A dazzling blend of ancient themes with high-tech theatrics
Stepping into Zenon in Kempinski Central Avenue, Downtown Dubai feels like being transported to an alternate dimension where Greek mythology meets ultra-modern tech and a nightclub vibe that’s dialled up to 11. This is not your typical restaurant; it’s a sensory spectacle. With wraparound holographic 3D wall screens that pulsate and shift like an immersive art exhibit, tables packed in tighter than rush-hour traffic, and music that could give a DJ set a run for its decibel count, Zenon is unapologetically loud. Whether that’s exhilarating or exhausting depends on your appetite – for both food and stimulation.
Starters: A Mixed Bag of Decadence
We opened the evening with a trio of starters: a Greek Salad, fresh, crisp, and everything you expect from a classic, Fried Calamari that was lightly battered and perfectly cooked, offering the kind of satisfying crunch that’s hard to fault, and Roast Eggplant that was rich and smoky, and perfectly reflected the indulgent setting.
The starters were well-prepared and enjoyable, but the menu at Zenon leans hard into decadence, occasionally at the cost of balance or subtlety.
Mains: Opulence Over Substance
For mains, we opted for the Lamb Rack and the rather intriguing Rigatoni with Caviar.
The Lamb Rack was beautifully cooked, tender, and well-seasoned. It’s the kind of dish that reminds you this kitchen has serious skill behind the flash.
The Rigatoni with Caviar, however, left us puzzled. Creamy and rich, the pasta itself was indulgent and a highlight of the night, but the caviar felt more like an afterthought. It added little to the flavour and seemed tacked on to cater to Dubai’s “look how rich I am” diners. With such a hefty price tag, one expects a little more than just visual flair.
While the food is good – at times even great – it struggles to justify its price point, especially when combined with the chaotic atmosphere.
Dessert: A Sweet Finale
For dessert, the light, airy, and on-brand Profiterole rounded off the meal, abundant to the extreme further emphasising the excess of the venue, and the over-the-top experiences that Dubai is known for.
Service: A Battle for Attention
The staff at Zenon are friendly, and the manageress in particular deserves a mention for her warm, welcoming demeanour. She proudly gave us a tour of the venue, showcasing the private dining spaces, the bar, and the adjoining nightclub – a thoughtful gesture that highlighted their commitment to creating an “experience.”
However, once seated, the service faltered. Finding someone when you needed help was a challenge, and with music so loud you had to shout to be heard, ordering a second drink felt more like a test of endurance than relaxation.
Ambience: A Visual (and Aural) Onslaught
Zenon’s biggest selling point – and perhaps its Achilles’ heel – is its ambience. Inspired by Greek mythology, the venue is designed to wow, and it does, but in a way that overwhelms rather than enchants. The holographic walls are undoubtedly impressive but verge on sensory overload.
Combined with tables packed so closely that private conversations become impossible and music so loud it borders on intrusive, Zenon feels more like dining inside a techno-fuelled nightclub than a high-end restaurant. For some, that might be thrilling. For others, it’s just exhausting and definitely something to consider if you are prone to sensory overload.
The Verdict
Zenon Dubai is a venue designed for a very particular crowd – those seeking spectacle, high-energy vibes, and a place to “be seen.” If you’re looking for a quiet evening of refined dining, this isn’t your spot.
Zenon succeeds in delivering an experience, but it prioritises theatrics over comfort. If you thrive in vibrant, high-energy spaces and don’t mind shouting across the table while surrounded by neon visuals, you’ll likely love it. For the rest of us, it’s a one-time adventure best suited for those in search of something bold, bright, and unashamedly over the top.
