Atelier House Hospitality, a renowned hospitality group with a passion for culinary innovation, and known for bespoke dining experiences in the region; and Tashkeel, a visual art and design consultancy and incubator based in the United Arab Emirates, proudly announce the opening of Gerbou, which reimagines Emirati-inspired cuisine through a modern lens while celebrating local craftsmanship.
Designed by Kristina Zanic Consultants, Gerbou, which loosely translates to “Welcome to my humble abode” in Arabic, is a home-grown restaurant that reflects the warmth of Arab hospitality. Every element within the space, from the carefully selected ingredients to the handcrafted furniture and decor, showcases a deep connection to the UAE’s landscape, artisans, and traditions.
Her Highness Sheikha Lateefa Bint Maktoum Bin Rashid Al Maktoum (Director of Tashkeel) said: “Gerbou is a testament to the power of collaboration—where design, craftsmanship, and gastronomy come together to create an experience deeply rooted in the UAE’s cultural identity. […] This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to championing local talent and materials, ensuring that every element tells a story of authenticity and contemporary heritage.”
Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner as well as fwala, an exquisite Emirati high-tea experience, Gerbou takes diners on a flavourful journey where locally used ingredients are thoughtfully paired with global influences, all under the expert guidance of Chef Ionel Catau. The menu, catering to the most discerning palates, seamlessly blends Chef Catau’s extensive international expertise working across Michelin-starred restaurants and his deep understanding of different culinary techniques with local flavours, tastefully complemented with delightful global influences.
A highlight of the restaurant is its underground pit cooking technique, inspired by time-honoured Emirati methods that infuse dishes with deep, smoky flavours. Complementing the savoury dishes, diners can enjoy Emirati-inspired sweet treats and pastries, meticulously crafted by renowned award-winning Emirati Chef Sahar Al Awadhi.
Once guests step inside the venue, they are greeted by an inviting tan leather sofa made from rich camel leather complemented by embroidered plush pillows, featuring Ghaf trees. Masterfully designed dining chairs made from naturally fallen Ghaf tree trunks shaped in the form of the arches of Gerbou; a contemporary wooden table inlay with intricate patterns of Sadu weaving, which honours UAE’s Bedouin culture; bespoke fish scale lights symbolising the Emirati community’s deep connection with the sea; as well as a stunning front desk made from naturally fallen Ghaf trees.
At its core, Gerbou is an exploration of the UAE’s evolving culinary landscape, where the past and future come together in a setting designed to inspire curiosity and connection. With a strong emphasis on storytelling through food, design, and hospitality, Gerbou aims to be more than just a restaurant – it is a space where culture, artistry, and culinary craftsmanship come together to offer a truly immersive experience.
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