Sometimes, it’s good to revisit an old favourite just to remind yourself of how good it is.
Found in 27 countries across the globe, Asian food chain Wagamama is hardly an independent homegrown concept. However, if you want consistently brilliant, high-quality and relatively healthy fast food, it doesn’t get any better.
Heaps of vegan options
Exceptionally vegan and vegetarian friendly, Wagamama UAE has offered a dedicated vegan menu since 2019. In fact, it was one of the first chain restaurants in the region to truly embrace the plant-based lifestyle.
So, we’re excited to visit the brand-new branch at Mirdif City Centre. Settling into a comfy booth, it takes us a while to decide what to choose.
With meat-free bao buns, katsu curry, gyoza, miso corn, noodles, fresh juices and, of course, Wagamama’s legendary ramen all available, it all sounds so incredibly tempting.
Guided by our friendly waitress, we start with the vegetarian yasai steamed gyoza, mixed mushroom and panko aubergine bao buns and of course, an obligatory helping of salted edamame beans.
Served piping hot, the latter is just as good as any of the far, far more expensive versions served at the city’s top Japanese restaurants. The light and fluffy baos are so fabulous we almost fall out over who has the last bite, while the gyoza dipping sauce is simply superb.
Bursting with flavour
However, the star of the show is the tochigi yellow tofu curry. Striking the perfect balance between creamy and spicy, it features an inspiring combination of coconut, tamarind, lemongrass, chili oil and hearty chunks of fresh veggies. Blowing our usual favourite Thai red and green curries clean out of the water, the enormous portion is easily big enough for two.
Sticking with a classic, we also try the pad Thai with tofu. We like how you can customise it to suit your preferred level of spice, and it’s a lot less greasy than many other noodle dishes we’ve tried. Littered with shallots, onions, coriander, beansprouts and more, it’s anything but plain and boring.
Surprisingly great desserts
We’re so full we almost skip our sweet course. However, we’re thankfully persuaded to try the sensational mochi, and the rich and decadent San Sebastian cheesecake. Although not technically in keeping with the pan-Asian theme, it goes down like a dream with a cup of smooth and aromatic Americano coffee.
The service is friendly, the recommendations are spot on, and everything is served ultra quick.
If you’re visiting as a family, the dedicated kids’ menu also provides a fun and exciting way of introducing little ones to authentic Asian cuisine.
So, next time you’re searching for reliable and unwaveringly delectable Asian comfort food, remember that Wagamama is always waiting. With ten branches now available across the UAE, it’s always just a short drive away.
Mirdif City Centre, Dubai. Tel: 04 585 5700. wagamama.ae.