For a unique blend of culinary artistry and vibrant city views, look no further than Citronelle at SO/Uptown Dubai. This Pan-Asian restaurant sets itself apart in the bustling dining scene of Dubai with its creative dishes, stylish interiors, and engaging live entertainment, making it an ideal venue for an unforgettable evening.
Atmosphere and Décor
Situated on the seventh floor of SO/Uptown Dubai, Citronelle offers breathtaking views over the city’s skyline. The restaurant’s design strikes a balance between sophistication and comfort, featuring dark wooden tables, plush blue seating, and ambient lighting that creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Intimate corners provide privacy for couples, while airy tables by the windows cater to those wishing to enjoy their meal against a spectacular backdrop.
The décor is a feast for the eyes, with intricate Asian-inspired artwork embellishing the pillars and modern mirrored ceiling panels enhancing the contemporary vibe. As the evening progresses, the ambience evolves, infused with energy from a DJ and a live trumpet player, transforming a pleasant dinner into an enticing night out.
A Culinary Voyage
The menu at Citronelle, curated by Chef Mia Yu Lin from Taiwan, offers a tantalising exploration of bold contemporary Pan-Asian flavours. With a focus on creative presentations and shared experiences, diners are encouraged to partake in a variety of dishes. Expect a delightful assortment of sushi, delicate dim sums, wok-fried creations, fresh seafood, and premium grilled meats.
We began our meal with the Hamachi Crudo, beautifully presented in a kalamansi dashi and spiced with shichimi togarashi, providing a perfect blend of richness and tang. It’s a dish meant to be savoured in a single bite, allowing the buttery texture of the fish to mingle with the bold flavours.
The Omani Shrimp Crystal Har-Gao, another visual highlight, steals the show with its delicate presentation atop a nest of kunafa—a dish beautifully crafted for Instagram. Although we craved a bit more heat from the accompanying homemade chilli sauce, this dim sum definitely deserves a repeat order. Also recommendable is the spicy tuna roll served with soy emulsion and wasabi sorbet, putting a playful twist on a classic dish.
As our main course approached, we watched the chef skillfully prepare the Charcoal Seabass in the open kitchen. The dish showcased a delightful smokiness while maintaining a tender, flaky texture, accompanied by a Thai Nam Jim Sauce that balanced salty, sweet, sour, and spicy nuances in every bite. For the meat lovers in our group, the MB6+ Striploin, paired with fresh wasabi and Citronelle’s yakiniku sauce, offered a succulent delight that echoed the flavours of Japan.
A Sweet Finale
We closed our culinary journey on a refreshing note with the Bamboo Garden dessert, an artful arrangement of sweet treats that included fresh fruits, mango sticky rice, and jelly candies served on sticks, cleverly designed to resemble a miniature garden—an imaginative finale to a memorable meal.
Visit Citronelle
Citronelle offers more than just exquisite dining; the restaurant hosts a Tiger Brunch every Friday evening, complete with entertainment and an array of bold Asian flavours. Ladies are invited to enjoy one handcrafted sushi roll and two hours of unlimited house wine and selected cocktails for just Dhs168 every Wednesday from 6 PM to 11 PM. For those looking for a business lunch, Citronelle has a tantalising option at only Dhs99 on weekdays from 12 PM to 3 PM.
Practical Information
Where: SO/Uptown Dubai, Uptown, Dubai
When: Monday to Thursday 12 PM to 3 PM, 6 PM to 12 AM; Friday 7 PM to 12 AM; Saturday 6 PM to 12 AM
Contact: 050 421 0753, so-hotels.com, @citronelle.dxb