SOON Izakaya — Restaurant in Dubai

Considering that neighboring Nola and Mythos both have undergone the baptism of fire that the first few years of business often mean - chances are that the new kid on the block Soon, a Japanese izakaya slash ambitious cocktail bar, will make it as well. There is some clever thinking involved in this one, but it now remains to be seen if they pass the same acid test as their competitors next door.

🎷 7/8: Be that as it may - that it’s a dim and sober basement premise - but with the rooms in the room, the clever two bars (one with focus on guests and cocktails, the other one predominantly for incoming tote tickets and dinner guests’ orders) and the artistic design, you completely forget about it. 🥃 5/8: The list of their signatures is quite short, and currently not the most awe-inspiring versions of the classics. The head bartender is convinced though - the release of their new cocktail menu will be a bold statement, echoing throughout the Dubai night scene. Future will tell… 👨‍🔬 6/8: Speaking of bartenders, they’re doing a good job, presenting well and serving agreeable cocktails - but what is missing is yet again the kind of lazed korero you’d want from a bartender at the top of his (or her) game. Shoutout to Frankie for being a good role model though! 🧊 7/8: Big, clear ice cubes, with an ice stamp. Rumor has it they’ll try to go for the big ice blocks down the road - let’s hope!

Japanese izakayas seem to be the talk of the town, quite a few of them popping up as we speak - Soon is focusing both on the food, but also showcasing some astute ideas within their cocktail bar(s). Any visit here for the food should be preceded by at least a short session in their cocktail bar, admiring the interior that is tangenting fine art. Since they have a whole separate bar for the orders coming from the restaurant floor, you’re bound to get the full attention of the bartender - giving you the most bang for the buck from a service perspective. Hopefully their new cocktail menu will bring more excitement and raised eyebrows - the food is definitely there already...

My experiences at SOON have been nothing short of delightful, having visited twice— for Ladies Night and for Saturday brunch. Both occasions left me thoroughly impressed, earning this restaurant a well-deserved five-star rating.

Ladies Night Tuesday

Our first venture to SOON was on a lively Ladies Night, and it set the tone for what would be an exceptional dining experience. The ambiance was buzzing with positive energy, creating the perfect atmosphere for a night out with friends. The staff seamlessly managed the bustling crowd, providing impeccable service that truly stood out. The food at SOON is a testament to culinary excellence. From delectable appetizers to mouthwatering main courses, each dish showcased a perfect blend of flavors and creativity. The presentation was Instagram-worthy, making our dining experience not just a feast for the taste buds but also for the eyes.

Saturday Brunch

Our second visit to SOON for Saturday brunch was equally exceptional. The restaurant effortlessly transitioned from the lively atmosphere of Ladies Night to a more relaxed and inviting vibe suitable for a weekend brunch. The brunch menu featured a delightful array of options of very innovative and unique dishes. The quality of the ingredients and the skillful preparation by the chefs were evident in every bite. What truly sets SOON apart is its exceptional service. Despite the busy Saturday brunch crowd, the staff remained attentive, friendly, and dedicated to ensuring a memorable experience for every guest. It's evident that the team at SOON takes pride in their work and strives to provide top-notch service. SOON has earned its place as one of my favorite dining spots. Whether you're looking for a vibrant night out with friends or a leisurely brunch on the weekend, SOON delivers on all fronts. The combination of outstanding food, impeccable service, and a welcoming atmosphere makes SOON a must-visit destination for food...

Had an absolutely incredible dining experience at SoonDXB—this place is a hidden gem for anyone who loves creative, high-quality Asian fusion.

We started with the Rock Ebi Tempura, and it was the perfect way to kick things off. The prawns were perfectly crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in the most addictive creamy spicy sauce. Honestly, I could eat a whole bowl of just that!

Next up was the Torikatsu, and it did not disappoint. The chicken was tender and juicy, with a light and crispy breading that wasn’t greasy at all. The sauce it came with was rich and flavorful—just the right balance of sweet and savory.

The star of the night for me was the Miso Chilean Seabass. It was absolutely melt-in-your-mouth tender, with that buttery texture you expect from seabass. The miso glaze added a deep umami flavor without overpowering the fish. Hands down one of the best seabass dishes I’ve ever had in Dubai.

We also ordered the Marinated Lamb Rack, which was beautifully cooked and full of flavor. The meat was tender, slightly smoky, and seasoned to perfection. You could really taste the quality in every bite.

Overall, SoonDXB impressed me with both presentation and flavor. Every dish was thoughtfully made, and you can tell they care about quality and detail. Highly recommend this spot if you’re looking for a trendy yet refined dining experience in Dubai.

Can’t wait to go back and try more...