BysairaFOOD & DRINKSDecember, 2022

THIS CHILLED OUT FRENCH-JAPANESE CAFE IS INSIDE A SPORTS CLUB

THIS COOL NEIGHBORHOOD RESTAURANT IS A GREAT SPOT TO HANGOUT.

Tucked away in the bustling district of Al Quoz is Dubai’s favorite boutique Padel club and community hangout, Matcha. As much as we would like to start getting more active and try our hand at the latest sporting trend, Padel here, we were there for the dinner offerings at Nette, a French-Japanese restaurant overlooking the courts.

The rich green foliage leads you through the courts and towards the bright and airy café. We love the courtyard that overlooks the bright orange courts and is surrounded by a selection of plants and trees. The indoor seating is also inviting, and the wicker furniture and light walls will transport you straight to a tropical wonderland.

We chose to sit outdoors under the shade of the Mango tree. Innovatively fusing timeless French dining with the playful flavours of Japan, the menu celebrates the best of both French and Japanese cuisine. Designed by Chef Shaunne and created with sharing in mind, flavours such as miso, taragosia, mirin and tamari are present in the menu.

We started with the Asian prawn, avocado and orange salad. A refreshing mix made of poached prawn and tangy citrus, this is a great starter.

In the mains we ordered the mirin glazed salmon fillet with miso aubergine pureé. A hearty and healthy dish we added a side of fries to make it even more satisfying.

The all-day menu also offers an exciting breakfast selection of both sweet and savory options ranging from the Honey Matcha Bowl to Miso Braised Beef French Dip Sandwich. Available to order even at night, we couldn’t resist ordering the egg sando. Hard boiled eggs in a mix of Japanese spices inside a toasted brioche.

Desserts include Vegan Matcha & Chocolate Eclairs, Japanese souffle Crème Brûlée Buttermilk Pancakes and French toast served with matcha mascarpone, yuzu curd, yuzu macerated seasonal berries & toasted pecan. We highly recommend the Japanese pancakes that are soft and fluffy and a huge crowd pleaser.

From a quick lunch after a mid-morning yoga class or well-earned dinner following a game of padel, to a family breakfast at the weekend or a fresh juice whilst answering some emails, Nette is a cheerful new spot to try.