Zuma Abu Dhabi's Yashoku night brunch recreates the weekend atmosphere
Zuma Abu Dhabi's Wednesday brunch fits perfectly with a city where the night out rarely ends after dessert.
In Japan, yashoku means "dinner," and it's usually a much more relaxed and earlier meal than Zuma Abu Dhabi's new Wednesday night brunch. The Yashoku Night Brunch takes place every Wednesday starting at 9:00 p.m. and arrives in the capital after its launch in Dubai, itself inspired by Zuma Hong Kong's nighttime concept.
The concept resonates with the UAE, where a night out rarely ends after dessert and brunch has become a social ritual that stretches into the early hours. Zuma's version works because it builds on what the restaurant already does well: elegant interiors, impeccable service, and contemporary Japanese dishes, from black cod and wagyu gyozas to exquisite seafood platters.
Yashoku takes many of these iconic dishes and presents them in a more relaxed and social format, closer to the start of an elegant evening than a formal dinner. The room fills with groups enjoying a two-and-a-half-hour experience, while a resident DJ gradually builds the energy. Unlike daytime brunches, which can sometimes become chaotic by mid-afternoon, the atmosphere starts calmly and gradually comes alive.
The menu is designed for sharing, with a steady stream of hot and cold starters. Highlights include the seared salmon with lime, shiso, and soy sauce, which perfectly balances citrus and saltiness without overpowering the fish's flavor, and the sweetcorn tempura, which adds a memorable sweetness and texture. The wagyu beef gyozas became a table favorite, and the sea bass with truffle oil, yuzu, and salmon roe provides just the right touch of freshness.
Next come the sushi and main courses, such as the grilled Chilean sea bass and Zuma's spicy beef tenderloin. Dessert is served on a sharing platter. The service is also outstanding: Dominic, the waiter, attended to several tables at once and knew the menu perfectly.
Zuma, a Michelin-starred restaurant, has long been one of the city's most renowned high-end Japanese restaurants. Its brunch format makes it more accessible to those who have never been tempted to book a full dinner. Brunch is served from 9:00 pm to 11:30 pm, with menus starting at 395 dirhams, at The Galleria on Al Maryah Island. Reservations can be made by phone at 02 401 5900.