Rainer Becker, the man behind Zuma, is bringing new restaurant Roka to Dubai

Set to launch in early 2020, it will be the contemporary Japanese robatayaki restaurant’s first international location

Roka's older sibling Zuma is already an institution in Dubai

Ever since its Dubai launch in 2008, Zuma has consistently ranked as one of the top eateries in the region, and a must-visit for those living in the UAE. And now, the brains behind Zuma, Rainer Becker, is  set to launch another concept in the region – Roka Dubai will open its doors in early 2020. It will be located on the first floor of the ME Dubai within The Opus by Omniyat in Business Bay.

The award-winning robatayaki Japanese restaurant’s main draw is its robata grill, which originated from the northern coastal waters off Japan, where fishermen would cook fish on their boats with different types of charcoal. Needless to say, the soon-to-open Dubai branch will have a robata at the heart of its 7,400-square-foot venue. Diners can expect to find some of Roka’s signature dishes which include scallop skewers with wasabi and shiso, rock-shrimp tempura with wasabi-pea seasoning and chilli mayonnaise, and lamb cutlets with Korean spices.

The interiors of the restaurant have been designed by Norisan Muramatsu to have an industrial look, with brushed concrete, raw wood finishes and metal leather coming together to give it an edgy, warm feel. The expansive space will be able to seat 185 diners, and it will also have a large alfresco dining area that can host 64. Finally, an inhouse DJ will be spinning beats to give the restaurant its signature vibe.

This will be Roka’s first international location, after its success in London where it has four branches – in Aldwych, Canary Wharf, Mayfair and Charlotte Street (its signature restaurant which recently celebrated its 15th anniversary).

The news of the opening comes after years of Becker hinting that the group was considering bringing Roka to the Middle East, and is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated launches of 2020.