Funkcoolio — Restaurant in Dubai

What a lovely place. I wasn't aware of it neither was I aware that this was one of Chef Akmal's creations. Once I found out, I had to try it. To be honest, I did have some doubts but let me tell you what I thought of the place..

First, the place (location) is very very very nice. On a nice December night, with an amazing weather, this place is a hidden gem. If you dont live in that area, there will be some walk till you get to the place, but with the weather we are having, it was a great walk.

Now the most important aspect, THE FOOD.

We started with the Crispy Egg plants (amazing) and the Fried Octopus (another amazing dish). The Egg plant was thin and crispy. Honestly I can have 10 servings of it. The Octopus was also great, not oily at all and well cooked. It wasn't chewy, instead the octopus was very tender. It was perfect.

The main dishes were The Veal Ragu pizza and the sea food pasta. The Pizza was fantastic and oozed with flavors. The Pasta was cooked properly but it was a bit "fishy".. Yes I know that it is a SEA FOOD pasta, but I personally did not really enjoy it (it wasn't why they got the 4 star by the way, that will come later). Some might like it, others wont and I was one of the "others".

We ended the meal with their Tiramisu. Italian place, of course we will end with the Tiramisu and this is where the one star was lost. I appreciate the creativity in the Tiramisu but some dishes are meant to stay untouched. It should have been kept simple and original. What bothered me most about it was the use of a cake as a base instead of the original lady fingers. The taste of espresso was not there (not sure if espresso was used). Over all, the Tiramisu was a disappointment.

Other than the dessert, the place, the food, the service were excellent and I certainly am looking forward to going back again and again and again and again. I am excited to try the other dishes (the pizzas especially).

One last point which I just remembered, I actually visited this place for their burger and funny thing is I totally forgot to order their burger... Next time for sure.. A pizza + a...

This place is insane. The food is insanely good, my mouth is watering while I’m writing this review. That’s the place where everyone I brought has agreed that there was no average dish. Waiters are so friendly as well. The only hassle is the parking, it so far and you need at least a 5-6 minute walk in the heat.

Having tried most of the menu, here are the must haves🌟 Wagyu arancini Sea bass arancini (it was a special) Salmon carpaccio Yellowtail carpaccio Scallops Truffle pizza Spicy duck pizza Pici pasta Mist on the water

Thanks to Chef Akmal & team. Review #2

Osteria Funkcoolio is a true gem! It’s evident that Chef Akmal Anuar's new venture has captured my heart with its unique Japanese Italian fusion. The fact that it quickly became my favorite spot speaks volumes about the quality of the food and experience they offer.

It's wonderful that I’ve introduced my friends & family to Funkcoolio to share the culinary delight. Having high standards as a foodie and a picky eater makes the endorsement even more significant. The attention to detail in the food, ingredients, taste, ambiance, and service truly sets it apart. My mention of it being worthy of a Michelin star speaks volumes about the exceptional dining experience it provides.

It's heartwarming to encounter the friendly staff, especially Percy and El, who make my visits even more special. Building those personal connections at a restaurant can truly enhance the overall experience.

I'm glad I found a place like Funckoolio that meets all my expectations and keeps me coming back for more. It's always a delight to discover a restaurant that resonates with me on so many levels.

Chef & team, all the best on your continued culinary adventures at...

A Truly Exceptional Dining Experience at Osteria Funkcoolio Dining at Osteria Funkcoolio is nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment you step in, the warm and attentive service sets the tone for a memorable meal. The staff consistently go above and beyond to ensure every guest feels welcomed and well cared for. The food is a true highlight—each dish is beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. Whether it’s handcrafted pasta, fresh seafood, or their signature fusion creations, every bite showcases a perfect balance of creativity and authenticity. The portions are generous, offering great value without compromising on quality. The innovative menu seamlessly blends Italian classics with subtle Japanese influences, delivering a refreshing twist on traditional favorites. The ambiance is equally noteworthy—elegant yet cozy, with a romantic touch that makes it ideal for special occasions or a relaxed evening out. While the overall experience is outstanding, it’s worth noting that there was an isolated concern regarding a slight odor in the space, which was attributed to humidity affecting the wooden interiors. However, this minor issue did little to detract from the overall excellence of the visit. Osteria Funkcoolio stands out as a destination for those seeking unique flavors, exceptional service, and a stylish atmosphere. Highly recommended for anyone looking to indulge in a top-tier dining experience. Without a doubt, a place worth returning to...