The distinctive, surrealist aesthetic of Spanish artist Salvador Dalí serves as the inspiration for one of the newest gems in the UAE’s culinary scene. Maison Dalí, located at The Opus by Zaha Hadid in Dubai offers delectable Mediterranean- Japanese cuisine within a bold and theatrical space.
“Salvador Dalí is an illustration of how genius and madness are related,” says three- Michelin-starred chef Tristin Farmer, who is also the culinary director at Culinary Arts Group – the Singaporean collective behind Maison Dali. “We wanted a space to reflect this, where nothing is quite as it seems. A beautiful space with elegance and touches of surrealism from the artwork; a high-energy space oozing with personality.”
Maison Dali photographed by Alex Jeffries
Red curtains finished off with metallic tassels and artwork depicting optical illusions invoke drama and mystique, and a private hideaway within the restaurant hosts The Dali Supper Club. Innovative dishes on offer include King Crab Ceviche, Smoked Lobster Donabe and Wood Fired Duck – a fusion of Japanese and Mediterranean influences. “Behind all of this is a complex plethora of dry ageing, fermentation, marination, seasonings and cooking techniques, building layers of flavour and complexity with subtle nuances of depth. It’s flavour-forward, umami-driven and ingredient-focussed cooking,” explains Farmer.
