Located on the 18th floor of The Lana, Dorchester Collection, Jara by Martín Berasategui marks the celebrated Spanish chef’s debut in Dubai. Known for his 12 Michelin stars, Berasategui introduces authentic Basque cuisine with a modern twist, creating a dining experience that blends rich culinary traditions with the vibrant energy of Dubai.
The interior of Jara is a visual treat, with deep browns and velvet greens creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. The open kitchen, where clay-pit ovens cook up charcoal-grilled meats and seafood, adds a dynamic element to the dining experience, while the terrace offers stunning views of the city skyline.
Our meal began with Martín Berasategui’s croquettes in two flavours: mixed mushrooms and cecina. Both were rich and indulgent, with the crispy exterior giving way to a smooth, flavour-packed filling. The mixed mushrooms croquettes offered an earthy depth, while the cecina variety was enhanced by the subtle smokiness of the cured beef, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes.
The grilled octopus was another standout, served with tender Galician-style potatoes and a generous dusting of paprika. The octopus was expertly cooked – meaty, yet tender, with a slight char from the grill that added complexity to every bite. The pairing with the creamy potatoes and smoky paprika tied the dish together, making it a memorable part of the meal.
Discover Martín Berasategui’s signature dishes
The surprising highlight, however, was the txangurro donostiarra, a San Sebastian-style spider crab stew. This dish encapsulated the essence of Basque cuisine, with the sweet, delicate crab meat simmered in a rich, flavourful broth. The stew was both comforting and luxurious, a testament to Berasategui’s ability to elevate traditional recipes to fine dining standards.
For the main course, we opted for the whole blue lobster. Grilled to perfection, the lobster arrived at the table accompanied by bibs, adding a fun, interactive element to the meal. Cracking open the shell revealed succulent, juicy meat that had absorbed the smoky flavours from the grill. The lobster was served with minimal accompaniments, allowing the natural sweetness of the seafood to shine through. The experience of preparing the lobster at the table added a sense of occasion, making this dish not just a meal, but an event in itself.
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To finish, we couldn’t resist the Basque cheesecake. Unlike the overly sweet versions often found elsewhere, this cheesecake was light, creamy, and perfectly balanced. The slightly burnt top added a hint of caramelisation, which contrasted beautifully with the smooth interior. It was an authentic take on a classic dessert, providing a satisfying and memorable conclusion to our dining experience.
Jara by Martín Berasategui combines a dynamic atmosphere, stunning views, and expertly crafted dishes, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique and upscale dining experience in Dubai. With each dish reflecting the chef’s Basque heritage, this restaurant offers a true taste of Spain in the heart of the city.
