Hilton Seychelles Northolme

Karaage, a crispy chicken thigh coated in spicy seasoning, with umeboshi jam. For a side dish, I’m pleased with the Asparagus with lime soy. My dining partner’s chicken burger comes with Nori Dusted Fries, and to be honest, I end up eating most of them (they are also available separately under the snacks section of the menu for AED 25, should you be interested).

Although we were planning to skip a sweet course, we are talked into ordering one of the desserts, and I’m glad we are. The Yuzu Cheesecake, which features a cherry blossom espuma, is topped with cherry granita, and can’t be missed. The desert is sweet and tart without being overly heavy as a chocolate dessert might be.

Overall, at Ikigai, the plating is beautiful, and the service is friendly and unpretentious, and the approach to the menu is something we respect. At this time, reservations don’t appear to be necessary, so if you’re looking for an easy location to meet up with friends, this might be a place to add to your list. Would we return to Ikigai? We would, although we’re rarely in the Marina area and can think of other restaurants where the price point might be a bit cheaper. However, as a licensed after-work location or an easy week-night meal, Ikigai is a place that’s worth seeking out. For those interested, there are a limited number of vegetarian options available, and reviewing the menu in advance is probably a good idea to avoid any disappointment.

Tori Karaage, AED 48 Crispy Squid, AED 58 Heirloom Tomato Salad, AED 48 Lightly Seared Salmon, AED 65 Otoro Nigiri (for two pieces), AED 92 Stir-Fried Spicy Ramen, AED 68 Spicy Tori Karaage, AED 68 Asparagus, AED 42 Yuzu Cheesecake, AED 45

Ikigai, Millennium Place Dubai Marina, +971 4 550 8114

Treehouse Living At Hilton Seychelles Northolme