Atelier House Hospitality teams up with Tashkeel for the farm-to-table restaurant that embodies contemporary Arab culture…

Atelier House’s impressive collection of renowned Dubai restaurants includes Boxpark’s gourmet French restaurant, RSVP; and one Michelin Star steakhouse, 11 Woodfire. But for the group’s latest venue, Atelier House is celebrating the home of so many of its current restaurants.

Set to open in January 2024 in Nad Al Sheba is Gerbou, a sustainable, homegrown restaurant that celebrates Emirati cuisine and culture. Gerbou, which means welcome to my humble abode in Arabic, will see Atelier House Hospitality join forces with Tashkeel, a beloved beacon of arts and culture in the UAE.

Taskheel have designed and commissioned custom design pieces in collaboration with designers who have been through the Tanween by Tashkeel mentorship program, giving further gravitas to the restaurant’s connection to the roots of the region.

Housed in a renovated building from 1987, the restaurant will offer both indoor and outdoor seating, with all spaces designed by Kristina Zanic Consultants. On the terrace, Ghaf trees will offer dappled shade, for those dining alfresco during the day. All of the aesthetic has been inspired by the colours and textures synonymous with Arab culture, and is set to be “a welcoming, soulful, experimental and an uplifting location and designed space,” according to Salim Ahmed, Tashkeel’s Senior Design coordinator.

Mirroring the look and feel, the menu promises to be a flight through Arab and Emirati flavours, with locally sourced, sustainable ingredients taking centre stage. Emirati chef Sahar Al Awadhi has consulted on the culinary offering, which will be led by chef Ionel Catau. Fusing Emirati cuisine with international flavours, the resulting menu pays tribute to the rich heritage of the UAE, catering to a contemporary, well-travelled palate.

“I am excited to present a sustainable menu that showcases the best of Arab and Emirati cuisine while respecting cultural traditions,” says chef Ionel Catau, of his new endeavour.

Gerbou, Nad Al Sheba, opening January 2024. @gerbou