INA is Fresh, Fiery, and Full of Character

The Spot

Situated on the vibrant J1 Beach, INA embodies the essence of fire, or ‘INA’, as it is known in Nigerian Yoruba. This exciting culinary destination stands alongside twelve other hotspots along the beachfront promenade, showcasing a unique blend of open-fire cooking and seasonal flavors. The menu focuses on primal dishes, while the decor evokes a luxurious, tribal vibe, reflecting Dubai‘s nightlife energy.

The Vibe

Walking into INA is a visual feast, immediately immersing you in a world of tribal-inspired luxury. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, featuring handcrafted woodwork, curated greenery, and fringed accents complemented by rose gold lighting that creates an enchanting mood. The layout fosters intimacy, with a cozy central area flanked by a stunning bar on one side and stylish elevated seating on the other. In the cooler months, diners can indulge in alfresco dining beneath an open-air retractable roof, enhancing the overall experience of INA’s luxurious ambiance.

The Food and Drinks

Under the guidance of Australian-born Chef Glen Ballis, INA’s menu centers on showcasing the elemental power of fire. Each dish is a celebration of simplicity, avoiding extravagant presentation while ensuring an authentic and earthy taste experience. Plates like the char-grilled asparagus with whipped ricotta and bottarga, and the vibrant tomato carpaccio with green herb puree exemplify this approach—they are kissed by flames, seasoned minimally with top-notch ingredients, yet deliver impactful flavor. The mains, including carabinero prawns dressed with pink peppercorn dressing and oven-baked crab rice with tomato salsa, highlight the freshness of seafood, accentuated with smoke and salt.

Mains like the striking Fremantle octopus dressed with herb vinaigrette and calamansi, along with the oven-baked crab rice topped with vibrant tomato salsa, further underscore the restaurant’s commitment to freshness through flames and grilling. Each dish at INA captures the rich flavors of the ingredients, allowing them to shine without unnecessary embellishments.

What to Order

  • Striploin
  • Tomato carpaccio
  • Stracciatella
  • Sour cream soft serve with charred strawberries

The Bill

The cost for a delightful meal for two ranges from Dhs400-600, inclusive of food and drinks.

The Final Say

Verdict: For your next special occasion, head to INA.

Location: INA, J1 Beach, Jumeirah
Times: Sunday to Thursday, 6:30 PM to 1 AM; Friday and Saturday, 6:30 PM to 2 AM
Contact: (0) 4 570 4766 | @ina.dubai
Reservations: Recommended for weeknights/weekends