Mimi Kakushi Ranks No. 40 in the World’s 50 Best Bars Ceremony, and No. 1 in the Middle East and Africa

An impressive jump from the admirable #58 in 2022’s ranking, Mimi Kakushi rises into the 1-50 category of The World’s 50 Best Bars

Mimi Kakushi, Dubai’s leading destination for authentic Japanese cuisine and mixology, is thrilled to announce its ranking of No. 40 on the World’s 50 Best Bars, and an impressive No. 1 on the Middle East and Africa, at the ceremony taking place today, 17th October 2023, in Singapore. This recognition solidifies the team’s commitment to delivering unparalleled Japanese food and beverage experience steeped in the allure of 1920s Osaka.

The annual compilation known as "The World’s 50 Best Bars" is a prestigious recognition of excellence within the global beverage industry. Originally introduced in 2009, this list offers a yearly assessment of the finest bars, determined through the collective input of 680 experts in the field hailing from around the world. This compilation serves as the ultimate worldwide resource for discovering top-tier bars and premier drinking establishments.

The selection process for "The World’s 50 Best Bars" list is orchestrated by The World’s 50 Best Bars Academy, a body compromised of respected figures such as renowned bartenders, consultants, acclaimed beverage writers, and cocktail experts. Commencing in 2017, the identities of the panel members have been kept confidential to prevent any form of influence or manipulation. Additionally, to ensure equitable representation, the Academy maintains a gender-balanced composition and appoints 28 Academy Chairs to oversee its various geographic regions.

The Kikuchi Cocktail Menu

The cocktail menu, aptly named 'Kikuchi', is a testament to the establishment's commitment to innovation and creativity. Drawing inspiration from the legendary ‘Kikuchi Shigeya’ a performer who is widely credited with being the first to bring American Jazz? back to Japan, and is known as the ‘father of jazz’ in the nation. This ingenious concept seamlessly combines music, mixology, and Japanese culture, captivating the senses and transporting guests to a world where taste, sound, and atmosphere intertwine harmoniously.

The 'Kikuchi' cocktail menu not only delights the palate but also perfectly complements the unique atmosphere of Mimi Kakushi. The outlet’s inviting interior, with its meticulous attention to detail, evokes a sense of warmth, sophistication, and nostalgia. The music, inspired by the vinyl records featured on the menu, enhances the overall experience, providing a backdrop that resonates with guests. On Wednesdays, this feeling is exceptionally captured through the live performances of the live jazz band. The Minami Jazz Nights take place once a week, and feature a four-piece jazz band playing classical tunes, including Kikuchi vinyl pairing tracks.?

Blending music and cocktails was the most challenging aspect; the Mimi Kakushi Bar Team paired each one of the 13 cocktails with a different vinyl song. Whether melodic, cheerful, or sentimental, the menu features different emotions that fit the different energies portrayed by each record, which then is coupled with their respective cocktail. The menu is presented in the form of 13 vinyl cases in a large wooden box, whereby each cocktail is the cover of a vinyl - with a short description of the song, and the feelings it represents - and inside there is the actual pairing record that can be played upon guests’ request.?