The famed Japanese restaurant and lounge will open at Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah next week.

Supporting homegrown entities has long been the MO at FACT, so we were all ears following news of Okku’s return to Dubai earlier this year. Now it is gearing up to debut on Palm Jumeirah, and opening its doors at Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah on Monday, 12 June.

The popular Japanese restaurant operated for ten years at The H Dubai hotel and closed in 2018. After a successful launch in Riyadh, it is now returning to Dubai. So, what do we know about Okku 2.0? It will contain an innovative, immersive atmosphere. Plus, the chic, subtly lit venue will serve contemporary Japanese cuisine with an international edge.

The focal point of Okku Dubai will be a 20-metre sushi bar and robata grill, designed to flaunt the brand’s culinary prowess. Elsewhere, a more relaxed atmosphere will await at the Okku Lounge, complete with luxurious seating and a glamorous bar. A private dining room will also reside within the venue, making it the ideal setting when a more exclusive dining experience is in order.

The new menu at Okku Dubai has been carefully crafted by expert chefs from the original outpost and around the world, giving each dish a unique spin. Expect classic Japanese cuisine and adventurous new creations. Diners can indulge in a range of classic ‘O’ style dishes that have become a staple of the restaurant’s menu, while also discovering new tastes to expand their palates.

From the succulent Wagyu Beef and Foie-Gras Kushiyaki to the spicy, crunchy delight of the Tuna on Crispy Rice, each dish is made with precision and finesse. Naturally, to ensure optimum flavour, Okku goes the extra mile to fly in both fresh fish and high-grade Wagyu beef from Japan. And for those seeking the superlatives? Kobe beef will also be available upon request.

Okku Dubai houses an impressive cellar with over 300 labels, so everything from old-world wines to innovative grape varieties will be on offer. The carefully crafted cocktails have been designed to surprise — even those clear in colour will be “explosive in flavour”, we’re told. The Kimono cocktail is light and fruity, while the Sumo Punch is full-bodied. Each beverage is a work of art and will enhance the dining experience. The eco-minded will be pleased to know that resident mixologists utilise responsible practices, so a sustainable approach to their craft is ensured.

Okku’s interiors boast luxe textures and a bespoke scent featuring notes of mandarin, bergamot, and orange blossom. Collectively, it’s an ode to all things Japanese. The traditional Yakisugi decorative wooden panels, as well as the signature stone walls, have been crafted to capture the essence of Japanese design.

To further enhance the atmosphere, ArtBeat Gallery has created Japanese-inspired artworks. The venue also houses eight 3D-printed Samurai soldiers standing at 2.20 metres — an imposing Insta-worthy sight.

Trust us, you’ll want to book ahead.

GO: Email reservations@okkudxb.com or call 04 666 1566 for reservations and more information.