Nestled on the fourth floor of One Za’abeel in Dubai, Street XO Dubai takes diners on a vibrant journey through its unique design and culinary approach. The restaurant is Michelin Chef David Muñoz’s debut in Dubai, and he brings his vision of an extraordinary dining experience to life through the innovative work of LW Design. The space is a feast for the eyes, merging street culture influences with high-end design and theatrical elements. Let’s dive into the architectural marvel that is Street XO Dubai.
The Entryway: A Bold Introduction
Guests are greeted at Street XO Dubai by a container-inspired metal door, hinting at the sensory adventure that awaits inside. The entrance area sets the stage with playful round hanging chairs and a zig-zag zebra crossing that mirrors in the surrounding area, evoking a circus-like ambiance. A tunnel designed to simulate a graffiti-filled back alley leads visitors through a journey of light and color, creating a dynamic atmosphere before reaching the main dining area.
Inside the Dining Space: Organized Chaos
The main dining space embodies the concept of “horizontal order & vertical chaos.” Concrete counters resembling curtains and upholstery add texture to the space, while suspended tables hold Kenneth Cobonpue acrobat lamps that dance above the dining guests. Red chairs with graffiti-style designs by Jean Paul Gaultier inject a burst of street art into the decor. Large-scale terrazzo on the floors echoes the chaotic feel of broken cobblestones on a bustling street.
LED mirror screens create optical illusions and infinite reflections, enhancing the lively energy in the dining area. The kitchen itself is a central stage, with pendant lights above the hood emulating stage lights. Humorous running men motifs capture the idea of constantly chasing the chaos and excitement.
The Lounge and Bar: An Artistic Oasis
Adjacent to the main dining space is the lounge and bar area, where guests can unwind in an environment inspired by a street lab. Lava lamps and a labyrinth of metal pipes add elements of mystery and whimsy to the bar. The lounge showcases unique furniture pieces by designers like Kenneth Cobonpue and Jimmy Martin, paired with a fabric wall of onyx frames. Art pieces emerge through the drapes, adding a quirky yet cohesive touch.
The Outdoor Terrace and Washrooms: Extending the Journey
Street XO Dubai‘s terrace continues the thematic narrative with acrobat sculptures and a disappearing top-hat man. The arrival canopy and bifold doors allow a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, maintaining the lively narrative and design cohesion throughout the venue.
The washrooms take visitors backstage, evoking an underground performance vibe with unexpected graffiti on the doors and makeup mirror bulb lights. This part of the experience adds another layer to the theatrical and immersive design of Street XO Dubai.
In summary, Street XO Dubai is an architectural and artistic wonder that offers a unique dining experience. From the moment guests step through the container-inspired door to the vibrant decor and engaging ambiance inside, every aspect is thoughtfully designed to immerse visitors in a world of culinary creativity and street culture charm. Chef Muñoz’s vision, brought to life by LW Design, makes Street XO Dubai a must-visit destination for food lovers and design enthusiasts alike.
