Tucked away in One Central’s dining enclave, 25 Jump Street, Yubi feels like a secret stumbled upon down a Tokyo back alley. As the UAE’s first licensed homegrown handroll bar, this newly opened spot by award-winning Chef Reif Othman, in partnership with 7 Management, boasts a laid-back energy. Urban design features contribute to the room’s casual vibe, backed by old-school and new-age R&B and hip-hop soundtracks.

The highlights

Dishes arrive the moment they’re ready, beginning with a Crab salad that offers the delicate sweetness of the meat against a creamy wasabi yuzu dressing, delivering a citrus-led wake-up call to the palate. Golden rock shrimp follow, crisp and addictive, paired with a wasabi mayo that has just the right amount of heat.

A lightly Seared salmon dressed in clementine ponzu provides a fresh course, the acidity cutting through the richness of the fish, before the main event comes into play, the handrolls. This is where Yubi truly finds its voice. The spicy tuna handroll, spiked with red yuzu kosho, builds heat gradually, with a clean snap of nori. Be sure to enquire about the monthly specials for a real treat.

The Yubi maki is the dish that defines the menu and one we’ll be ordering on every visit. Rich and buttery, the generously topped Wagyu is seared and served atop otoro and rice wrapped in nori, seasoned with a subtly sweet chilli glaze. This incredible bite offers that melt-in-the-mouth richness. Kagoshima wagyu gyoza, covered with ponzu butter, is another stunning dish that’s polished off within minutes.

As you watch the lucky cat on the counter and listen to nostalgic tunes, it becomes clear that Yubi has mastered the art of great food without taking itself too seriously. Don’t miss the Truffle mochi for the perfect end to this meal.

Book now

Visit yubihandrollbar.com or contact +97150 198 7511.