In Review: Smoki Moto Dubai

An editor from Cake The Mag was recently invited to dine at Smoki Moto Dubai, here’s her take.

We started with beef tartare and seafood gyoza. The tartare was well-seasoned, rich, and smooth, but the seafood gyoza caught me off guard in the best way. It was my first time having it, and the combination of textures—crispy edges, soft centre, delicate yet punchy flavours—made it one of my favourite bites of the night.

Then came the real star of the show: the barbecue. The chef grilled four different cuts of beef for us, each incredibly tender and juicy. What made the meal even better were the fresh, flavour-packed sides—kimchi, lotus root, bean sprouts, and a mix of dipping sauces that added layers to every bite. The kimchi bibimbap was the perfect pairing, the crispy rice and spicy-sour tang balancing out the richness of the meat.

After such a satisfying main course, dessert was the perfect finishing touch. We had a bowl of shaved ice cream flavoured with mango, topped with fresh mango pieces and small mochi pieces. The mochi was the standout layer, adding a chewy contrast to the refreshing ice cream and fruity mango. It was light yet indulgent—a perfect balance to end the meal on a high note.

Aside from the food, the atmosphere at Smoki Moto really stood out. The space is big, but the warm ambient lighting gives it a romantic, intimate feel. The music was upbeat, which helped it feel lively rather than overly formal or intimidating. It’s the kind of place that feels special but still comfortable—somewhere you’d go for a fun night out rather than a stiff fine-dining experience.

Would I go back? Definitely. The combination of great food, an engaging dining experience, and a well-thought-out atmosphere makes it worth revisiting. Whether you’re a Korean barbecue regular or trying it for the first time, Smoki Moto hits the right balance between tradition and something new.