With panoramic views, a sophisticated spin on street-food and Insta-worthy presentation, Hanami is the literal cherry on top of the Andaz Dubai The Palm. Situated on the hotel’s 15th floor, the recently opened Japanese restaurant takes its concept from the cherry blossom-gazing parties which take place during Japan’s Sakura season. This is the traditional custom of enjoying and observing the transient beauty of flowers (particularly Japan’s pink-tinted blossoms), as Hanami translates to ‘flower viewing.’
This sweet sentiment is beautifully scattered throughout the rooftop restaurant which mirrors Japanese traditions and cultures in a contemporary way. From the cool graffiti-style murals to the glittering glass jars hung from the ceiling (which project shades of pink, purple or teal depending on the light) and the trinkets that sit behind the bar, the interiors help to create a stylish ambience that is also reflected in the food.
While you ponder over the menu, pick at robata edamame (charred in ume shiso salt and garlic oil) and make sure to ask for recommendations, otherwise there is a lot of choice to navigate through. Attentive and thoughtful, the staff are on-hand to help you pick the dishes suited to your taste and can also point you in the direction of the must-try, hidden gems. And if you want to get a glimpse of what is in store, take a walk over to the open-kitchen and gaze at Hanami’s culinary art, otherwise known as sushi.
MOJEH recommends the ebi gyoza (perfectly executed prawn dumplings), the avocado tempura (dipped into miso peanuts sauce), the spider maki rolls and a side of kinoko asparagus. If you eat meat, the wagyu katsu bun is the most hyped-up dish on the menu, and with good reason; the deep-fried wagyu steak with katsu sauce in a soft, Hanami-stamped bun is just as decadently dreamy as it sounds.
A popular choice for dessert is the Fuji apple pie (another Instagrammable moment), but the green tea-ramisu is just as good. When the weather cools, order a post-dinner drink on one of two terraces and soak up stunning views of the Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah, while sipping on a sweet (or sour) cocktail under the fuchsia glow of a neon sign. With a drinks list as long as the food menu, there’s plenty of artfully crafted cocktails, mocktails and sake to try.
