3 minute read
Taikun, Dubai
Tonight we are visiting Taikun, located at Vida Downtown. If it is your first time visiting just look out for the large #Taikun lit sign (you cannot miss it). Parking is straightforward with valet situated outside the restaurant, for those that wish to self-park, the option is available with underground parking leading to a well situated staircase, conveniently located just opposite the restaurant.
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Once we arrive at the restaurant, and go through the mandatory safety protocols, we are taken to our table. Our table is located in the main dining area facing the large open kitchen, perfect, we love nothing more than watching the hustle and bustle of the kitchen. The décor at Taikun can be described as loft like, with exposed brick walls and low hanging lights but with nods to Asian culture.
A quick browse of the menu, and a few helpful recommendations from our waitress and we are ready to order. We decide to skip the staple Edamame, Miso Soup and Dynamite Shrimps, wanting to explore something more adventurous. We begin with two salads, the Burrata which comes with a Miso Vinaigrette, Tomatoes, Nori and Chives alongside the Avocado which comes with an Asian Mix Lettuce, Carrot Miso and Crispy Sweet Potato. From the raw menu we select the Tuna Taco with Spiced Tuna, Ponzu, Coriander and Sriracha. Served as three bite sized tacos, the portion is enough for two. The flavours keep this dish light and fresh, with just the subtlest hint of spice.
We take a break and decide to explore the restaurant, the team are working hard to get the outdoor terrace ready, which we hear, a few days after our visit has been completed and is welcoming guests. If you are looking for a relaxed dinner opt for a table inside, however if you are happy to enjoy a few of the lighter dishes with some amazing beverages and views of the Burj Khalifa book a table on the outdoor terrace.
Back at the table, my AKA Dragon Maki arrives alongside my dining companions Wagyu Tataki Rolls. The Wagyu Tataki Rolls offer a generous amount of Wagyu Beef with Fresh Truffle, Truffle Ponzu Kewpie Mayo and Truffle Aioli, the marble of the beef melts perfectly with the rich truffle and we waste no time appreciating each and every bite. The AKA Dragon consists of Salmon, Prawn, Cream Cheese, Avocado, Gochujang, Tenkatsu, Caramelized Soy and Tobiko, the transition of creamy to sweet, paired with the slight tang of spiciness makes this one dish I would undoubtedly order again.
Miso Black Cod, perhaps one of the most served dishes (after Burrata) in Dubai. Taikun offers a delicious option, opting to use just enough miso, chef lets the black cod’s texture take centre stage, plus extra points for the presentation. The Spicy Marinated Lamb Chops are the highlight of the evening, served with a White Onion Puree, Cherry Tomato and Sakura Cress. Perfectly cooked, just enough spice, the meat falls off the bone and melts in our mouth.
Although the Chocolate Fondant is extremely tempting, we opt to skip dessert. However, we have made a mental note of a few dishes we will be going back to try, the Whole Canadian Lobster, Avocado Teriyaki, Sushi Platter (purely for Instagram) and yes, the Chocolate Fondant.
Overall, we enjoyed our dining experience at Taikun, the menu offered the usual Asian dishes you would expect, whilst also adding a range of unique dishes you won’t find on any other menu in the city. Allowing you to order your favourites whilst experimenting with a few new dishes. We would certainly revisit Taikun, with temperatures dropping and the terrace now open, we can picture ourselves enjoying a few beverages with a selection of Taikun’s delightful sushi.
A restaurant and lounge, Taikun presents flavours of East Asian cuisine paired with the vibrant energy of Downtown Dubai. Expect great dishes, a laidback atmosphere, and an upbeat service.
Burrata Salad, AED 83 Avocado Salad, AED 64 Tuna Tacos, AED 65 AKA Dragon Maki, AED 73 Wagyu Tataki Rolls, AED 116 Miso Black Cod, AED 195 Lamb Chops, AED 180
