Review: Dining At Jamavar Dubai Is Like Tasting Tradition With A Twist — All Things Spice & Spirits

Ten months after its opening in Dubai, following successful locations in London and Doha, I decided to visit this much-talked-about restaurant at Downtown Dubai. I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype, and let me tell you, it exceeded every expectation. Yes, I am talking about MICHELIN-starred Jamavar Dubai.

Entering Jamavar, tucked within the lively, glowing streets of the city’s vibrant heart, felt like being enveloped in a warm, comforting embrace. The cheerful staff added to the inviting atmosphere with their heartfelt welcome. The name, meaning "shawl" in Kashmiri, perfectly reflects the restaurant’s cozy, yet sophisticated charm.

As I stepped inside, I couldn’t help but gaze at the opulent decor. The room, adorned with rich black and brown tones, felt as though it were embraced by chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. Particularly fascinating was the mother-of-pearl artwork adorning the walls, catching the light and adding a touch of luxury. Not to be missed were two large paintings by Indian contemporary artist Jayasri Burman. The space, seating about 50 people, felt intimate yet grand, like a small palace.

There's also a separate bar area, partly hidden behind a partition wall, which adds a sense of mystery. The setting promised something special, but the real question was whether the food would match the stunning ambiance. Spoiler alert ahead!

I was ready to now try Jamavar’s new Spice & Spirits four-course tasting menu. Trust me, it is a game-changer. Each dish comes with a cocktail designed to enhance the flavours, blending Indian traditions with creative twists. I chose the non-vegetarian option (there’s a vegetarian one too), and it was a journey of taste and surprise.

First up was Chandni Chowk Ki Aloo Tikki, a crispy potato patty spiced with cumin, coriander, and green chili, topped with yogurt and tamarind chutney. It kind of reminded me of Delhi’s lively street food. The Buzzy Tonic cocktail, with ginger, citrus, and tonic, was refreshing made to cut through the richness of the tikki, with ginger matching the spices and citrus adding a bright lift.

The second course, Tandoori Prawns, was smoky and flavourful, grilled with warm spices. Paired with the Khubani Paloma, a tart apricot-citrus cocktail, the smokiness was balanced perfectly, making each bite pop with flavour.

For the main course, I had Old Delhi Butter Chicken, a Jamavar classic. The grilled chicken in creamy tomato-fenugreek gravy was served with Dal Maharani, Bhindi Singhara, Pulao Rice, and a Mixed Bread Basket. The Coorg Daiquiri, with coconut, citrus, and curry leaf cordial, was a perfect match. It cooled the rich gravies while adding a fresh, herbal touch that complemented the spices.

Dessert was the Chocolate Bounty, a rich mix of Valrhona chocolate and coconut with cardamom ice cream. The Nocturne Espresso Martini, with a hint of saffron, paired beautifully. The coffee matched the chocolate’s depth, and the saffron tied in with the cardamom for a warm, satisfying finish.

Created by Culinary Director Surender Mohan and Beverage Manager Jeet Verma, the menu blends India's rich culinary traditions with modern creativity. It's not just about eating, it's about experiencing food and beverage in a whole new way.

What makes Spice & Spirits so special is how it feels like a journey. Each dish is rooted in India's culinary heritage, using traditional recipes and techniques, but the beverages add a modern twist that surprises and delights. The pairings aren't just there to complement the food — they tell a story, connecting flavours in unexpected ways. It's like the chefs and bartenders are having a conversation.

In less than a year, Jamavar Dubai earned a MICHELIN star in the 2025 MICHELIN Guide, a proof to its incredible food and vision. The beautiful decor, the thoughtful dishes, and the creative cocktails all work together to create something unforgettable. From the moment you walk in, you're wrapped in warmth and flavour, like a Kashmiri shawl.

Jamavar isn't just a restaurant; it's an adventure for your senses. Whether you're a fan of Indian cuisine or just love good food, you will leave this place happy. I'm already looking forward to my next visit to explore more of what Jamavar has to offer.