Dubai’s Newest Gem: Discover the Essence of TANG
Perched in the vibrant heart of Downtown Dubai, TANG offers an unrivaled vantage point overlooking the majestic Burj Khalifa and the world-renowned Dubai Fountains. Indulge in waterside dining that seamlessly blends breathtaking views with award-winning Pan-Asian flavors, creating an unforgettable atmosphere From signature dishes crafted with precision to artisanal cocktails inspired by the spirit of the city, every element at TANG is designed to match the grandeur of its iconic surroundings. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a night to remember, TANG promises a culinary journey that elevates all the senses.
Last week, we got to speak to Nicky Van Der Walt, the person behind TANG Dubai.
(The Beau Monde Magazine): What inspired you to open Tang, and how did you choose Dubai as the location?
(Nicky): I’ve always had a deep love for Asian culture and cuisine, especially the dynamic blend of Japanese izakaya-style dining and the bold, refined flavors of Cantonese cooking. My vision for TANG was to create a one-of-a-kind sensory dining experience – where culinary excellence meets a high-energy, upscale atmosphere. I’m passionate about crafting exceptional experiences, not just meals. When it comes to ambiance and design, I’ve always felt a strong connection to the minimalistic, refined aesthetics of Zen philosophy. The work of architect Marcio Kogan, known for his minimalism and serenity in design, played a big role in shaping the feel of TANG. After four highly successful years in South Africa – with award-winning locations in both Johannesburg and Cape Town – it felt like the right time to expand globally. Dubai was a natural next step for the TANG brand. It’s a vibrant, competitive culinary landscape that challenges you to push boundaries. It’s also where the world’s top gourmet food lovers gather, making it the perfect stage to share what TANG has to offer.
Can you tell us about the concept behind Tang — what atmosphere and experience were you aiming to create?
TANG was born from a desire to redefine luxury dining by blending cultural richness with contemporary sophistication. Named after the Tang dynasty – a golden age of Chinese art, culture, and cosmopolitan elegance – the restaurant draws inspiration from this era’s spirit of creativity and refinement. From the moment guests enter, they’re immersed in a world where every detail tells a story. The open sushi kitchen and Robata grill provide a theatrical, multisensory experience, while the menu is thoughtfully curated to be both elevated and accessible – inviting everyone to enjoy the magic of TANG. The design of the space is a true standout. It merges Asian influences with sleek, modern luxury, resulting in an environment that is at once visually striking and deeply inviting. Drawing from Zen aesthetics and the refined work of designers like Marcio Kogan, the ambiance balances minimalistic sophistication with a vibrant, high-energy feel. TANG is more than a restaurant—it’s an exploration of flavor, texture, and artistry. Our menu takes inspiration from contemporary Japanese izakaya dining, where sharing small plates fosters connection, and from classic Cantonese traditions known for their bold, timeless techniques. Every visit to TANG is meant to be an unforgettable journey of culinary discovery.
What challenges did you face when launching a restaurant in such a competitive market like Dubai?
Dubai is home to some of the world’s most renowned culinary brands, so entering this market meant we had to be highly strategic and confident in our vision. The challenge was not just about standing out – it was about establishing TANG as a luxury brand that could hold its own among global heavyweights. We approached the launch with precision, creating a bold statement from day one. Our opening night was headlined by Grammy Award-winning DJ Black Coffee and attended by an exclusive list of A-list guests, influential media, and key figures in the industry. It was more than an event – it was a cultural moment that anchored TANG’s position on Dubai’s fine dining map. Building on that momentum, we rang in the New Year with a spectacular celebration featuring the legendary Gipsy Kings. These high-profile events helped us establish TANG not just as a restaurant, but as a destination – where elevated dining meets unforgettable experiences.
How do you curate the menu at Tang — is there a particular philosophy or story behind the dishes?
The menu at TANG is a celebration of accessible fine dining, built around a philosophy that values bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and the art of culinary craftsmanship. Every dish – from delicate, expertly prepared sushi to the rich, smoky skewers from our Robata grill – is designed to tell a story of passion and precision. Our culinary concept draws deeply from two iconic traditions: the lively, shareable spirit of Japanese izakaya dining and the refined depth of classic Cantonese cuisine. The result is a menu that invites guests on a flavorful journey, moving seamlessly from small, vibrant plates to more intricate and aromatic dishes. Key elements in our kitchen include the Robata grill, which uses traditional Japanese techniques to deliver that distinct smoky flavor, and the wok, a tool essential to Cantonese cooking, allowing us to create dishes with bold, authentic character. TANG’s dining philosophy is rooted in the idea of connection – through shared plates, rich stories, and a dynamic atmosphere. Set within a lush, tropical-inspired space, our menu offers not just a meal, but a full sensory experience that blends luxury with comfort and exploration.
What do you think sets Tang apart from other Asian restaurants in Dubai?
TANG is where elegance meets energy – an immersive experience that blends culinary artistry, striking design, and an unforgettable atmosphere. What truly sets us apart is our unique fusion of Japanese izakaya dining and Cantonese cuisine, elevated by our landmark location with breathtaking views of the iconic Burj Khalifa and the mesmerizing Dubai Fountains. We’ve created a space that seamlessly marries the casual, vibrant spirit of an izakaya with the depth and sophistication of Cantonese culinary tradition. Set against the backdrop of one of the most recognizable skylines in the world, every visit to TANG becomes a sensory celebration – flavor, sound, and sight all working together in harmony. From the open Robata grill and expertly crafted dishes to the lush, tropical-inspired ambiance and high-energy vibe, TANG offers guests more than just a meal – it’s a destination that captures the essence of Dubai’s luxury dining scene like no other.
Looking ahead, do you have any plans to expand Tang or introduce new concepts in the future?
Absolutely—there’s a lot on the horizon for TANG. Our journey is only just beginning. We’re currently exploring further expansion within Dubai, building on the incredible response we’ve received so far. Beyond that, we are planning openings in Turkey, Saudi Arabia, London, and most likely Florida in the USA. Each new location presents an opportunity to evolve while staying true to the TANG philosophy – blending exceptional cuisine, immersive design, and high-energy hospitality to create unforgettable experiences. We’re excited to bring our vision to new audiences around the world and continue establishing TANG as a global name in luxury dining.
About TANG Hospitality
Founded by Nicky van der Walt, TANG Hospitality has redefined luxury dining with its signature blend of contemporary Japanese and Cantonese cuisine. With flagship locations in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and now Dubai, TANG embodies a cosmopolitan spirit, offering guests an immersive experience that celebrates the art of fine dining in a lavish setting.
ADDRESS: Palace Downtown, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, UAE
Phone: +971 55 66 33 071
Email: reservationsdubai@tang.ae
Web: tanghospitality.com
FB: https://www.facebook.com/TANGDubai/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/tang_dubai_downtown/
LinkedIn: @tangrestaurant
