Discovering the Art of Omakase Dining at Himitsu

If you’re seeking a unique culinary experience this season, consider trying an omakase meal. This tradition invites diners to relinquish control and trust the chef’s artistry and expertise. Rather than picking from a static menu, you’re treated to an evolving procession of dishes that highlight creativity and flavor. While it’s recommended to disclose dietary restrictions, the omakase experience revolves around a thoughtfully curated series of courses that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

The Connection Between Chef and Diner

One of the standout aspects of omakase dining is the direct interaction with the chef. This relationship enriches the experience, giving diners a glimpse into the thought process behind each dish, and the meticulous skills involved in their preparation. This personal engagement enhances the appreciation for the meal, making each course feel like a work of art in its own right.

First Impressions of Himitsu

My journey into the world of omakase began at Himitsu, an intimate speakeasy-style bar nestled behind Alba, an Asian fine-dining establishment with a view of the iconic Dubai Opera. This hidden gem features a cozy 800-square-foot space, designed with traditional Japanese art and delicate floral murals in a soothing palette of reds, creating a peaceful atmosphere that encourages conversation and connection.

With only 15 seats, the soundproof environment fosters intimacy, making each meal feel like a special occasion. True to its name—Himitsu translates to “secret”—dining here means venturing into a surprise-filled experience, with no printed menus; instead, diners are treated to a series of courses revealed one at a time.

The Omakase Menu Experience

During my visit, I had the pleasure of tasting an eight-course omakase menu crafted by Sous Chef Henry Kisame Ibra, who has honed his skills in Dubai for seven years. With a background from Uganda, Chef Ibra prepared each dish on the fly, adapting to the freshest available ingredients and the collective preferences of our group. Opting for counter seating elevated the experience, facilitating engaging dialogue about each dish.

The evening commenced with a refreshing tosaka seaweed salad, harmoniously paired with Uzbek tomatoes and Japanese pickled vegetables. This dish exemplified Himitsu’s fusion philosophy, showcasing Asian flavors enhanced by European and Mediterranean influences. It was complemented by a Cold Beauty mocktail made with vanilla and pomelo, which set the tone for a memorable evening.

The menu continued with an exquisite otoro tartare, crafted from the fattiest cut of bluefin tuna. This was elegantly served atop crispy fried kimnori, sushi rice, and a hint of wasabi cream. The luxurious, buttery texture of the otoro was beautifully balanced by the seaweed’s crunch and saltiness. To add a lovely contrast, a mocktail of strawberry and raspberry was the perfect pairing for this dish.

Following that was a delightful Wagyu shiso, layered with wasabi cream and drizzled with a black pepper sauce, accompanied by a bright lemongrass and grapefruit drink. The smoky hamachi, enhanced with pickled papaya and a burst of vibrant flavors, also made an appearance, harmonizing perfectly with a pomegranate and galangal beverage that echoed the dish’s intricacies.

Comfort came in a rich shiitake mushroom soup, garnished with spring onions, soy sauce, and mirin, and offered alongside a delicate clam soup option—both paired with warm hojicha, a dry-roasted green tea.

The apex of the evening was undoubtedly the A5 Wagyu rib-eye steak, perfectly cooked and elegantly plated with baby spinach and ancho chili sauce. This dish embodied Japanese culinary respect for premium ingredients, delivering a decadent yet understated flavor profile.

Dessert was a sweet farewell, beginning with a cappuccino flan topped with Chantilly meringue and caramel espresso, paired with a refreshing passion fruit, green apple, and almond drink. The grand finale was a comforting coconut dango: chewy rice dumplings infused with matcha and coconut in a rich sauce made from coconut sugar, cream, and butter.

The Standout Dish

For many, including myself, the crowned champion of the evening was the Wagyu steak. This course exemplified the omakase philosophy, showcasing the kitchen’s commitment to high-quality ingredients. With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and thoughtfully layered flavors, it lingered delightfully long after the final bite.

A Unique Dining Experience

Himitsu presents a distinctive dining adventure unlike any other in Dubai. It caters perfectly to those open to spontaneity and willing to embrace the unexpected, although diners accustomed to traditional menus might find the secretive approach a bit challenging. Given its limited seating, dining here feels more suited for special occasions rather than a routine meal.

The restaurant genuinely succeeds in offering something fresh within Dubai’s diverse culinary scene. Each guest is gifted a postcard stating: “The night is a secret – the memory is yours to write,” a lovely keepsake marking the unique experience.

Practical Details

Himitsu offers its omakase experience from Thursday to Sunday with two seatings at 6 PM and 8 PM. The mixed omakase starts at Dh450 for eight courses, with optional beverage pairings available for Dh200 (mocktails) or Dh400 (cocktails). The menu changes daily, ensuring that each visit brings something new.

Located within Alba restaurant in Dubai Opera Plaza, Downtown Dubai, reservations can be made by calling 058 147 9888. Valet parking is also available for convenience.

Himitsu is not just a meal; it’s a journey into the culinary arts, making it an essential destination for food enthusiasts seeking a memorable experience.