Kima Izakaya is a little slice of Tokyo in JLT — unexpectedly authentic. Inside, Japanese songs loop on repeat, and you’re greeted with a cheerful “konnichiwa.” It doesn’t just feel like Japan; it tastes like it, too.

The menu is built like a true izakaya: begin with small plates (edamame, miso soup, takoyaki), drift into gyoza, then land on the signatures — Kima kara-age and bright, clean “raw-style” plates like beef tataki / salmon carpaccio / yellowtail jalapeño — before finishing with rolls, donburi, yakisoba and mochi.

• ■This izakaya is pure wow effect. From the photos—or the exterior—you’d never guess how authentic the next couple of hours will feel.
• ■Affordable prices make it easy to switch into ‘Explorer mode’ and order across the menu.
• ■Add a non-alcoholic Japanese beer or a cup of sencha.
• ■Come in during the day for the Teishoku set lunch (Tue–Fri, 12–3pm, AED 79).
• ■(!) Open from 12 PM. Closed on Mondays.