Source: Caterer Middle East

After a five-year hiatus, OKKU, recently made a return under the guidance of Ramzy Abdul-Majeed, The founder of Big on Hospitality, the group behind OKKU.

The Japanese dining establishment reopened its doors at the Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah with a revitalised concept and an array of unique additions, OKKU aims to reclaim its position as a leading culinary destination in the city.

Abdul-Majeed said of his longstanding desire to bring the restraurant back: "There was always the intention and burning desire to bring back what was for many years one of Dubai's most loved and award-winning restaurants. It was simply a case of ensuring when we did so that all the elements felt right".

Collaborating with Dubai-based LW Design, the brand's long-time designers since 2007, the team has crafted a space that has seen a few upgrades from the previous iteration. Abdul-Majeed explained: "we had been offered a lot of locations, but this one at the entrance of the Palm Jumeriah frankly ticked all the boxes, and from the moment we saw it we had to have it for OKKU, Many guests kept asking about our return and of course, we listened and made the dream come true, bigger and better than before. Put simply right time and most certainly right place! We are Back!

Reviving a brand after a five year hiatus does come with its challenges and abdul Majeed acknowledged tha competitive landscape of Dubai's dining scene. "The Dubai dining scene is now world-class and truly impressive, competing with any other city, so we were under no illusions that we had to raise our game to even greater heights," he said.

The restaurateur also highlighted the need to attact a new audience while captivating loyal customers. "We needed to be certain that we would be able to deliver on the promise that is OKKU by taking nostaligia to the next level and in one bite, remind Dubai that we are back and to welcome a new audience who do not know us from before as we want them to fall in love with us too."

So, what can patrons expect from the revived OKKU? Accord-ing to Abdul-Majeed, the essence of the restraurant's DNA is still palpable, ensuring a familiar experience for layal fans. "The DNA that is OKKU is clearly visible to those who know thwbrand from brfore. To those who don;t this is a space that excites all the senses from the moment you enter," he explained.

To create a truly immersive atmosphere, OKKU has introduced eight imposing 3D printed Samurai Soldiers, each standing tall at an impressive 2.20 meters. Creafted locally in Dubai by immensa, these figures pay himage to Japanese history and culture, seamlessly blending with the restraurant's design.

The arrival experience is like no other in Dubai and is something to be seen as it is more than 30 meters from the enterance to reach the main reception." said Abdul-Majeed. "But i won't spoil the surprise, so come and see tha magic for yourself as this is Instragram heaven fro those so inclined"