Nobu, Dubai

Atlantis the Palm, Dubai

Saucy Meal Queen

July 2024
Dinner

Nobu Dubai: A Luxurious Feast, But Does It Live Up to the Hype?

Located in Atlantis The Palm, Nobu Dubai is undoubtedly one of the most prestigious dining experiences in the city. With a MICHELIN selection for 2024 and a reputation for elegance, it’s a place where the dress code is as refined as the menu (Smart Elegant—long trousers only for dinner) and where the age policy ensures a shift in ambiance from family-friendly before 8:30pm to an adults-only setting afterward.

For some, Nobu embodies perfection; for others—like me—it leans toward pretentious. My Saucy King thrives in these settings, while I find them a little too self-important. But there’s no denying that the décor is stunning—a blend of luxury and comfort that immediately sets the tone for an indulgent evening.

The Experience

The service was excellent, as expected, and the view over the Palm added an extra touch of luxury to the experience. However, I had overindulged throughout the day, and by the time dinner rolled around, I wasn’t in the best state to appreciate it fully. Perhaps if I’d visited on day one of the trip, I’d have had a different perspective.

I know this may be an unpopular opinion, but I still prefer Hakkasan over Nobu. While everyone around us seemed to be having the time of their lives, I couldn’t shake the feeling that it didn’t quite live up to the hype for me.

The Food & Drinks

As part of our half-board stay, we received a set menu with a supplement, which included a vast selection of Nobu’s renowned dishes.

Drinks:

  • Cocktails were about $20 each, but they were absolute works of art—beautifully crafted and delicious.
  • The wine selection was extensive, and naturally, my French rosé made an appearance on the menu—always a win.

Food:

  • We had an insane variety of dishessushi, caviar, shrimp, duck, beef—you name it, we ate it.
  • The desserts stole the show! The Nobu Cheesecake (baked creamy cheesecake with raspberry wasabi sorbet) was divine, and the Mix Berries Pavlova (vanilla meringue, yuzu crème espuma, mix berries, strawberry shiso sorbet) was an absolute highlight.
  • The duck and caviar were the best savory dishes of the night.

Saucy Verdict: 7/10

Would I go back? Yes, but with a larger group. I think Nobu is the perfect setting for a night out with friends, where the atmosphere, drinks, and extravagant menu shine best in a lively group setting.

Top Tips:

Get dressed up! Everyone in the restaurant looks their best, and the vibe is high-end glamour.
Best dishes: Dessert, duck, and caviar.
Go on an empty stomach—you’ll want to savor every bite.

Would I personally rush back? No—but if a group of friends wanted to go, I’d happily dress up, sip a cocktail, and soak in the gorgeous surroundings.

Stay saucy, Saucy Meal Queen

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