Dubai, meet your new comfort-food crush. Maki & Ramen – the UK-born ramen and sushi brand that turned cosy bowls and bold rolls into a proper neighbourhood love affair – has opened at Mövenpick Jumeirah Village Triangle, and it’s bringing big flavours without the fuss. Expect sesame-rich Tan Tan Men that warm you from the inside out, a sweet-and-savory Salmon Teriyaki Roll, a golden Chicken Katsu Curry, and Dubai-exclusive hand rolls for anyone who likes their dinner with a side of thrill. Founded by Teddy Lee with the simple idea that great Japanese food should be everyday and approachable, Maki & Ramen arrives ready to make regulars out of anyone who knows how to slurp.
What to order
If you like big, comforting bowls that feel like a hug and small bites that hit like a plot twist, you’re in for a treat. The menu leans into traditional Japanese technique with bold, modern flavours – think the sesame-rich Tan Tan Men with diced beef, chilli oil and that perfectly marinated egg; the Salmon Teriyaki Roll that sings sweet-and-savoury; and the golden Chicken Katsu Curry that’s basically a crispy passport to joy. There’s also a Dubai-exclusive Spicy Tuna Hand Roll for anyone who likes their life with extra chilli.
The space – calm, sakura-adjacent, and very swipe-worthy
You’ll find the new spot inside Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Village Triangle, a 300-square-metre hangout that seats around 80 people. Interiors nod to subtle Japanese design with sakura-inspired details – relaxed enough for a casual catch-up, polished enough for a celebratory dinner (or that “I treated myself” solo ramen date). It’s the kind of place where the lighting is good and your camera will forgive you.
When to go
Open Tuesday to Sunday from 12:00pm to 11:00pm, Maki & Ramen fits every occasion: lunchtime noodling, a relaxed evening with friends, or a last-minute “treat yourself” dinner. The Dubai opening came in February and the team has been teasing the city on social for a minute – if you follow food accounts, you’ve probably seen the countdown.
The story behind the bowls
Founded in Edinburgh by chef-entrepreneur Teddy Lee, Maki & Ramen grew from a neighbourhood ramen nook into a fast-growing UK brand (18 restaurants and more planned), driven by a simple idea: excellent Japanese food should be everyday-accessible. That friendly, unpretentious energy comes through in everything – the food, the service and the vibe. The brand’s growth and accolades have given it a bit of steam, and now Dubai gets to try what the fuss is about.
Quick tips before you go
- If you’re indecisive, share – small plates + a ramen each = instant win.
- Spice-lovers: order the Spicy Tuna Hand Roll and a splash of chilli oil on your bowl.
- Big group? The katsu and rolls travel well for sharing.
- Follow @makiramendxb for opening updates and droolworthy pics.
Maki & Ramen arrives in Dubai promising honest, flavour-led Japanese plates – the kind you can make a habit of. Pop in for the Tan Tan Men, stay for the vibe, and leave planning your next visit before you’ve even paid. Hungry yet?
Contact & Location:
Phone – +971568535415
