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Kokoro

Dubai

From Japan to the UAE, via Houston, Texas

What's the story? The passion project of American chefs Patrick Pham and Daniel Lee, the original Kokoro was born in Houston, Texas, with an intriguing aim: to turn sushi on its head. The concept was brought to Dubai's arts district by the team behind FiyaIYA, Pinza and Bake My Day in 2024, and locals have been falling in love with its playful yet expertly crafted cuisine ever since. Not surprising, really, for a restaurant whose name translates into English as 'heart'.

A sense of mischief: The art of sushi making is a serious business, but that doesn't stop Kokoro from having fun. Though the space itself is understated, it's home to an uncountable quantity of rubber ducks, each more colourful than the last – a quirk that instantly puts visitors at ease. Dinner here always comes with a show, too: the restaurant's focal point is a long, polished bar, behind which an open kitchen allows diners to watch the chefs at work.

Signature dishes: Pristine nori-wrapped parcels packed with crunchy, creamy and zesty elements –, Kokoro's hand rolls are the highlight of the menu. Made to order with the likes of Japanese yellowtail, salmon, Hokkaido scallop and marbled A5 wagyu beef, each cone-shaped offering combines the freshest of ingredients with masterfully prepared rice to create a handheld package that's big on precision, but small on pretence.

Trust the experts: If you want to experience all the flavours, textures and creative twists Kokoro has to offer, it's worth pulling up a front-row seat at the counter and asking the chef for personalised recommendations. Want to go your own way? The menu is easy to navigate, spanning classical nigiri and sashimi, crudo dishes, a range of side salads and, of course, those all-important hand rolls.

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