One of Dubai’s most talked-about dining concepts is on its way to the capital. Kokoro, the UAE’s first dedicated hand roll bar, is set to open a new branch on Saadiyat Island in March 2026. The exact location has yet to be revealed, but the expansion marks a significant step for the homegrown brand that has redefined casual Japanese dining in the UAE.
Kokoro first launched in March 2024 and quickly gained a loyal following in Dubai, with popular outlets in Alserkal Avenue and Nad Al Sheba. Known for its counter-seating format, no-reservations policy, and hand rolls, Kokoro has now served more than 200,000 guests and rolled nearly one million hand rolls.
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The brand was founded by Tamer El Khayat and Faisal Yabroudi, whose vision blends Japanese culinary discipline with a modern, approachable style. From the start, Kokoro has stood out for its compact menu, open-kitchen energy, and playful presentation — each guest is served with small toy figurines like ducks or monkeys at their seat.
In Abu Dhabi, diners can expect Kokoro’s signature menu to continue, featuring top-quality ingredients and minimalist flavour combinations. Highlights include:
- Bluefin Tuna with pickled cucumber
- Salmon with white ponzu
- Scallop with orange
- Uni, Ikura, Janpachi, and Shima Aji
- Signature hand rolls like Avocado, Kai, Spicy Tuna, and Negi Toro
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The new location will follow the same first-come, first-served format, preserving the casual yet precise atmosphere that defines the Kokoro experience.
Kokoro isn’t stopping at Abu Dhabi. Later this year, the brand will also open inside The District at Dubai Mall. On a larger scale, international expansion is also on the horizon, with global plans currently in development.
More updates on the Saadiyat opening are expected soon — but for now, Kokoro fans in Abu Dhabi can look forward to welcoming this standout addition to the capital’s evolving food scene.
