Minimalist Japanese dining with a side of vinyl-level cool
The spot
Dubai Opera quietly levelled up its dining credentials late last year with the arrival of Tezukuri, a poised and polished addition to the District. The concept comes courtesy of an all-female power pairing: Neha Mishra of Kinoya fame, alongside Panchali Mahendra of Atelier House Hospitality (11 Woodfire). Together, they’ve created what’s billed as a “modern Japanese temaki and listening bar”.
The main dining room is minimalist. Warm blonde wood wraps the counter, where most guests perch front-row, watching chefs work with near-monastic focus. Lighting is low and flattering, creating depth through shadow. Tucked discreetly away is a fabulous speakeasy-style listening bar – complete with stellar surround system and record player – that serves martinis and seats 10 (at a push).
The food and drinks
At the heart of Tezukuri is the temaki, where hand rolls are served from the counter without delay or distraction. It’s Japanese dining distilled down to timing and restraint. Watch closely and you’ll see it play out: a quiet choreography behind the counter, each roll (bluefin tuna; red prawn, uni, seaperch for example) passed directly to the guest.
The kitchen is led by Chef Tatsuya, an Osaka native whose precision anchors the experience. Beyond the hand rolls, the menu expands into kobachi and onsai, with small plates that reward attention. The chicken tsukune arrives juicy and well-seasoned, while the A5 wagyu nigiri is seared counter-side with charcoal, just enough heat to coax out the marbling without overwhelming it. There are other hits: boneless chicken wings hidden under a mound of parmesan; and a gorgeously tangy daikon salad drizzled in a sour plum dressing. The drinks programme is confident with city-inspired cocktails, a thoughtful sake selection, wine, premium spirits and well-crafted mocktails for those abstaining.
The service
If you sit at the counter (which you should), the chefs are the show, serious and not especially chatty. That said, Chef Tatsuya, bow tie and all, brings moments of warmth between the meticulousness. Floor staff are gentle and present without appearing to hover.
The bill
Hand rolls run the gamut from Dhs35 (enoki mushroom) to Dhs200 (premium Japanese sea urchin), nigiri from Dhs30, while small plates range from Dhs45 (chicken thigh skewers) to Dhs400 (A5 Japanese wagyu tenderloin).
What’s On verdict
Tezukuri feels like a passion project executed with clarity. Expect repeat visits, especially to that listening bar
– just remember to book.
The details
Location: Ground Floor, Opera Grand, Downtown Dubai
Times: Tue to Fri 6pm to midnight, Sat and Sun noon to midnight (Mondays closed)
Contact: (058) 141 9696; @tezukuridubai
Images: Supplied
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