Clareto Monsorate

A new Japanese culinary gem has arrived in Dubai, bringing the city’s first authentic wagyu yakiniku dining experience. Akabeko, which opened last week in the West Beach area of Palm Jumeirah, introduces an exciting concept focused on premium Japanese A5 wagyu beef.

“Our aim is to create not just a meal but a memorable and interactive culinary journey for our guests,” said a spokesperson for Hanabi Foods Group, which owns Akabeko. “We believe Akabeko will become a new destination to learn about a new facet of Japanese cuisine beyond the current offering.”

Yakiniku involves grilling bite-sized cuts of meat over a tabletop stove or grill. At Akabeko, diners can indulge in up to 12 unique cuts of premium wagyu beef from different parts of the cow.

“We follow a nose-to-tail concept, honoring and utilizing every edible portion including the ‘left behinds’ and ‘secondaries’ in our dishes,” explained Executive Chef Yosuke Matsuoka. “This shows respect for the product and supports sustainable dining.”

For a full experience, Chef Matsuoka recommends ordering the Yakiniku Moriawase platter to sample a curated selection of different wagyu cuts grilled tableside by Akabeko’s chefs.

Other signature dishes include the Supreme Wag-Yukke, a spicy wagyu tartare topped with fresh seafood, and Akabeko Donburi rice bowl topped with sliced wagyu and flakes of truffle.

“Don’t miss our truffle ice cream for dessert,” Matsuoka advised. “It’s a delightful blend of premium ingredients.”

The restaurant’s interior pays homage to Japan with minimalist, natural design elements like wood furnishings, ornate carved ceilings and bonsai trees creating an inviting atmosphere.

Akabeko, whose name refers to a legendary red cow symbolizing good fortune, is located at the voco Dubai The Palm hotel and is open daily for lunch from noon to 4pm and dinner from 6 to 11pm, reservation recommended.