Kinugawa. For those who know, the name conjures images of Parisian chic, Riviera glamour, and the rarefied air of Megève and Courchevel. A staple in France’s most discerning locales, from the heart of Paris to the sun-drenched shores of St-Barth, Kinugawa has long been synonymous with a certain effortless elegance and a distinctly elevated take on Japanese cuisine. Now, this pedigree of sophisticated dining has landed in Dubai, dropped anchor at the equally stylish Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, promising a new benchmark for beachfront luxury.
Framed by the resort’s adults-only pool and gazing out across the Arabian Gulf, Kinugawa is a statement in contrast, a masterclass in craftsmanship, and an immersive design that pulls you into its orbit from the moment you arrive. Think Parisian cool filtered through a distinctly Japanese lens – a duality that informs everything.
Chef Konstantine Em orchestrates a menu that’s a study in balance: delicate techniques meeting daring flavor combinations, tradition subtly intertwined with modern innovation. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill sushi joint. Consider the Suzuki Stracciatella, where sea bass finds an unexpected harmony with raspberry and cream, or the Salmon Taruto elevated with white truffle tarama. Signature dishes like the New Style Tuna Carpaccio, the intriguing Tuna Blueberry Salad, and the umami-rich marinated Black Cod Miso showcase Kinugawa’s contemporary riff on Japanese classics – familiar yet undeniably fresh.
From its carefully chosen tableware to the subtly curated sound design, every element is sensory seduction. Materials, lighting that shifts with the Dubai sun, tactile textures, and a carefully considered soundtrack all flow together, creating a space that’s both effortlessly inviting and remarkably calm – a natural extension of Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab’s sleek architectural curves.
Come midday, Kinugawa offers a sophisticated escape, granting exclusive access to a magnificent central pool and an outdoor lounge that begs to be experienced. Picture yourself unwinding on lavish round sunbeds or settling into a stylish table, one of 180, all while sampling Kinugawa’s Worldwide Signature Drinks – expertly crafted cocktails that playfully reinterpret classics with bold Japanese infusions.
As the Dubai dusk descends, the energy subtly shifts. Live DJ sets inject a nocturnal rhythm, transforming Kinugawa into a vibrant evening destination. It’s a place that effortlessly transitions from daytime cool to spirited celebration, a testament to its multifaceted allure. Consider your next Dubai weekend sorted – Kinugawa isn’t just a place to dine; it’s a destination to be experienced.
