Dubai’s dazzling skyline is constantly being redefined, and so is its culinary landscape. Amid a sea of new fine dining openings, a name has emerged that carries the weight of 12 Michelin stars and the promise of a truly unique experience: Jara by Martín Berasategui. Perched on the 18th floor of the ultra-luxurious The Lana, Dorchester Collection, Jara has quickly become the city’s most talked-about reservation. It’s Dubai’s first authentic Basque restaurant, helmed by a culinary legend.
But with premium price tags and sky-high expectations, the real question for discerning diners is simple: is it worth it? When you’re planning a special occasion, you need more than just hype. You need to know if the food, the ambiance, and the service justify the splurge. This is your definitive guide. We go beyond the surface-level reviews to give you an in-depth, first-hand account of the Jara experience, helping you decide if this is the perfect venue for your next unforgettable meal.
The Mastermind Behind the Menu: Who is Chef Martín Berasategui?
Before you can understand Jara, you must understand the man whose heart and soul are infused into every dish. Martín Berasategui is not just a chef; he is a culinary titan. With an astonishing 12 Michelin stars to his name, he is one of the most decorated chefs in the world. His reputation, built over decades of relentless innovation and dedication, precedes him, making his first venture in the Middle East a landmark event for the region’s food scene.
Berasategui’s philosophy is deceptively simple: “cooking with love.” This isn’t just a tagline; it’s the foundation of his approach. This warmth and connection are woven into the fabric of Jara, which is lovingly named after his granddaughter. The restaurant aims to tell a story of family, passion, and the vibrant spirit of his native Basque Country.
So, what is Basque cuisine? Hailing from the region spanning northern Spain and southwestern France, it’s a cuisine celebrated for its deep respect for ingredients, particularly grilled meats (Asado) and fresh seafood. It’s about bold, honest flavors, often kissed by smoke and fire. The arrival of authentic, Michelin-star Basque food in Dubai, curated by its greatest ambassador, isn’t just another restaurant opening—it’s the introduction of a rich and storied culinary tradition to the city.
First Impressions: The Ambiance and Decor at Jara, The Lana Dubai
Stepping out onto the 18th floor of The Lana, you are immediately enveloped in Jara’s world. The experience is a lesson in sultry sophistication. The design is flawless, with a rich color palette of striking velvet greens, deep browns, and opulent golds that create an atmosphere of intimate luxury. It feels both grand and deeply personal, avoiding the coldness that can sometimes accompany new fine dining establishments in Dubai.
Your eyes are drawn to the bespoke details: plush furnishings you sink into, a grand hanging flower arrangement that serves as a stunning centerpiece, and the unique indoor Asado firepit, where chefs work their magic over open flames. This firepit is the beating heart of the restaurant, a constant, mesmerizing dance of heat and flavor.
The 360° Jara Bar is a destination in itself. Hued in alluring maroon, it’s crowned by a magnificent chandelier of burnt-orange oval spheres, echoing the golden tones throughout the space. The lighting is perfectly dimmed, casting a warm glow that encourages conversation and connection. The atmosphere is alive with a welcoming energy, a sophisticated buzz that makes it clear you are somewhere special. This is a room designed not just for eating, but for celebrating.
A Deep Dive into the Menu: The Heart of Basque Cuisine
While the ambiance sets a magnificent stage, the menu is the star of the show. Jara’s menu is centered around sharing, encouraging a communal and connected dining experience that is true to its Basque roots. The alchemy of fire from the clay-pit ovens and charcoal grill is evident in every section, promising flavor-drenched perfection.
Starters & Sharing Plates: Bold Flavors to Begin
The journey begins with starters that are both elegant and packed with personality. A standout is the tomato and stracciatella dish. It’s a masterful balance of textures and temperatures, where the sweetness of ripe tomatoes is cut by the creamy, cool stracciatella, creating a refreshing yet complex opening to the meal. The presentation is artful without being fussy, letting the quality of the ingredients speak for itself.
Another must-try is the selection of expertly cured meats, each slice a testament to the Basque tradition of charcuterie. These plates are designed to awaken the palate and set a high bar for what’s to come.
From the Fire: Charcoal-Grilled Meats and Seafood
This is where Jara truly distinguishes itself. The dishes emerging from the Asado firepit are the soul of the restaurant. The Whole-Grilled Turbot is a showstopper. Cooked over charcoal, the fish arrives perfectly tender, its delicate flesh infused with a subtle smokiness that is simply sublime. It’s served with a traditional pil-pil sauce, an emulsion of garlic, chili, and olive oil that enhances the fish without overpowering it.
For meat lovers, the Txuleton—a bone-in Basque-style ribeye steak—is an essential experience. The charcoal grill imparts a beautiful crust on the exterior while leaving the inside incredibly juicy and flavorful. The quality of the beef is exceptional, and the simple, expert preparation highlights its rich, deep taste. This is not just a steak; it’s a celebration of a time-honored cooking technique, demonstrating a level of expertise that is rare and deeply satisfying.
Desserts & Wine Pairings
The finale at Jara does not disappoint. The dessert menu continues the theme of refined Basque classics. The Torrija, a caramelized brioche similar to French toast, is a revelation—crispy on the outside, custardy within, and served with a scoop of creamy sheep’s milk ice cream.
The wine list is thoughtfully curated to complement the bold, smoky flavors of the menu. A robust Spanish Rioja is a natural partner for the Txuleton, while a crisp, mineral-forward Albariño from the Rías Baixas region of Spain is the perfect accompaniment to the grilled turbot. The knowledgeable sommeliers are adept at guiding you to the ideal pairing, enhancing the overall dining experience and showcasing the synergy between Basque food and Spanish wines.
Exclusive Experiences: Krug Month & Live Music
For those seeking an even more elevated evening, Jara offers unique experiences that make it a premier destination for special occasion restaurants in Dubai. As the UAE’s first Krug Ambassador, Jara is hosting a special Krug Month all through November. This celebration invites guests to begin their culinary journey with a glass of exquisite Krug Champagne paired with a specially curated tapa. It’s an unparalleled opportunity to indulge in Krug Rosé, Krug Vintage, and the exclusive 172ème Édition by the glass at special prices, making for a truly memorable Krug champagne dinner in Dubai.
Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, from November 11th to January 6th, Jara welcomes the London-based trio Molto Music for a festive residency. Their live performances, filled with rich harmonies and infectious rhythms, provide the perfect soundtrack for the season. This transforms Jara into a luxury restaurant with live music, creating an energetic and celebratory environment that lingers long after the last note.
The Verdict: Is Jara Dubai the Right Choice for Your Special Occasion?
After experiencing the impeccable service, the masterful cuisine, and the stunning ambiance, we can confidently say that Jara by Martín Berasategui lives up to the hype. But the question remains: is it the right choice for you? This is where we move beyond a simple review to become your decision-making tool.
The Price Point: What to Expect on Your Bill
Jara is undeniably a premium fine dining experience, and the prices reflect that. For a dinner for two, including a couple of starters to share, two main courses from the grill, a dessert, and a modest bottle of wine, you should expect to spend between AED 1,200 and AED 1,800.
While this is a significant investment, the value is evident in the world-class culinary skill, the quality of the ingredients, the flawless service, and the truly special atmosphere. Compared to other top-tier restaurants in Dubai, Jara positions itself as a worthy contender for a splurge, delivering a memorable experience that justifies the cost.
Who is Jara Best For?
Jara excels as a venue for significant celebrations and intimate moments. It is best for:
- Romantic Anniversaries & Special Dates: The sultry lighting, sophisticated decor, and incredible views create an undeniably romantic setting.
- Impressive Business Dinners: The combination of a world-renowned chef, impeccable service, and a refined atmosphere is sure to impress clients or colleagues.
- Adventurous Foodies: For those who appreciate culinary artistry and are eager to explore authentic Basque cuisine at its highest level, Jara is a must-visit.
- Celebratory Gatherings: The sharing-style menu and vibrant energy, especially with live music, make it a fantastic choice for celebrating milestones with close friends or family.
A Practical Guide to Dining at Jara
Ready to book your table? Here is all the essential information you need to plan your visit, the kind of practical detail often missing from other reviews.
How to Book a Table
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend dining. You can secure your table by contacting the restaurant directly.
- Phone: 04 541 7755
- Website: dorchestercollection.com/dubai/the-lana
For the best experience, consider booking a week or two in advance and specify if you are celebrating a special occasion.
Location, Hours, and Dress Code
- Location: 18th Floor, The Lana, Dorchester Collection, Marasi Drive, Business Bay, Dubai.
- Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, from 7:00 PM to 1:00 AM. (Closed on Mondays).
- Dress Code: The recommended dress code is smart elegant. Gentlemen are encouraged to wear trousers and closed-toe shoes.
This is an occasion to dress up and match the sophisticated elegance of the venue.
An Unforgettable Basque Voyage
Jara by Martín Berasategui is more than just a new restaurant; it’s a multi-sensory journey to the heart of the Basque Country, guided by one of the world’s greatest culinary masters. The mastery of Chef Berasategui is evident in every bite, the unique flavors from the fire are unforgettable, and the opulent ambiance makes every moment feel special.
So, is Jara worth the splurge? The answer is a resounding yes. For those looking to celebrate a special occasion, impress a discerning guest, or simply indulge in a truly world-class culinary experience, Jara delivers on every promise. It successfully carves out its own identity in Dubai’s competitive dining scene, offering a perfect blend of warmth, sophistication, and unforgettable flavor.
If you are ready for an unforgettable Basque voyage, book your table now. For an even more elevated experience, be sure to visit during the exclusive Krug Month or while the captivating sounds of Molto Music fill the air.
This article is based on a first-hand dining experience. Prices and menu items are subject to change. The review reflects the author’s opinion.
