Reif Othman opens two new restaurants inside the world's longest cantilevered building
Reif Othman is one of the UAE's most popular chefs. He is behind FACT Award-winning restaurants and was named our Chef of the Year in 2022. Now, the celebrated chef has launched two new concepts inside The Link at One Za'abeel.
Known for his unconventional take on Japanese street food, SIO is a dedicated ramen house that dives deep into the soulful simplicity of Japanese comfort food. Taking its name from the Japanese word for 'salt,' the concept elevates the traditional noodle shop experience with a refined yet heartfelt menu. Highlights include the signature SIO Ramen, a bowl brimming with homemade broth, tender steamed chicken, marinated egg and a bright pop of sudachi citrus; the indulgent Carbonara Udon, crowned with an onsen egg, crispy beef bacon and shaved pecorino; and the bold, broth-less Spicy Vongole Ramen, where fresh clams combine with hojiso, shiso leaves, and a fiery kick of yuzu togarashi.
Next door, KONA — meaning 'powder' or 'flour' in Japanese — marries Italian tradition with Japanese flair. This bold pizzeria offers more than just the familiar Margherita and Pepperoni. Signature pies include the Diavolina, layered with gochujang tomato sauce, marinated Wagyu ribs, and galbi mayo; the Ama Ebi, which combines spicy tomato sauce, red yuzu kosho, and fresh shrimp; and the daring Spicy Kaki, topped with beef nduja and sweet persimmon. While KONA might be new, pizza is hardly uncharted territory for Reif, who was behind the marvellous menu at Moonslice Pizza when it opened in 2021.
'SIO and KONA are very personal projects for me,' says Chef Reif Othman. 'They reflect my love for pure, bold flavours and my passion for pushing culinary boundaries while always staying true to craftsmanship and authenticity. I'm excited for guests to experience these concepts and taste something both familiar and completely new.'
Reif hails from Singapore and has made his mark on Dubai's dining scene. Throughout Reif's career, he has garnered numerous awards, including a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand and a spot on the inaugural MENA 50 Best list. His restaurants include Hoe Lee Kow, Reif Kushiyaki and TERO (The Experience by Reif Othman). Later this year, he will team up with 7 Management to open Yubi Handroll Bar on Dubai's first licensed street.
SIO and KONA can be found in the space formerly occupied by Arrazuna in The Link and are open daily from 12pm to 11pm.
GO: Follow @siobyreif and @konabyreif on Instagram for more information.
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