Matagi Dubai: Contemporary Japanese Dining at Raffles The Palm
While Raffles The Palm Dubai knows no bounds to its opulence, stepping into it’s popular Japanese restaurant, Matagi, the mood shifts. Tucked away from the hotel’s gilded grandeur, the restaurant feels intimate with dark wood, soft lighting and understated Japanese details.
The contemporary Izakaya-style restaurant, led by Head Chef Rajiv Devnani, takes a thoughtful approach to Japanese cuisine, combining impeccable ingredients with creativity. The open kitchen and sushi counter look great, while the low lighting and sleek interiors make Matagi feel equally suited to a romantic dinner or relaxed evening with friends.
The menu is designed for sharing, which is fortunate because choosing just a few dishes is no easy task. Start with the Chef’s Moriawase, an impressive selection that showcases the precision of the kitchen team. The Japanese flavours are clean and balanced, allowing the quality of the ingredients to take centre stage.
Among the standout dishes is the Saikyo Miso Marinated Black Cod, its rich, buttery texture complemented by the sweetness of miso. Meat lovers should make room for the Kurohana Japanese Wagyu A5 Striploin, where marbling and careful cooking need little introduction. Presentation is a highlight, and service is attentive and knowledgeable.
Matagi focuses on what matters - exceptional produce, precise cooking, elegant presentation and a warm setting. Whether you are staying at Raffles or simply looking for somewhere special to dine on The Palm, Matagi makes a compelling case for putting contemporary Japanese cuisine on your Dubai dining itinerary.
