Designed by Kristina Zanic Consultants, Gerbou, which loosely translates to “Welcome to my humble abode” in Arabic, is a home-grown restaurant that reflects the warmth of Arab hospitality. Every element within the space, from the carefully selected ingredients to the handcrafted furniture and decor, showcases a deep connection to the UAE’s landscape, artisans, and traditions.

Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner as well as fwala, an exquisite Emirati high-tea experience, Gerbou takes diners on a flavourful journey where locally used ingredients are thoughtfully paired with global influences, all under the expert guidance of Chef Ionel Catau. The menu, catering to the most discerning palates, seamlessly blends Chef Catau’s extensive international expertise working across Michelin-starred restaurants and his deep understanding of different culinary techniques with local flavours, tastefully complemented with delightful global influences.

A highlight of the restaurant is its underground pit cooking technique, inspired by time-honoured Emirati methods that infuse dishes with deep, smoky flavours. Complementing the savoury dishes, diners can enjoy Emirati-inspired sweet treats and pastries, meticulously crafted by renowned award-winning Emirati Chef Sahar Al Awadhi. Drawing inspiration from the warm and welcoming nature of Emirati and Arab culture, Gerbou warmly invites diners to embark on an extraordinary gastronomic affair that seamlessly bridges the past, present and future of UAE. True to its ethos, the ethereal venue is nestled in a stunningly renovated 1987 Dubai building. Gerbou’s interiors and exteriors seamlessly merge tradition with contemporary aesthetics. The custom-made door handle, which integrates patterns of palm trees, desert sand, and ocean waves, serves as a gateway into the holistic Gerbou experience.

Once guests step inside the venue, they are greeted by an inviting tan leather sofa made from rich camel leather complemented by embroidered plush pillows, featuring Ghaf trees. Masterfully designed dining chairs made from naturally fallen Ghaf tree trunks shaped in the form of the arches of Gerbou; a contemporary wooden table inlay with intricate patterns of Sadu weaving, which honours UAE’s Bedouin culture; bespoke fish scale lights symbolising the Emirati community’s deep connection with the sea; as well as a stunning front desk made from naturally fallen Ghaf trees.

Designed by Tasmeem Tashkeel, the stunning Ghaf Tree Front Desk is left in its raw, untouched form, paying tribute to the UAE’s landscape as well as reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to using local materials. Sitting atop the desk is a magnificent bronze sculpture, made by artist Alice Andrea Ewing. This delicate structure features a protected species in the UAE, the Eurasian collared dove, symbolising protection and preservation, and a desert rose, representing beauty and resilience. Offering a warm and meaningful welcome, the front desk and sculpture offer their respect to the land, its flora and fauna.

As guests are welcomed in, a captivating Herbarium chandelier hangs above them, a tribute to the natural world, harmonising with Gerbou’s nature-inspired philosophy and its homage to the resilient nature of the region. Produced through an intricate glass-making technique, the magnificent chandelier features dried foliage permanently crystallised in glass. This masterpiece reflects Gerbou’s profound respect for the natural world and deep understanding of its environment.

Her Highness Sheikha Lateefa Bint Maktoum Bin Rashid Al Maktoum (Director of Tashkeel) said:

"Gerbou is a testament to the power of collaboration - where design, craftsmanship, and gastronomy come together to create an experience deeply rooted in the UAE’s cultural identity. Through Tashkeel’s collaboration with Atelier House Hospitality and Kristina Zanic Consultants has culminated in a space infused with artistry through researched culinary arts and design that speaks to heritage while embracing contemporary innovation. This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to championing local talent and materials, ensuring that every element tells a story of authenticity and contemporary heritage."

At its core, Gerbou is an exploration of the UAE’s evolving culinary landscape, where the past and future come together in a setting designed to inspire curiosity and connection. With a strong emphasis on storytelling through food, design, and hospitality, Gerbou aims to be more than just a restaurant - it is a space where culture, artistry, and culinary craftsmanship come together to offer a truly immersive experience.

DETAILS:

What: Gerbou

Where: Street 20, Nad Al Sheba 1, Dubai

When: February 7, 2025

Opening Hours:

Breakfast - 7am to 11am

⁠Lunch - 12pm to 3pm

Fwala - 4pm to 6pm

Dinner - 7pm to 11pm