Every now and then, we all crave a meal that feels indulgent—something hearty, satisfying, and maybe even a little nostalgic. For me, that’s exactly what TBK at Galleria Mall in Dubai delivered. Equal parts American comfort food and Italian-inspired classics, this spot strikes the balance between relaxed dining and a quietly stylish bistro atmosphere.
First Impressions
I dropped by TBK on a weekday afternoon, which meant the space was calm, unhurried, and ideal for soaking in the ambiance. The interiors instantly caught my attention—warm bistro-style décor, paired with lush greenery that softens the modern lines of the space. It felt both casual and chic, the kind of place you could just as easily swing by for a solo lunch as you could for a low-key dinner with friends.
TBK, as it turns out, is part of the same family as The Boutique Kitchen and Asma—both well-loved names in Dubai’s dining scene. Knowing this, I had high expectations going in, and I wasn’t disappointed.
What TBK Promises
The restaurant describes itself as a local bistro that caters to every craving, whether you’re in the mood for something light and fresh or rich and indulgent. Their approach is ingredient-driven, with a menu that stretches from breakfast all the way through dinner. Think of it as an all-day spot for comfort food with a thoughtful twist.
And if the chef’s credentials are anything to go by—Adriano Molli, who previously worked at London’s Chiltern Firehouse—then you know you’re in good hands.
The Food
Now to the heart of the experience: the food itself. I went in curious, and I left with a few favorites already in mind.
- Corn Salad: A refreshing starter, this came tossed with beans, avocado, and a zesty lime dressing. The nachos served on the side added a welcome crunch, making it the kind of salad you could actually get excited about.
- TBK Cheeseburger: Easily one of the highlights. The patty was juicy, perfectly cooked, and elevated with TBK’s own special sauce. If you’re someone who judges a restaurant by its burger, this one makes a strong case.
- Rigatoni with Parmesan, Cream, and Portobello: This dish leaned indulgent but could’ve used a bit more firmness in the pasta. That said, the creamy sauce had a lovely depth of flavor, and the portobello added a hearty note.
- Piccata al Limone with Pilaf Rice: Bright, tangy, and comforting. The lemony sauce gave the dish a freshness that paired beautifully with the fluffy rice.
For those curious about guilty-pleasure classics, here’s a fun surprise: TBK also serves sloppy joes—yes, that childhood favorite reimagined with a bistro polish.
Service and Experience
Service at TBK was smooth and attentive without being overbearing. I’d rate it a solid 8/10. Staff members were happy to make suggestions, and dishes arrived at a relaxed but steady pace—enough time to enjoy each plate without feeling rushed.
What Stood Out
- The fact that it comes from the same team behind Asma and The Boutique Kitchen sets the tone—it’s clear there’s a thoughtfulness to the concept.
- Having Chef Adriano Molli at the helm brings a pedigree that food lovers in Dubai will appreciate. His touch is evident in how familiar comfort food is reimagined with just enough refinement.
- The atmosphere strikes that sweet spot between stylish and approachable. It’s not trying too hard, but it’s still somewhere you’d be happy to linger.
Final Thoughts
TBK feels like one of those restaurants you keep in your back pocket—reliable, relaxed, and versatile enough to suit different moods. Whether you want a “cheat meal” kind of day (a cheeseburger and fries, anyone?) or something lighter and fresher, the menu offers options for both.
Is everything flawless? Not quite—the pasta could’ve been a touch firmer—but the overall experience more than makes up for small quibbles. Between the thoughtful menu, inviting interiors, and a kitchen led by an accomplished chef, TBK is well worth a visit.
For me, it’s the kind of spot I’d return to when I want the comfort of familiar flavors, but with a little extra polish. If you find yourself at Galleria Mall and craving something hearty, consider this your nudge to give TBK a try.
