Dubai : Sura opens at Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre, introducing an urban, contemporary Korean dining experience that redefines tradition for a modern city. Bold, distinctive, and unapologetically dynamic, Sura breaks away from Dubai’s standardised dining scene, creating a new Korean wave where fire, flavour, and movement converge. At the heart of the concept is its guiding ethos: “Making New Tradition, Shaking New Transitions” – a promise to deliver immersive experiences that shift seamlessly from sensory daytime dining to an energetic nighttime lounge.
Every detail at Sura is crafted to captivate. Ceilings and lighting hint at Korean symbolism, while a striking chandelier, inspired by traditional tile roofs, anchors the lounge with quiet grandeur. Traditional jangdokdae (Korean earthenware fermentation jars) bring an authentic touch of Korean heritage to the space. In the private room, patchwork textiles are reimagined in modern fabrics, adding a playful, contemporary touch. Rounded banquettes and soft green-and-mauve chairs embrace guests in a cocoon of comfort.
Upstairs, tables with built-in grills invite diners to engage with the food, cooking bold, layered flavours to perfection. Downstairs, moving beyond the same menu, guests can enjoy a more relaxed lounge experience with dishes grilled by chefs over three different charcoal setups in the live kitchen. Hovering mid-air above the main lounge, the DJ booth takes the form of a suspended nest, clad in woven reed-inspired panels, commanding attention as it pulses with energy, setting the rhythm for every moment in the room. DJ WAD is on the decks, flown in straight from Seoul, and infuses Sura with the authentic rhythm of Korea, carrying the lounge from the calm of daytime dining to the vibrant energy of the evening.
The kitchen is led by award-winning Chef Pepe (Geunsung Park), also Co-Owner of the homegrown concept. His culinary journey began in the vibrant street markets of Nampo, Busan. Drawing on these diverse experiences, Chef Pepe brings a global perspective to traditional Korean cuisine, reinterpreting its heritage with modern techniques and inventive flavours, while remaining true to its roots.
Guests can explore the menu with dishes such as Yangnyeom Galbi (Dhs165), 48-hour pear-infused ribs char-grilled to smoky perfection, and L’Grow Wagyu (from Dhs130), featuring Australia’s finest beef elevated with Korea’s fermented barley across secondary cuts cherished for their rich, complex flavours, including chuck flap tail, oyster blade, and inside skirt. The Pan-Crisped Seafood Wrap (Dhs65) encases succulent shrimp, scallops, and octopus in a crisp golden rice shell, while Naengmyeon (Dhs70) offers chilled buckwheat noodles served with either delicate beef consommé or a bold gochujang sauce. Dessert offers a playful twist on classics, featuring the Korean Yuzu Matcha Lava Cake (Dhs70), filled with velvety chocolate and deep matcha notes, and the Omija-infused Cheesecake (Dhs65), which provides an edgy reinterpretation of traditional flavours.
Sura’s beverage programme celebrates Soju, Korea’s most iconic spirit, alongside a carefully curated cocktail menu. More than just a drink, soju brings people together, offering a moment to unwind, connect, and enjoy the meal. Its subtle warmth and smooth character complement the bold flavours of Sura’s cuisine, creating a complete sensory experience. Signature cocktails include the Kimchi Gunbae (Dhs65) – soju, gin, yuzu and a dab of gochujang; Drunken Tiger (Dhs70) – a bold blend of vodka, tequila, orange liqueur, and clarified citrus; the Sexy Blush (Dhs70) – combining tequila, grapefruit cordial, and hibiscus fizz for a vibrant, floral twist; and the Imperial Sip (Dhs75) – where coriander and ginger-infused gin meets lemon and wine espuma for a fragrant, sophisticated finish.
“Sura is a celebration of Korean cuisine in its most authentic and contemporary form,” said Chef Pepe. “It’s where tradition meets attitude, a place to gather with friends, share stories over fire-grilled flavours, and explore the richness of our culinary heritage in a modern, vibrant setting. Every dish, every detail of the space, has been carefully crafted to ignite the senses and create moments that linger long after the meal is over. We want our guests to experience Korean BBQ like never before – interactive, immersive, and unforgettable.”
Sura is open now.
Sura Dining Lounge, Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre, Al Garhoud, Dubai
Open daily 7pm – 3am.
