melts in the mouth with all the flavors and hits just right. There are other items under the Nibbles section from chicken sando, prawn tempura, and wagyu sliders. The Beef Ramen is a choice for a main. It’s filling and warming. And if you have room for dessert, there are many items to choose from like the chocolate lava cake, but if you don't have space then mochi is the best way to go. The Sesame flavor is different and a unique choice.
The ambience of the restaurant is upscale yet relaxing | Photo provided by SushiYaki
SushiYaki is a creation by Food Fund International, a family owned and run business with a portfolio of homegrown restaurants around the world. With a strong focus on people, the concept was birthed by Costa Tomazos, the company’s chairman. Tomazos is known for his bold vision and execution of opening Johannesburg’s first steakhouse.
SushiYaki launched their Nomikai Hour 2025 earlier this year. It’s a new, year-long celebration of refined flavors, premium beverages, and unforgettable social experiences. Part of the Japanese idea of Nomikai, meaning a gathering of great drinks and even better company, allows visitors to have drinks for $7 (25 AED) made possible by Zonin Prosecco. You can choose from a curated selection of grapes to suit diverse palates; a chilled bottle of hops for a crisp and refreshing experience; and a signature cocktail meticulously crafted.
Because June 18th is Sushi Day in the UAE, visitors to SushiYaki can enjoy sushi for a good price. For lunch or dinner, the Lunch Moriawase $68 (AED 250) and Lunch Yakitori )$65 (AED 240) are available from 12pm to 5pm, that include a spread of makis, nigiri, or grilled skewers prepared robata-style. The Combo Yakirolls $98 (AED 360) features a variety of signature maki rolls, while the Combo Moriawase $133 (AED 490) includes a chef-curated mix of makis, sashimi, and nigiri for the ultimate sushi experience available all day long.
