A culinary journey through Central Asia?

Dishes from Uzbekistan and Georgia?

Count me in!!!

Especially when the restaurant decor looks as amazing as Eshak!

In fact, the vast outdoor area…

…gives way to an exquisitely eclectic interior of unique comfortable armchairs, high ceilings, and stunning artwork!

And elegantly presented with quality tableware and details that sets Eshak on a level of its own among the crowds at City Walk.

But it is the menu selection which really brings out the special at Eshak.

Professionally managed by Michael Fares, a young Lebanese with international hospitality experience, Eshak proposes a very interesting concept – a fusion of favorite and traditional dishes from Uzbekistan and Georgia, fused with the Lebanese savoir faire.

The result is an exciting culinary journey, one that I believe is unique to Dubai – one where beautifully-prepared dishes that you will recognize, actually originated from Central Asia, and carry with them the original flavors, that probably you will not have tasted before!

To explain, imagine a plate of lamb and rice (it was the Pilaf of the Day at Eshak during our visit). It presents itself like a normal “Arabian” dish of lamb and rice, but you can tell it is well-cooked, and the meat is from quality cuts, even braised before baked – so it is a fine quality dish, perhaps served at weddings, or particular ceremonies, or even cooked at home by loving hands.

But then you taste it, and your senses open with surprise!

There is something different… something you haven’t quite tasted before in lamb and rice! Your brain races to try and place it – it’s delicious! Is it the combination of herbs?

You try another spoonful, eagerly – it’s so interesting! The taste is familiar, though rendered special by… by what?

Well, by the culinary culture of Middle Asia! Where over centuries the trade routes passed, and spices and cultures exchanged… Eshak absolutely captures the sensations!

Hammour in a flavorsome stew, baked in a clay pot – delightful!

Breads are also familiar, and deliciously baked on the premises – yet they also carry with them cultural history!

In this case, a Georgian favorite, stuffed with cheese and topped with an egg – Adjar Khachapuri.

And there is also a Russian influence!

An exceptional Borscht soup, with a fluffy oven-baked bread, and fresh yogurt – superb!

Even Shakshuka, for breakfast, with a twist…

…fabulous grilled meats…

… a tender chicken stew, called Chakhokhbili!

And a lovely selection of uniquely special drinks

and a bespoke menu of the finest teas:

Clearly, fresh herbs are at the heart of Eshak!

And the results are spectacular,

as are the desserts!

Above, a well-loved Baklava – but, again, like nothing you have tasted before!

I found this concept adventurous, and exciting – and that elevates a simple meal to a memorable experience.

Overall, Eshak plays with your senses, visually, and with extremely comfortable surroundings, yet at the same time plays with your taste buds, in an innovative and refreshing way – excellent all around!

Inside…

…and outside,

Eshak is a culinary journey worth taking!