JBR’s latest opening boasts the best of the Antilles

Beachside dining destination Tamoka is now open.

The vibrant culture of the Antilles archipelago is a tapestry of African, American Indian, European and even Asian influences, resulting in fusion cuisine that’s far from contrived or pretentious. Pair it with exhilarating beats and an island-esque ambience, and the result is Tamoka, a new beachside dining destination located at The Walk in JBR. Radiating the soul, warmth and richness of the Antillean islands, the restaurant embodies a sense of wonder and discovery, inviting guests to dive into a world of playful rituals.

Here, the curated menu transverses through Latin America and the Caribbean coasts with a variety of native flavours and tropical libations, so expect dishes that look to the likes of Tulum, San José, Lima, Cartagena and Caracas for inspiration. Tamoka’s contemporary take on coastal and Latin-inspired cuisine embraces fresh and indigenous ingredients sourced from artisanal producers to create an array of signature dishes across fire and ice – ceviche, specialty seafood and in-house dry-aged meats included. At the helm of its epicurean voyage is award-winning Chef de Cuisine Cesar Bartolini, who brings with him a wealth of experience in the regional hospitality scene.

To begin their tropical journey, guests can indulge in a variety of entradas such as the Tinga, a contemporary Mexican dish of slow-cooked confit chicken inside a freshly baked bun drizzled with a tantalising chipotle sauce. The Costillas, crispy beef short ribs marinated in tamarind and cooked to perfection, also come highly recommended. For those on the health-conscious side or those with an appetite for seafood, opt for the Alaskan king crab with Little Gem lettuce, an Argentinian-inspired dressing, and salsa. As for meat lovers? Don’t miss the Ojo De Bife, a dry-aged Wagyu rib-eye served with a roasted pineapple mustard and a drizzle of Chef De Cuisine Cesar Bartolini’s signature sauce. End your meal on a high note, choosing from options such as the Torta Rum (a Caribbean spiced rum cake served with a caramelised banana) or the Anana (a tropical pineapple carpaccio served with fresh kiwi, passion fruit and a delicious coconut sorbet).

Whether you’re visiting for a light lunch, an extravagant dinner, or sundowners accented with electrifying beats spun by the venue’s resident DJ, the venue promises to infuse each experience with the bohemian spirit. The spacious, open concept – complete with al fresco seating, a dedicated ceviche bar, outdoor fire pits and sunken lounges – brings together a sense of authenticity and relaxed luxury through its design, which effortlessly combines indigenous Latin American craftsmanship with intrinsic detailing throughout its décor. Meanwhile, Caña by Tamoka – Tamoka’s little sister – is a palapa-style beach bar located a stone’s throw away. Incidentally, Caña by Tamoka is the only licensed bar on the JBR strip, offering an extended opportunity for Tamoka guests to soak up the sun and enjoy concoctions crafted by expert mixologists amidst barefoot beach vibes.

GO: Visit www.tamokadubai.com for reservations or more information.