Daikan has opened a branch in Abu Dhabi. Much more in-tuned with their restaurants in Germany, this new branch is licensed and serves a wider range of dishes than at either of its Dubai outlets. Located in the swanky Yas Bay complex, it’s bigger too and includes an outdoor dining area. Yet as mesmerising as its outdoor waterfront dining area is, I love its interior which is dominated by what looks like a wall-to-wall vintage LP library complete with an amplifier, turntable (of course) and exposed speakers. Funky.
I started my meal with a pint of Kirin (yeah baby) before moving on to the amazing Chicken Skin Yakitori and Pepper Cheese (wrapped in beef) Bacon (also on sticks). Although I am not a big fan of avocado, I really liked the Avocado Steak which is served on a little sizzling hot plate. The surprise for me was the Grilled Baby Gem Salad – oof! It’s something you must try. And finally (pièce de resistance), I was served my Spicy Miso Ramen which, I am pleased to say is every bit as good as in Dubai.
My Japanese friends have already been to Daikan and loved it. When they say it’s authentic and amazing, I feel even agreeing. So, are the other two of my holy trinity (Kinoya and YUi) also going to make the move to Abu Dhabi? Let’s see. For now, I’m so happy to have Daikan here. It makes my occasional trips to the Capital so much for fun. Add to this the opportunity to catch up with owner Bilal and I’m already looking for an excuse to head out to Abu Dhabi. Highly recommended – easily a 4.5 out of 5.0 score.
Xerxes (pronounced Zûrk’seez) – Food Adventurer Extraordinaire – Shamelessly Exploring the Boundaries of Gluttony
Xerxes physically dines at, or orders from, each and every venue he reviews. He pays in full for whatever he and his companions eat, drink, take away or occasionally throw at each other. Xerxes accepts no money, gifts, discounts or free meals in return for reviews or favouritism. What you have read was NOT influenced in any way by the venue. Join him on his culinary journey on Instagram: @ravenousxerxes or reach out to him via email on xerxes@dellara.com.