FACT Review: Sun, sand and sushi at Nobu by the Beach

What’s it like to dine at the world’s first Nobu-branded beach club?

Nobu is a brand that should require minimal introduction. Specialising in a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, Nobu was created by chef Nobu Matsuhisa and actor Robert De Niro, opening its first branch in New York in 1994. Nobu Dubai arrived in 2008, and the brand has since gained a worldwide reputation for culinary excellence from Ibiza to Istanbul to the newly opened Nobu by the Beach.

With the opening of Atlantis The Royal came the opportunity to luxuriate at the world’s first Nobu-branded pool and beach club, where fans of the brand can eat, drink and swim in a stylish setting. Nobu by the Beach presents a harmonious blend of contemporary luxury and minimalistic Japanese traditions, resulting in a one-of-a-kind beach club experience. The fashionable destination features a serene multi-level lagoon pool complemented by sun loungers, daybeds, and an exclusive collection of air-conditioned VIP cabanas. The venue also houses an outdoor bar and a reimagined Nobu restaurant with an innovative Japanese-Peruvian menu overlooking the sea.

The Nobu by the Beach menu is a pricey showcase of the restaurant’s famous Nikkei cuisine. Expect inventive small plates, dishes designed for sharing and renowned Nobu signatures. Sure, there are bento boxes, caviar and ceviche, but also beach-inspired popsicles, fruit ceviche and mochi ice cream. Plus, the venue includes a live robatayaki counter – we’re talking fireside cooking – with fresh fish, meat and charcoal grilled skewers.  

We begin with the Salmon New Style Tacos (AED 75 for two pieces), which while small, are packed with flavour and a standout Nobu signature. Similarly, the Tuna Crispy Rice (AED 95 for two pieces) is a textural marvel topped with burnt avocado and slices of fiery chilli served in a lettuce cup.

The sushi is where this menu hits its stride, presenting a selection of cut rolls, nigiri and sashimi. The Salmon Avocado Jalapeño rolls (AED 80) are generously stuffed and offer a cooling contrast between the silky salmon, fiery jalapeño and a hit of wondrous wasabi. A fire-cooked kushiyaki selection has been developed especially for Nobu by the Beach. However, we skipped these in favour of the flavour-packed Wagyu Beef Sando (AED 225). Served with Dashi Fries, the tender slab of perfectly cooked Wagyu, sandwiched between slices of sweet milk bread, provides a comforting yet hearty finale to the beautiful beachfront dining experience.

When the hustle and bustle of the poolside restaurant becomes overwhelming, visitors can cool off with a rejuvenating swim in the pool or the ocean with striking views of Palm Jumeirah and the Dublin skyline. For those looking to splurge, personal cabanas with private pools are the ideal offering for the ultimate beach day combined with crafted cocktails and a menu of premium sake.

Chef Nobu Matsuhisa and Rebel Wilson inaugurated Nobu by the Beach as part of Atlantis The Royal’s grand reveal weekend. Since then, the vibrant poolside hangout has gained more than a little momentum, and both the pool and restaurant were packed when we visited on a Sunday lunchtime. 

Dubai diners can’t get enough of Nobu’s culinary creations and bespoke brand of hospitality, and with new openings on Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi and Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah on the way, the UAE’s love for the brand looks set to continue.

So, grab a sun lounger or a sundowner and relax poolside at a beach club where food is the focus, luxury is a given, and the melodies of local and global DJs will provide the soundtrack to an unforgettable experience. It’s a pricey day out, but it’s worth every dirham.

Nobu by the Beach is open daily from. Sunloungers are priced at AED 250 (Monday to Thursday) and AED 350 (Friday to Sunday).

GO: Visit www.atlantis.com/dubai for reservations and more information.