Dubai’s culinary landscape has taken a remarkable leap forward with the grand opening of KIGO, a distinguished Japanese dining venue nestled within the prestigious Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre. This exquisite restaurant marks a new chapter in fine dining, brought to life by the visionary team at Fundamental Hospitality, in collaboration with celebrated Chef Izu Ani, Head Chef Akinori ‘Aki’ Tanigawa, and Sushi Head Chef Daihachiro Ebata. KIGO offers a sophisticated counter-style omakase experience and an elegant kaiseki set menu, masterfully fusing Japan’s revered dining traditions with innovative culinary artistry.
At the heart of KIGO’s concept lies a profound respect for seasonality and the ephemeral nature of time, themes deeply rooted in Japanese culture. The restaurant’s name, KIGO (季語), inspired by seasonal words used in Japanese haiku poetry, signifies this commitment to embodying the beauty and transience of each season through its cuisine. Every dish served is a heartfelt homage to the rhythms of nature, creating a dining experience that is as poetic as it is flavorful.
KIGO’s culinary philosophy is anchored in tradition but embraces subtle modern innovation, making it a unique destination in Dubai’s vibrant fine dining scene. The kaiseki dining journey, a revered culinary art form in Japan with centuries of history, highlights the delicate interplay of taste, texture, and visual appeal in each course. Guests are invited to traverse a carefully curated menu that reflects the natural seasons, crafting a seamless narrative from one course to the next. This dedication to seasonality ensures that every ingredient is at its freshest and most flavorful, honoring the Japanese belief in savoring each fleeting moment.
The ambiance at KIGO is thoughtfully designed to immerse guests in a contemporary yet distinctly Japanese aesthetic. Drawing inspiration from the Japanese concept of Wa, which embodies harmony and balance, the restaurant space is both serene and refined. It accommodates 44 guests and features a striking sushi counter crafted from rare Aji stone sourced from Kagawa Prefecture—celebrated for its enduring strength and natural beauty. This elegant setting perfectly complements the precision and skill showcased by Sushi Head Chef Daihachiro Ebata, who brings his expertise from the Michelin-starred Sushi Wakon in Kyoto.
Adding to the sensory experience, KIGO’s interior includes the stunning Rimpa-inspired artwork by Eiki Kimura, which harmonizes traditional Japanese art motifs with a modern sensibility. Carefully chosen Japanese chinaware and glassware enhance the visual and tactile elements of the dining experience, reflecting the seasonal inspiration behind each dish. For those seeking a more private and personalized engagement, the restaurant offers an exclusive private dining room—ideal for bespoke kaiseki or omakase sessions that celebrate the artistry and luxury of Japanese culinary culture.
The culinary journey at KIGO evolves through the seasons, with the autumn kaiseki menu offering a particularly evocative experience. This menu guides diners from the lingering warmth of summer to the crisp freshness of fall, featuring ingredients that celebrate the transition through vibrant textures and exquisite flavors. Early courses gently evoke the last days of summer, while later dishes highlight autumn’s rich harvest, symbolizing the natural changes that direct the meal’s flow.
Complementing the exquisite food offerings is an expertly curated beverage selection, which includes the signature Shigemasu 18 Junmai Daiginjo sake—a testament to Japan’s brewing excellence—and a variety of rare sakes that enhance the dining experience. Innovative handcrafted cocktails inspired by seasonal kigo add a contemporary twist, while an elegant array of Japanese teas and the calming ritual of ceremonial matcha provide a perfect ending to the meal.
Behind KIGO’s culinary excellence stands a team of master craftsmen renowned within Dubai’s gastronomy scene. Chef Izu Ani, Fundamental Hospitality’s Chief Research Officer, is celebrated for merging time-honored recipes with modern methods. Head Chef Akinori “Aki” Tanigawa brings over 30 years of kaiseki expertise to the kitchen, blending delicate techniques with a deep respect for seasonal ingredients. Sushi Head Chef Daihachiro Ebata’s precision and artistry are equally impressive, stemming from an esteemed background in Kyoto’s Michelin-starred establishments.
For Chef Aki, cooking transcends the mere act of preparing food; it is an emotional connection and an expression of sincerity. His culinary philosophy centers around the idea that food is a generous gift, crafted to bring happiness to others. Through KIGO, he offers a window into Japan’s culinary heritage—inviting diners to forge a deeper connection with the history, culture, and artistry that define Japanese cuisine.
Dining at KIGO is truly an immersive experience, offering guests a gateway to the cultural legacy of Japan via omakase and kaiseki. Here, each meal is a deliberate and intimate exploration of Japan’s seasonal bounty, tradition, and refinement presented in a modern context. By celebrating seasonality, purity, and time-honored techniques, KIGO stands as a beacon of Japanese culinary excellence in the heart of Dubai, providing an authentic yet innovative journey through Japan’s spectacular food culture.
Located within the elegant surroundings of the Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre, KIGO invites travellers and local food enthusiasts alike to indulge in an unparalleled dining experience. The restaurant’s sophisticated atmosphere and commitment to culinary artistry make it an essential destination for those eager to savor the transient beauty of Japan’s seasons through an extraordinary and immersive meal. Reservations are highly recommended to fully experience this exceptional culinary destination.
