The Space
I visited IKKA on a breezy evening when the rooftop terrace was at its best, offering an incredible view of the Dubai skyline stretched out in full. From the outset, it was obvious that this place is all about the visuals as much as the food. I walked in expecting a nice meal but I left feeling like I had stepped right into someone’s sketchbook for the night.
IKKA is located atop the Hyatt Centric Jumeirah Dubai and the views alone make it a special place. The terrace offers stunning city vistas and there’s even an in-house gallery that hosts rotating monthly exhibitions. Each showcase runs for the entire month, allowing guests to dine among museum-quality art at all times.
IKKA is not just about fusion cuisine or a pretty rooftop view, though. Expressive and unapologetically artistic, the space reflects chef José Luis Mifflin’s vision and that artistic mindset runs through every part of the experience. Everything about the restaurant, from the breathtaking rooftop views of the Dubai skyline to the art-filled interiors, mirrors his unique way of thinking.
Trained in Japanese techniques and influenced by Peruvian flavours, he approaches cooking like an artist approaches a canvas, layer by layer, with attention to colour, texture and balance. This kitchen does not feel like a traditional chef-led space. I’ve always believed that a chef’s plating can reveal a lot about their style and at IKKA, that connection is evident. As an artist (ahem, amateur artist) myself, I appreciated the intentionality and attention to detail.
IKKA’s vibrant personality is unmistakable. There’s a live DJ in the background, contemporary art on the walls and the restaurant’s pink llama mascot, Mr Pinkie, making an appearance throughout It all feeds into the same idea. This is a space where visual culture and food are meant to exist together.
That connection becomes even more literal on Wednesdays, when IKKA hosts its Ladies’ Night. As guests dine, a live painter creates impressionist-style portraits of each table, gifting them the artwork by the end of the evening. It is playful, enjoyable and very much in line with the restaurant’s creative spirit.
The Meal
I kicked off my dinner with the Wagyu gyoza, which were crispy on the outside and decadently filled. It was a simple but satisfying start that set a nice tone for the meal. The real star of the starters, though, was the Ceviche Classico, with sea bass and crispy squid dressed in limo chilli along with ginger, coriander, choclo, chullpi corn and sweet potato. Every bite was bursting with a sharp, clean acidity that kept things lively and the heat was just right to add some excitement. The sweetness from the corn and potato really helped to balance it all out.
For my main course, I chose the Tiger Prawns, and they were absolutely amazing, rich and coated in a delicious kimchi butter that brought a nice fermented kick. To top it off, the vibrant green harissa cut through the richness perfectly. The fresh basil leaves added a lightness, which really elevated the dish.
The Verdict
Finding a place that feels both thoughtfully put together and cozy is pretty rare but IKKA really nails it. Ultimately, it’s the authenticity of the concept that sticks with you. It not a restaurant trying to be an art gallery or vice versa, it works perfectly as both. For anyone who appreciates a meal that offers a bit of substance with stunning views, IKKA is a refreshing addition to the city’s dining experience. Definitely worth the visit.
