Imagine this: the sun dips, the city lights blink awake, and you stroll into a place that feels equal parts Tokyo back-alley cool and sleek hotel-bar polish. That’s Izakaya Nights at Taiko Bar – an after-hours celebration of small plates, smoky yakitori, inventive highballs and a soundtrack that makes you want to chat louder and move a little closer to the bar.
What to expect
This is classic izakaya energy – bite-size plates meant for passing, sharing and deliberate snacking. Think perfectly grilled yakitori, crisp chicken karaage that snaps with every bite, umami-rich padrón peppers, and other small wonders designed to be eaten family-style (or greedily by yourself – no judgement). Every dish is crafted with Taiko’s contemporary Japanese flair – refined, playful, and always a little surprising.
Where: Taiko Bar, Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk – Wafi City (4th Floor).
When: Tuesday to Sunday | from 4pm onwards
Quick bites on value
- Izakaya-style small plates and yakitori from AED 35 – pick a few, pass them around, try everything.
- Signature cocktails, sake and Japanese spirits round out the menu for a full evening of tasting and toasting.
Drinks that do the talking
Highballs are front-row here: handcrafted, slightly theatrical and dangerously easy to sip. If sake is your love language, Taiko has you covered; and for the cocktail curious, expect inventive twists that nod to Japanese spirits while keeping things thoroughly modern. It’s the kind of bar where the drinks respect the food – and sometimes steal the show.
The vibe: rhythm, design and after-hours cool
Taiko Bar sets the tone with a warm, immersive interior – think moody lighting, textured wood and styling that could have been imported straight from an urban Tokyo hideaway. DJs (or carefully curated playlists) lay down smooth beats that keep chatter buzzing without stealing the scene. It’s energetic without trying too hard – ideal if you want somewhere that feels special but relaxed.
Why go?
Because you’ll get the ritual of Tokyo’s izakaya culture – casual, convivial, and deliciously shareable – without the passport stamping. It’s perfect for a date that wants to feel a bit special, a group catch-up where nobody needs to commit to a whole meal, or a solo night of yakitori and quiet people-watching (and yes: the cocktails will keep you company).
Final note
Make a plan: pick a few plates, order a highball to start, and let the evening unfold. Izakaya Nights at Taiko Bar feels like the kind of ritual you’ll want to repeat – and honestly, that’s the point. Book a table, round up your mates, and let Tokyo’s after-hours charm meet Dubai’s skyline swagger.
Contact & Location:
Phone – +971 4 281 4111
