Chef Reif Othman is curating a new dining concept

Smokd Eatery will take up residence at Boxpark on Al Wasl road.

His ascent from broker to the winner of the FACT Dining Awards ‘Chef of the Year 2022’ was hardly straightforward, but everything Reif Othman touches inevitably turns to gold. Not one to sit still, the chef-restaurateur of Reif Kushiyaki fame has turned his sights to a new venture entitled Smokd Eatery, overseeing both the concept and its menu.

Expected to open at Boxpark by the end of February 2023, it will be centred (as its name suggests) on unique smoked flavours, inviting diners on a journey of the senses in an elevated, yet welcoming setting. Incidentally, Smokd Eatery comes courtesy of F&B expert Sherief Elmoslemany, who brought us SMK – Smoked Meat Kitchen. Stepping into Smokd Eatery promises to be a sensory experience in and of itself, with the interiors designed by Studio Tsubi, a premier UAE-based design firm known for its mindful designs that incorporate feng shui principles. Inspired by nature and colour, the space has been crafted as a positive space washed in hues of terracotta and mint green, and filled with fun and functional elements.

Once open, Smokd Eatery will accommodate 52 indoor seats and 26 outdoor seats, offering ample space to indulge in Othman’s culinary masterpieces. The menu at Smokd Eatery is a celebration of culinary art, with a range of starters that includes Cauliflower Popcorn with Yoghurt Ranch, Pastrami Carpaccio with Tuna Sauce and Crispy Capers, and Baked Bone Marrow with Burnt Ends Brisket Tartar. As for those dining in groups? The ‘Trays to Share’ span the likes of Salmon Pan Seared with Jalapeno Cream and Raisin Chimichurri, Spaghetti with Crabmeat & Kombu, and Grilled Wagyu Tenderloin with Three Pepper Sauce.

“At Smokd Eatery, we aim to create a truly memorable dining experience, one that not only tantalises the taste buds with our innovative blend of flavours, but also enchants the senses with our thoughtfully designed interiors and warm, inviting atmosphere,” says Elmoslemany. “Our goal is to bring people together to celebrate good food, good company, and the simple joys of life, which is why we sought Chef Reif Othman’s consultancy on this project as we share the same passion and vision towards food excellence and concept innovation. I’m incredibly proud to be launching this exciting new venture, and I can’t wait for guests to experience the magic of Smokd Eatery for themselves.”

Echoing his sentiments, Othman adds, “I was excited to be called by Sherief to help craft a gastronomic journey that will not only add to Dubai’s ever-growing food and beverage scene, but a concept that awakens your senses and stimulates your palate. The menu at Smokd Eatery features innovative and contemporary dishes, each thoughtfully crafted to showcase the perfect balance of flavour and texture to provide an experience of culinary expedition like never before.”

GO: Follow @smokdeatery on Instagram for more information.