Bubbling over

The Pointe’s gorgeous Japanese resto-bar is an exercise in perfection, from the setting to the food and the service. Ipshita Sharma checks out AKA for a special night out.

We headed over to the West side of The Pointe in The Palm to check out AKA Japanese restaurant. They now have a weekly special running that has two glasses of bubbles per person and a sushi platter for AED 400 per couple.

We walk in and are instantly transported to Japanese cherry blossom season. In spite of being so close to The Pointe’s fountain area, the ambience is elegant and intimate. There are loads of cherry blossom blooms over the deep red seating couches and dinettes. The beautiful artwork around the restaurant adds to the cool and vibrant vibe of AKA.

The service is on point and our servers explain the offers and check in about our allergies before bringing in either our drinks or our food. We get working on our prosecco while we wait for our sushi platter. The head waiter explains that the platter changes from day to day because they use what is locally available and whatever is the fresh catch of the day. The drinks are fresh and zingy and perfect after a long weekday.

The sushi platter is served, and it is a feast for the eyes. Our menu for the day includes Prawns Tempura maki roll, California Crabmeat maki roll, Salmon maki roll with caviar, Nigiri of Unagi, Ebi, Salmon, and Tuna. Everything is incredibly fresh and tasty and even the salty soy sauce can’t dampen our excitement. The maki rolls are on pointe (pun intended) and hit the spot. We were very impressed that instead of crabstick, the rolls are made of real crabmeat.

The highlight of the platter however is the Unagi Nigiri roll. Incredibly well grilled and steamed, the eel just melts in the mouth and makes for a glamorous mouthful.

Diners can choose to get comfy and wait for the DJ to start laying down fun tracks or even try out the sheesha. With all the right boxes ticked, AKA is definitely a great option for ladies nights or fun work dinners.

AKA, 1st floor above the valet parking station, West Side, Pointe, The Palm. AED 400 for a couple that includes 4 glasses of prosecco and 1 sushi platter.

Good- incredible food and ambience makes for a great night.

Bad – sheesha prices begin at AED 125.

Trendy – The cherry blossom blooms around the restaurant makes it very Instagrammable.