Last week, Oman Magazine indulged in the acclaimed cuisine of globally celebrated chef, Gastón Acurio, at the award-winning La Mar by Gastón Acurio. As a true leader of Peruvian-Nikkei culinary excellence, La Mar is celebrated in Dubai’s second edition of its Michelin Guide, where Tomislav Lokvicic, General Manager of La Mar was awarded Service of the Year and La Mar received an honorable mention in the 2023 guide.
Keen to explore the authentic flavors of Peruvian gastronomy, we headed over to Atlantis The Royal and entered La Mar – a captivating ambiance, set against the backdrop of the Skyblaze fountain, Palm Island, and Dubai skyline. Inviting and understated, the space lends itself to a stylish night out, or a relaxed mid-week dinner.
The incredible team hails the provenance of each product and genuinely advocates authenticity and richness of their offering. The winter weather made the setting all the more memorable, with al fresco dining from their large terrace, coupled with fire heaters and stunning views of the fountains, as they danced into the evening.
We started the evening with a trio of cebiche (ceviche), ranging from classic, to spicy to umami. Each has unique flavour, and the quality of the raw ingredients made this one of the freshest ceviches in town. We loved the spicy variation, with a gently mild heat.
Next up was the nigiri criollo, consisting of a torched strip of delicate wagyu beef MB7 on rice base, topped with a sumptuous quail egg, and other delicate layers to add depth and variety. For us, this was a real wow moment, and certainly a dish we would order time and again; a true signature, thanks to its rich umami flavours, and tender delicate composition.
The menu boasts multiple local chef specialties that transport your taste buds to the heart of Peru. However, we opted for a large fresh fish, marinated with a tart Peruvian sauce, served with a nikkei fried rice on the side. Simplicity and an explosion of flavors at its finest, both comforting and enigmatically tasty.
No Peruvian culinary experience would be complete without an exquisite beverage program, meticulously crafted by the stellar beverage team. Each sip from the beverage program is a showcase of Peru, adding the perfect finishing touch to your La Mar experience. For us, we opted for the non-alcoholic beverages including the Pineapple cerveza, sharp, refreshing and not overly sweet; just how we like it.
If you’re looking to explore the authentic and diverse flavours of Peruvian gastronomy. With an atmospheric setting overlooking the Palm Island and Dubai skyline, the restaurant’s contemporary design provides the perfect backdrop an evening to remember. With recipes passed down from mothers – and their mothers – guests are invited to sit back and enjoy an authentic voyage across Peru.
For more information, or to book your visit: La Mar, Mezzanine level, Atlantis The Royal, daily 6pm to 11pm. Tel:(0)4 426 0000. @lamardubai
