A new lounge and dining concept is headed to DIFC

Ekai will open its doors to the public on Friday, 17 June.

Opulent décor, punchy entertainment, late-night drinks, internationally inspired dishes – it’s all expected at Ekai, a new lounge and dining concept debuting in the heart of DIFC tomorrow. Located on Podium 5 of Burj Daman, this new concept aims to offer Dubai’s nightlife a refreshing ‘dine and unwind’ experience, which is spearheaded by both DJs and multisensory performances.

The décor of Ekai features night sky-inspired walls with hints of gold-plated linings, dimly lit lamps placed on marble tables, vibrant pop art on the walls, and a cosy ambience that’s mellowed down by relaxing deep-house music. This is accented with gastronomical cocktails and premium bottle service, both fuelling guests late into the night.

Ekai’s concept came to life as a homegrown brand, taking inspiration from perpetually buzzing cities like London and New York. Here, the restaurant and lounge menu infuses modern Mediterranean and Italian cuisines alongside Japanese ingredients for umami. All of Ekai’s dishes are a substantial mix of locally sourced sustainable produce and top-quality imported products (wagyu beef from Tasmania and whole seabass from Greece, we’re told), each designed by Executive and Head Chefs who have worked alongside internationally acclaimed figures such as Alain Ducasse and Jamie Oliver.

Some of its special courses include fresh Scottish Salmon served with Peruvian corn and mango salsa as well as freshly prepared pasta – Canadian Lobster Linguini and Beef Cheek Pappardelle included. For those with a sweet tooth, Ekai’s dessert menu hosts a selection of mouth-watering dishes such as the baked Alaska flambé, mille-feuille, and chocolate moelleux. To bridge the gap between a fine-dining restaurant and a nightclub, Ekai will soon debut an open-air terrace and stay open until 3am nightly.

GO: Visit www.ekaidubai.com for reservations and more information.