Amin Abbas

ABU DHABI: KAIZU is a Japanese restaurant in Abu Dhabi that features unique authentic Japanese cuisine in a creative way.

“KAIZU, named after the southwestern city of Japan, aspires to be the premier fine-dining Japanese restaurant in the heart of Abu Dhabi,” a representative of KAIZU shared exclusively with Arab News Japan. 

“We serve as a bridge for people to discover and embrace Japanese cuisine, emphasizing our commitment to quality, expertise, and exceptional service. Our goal is to cater to those hesitant about raw food or unfamiliar with sushi, ensuring a memorable dining experience at KAIZU,” she added. 

The representative shared that the Abu Dhabi market lacks sushi enthusiasts in comparison to Dubai, so it was challenging for the restaurant. “Educating customers and providing them with the opportunity to try our offerings, encouraging their journey to becoming regular patrons, presented a challenge that we are grateful to have overcome.”

The restaurant has been receiving positive reviews, with around 900 reviews in less than two years and a 4.8 average on Google Reviews. “We are proud to have garnered a substantial number of regular patrons, including numerous tourists who specifically travel from Dubai to indulge in our Japanese selections,” the representative shared.

About distinguishing KAIZU from other Japanese restaurants in Abu Dhabi, the representative said, “When it comes to the ambiance, you get a sense as if you’re in a five-star hotel restaurant, yet the eatery is nestled in one of the oldest streets in Abu Dhabi.”

“When it comes to our food selection, the options vary in type, yet they share a common trait in their distinctive quality and preparation methods, reaching the pinnacle of luxury. Customers are presented with dishes that not only delight the onlookers but also offer a taste beyond imagination. The culinary experience reflects our commitment to providing the highest levels of excellence,” she added.

Chef Karthick, Head Chef of KAIZU shared exclusively with Arab News Japan that he learned how to cook Japanese cuisine in Bahrain. After graduating from university, he started working in India and learned how to cook Chinese and Indian dishes. Then, he wanted to learn something new, so his friend  recommended working at Bushido by Buddha Bar in Bahrain.

“At Bushido, I started as a kitchen helper and worked my way up to becoming a chef. Chef Goh Boonwah, Executive Chef of Bushido, taught me a lot about Japanese food, and Chef Shigeki Iimura, who was once the Corporate Chef of Budha Bar, helped me even more,” he said. 

Iimura brought Chef Karthick to the United Arab Emirates to work at a different restaurant until he eventually found his way as head chef at KAIZU. “It’s been an amazing journey mastering Japanese cuisine here in the UAE,” he shared. 

“In the kitchen at KAIZU, I get to create delicious dishes that blend tradition with innovation. It’s been a dream come true, and I’m grateful for every step of my culinary adventure. Chef Boonwah and Chef Iimura have been my guiding lights in the kitchen until now. Their teachings shaped my love for Japanese cuisine. I’m forever grateful for their mentorship,” he added.

About his approach to cooking Japanese food, Chef Karthick said that he emphasizes using fresh, high-quality ingredients, honing knife skills, and paying attention to details. 

KAIZU aims to expand to Riyadh and Dubai in the future. “We advocate for a cautious approach to expansion, prioritizing quality and customer experience over rapid growth,” the representative told Arab News Japan. “We seek to enhance our presence while maintaining our commitment to excellence.”

About her recommendations for those who want to try the food at KAIZU, the representative said, ” We recommend that customers identify their preferences. By providing their preferences, the menu will be tailored to suit their desires. Our extensive selection features a variety of high-quality items, ensuring a unique and delightful customer experience.”

The restaurant is located on Al Zahiyah Street and opens from 1 p.m. until 11 p.m.