Drawing inspiration from the diverse flavours and textures of the Far East, Taiko Dubai’s eight-course omakase meal by celebrity chef Schilo van Coevorden, is a living tribute to avant-garde gastronomy.
The omakase, a traditional Japanese meal consisting of dishes curated by the chef, starts with gently roasted edamame and pickled cucumber, along with agi goma sauce, chili relish and herbs. Decorated with a delicate floral crown, the refreshing snack leaves the taste buds pleading for more. Fresh rock oysters come next, with passion fruit mignonette, soy tapioca and coriander. One of the most unique and memorable items from this menu is the wasabi vichyssoise, which comes in a bowl carved completely out of ice. The concoction of green apple, caviar, roasted prawn and sorbet makes a delectable and surprising addition to the appetizers.
The chilled chawanmushi is another unexpected delight in its foamy, light custard-like texture made from black lime, sweet corn and snow crab – a rare treat for the taste buds. Up next is the sushi and sashimi platter with Japanese Hamachi and blue fin tuna, including a selection of nigiri. For someone not fond of sushi and sashimi, the platter is polished clean within minutes. Such is the appeal of the delicious offering. This is followed by the simple Daikon salad, which offers a contrast for the palate with the zing of its wild ginger dressing and crisp texture.
The main course is split in two: first with the Yuzu chicken with snow peas and yuzu kosho sauce and next, with the exquisite black cod, with black sauce, caviar and miso.
The meal is rounded off with one of its highlights - the mango koi, a beautifully presented dessert which uses different parts of the fruit for depth and texture. Another item in the dessert is the Tokyo banana, which offers a delicious blend of caramel and banana along with edible paper – ending the meal on a whimsical note.
Taiko Dubai, a contemporary Asian restaurant and bar is the first international outpost of the award-winning Taiko restaurant in Amsterdam. For those with a keen appreciation for Japanese cuisine and an appetite for creative culinary artistry, Chef Schilo’s omakase menu and experience is offered year-round, at Taiko Dubai, Sofitel The Obelisk. Book now
