Kokoro

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

• No.15 Middle East & North Africa's 50 Best Restaurants 2026

Visit a handroll bar in Japan and you'll be feasting on cone-shaped pieces of nori (seaweed) wrapped around fresh seafood, sushi rice, vegetables and sauces. They're served over the counter and designed to be eaten immediately with your hands (no chopsticks) to ensure optimum freshness. It was only a matter of time until this casual dining concept made its way to Dubai, and we've got chefs Daniel Lee and Patrick Pham to thank for that, who opened Kokoro in 2024. The Al Serkal Avenue space operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so get there early. There are different handrolls to choose from, such as spicy tuna, shiitake mushroom or sake, and you can also opt for sets of three to five – it does crudo, nigiri and sashimi, too. Everything is made to order with chefs slicing, seasoning and rolling in front of you. The speed and efficiency of it all is quite something.

Key Information

• Average price per person $44
• Lunch and Dinner: Mon – Sun
• Visit Kokoro's Website

Location

17th St , Al Quoz, Dubai,