Spain-born Nikkei hand roll bar Akiro is heading to Dubai, adding to the city’s growing appetite for interactive Japanese dining experiences.
Hand roll bars have been gaining popularity across Dubai, with chefs and restaurateurs embracing the intimate counter-style dining experience. Now, Belhasa Hospitality is adding a Nikkie hand roll bar named Akiro Dubai to the emirate’s growing list of Japanese-inspired dining destinations.
FACT has learnt that Belhasa Hospitality is bringing Akiro, a renowned Nikkei hand roll bar from Spain, to the UAE. While the exact location of the Dubai restaurant remains undisclosed, Akiro will open in Dubai as part of the brand’s international expansion. The opening date has not yet been announced, but the Nikkei restaurant concept is expected to arrive in 2026.
Details about the Dubai outpost remain limited, but based on Akiro’s existing restaurants in Madrid and Barcelona, guests can expect a refined yet relaxed dining experience centred around Nikkei cuisine.
The restaurant’s design is expected to follow Akiro’s signature aesthetic, featuring minimalist interiors, curved wooden elements, clean white tones, and a focus on the counter. Warm lighting and understated design details create a premium yet approachable atmosphere, allowing the hand rolls and chefs’ craftsmanship to take centre stage.
Akiro’s highlight is expected to be its interactive hand roll bar, where every seat faces the chefs. Guests can watch their hand rolls being made before they are served immediately across the counter. The concept focuses on the perfect timing of the hand roll experience featuring warm seasoned rice, crisp nori seaweed, and high-quality ingredients.
Similar to the Spain outposts, the Akiro Dubai menu is expected to showcase Nikkei-inspired dishes that combine Japanese precision with Peruvian influences. Signature dishes include tuna tiradito, katsu sando, sashimi, nigiri, and an assortment of hand rolls. A set menu features creations such as ebi furai, tuna, toro, scallop, short rib, and duck confit, highlighting Akiro’s approach to bold flavours and premium ingredients.
The food menu is also expected to be paired with a curated drinks program, including cocktails and grape selections designed to complement the layered flavours of Nikkei cuisine.
Founded by Luis Arevalo alongside Faisal Barakat and Lucas Leon, Akiro describes itself as the world’s first Nikkei hand roll bar. The concept celebrates the immediacy of hand rolls — prepared by chefs, served directly to diners, and enjoyed at their freshest. The concept was first launched in Madrid in 2023. Following its success, Akiro has expanded internationally with locations across Milan and Chicago, before arriving in Dubai later this year.
With Dubai’s growing appetite for hand roll bars and immersive Japanese dining experiences, Akiro Dubai is expected to become a notable addition to the emirate’s thriving restaurant scene.
Where: Dubai, UAE
When: Late 2026
Contact: https://akironikkei.com/