He’s a household name in Dubai after heading up some of the biggest kitchens in the city. Now Reif Othman has his own eateries across Dubai, and he’s setting up shop in Time Out Market Dubai this year.
Othman’s been in the kitchen at Zuma, PLAY and more, and is now the founder of Reif Japanese Kushiyaki, which opened to great success last year. He’s since opened up at Nakheel Mall’s Depachika Food Hall, and you’ll be able to dig into his tasty signature dishes in Souk Al Bahar soon.
Time Out Market Dubai is coming to Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, in Q1 2021, and here’s what Othman has to say about super street food.
How long have you been in Dubai?
Twelve years.
How did you get into restaurants?
My mum used to run a small cafeteria serving local Singaporean-Asian cuisine, and I used to help out. However, I decided to work for the stock exchange and deal in commodity shares. While I made good money, it wasn’t for me – and my heart was drawn back to my mother’s kitchen. I then changed career and worked for various restaurants in Singapore to learn the trade.
What do people love about your restaurant?
It’s cosy, warm and easy casual dining – with high quality ingredients at a reasonable price, so people come back. On top of this, consistency is key.
Tell us about your most creative dish.
Kagoshima wagyu ramen – the 76-hour rib ramen. Also my “Covid cake” the Reif Roll of lemon and yuzu sponge that’s shaped like a loo roll.
Where do you source your ingredients?
Mainly Japan and some vegetables from local farmers.
Who are your culinary influences?
My staff, as they have some crazy ideas and will inspire me to change dishes for the better.
What’s the golden rule in your kitchen?
Consistency.
What’s your go-to meal to cook at home?
A simple pasta with olive oil from Spain, pink garlic, fresh chilli and chopped herbs.
What’s your single favourite thing to eat in the whole world?
Singaporean chicken rice.
What’s your favourite place to explore in Dubai?
I love heading out to the desert and the mountains of Hatta where I can unwind on a motorbike.
For more news on Time Out Market Dubai, click here.
