Some restaurants manage to be both a destination and an experience. Hakkasan has always been one of those names—synonymous with refined Chinese dining, dramatic interiors, and an atmosphere that balances sophistication with ease. Its Dubai outpost, set within Atlantis The Palm, captures this magic effortlessly. If you’ve ever stepped into the original London flagship, the moment you walk through the doors here, you’ll feel right at home.
The Setting
Hakkasan Dubai is vast, yet intimate in all the right ways. The first thing you notice is the sweeping bar that commands attention—long, sleek, and perfectly lit, setting the tone before you’ve even taken a seat. The dining room is separated by intricately carved wooden screens and latticed panels, details that echo traditional Chinese craftsmanship while blending seamlessly with a modern, glamorous design.
On a weekday evening, the mood was relaxed and inviting. Unlike the loud bustle some fine dining spots can slip into, this was calm and steady—exactly the kind of atmosphere that allows you to focus on good food and good company. It reminded me instantly of the London flagship: elegant, understated, and timeless.
The Concept
Hakkasan has built its reputation on pairing contemporary luxury with Chinese tradition. At Atlantis The Palm, this vision continues with precision. The restaurant offers a thoughtful mix of signature tasting menus and à la carte options, complemented by an award-winning wine list and an innovative cocktail program. Dinner service begins at 6pm, but the adjoining bar opens earlier—perfect if you’d like to ease into the evening with a drink before heading to your table.
What I love is how the space feels rooted in its cultural inspirations without being overly theatrical. The carved screens and deep hues whisper of tradition, while the overall vibe is one of polished modernity. It’s a balance that very few restaurants get right, but here, it feels effortless.
What to Order
The menu at Hakkasan can feel overwhelming at first glance, simply because everything sounds so tempting. But after some guidance (and a lot of tasting), these were the dishes that stood out:
- Lobster Corn Soup: A luxurious take on comfort food. Velvety and rich, it warms you from the first spoonful.
- Dumplings: Whether you choose the vegetarian platter or the seafood option, the craftsmanship is evident in every bite. Delicate wrappers, perfectly balanced fillings, and a nod to tradition that feels both familiar and elevated.
- Jasmine Wagyu Ribs: Quite possibly the star of the evening. These ribs melt the moment they touch your mouth—sweet, fragrant, and impossibly tender.
- Sweet and Sour Chicken: A classic done to perfection. Tangy, crispy, and bold in flavor, this was easily my favorite main. Comforting yet refined, it’s the kind of dish you’ll want to order every time.
- Milk Chocolate and Hazelnut Parfait: The finale that ties it all together. Creamy, nutty, indulgent—this dessert is one you’ll want to linger over.
The Service
Polished, attentive, and quietly confident—service at Hakkasan delivered exactly what you’d expect from a fine dining institution of this caliber. Staff were knowledgeable, quick to recommend pairings, and attentive without intruding. A solid 9/10, with small touches that made the evening feel personal.
What Makes It Special
Dubai is no stranger to glitzy fine dining, but Hakkasan feels different—it doesn’t shout, it whispers. Here’s why this particular outpost feels special:
- A True Connection to London: Compared to the previous Hakkasan in Emirates Towers, this one feels far more aligned with the original. The energy, the design, even the flow of the space—it all mirrors the experience of dining in London, making it feel authentic rather than adapted.
- The Space Itself: The carved wooden panels, the dramatic lighting, the spacious layout—there’s a sense of calm luxury woven through every detail. It’s a restaurant designed to be savored, not just seen.
- Consistency: From the flavors on the plate to the warmth of the service, everything here feels precise and deliberate. There’s comfort in knowing Hakkasan delivers the same high standard across continents.
Final Thoughts
Hakkasan Dubai is more than just another fine dining restaurant on The Palm—it’s a destination that brings the essence of London’s beloved flagship to the heart of Dubai. With its elegant interiors, pitch-perfect service, and a menu that balances tradition with indulgence, it offers the kind of experience that stays with you long after you’ve left.
Whether you’re looking to celebrate, impress, or simply enjoy a refined evening out, this is the place to do it. Order the ribs, don’t skip dessert, and let yourself sink into the atmosphere.
