Dubai has welcomed a new addition to its fine dining scene with the opening of SANA, a contemporary Uzbek restaurant that officially launched on October 1 at Jumeirah Mina Al Salam.
Developed under the BIK Hospitality Group, SANA is a reinterpretation of the celebrated Uzbekistan Restaurant Moscow, designed to appeal to Dubai’s global audience while staying rooted in traditional culinary heritage. The concept blends authentic Uzbek recipes with modern Asian-inspired influences, bridging East and West on one menu.
At the helm is Brand Chef and Culinary Partner Glen Ballis, whose career spans kitchens in London, Melbourne, Moscow, and Asia. Working alongside Uzbek and Asian chefs, Ballis has created a menu that honors time-honored cooking techniques while introducing refined touches for Dubai diners.
“With SANA, my vision was to stay true to the rich traditions of Uzbek cuisine while making it accessible and comfortable for Dubai’s diners,” said Ballis. “I’ve drawn on my experiences across Asia and beyond, but the focus remains on authenticity, flavour, and simplicity. For me, it’s about respecting tradition and letting the ingredients shine, so guests can enjoy food that feels both familiar yet full of discovery.”
The menu showcases staples such as Tandir Non bread, wood-fired shashlik skewers, and slow-cooked Plov, while also presenting elevated dishes like Kamchatka crab belyash with truffle and whole seabass baked with herbs. Larger sharing platters, including roasted lamb, highlight the celebratory side of Uzbek dining culture.
More than just a restaurant, SANA positions itself as a cultural destination. The main dome dining hall accommodates up to 100 guests, complemented by a floating terrace with waterfront views and a shisha offering. Hidden within the venue, MOON BY SANA provides a speakeasy-style lounge for cocktails and private gatherings.
“Dubai is one of the most competitive dining destinations in the world, and with SANA, we wanted to bring something that feels both new and deeply rooted,” said Boris Kofman, Co-Founder of BIK Hospitality. “This is more than the opening of a restaurant; it is the beginning of a cultural experience between Moscow, Uzbekistan, and Dubai. Our vision is to honour tradition while creating a space where people come together, celebrate life, and feel at home.”
SANA is open daily from 12:00 PM to 2:00 AM. For reservations, guests can call +971 58 814 2936.
