FACT Review: Zenon brings AI-driven dining to Dubai

The city’s first AI concept restaurant promises immersive dining and marvellous Mediterranean flavours.

The culinary scene in the UAE is always abuzz with innovative dining experiences with new concepts popping up left, right and centre. One recent addition to Dubai’s diverse dining landscape is Zenon, nestled within the Address Dubai Mall. Zenon prides itself on being the city’s first AI-driven restaurant, promising a unique and immersive gastronomic adventure. FACT was the first to reveal this new restaurant that’s taken social media by storm before venturing into this futuristic oasis to discover what it had to offer.

Zenon’s ambience is nothing short of extraordinary. Upon entering, guests are transported into a world where technology meets luxury. The towering ceilings accommodate large screens that showcase mesmerising animations. Motion sensors are strategically placed throughout, making diners an integral part of the AI experience as your movements are mirrored on the screens. 

The main dining area boasts vibrant colours that exude opulence, with plush seating in shades of orange, yellow, teal, and blue, complemented by intricate patterned tiles. The music sets a lively, groovy vibe that prepares you for a memorable evening. 

As you venture deeper, the restaurant features a bar lounge with an extensive drink selection, ensuring your night can continue in style, with a DJ taking over as the evening descends. And let’s not forget the Omakase bar and the private dining area where you can see the chef firing up grills for your favourite cuts.

Despite towering ceilings, Zenon has another storey. The upstairs floor offers a variety of seating options, from intimate spaces adorned with pink mirrors and miniature Greek sculptures to another bar lounge. The VIP area provides a fantastic view of the bar and DJ downstairs, complete with holograms of Greek entities appearing throughout the evening. Zenon also offers an outdoor dining area overlooking the magnificent fountain wall of the Address Dubai Mall — perfect for the cooler temperatures.

Our culinary journey commenced with dainty Hermes cutlery and a sip of Prasinos Passion Fruit Cucumber Cooler (AED 45), a refreshing and well-balanced drink that served as the perfect palate cleanser. The Classic Greek Salad (AED 125) followed, featuring fresh vegetables elevated by the crumbly goodness of Feta cheese. Next up was the Fried Feta Cheese with Chili and Tomato Chutney (AED 65), where the cheese filling met expectations, but the fried coating was overly seasoned with salt. The accompanying chutney, however, was a delightful addition. We were excited to try the Grilled Spanish Octopus “Gallega Style” (AED 135), but unfortunately, it left us underwhelmed. The dish lacked seasoning and flavour, despite being served with potatoes. But we have to say, the Greek Salad undoubtedly stole the spotlight.

Moving on to the mains, we savoured the Pure Breed Wagyu Striploin (AED 590), cooked to a perfect medium-well temperature. The beef was tender, juicy, and impeccably seasoned, needing no additional salt. The Green Asparagus (AED 45) is the ideal crunchy side, though it should be enjoyed promptly to avoid becoming soggy. The Rigatoni with Cream Reduction and Caviar (AED 265) was modified to be served as a vegetarian dish, and it proved to be quite a sensation. With a creamy texture, this dish epitomises the essence of comfort food.

Last but definitely not the least, we indulged in the Tiramisu (AED 85). Adorned with a tiny gold leaf, this heavenly dessert provided a satisfying and delightful end to our meal without being overly sweet.

Zenon offers a unique dining experience with its AI-driven ambience and diverse menu. To make the most of the AI projections, it’s recommended to visit in the evening. And if you do decide to dine at Zenon, don’t miss the Greek Salad, Pure Breed Wagyu Striploin, and Tiramisu, as they form a delightful trio that will leave your heart and palate fully satisfied.

GO: Visit https://zenonrestaurant.com for more information.