There’s plenty of choice when it comes to Japanese cuisine in the capital, and we’re thrilled when we’re really wowed by a restaurant. While Zuma is usually the name on everyone’s lips (it did clean up at our 2018 Restaurant Awards, after all, taking home three gongs including Restaurant of the Year), but if you’re looking for excellent Japanese cuisine, Koi mustn’t be overlooked.
The moodily-lit spot picked up Highly Commended in the Japanese category at the same awards, and is romantic and intimate, making it the perfect date-night spot. Perhaps most importantly, the food is excellent.
Don’t miss the seared tuna with jalapeño and garlic chips to kick-start your meal. Perfectly seared slices of fish are presented in a sweet yet tangy sauce. The warmth of jalapeño gives a gentle kick, while the garlic chips offer a crunchy texture, which works deliciously with the rich, fatty tuna.
There’s a long, but not overwhelming, list of sushi to choose from, and the California rolls are super-fresh and tasty.
We opt for the miso-bronzed black cod and peppercorn filet mignon for mains, and we’re thrilled with our choices. The fish is perfectly buttery but not too sweet or rich, while the tender, tasty beef is complemented by the punchy, peppery sauce.
With delicious dishes and a cool vibe, Koi is definitely worth making a date at.
WHAT IS IT…
A top-notch Japanese restaurant on Saadiyat Island
WHY GO…
The excellent black cod
