Nomikai Experience at ONI- Shangri-La Dubai

Contemporary Japanese lounge and restaurant ONI has introduced their latest ‘Nomikai’ experience, an exciting and fun evening social drinking and dining experience unique to Japan and now in Dubai.

The ‘Nomikai’ experience happens every day from 6pm and lasts until 9pm and on Wednesday it is from 6pm-11pm. Last Thursday I was at Oni along with my friend to experience this unique cultural concept.

Oni is located on Level 2 in Shangri-La Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road. The interiors of the venue is elegant, classy and uber cool. It has a main dining area, private dining area and a bar area.

The music was a bit loud to have an intimate conversation. But we loved the live saxophonist. The atmosphere was lively and energetic. On the Thursday evening, it was packed.

Their a la carte menu is vast and has something for everyone. For the ‘Nomikai’ experience they’ve a Yakimono Sharing Platter that is reasonably priced at AED 205.

While we were going through their menu we were served little bites of Japanese-inspired Amuse Bouche. ‘Nomikai’ experience features 3 cocktails- Fernando’s Winning Cocktail, The Oriental and Spicy Temptation. All the 3 cocktails were perfectly mixed and was super refreshing. The main highlight amongst their cocktail list was Fernando’s winning cocktail. A cocktail not to be missed if you visit ONI.

The Yakimono sharing platter consisted of Salmon Taco, Rock Shrimp Dynamite, Chef’s selection of Sushi Rolls, Chicken Gyoza and 2 types of Kusyiyaki. Our favorites were taco, sushi selection and gyoza.

We also tried Mushroom Mapo Tofu and Vegetable Ramen from their a la carte menu. The irresistible mushroom mapo tofu had tender tofu and mushrooms in a rich sauce topped with rice and seaweed. The ramen noodles was comfort in a bowl.

Ended our dinner with matcha flavored Oni Milk Cake. Though I’m not a big fan of milk cakes, their matcha milk cake was utterly delightful.

Overall we had a fabulous time at ONI. The food, the drinks, the atmosphere and the service was flawless. Their ‘Nomikai’ experience is unique and worth trying. You won’t be disappointed by their a la carte menu either.

Gather up your mates and head down to ONI for an evening with live music, great vibes and the best cocktails and sushi in town!

Opening hours: 6pm-3am daily

Phone: 04 405 2333