Dubai has a way of dazzling the senses. From towering skyscrapers to bustling souks, from pristine beaches to desert landscapes, the city is a canvas of experiences. Yet, amid this kaleidoscope of luxury and adventure, it is the culinary journey that often leaves the deepest impressions. On a recent visit, my son Judhajit encouraged me to explore Japanese cuisine in Dubai—and it quickly became clear that 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant, nestled in the heart of Downtown Dubai, was the perfect stage for such a journey.

Stepping into a World Apart

Entering 99 Sushi Bar is like stepping into a refined vision of Japan, where tradition meets contemporary elegance. The interior exudes calm sophistication: soft, ambient lighting illuminates the room, gentle Japanese music floats through the air, and the minimalist décor whispers of subtle luxury. I was escorted to a table with a panoramic view of the Burj Khalifa, whose fountains began their nightly performance—a mesmerizing dance of water and light set to music.

As the Burj Khalifa fountains danced in rhythm to the background music, I knew this would be more than just a meal—it would be an experience.

As I settled into my chair, I felt the gentle hum of the restaurant around me: servers moving with graceful precision, the soft clink of dishes, and the murmur of conversations in appreciation of the culinary artistry unfolding. Every detail seemed orchestrated, every moment inviting me to slow down and immerse myself in the experience.

A Prelude of Taste: Japanese Toro Tacos & Heavensake

Since I had plans later that evening, I chose a lighter dinner—a decision I would come to appreciate fully. The Japanese Toro Tacos arrived like works of art. Each taco cradled tender toro, the buttery richness of fatty tuna, paired with fresh, crisp garnishes and wrapped in a delicate shell that offered the perfect balance of texture and flavor. It was playful yet elegant—a fusion that respected Japanese culinary tradition while adding a modern twist.

To accompany this, I selected Heavensake, a premium sake that epitomized Japanese craftsmanship. Smooth and subtle, with a delicate aroma that hinted at depth and finesse, it was the perfect complement to the bold flavors of the Toro Taco. Raising my cup, I murmured “Kanpai!”—a traditional Japanese toast—and savored the moment. Each sip, each bite, became a meditation on flavor and appreciation, a reminder that food is as much about intention as it is about taste.

Kanpai is a Japanese phrase that means “cheers” or “bottoms up.” It is typically said before drinking alcohol but can also be used when drinking non-alcoholic beverages. The phrase Kanpai is thought to have originated in the Edo period (1603-1868). During this time, it was customary to drink sake from small cups called “ochoko”. When people wanted to toast each other, they would clink their ochoko together and say “Kanpai!”

The Dragonfly Maki: Mastery in Every Bite

No journey into Japanese cuisine would be complete without sushi, and the Dragonfly Maki was a revelation. Perfectly seasoned sushi rice embraced succulent shrimp, tender king crab, creamy avocado, and shimmering black tobiko, all enveloped in delicate seaweed and finished with a savory drizzle that brought harmony to the ensemble.

Each bite was a study in balance: freshness and texture, simplicity and sophistication, tradition and innovation—all working in perfect concert. Watching the chefs prepare these masterpieces, I was reminded that true culinary excellence is an art that requires patience, precision, and reverence for the ingredients.

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A Symphony of Senses

What sets 99 Sushi Bar apart is the orchestration of every sensory element. The Burj Khalifa fountains danced in perfect synchrony with the soft musical score. The lighting shifted subtly, casting a warm glow on the table and highlighting the artistry of each dish. Even the gentle hum of conversations and the attentive, graceful service added to the immersive atmosphere. Dining here was not simply about satiating hunger—it was about being fully present, appreciating every nuance of flavor, texture, and ambience.

Each course was a story. The Toro Taco spoke of innovation and playful fusion. The Heavensake carried the history of Japanese tradition in every drop. The Dragonfly Maki embodied the precision, patience, and artistry that elevate sushi from food to performance. And as the fountain show reached its crescendo, the moment felt suspended in time—a perfect harmony of taste, sight, and emotion.

Reflections on an Unforgettable Evening

As I rose from the table, I carried with me more than the memory of exquisite flavors. I carried the sense of a journey—a journey that transcended food to become a celebration of culture, artistry, and human creativity. The evening at 99 Sushi Bar reminded me that the best dining experiences are not measured solely by taste, but by the totality of the experience: the ambiance, the presentation, the subtle details, and the way each element engages your senses.

For travelers and epicureans seeking an experience that blends culture, elegance, and culinary mastery, 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant offers more than a meal—it offers an odyssey. Every bite, every sip, every glance at the fountains was an invitation to savor the moment, to appreciate craftsmanship, and to celebrate life’s finer pleasures.

As I left, I found myself echoing the Japanese phrase I had spoken at the start of the meal: Itadakimasu!—a heartfelt acknowledgment of the food, the effort, and the artistry that made the evening unforgettable.