Ronin

Ronin is a theatrical contemporary Japanese restaurant that makes its first impression immediate: an entrance gong struck on arrival, a ceiling of one hundred red lanterns overhead, and a terrace that picks up a notable skyline view once the sun drops. The interior reads intentionally dramatic - deep lacquer red, black timber, brass detail, low-lit banquette seating - and the atmosphere carries a measured sense of theatre without tipping into performance. The kitchen works modern Japanese cooking with real confidence across sushi, tempura, and robata sections. The rock shrimp tempura with wasabi sauce is the most-ordered opener and arrives properly crisp, and the shrimp popcorn and gyoza selection round out shareable starters at genuine quality. From the raw bar, the tuna tataki in ponzu, tuna and scallop sashimi, and tuna mille-feuille are standout plates, and the salmon and tuna belly sushi are built with care. Close with the Japanese donuts, a house signature that has quietly earned its following, and pair from a considered sake list served on ice in characterful vessels. Service is polished and attentive without being intrusive. The floor team guides first-time guests through the menu with genuine knowledge, treats occasion dinners with a restrained flourish, and paces courses for long dinners without hurrying. The sake sommelier carries real expertise and is worth consulting for pairings beyond the default recommendations. Ronin is priced at the upper end of contemporary Japanese dining in Dubai, with value holding up well on omakase-style ordering and the sharing format that the menu naturally encourages. For a date-night Japanese dinner that combines serious cooking with a genuinely theatrical setting, Ronin is among the more memorable bookings at this level. Reservations are worth making for the terrace and for weekend evenings.