Venturing into Mimi Kakushi, I anticipated a commendable dining experience, yet the reality far eclipsed my expectations, elevating this establishment to the pinnacle of my culinary adventures in Dubai. Mimi Kakushi, a name that intriguingly translates to ‘covering the ears’, is more than just a moniker; it's an invitation to traverse time and space, to immerse oneself in the liberating aura of 1920s Japan—a period brimming with cultural awakening and artistic flourish.
From the moment my husband and I crossed the threshold, we were enveloped in an ambience that whispered tales of yesteryear Japan, meticulously recreated through an exquisite amalgamation of authentic décor and atmospheric lighting. The craftsmanship displayed in every corner spoke volumes of the establishment's commitment to authenticity, with lighting that skillfully blended intimacy and allure, crafting an environment both inviting and mesmerizing.
Greeted with genuine warmth and sincerity, the staff's hospitality was a precursor to the exceptional service that would define our evening. Comfortably seated, with spotlights ingeniously directed to preserve both visibility and privacy, the stage was set for a culinary odyssey.
And what an odyssey it was. Each dish presented was a revelation in itself—distinctive, visually arresting, and crafted from the finest ingredients. The culinary prowess of Mimi Kakushi was on full display, seamlessly marrying traditional flavors with innovative techniques. The wagyu beef gyozas and short rib stood out, not merely for their exquisite taste but also for the meticulous care evident in their preparation. The sushi, a testament to the chef's mastery, was impeccable, each piece a harmonious blend of flavor and texture.
The climax of this gastronomic ballet was the dessert—elegance on a plate, each bite a symphony of refined flavors that danced gracefully upon the palate. The service, ever attentive and intuitively responsive, further elevated the experience. Our waiter, with an almost prescient understanding of our preferences, guided us through the menu with recommendations that seemed tailored just for us, adding a personal touch that was both delightful and impressive.
In a city as cosmopolitan as Dubai, where the culinary scene is as diverse as it is competitive, Mimi Kakushi has firmly established itself as a beacon of Japanese cuisine. It is not merely a restaurant; it is a destination, a journey to a bygone era that resonates with the vibrancy of the present. It has, without a doubt, earned its place among my top three Japanese dining experiences in Dubai and has become my go-to recommendation for friends seeking an unforgettable culinary adventure.
In summary, Mimi Kakushi is more than a dining experience; it is a portal to another era, offering not just meals, but memories that linger, enchant, and invite...
Read moreHold on tight and brace yourselves for a tantalizing adventure through the whimsical wonderland of Mimi Kakushi! Trust me, this place is as quirky and enchanting as its name implies. So hold on tight as I spill the beans (or rather, the wagyu tataki) about my uproarious experience at this gem.
Let's start with the star of the show, the Wagyu Tataki with Yuzu Daikon, crispy sweet potato, and shiso leaves. It was a plate of pure perfection that had me contemplating life's deepest questions. How can something be so tender, so flavorful, and yet so beautifully presented? It's like culinary sorcery! I almost expected the dish to burst into a spontaneous jazz number because it was just that fabulous.
But wait, there's more! The Grilled Tenderloin with Chipotle soy glaze, shiso mayo, truffle mayo, and spicy ponzu was like a fireworks display in my mouth. The combination of flavors was so explosive that I momentarily forgot where I was. I swear I saw confetti raining from the ceiling and heard a chorus of angels singing as I took each delectable bite. It was like a flavor party that I never wanted to end.
And let's not forget the grand finale - the Caramel Purine Tart with burnt mandarin and yuzu sorbet. This dessert was like a mischievous little trickster, luring me into a world of sweet temptation. With each spoonful, I could feel my taste buds doing a happy dance, and I'm pretty sure I heard a round of applause coming from my stomach. It was pure dessert wizardry that left me giggling with delight.
Now, let's talk about the ambiance, my dear foodie adventurers. The entrance to Mimi Kakushi is like stumbling upon a secret society. But once inside, you're transported to a whimsical world that channels the spirit of 1920s Osaka. The sultry music and exotic decor make you feel like you've stepped into a time machine and landed in a jazz-infused wonderland.
The service at Mimi Kakushi was spot-on, delivered by an enthusiastic team that made me feel like the star of a foodie reality show. They were attentive, knowledgeable, and just a little bit cheeky, adding an extra dash of fun to the whole experience.
Now, fair warning, my friends: dining at Mimi Kakushi may cause a mild shock to your wallet. But fear not, because the extravagance and joy you'll experience are worth every penny. The La Cantine Group has once again worked its magic, transforming a meal into an unforgettable adventure that will have you laughing, sighing, and possibly even doing a spontaneous food dance.
So, my fellow foodies, if you're ready for a culinary escapade filled with laughter and flavor fireworks, Mimi Kakushi is calling your name. Embrace the quirkiness, savor the magic, and prepare for a dining experience that will have you grinning like a Cheshire cat. Trust me, you won't be...
Read moreMy recent experience at Mimi Kakushi in the Four Seasons, Dubai, presented a mixed bag of culinary delights and disappointments. Despite the allure of the location and the anticipation built around the dining experience, there were notable areas where the restaurant could improve.
Starting with the positives, the Tuna Tataki was a standout dish. It resonated with excellent flavors, striking a perfect balance of taste and presentation that left a lasting impression. The Prawn Maki also deserves mention for its quality, adding to the list of commendable dishes.
However, the overall dining experience was marred by several shortcomings. A significant disappointment was the oversight in the pre-ordered champagne, which was not served as expected. This lapse in service was a letdown, especially considering the prestige of the Four Seasons.
Timing was another area of concern. The food started arriving at 10:58 AM, a considerable wait since our arrival at 10:35 AM. The wait times for both hot starters and the main dish, each taking around 20 minutes, further contributed to a sense of delayed service.
The main courses were a mixed experience. The Cod dish was underwhelming, falling below expectations in terms of flavor and culinary execution. The Wagyu Steak, despite its promising appearance, was a letdown with its chewiness and lack of taste and aroma. These dishes did not justify the high expectations set by the restaurant’s reputation.
Desserts were average, with the Panacotta being acceptable but not remarkable. The Geisha dessert platter was slightly better, qualifying as average plus in its offering.
Service was another aspect that did not rise to the occasion. For a restaurant of Mini Kakushi’s caliber, one expects seamless and attentive service, which seemed lacking during this visit.
The pricing, at 1000 AED per person, is steep and, given the mixed quality of food and service, might not offer the best value for money.
In reflection, Mimi Kakushi at the Four Seasons, Dubai, shines in certain aspects like the Tuna Tataki, but there are evident areas for improvement, particularly in service, timing, and consistency in culinary excellence. For a restaurant in such a prestigious location and with a notable price point, one would expect a more consistently high-quality experience. My recommendation would be for the restaurant to address these service and culinary inconsistencies to match the expectations set by its pricing...
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