Review: Tamoka Dubai – BBC Middle Eastern Food
Review: Tamoka Dubai – BBC Middle Eastern Food
Nestled on the shores of the Persian Gulf, Tamoka is a popular new dining destination for lively Jumeirah Beach Apartments. The restaurant is inspired by the rich heritage of cities such as the Antilles, Tulum, San Jose and Lima, which stretches down the coasts of Cartagena, Caracas and Panama City to the Caribbean islands .
The spacious open plan environment features a centrally located character bar, a dedicated ceviche counter, an open kitchen and an outdoor dining space with a fire pit and sunken lounge. You’ll notice the intricate attention to detail, from the warm lighting to the greenery, wooden furniture and even the ceiling.
Before we start eating, it’s worth mentioning the Caña of Tamoka’s little sister. The beach bar is located below the beach, with a winding path connecting the two. Open daily from 12pm to 8pm, the concept store has a rustling feel between your toes. We just arrived and unfortunately missed it, but there will always be a next time.
Highlights:
On the terrace, our seaside seats had views of Palm Jumeirah all the way to Al Ain Dubai on Blue Waters. My dining buddies started walking around after spotting the talented bartenders working their magic. When I walked over to the open kitchen to catch a glimpse of Chef Cesar Bartolini and his team, they were rustling contemporary Latin American creations.
Back at our table, we were given a free hot bread and eggplant dip, which we were told would change daily. Greek yogurt with onion, garlic and a little cilantro completes the ingredient list inside.
Next up is Faina – a chickpea flatbread with wild mushrooms, salted ricotta, chopped cilantro and grated Parmesan – after watching Chef Bartolini put the dish on like a work of art After being on the plate, we had to try it. I’m so glad we did! Faina is an Argentine classic, often eaten with a slice of pizza. In Tamoka Dubai, this Entrada (bite) has a touch of truffle oil to lift and replenish every bite.
Creative bartending is an unmissable treat, especially since the venue offers a range of house-made spirits – think strawberry and cassis, coffee and cocoa, and smoked tamarind. Signature sips are inspired by travels through the Antilles and Caribbean countries. We chose the essence of First Love, including White Currant, Peach and Rose, Lemon, Hibiscus Pomegranate Molasses and Pink Grapefruit Soda; brewed with Smoked Mango, Ginger, Lime, Egg White and Sparkling Water; and finally Debutante, Aromas of toasted coconut and banana, lime, coconut water and butterfly peas. In our opinion, The Blowout stole the show, not only because of its deliciousness, but also because the pufferfish-shaped glass it served was perfect for Instagrammable. Another recommended drink is Hemingway’s Wise Words, with fire-roasted pineapple, pink grapefruit, and lime. Small letters with handwritten notes, provided by bar staff and Ernest Hemingway, accompany each concoction.
Back to the food, Pulpo ahumado (smoked octopus) with Chilean anchovies, purple potatoes and trace herbs, from the Ceviche/Crudo (raw) section of the menu. This dish is already a feast for the eyes, with seafood hidden under a smoky dome; but with just one bite, your taste buds have a feast of their own. We shared a non-grill entree. Lobster with butter, charred lemons and lots of seasonal leaves is sweet, juicy and fantastic. We opted for the roasted tender broccoli with lime juice.
The finale, Postres (dessert), in the form of Don Pedro with vanilla ice cream, sweetened chocolate sauce, whipped cream and walnuts – the only sundae for adults (why should kids have fun?) – arrived and my dining buddies inhaled got it. I had Tiraditos de piña, a plate of pineapple carpaccio topped with kiwi, passion fruit and a scoop of coconut sorbet.
judgment:
Unmistakably delicious food and strong sipping, elevated by truly excellent service, gorgeous island decor and a wonderful ambience. Add this hotspot to your list if you want a great view on the beach.
Book now:
Monday to Friday 12 noon to 1 am, Saturday and Sunday 12 noon to 2 am. Call +9714 318 6099. Visit Instagram.