The Meta Foodies Group has carved out a niche for itself by delivering culinary concepts that are as innovative as they are memorable. Alba, one of the standout members of this group, is no exception. Sharing its lineage with the much-loved Bisou, and conveniently located right next door in the Dubai Opera Plaza, Alba brings a fresh perspective to the table, merging Pan-Asian flavours with Mediterranean influences in a way that feels like it was always meant to be.
Pan-Asian cuisine already speaks to the senses with its intricate balance of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy elements, offering a journey through some of the most vibrant food cultures in the world including China, Japan and Korea. But what happens when these time-honored flavors meet the fresh, sun-soaked notes of Mediterranean cuisine? At Alba, the answer is nothing short of extraordinary.
As soon as you walk in, you just know that the interior design draws heavily from Asian traditions, offering more than just visual appeal. Sculpted into the walls, mythical dragons and serpents evoke the strength and mystery that have been central to Asian cultures for centuries. These elements, combined with sleek, modern finishes and thoughtful lighting create a space that is both luxurious and culturally resonant.
One of the elements that will catch your attention right away is the ceiling upstairs, adorned with lit up umbrellas—a symbol rich in tradition across many Asian cultures.
In China, umbrellas are often associated with good luck and are believed to ward off evil spirits, making their presence at Alba feel like a nod to the ancient customs that inspire the restaurant’s approach to food. In traditional Chinese performances, umbrellas are twirled by performers to usher in prosperity, a sentiment that the restauraunt carries forward in its mission to offer an auspicious dining experience.
The menu reflects this diverse culinary philosophy. Under the guidance of Brand Chef Vladimir Chistyakov and Chef Minho Ted Shin, each dish is crafted to highlight the strengths of both cuisines. Take signature dishes like the Uni Kim and Caviar Kim, where the briny richness of uni and the delicate luxury of caviar are paired with modern culinary techniques that elevates these ingredients to new heights.
For something that practically melts in your mouth, the Wagyu Carpaccio and Alba Wagyu Tartar are must-tries. Of course, no Pan-Asian experience is complete without a warming bowl of soup, and the Alba Kimchi Soup hits the mark.
Don’t worry if you’re an uncompromising seafood lover, you’ll love the King Crab Maki, Prawn Tempura Maki, and Alba Ginger Black Cod. The Salmon Avo Tartar is another fresh, flavourful dish that perfectly captures the fusion of East and West, while the Alba Signature Lobster Noodles are a luxurious indulgence that’s hard to resist.
No need to jet off to Asia for authentic street food flavors—Alba brings them right to your table in this innovative setting. The Korean Fried Chicken and Wagyu Sando are an absolute delight.
Even the bar at Alba is an experience in itself. Dubbed the “Sake Sanctuary,” it offers a curated selection of Asian spirits, teas, and Mediterranean-inspired cocktails that are as inventive as they are delicious. The ceiling’s umbrellas, along with the mythical cocktail menu inspired by Asian wildlife, add to the atmosphere, making it a place where the lines between culture and cuisine blur beautifully.
And just when you think the experience couldn’t get any better, dessert arrives. The Alba Donuts are a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. These donuts strike the ideal balance between a soft, airy texture and rich, indulgent flavour, served with a creamy dipping sauce that adds an extra layer of decadence. It’s the right ending to a meal full of surprises, ensuring your last bite is just as memorable as the first.
