Tetsu

Tetsu shares the Nation Towers address with Asia de Cuba but operates in a very different register. Where Asia de Cuba reaches for social energy, Tetsu retreats into focused intimacy. The teppanyaki counter format puts guests directly in front of the cooking action, and the performance element of teppanyaki preparation, the knife work, the flames, the plate presentation, provides entertainment without amplification.

The sake selection is the bar program's main strength. The menu covers junmai, ginjo, and daiginjo categories with staff capable of explaining the distinctions. A flight of three sakes works well as an introduction. The Japanese whisky selection includes Suntory and Nikka expressions not commonly found across the Gulf.

Cocktails lean Japanese: yuzu-based sours, matcha-infused variations, clean citrus and shiso combinations. Quality is above average for a hotel restaurant bar.

Food is the main event. Teppanyaki sets provide good value for the cooking quality, with wagyu options available at the premium end. A dinner for two with drinks runs AED 800-1,400 depending on choices.

As a late-night bar, Tetsu is quieter than anything else on the Corniche. The kitchen closes before midnight, leaving the bar running for guests who want to continue drinking in a calm environment. The sake and whisky selection makes this worthwhile. For something livelier, Asia de Cuba is 50 meters away in the same building.