Amwaj Rotana director of food and beverage, Hossam El Said showcases JBR Walk’s latest addition, JB’s Gastropub
Please describe the concept of JB’s Gastropub in your words?
It’s something JBR has been missing – a gastropub. It’s not just a pub or a sports bar, but a true gastropub where the food doesn’t take a backseat. When you think JB’s, you think simple food, done well, and fun for sharing. However, the first thing that strikes you when you walk into JB’s is its appearance: an uncovered warehouse with antique travel-themed bric-a-brac dotted around. JB’s enjoys an entrance right off the street from The Walk, which is also unique for Dubai.
What are the signature items on the menu?
While the concept of a gastropub is British, we wanted to feature a variety of cuisines on our menu. There are numerous options for a light bite or a full meal. Some of our signature items are the crunchy fried dill pickles with ranch dip, the combo board of cured meats, with cheese and olives, which is perfect with our craft hops and grape. Sausage by the metre can be ordered in a choice of 50cm or one full metre, brisket on a burger, aka “The Bob” is our signature burger topped with shaved brisket and BBQ sauce. We also do nine-hour braised beef short rib, with horseradish mash, grilled broccoli and pan jus, and one of our desserts is “The Strawberry Yum”, a posh nosh ice cream Sunday.
What is interesting about the beverage offer?
What’s unique is the extensive selection of grape, all presented in our full glass cellar. We also offer our house grape by the glass in red and white varieties. For fans of hops, there are 12 taps of the popular pours, including one craft beverage on draft, and a selection of craft bottles.
Who designed the interiors and how do they reflect the concept?
The interiors of JB’s Gastropub were designed by LW Design Group LLC, which has established a concept talked about by everyone who visits JB’s. The shell of the outlet is an uncovered warehouse where you see traces of old tiles on a cement floor and old-fashioned light fixtures. They went to great lengths, even in the bathrooms, which feature faux copper cisterns and brass taps. Antiques such as vintage luggage, clocks, books, cash registers and a sign made out of an antique bicycle add to the experience.
How will JB’s Gastropub compete on the competitive Dubai marketplace?
Having enjoyed huge success with our three award-winning restaurants, and taking the feedback of our most loyal guests, we felt the need to create a fourth restaurant. When we researched the concept, we found that JBR was missing a gastropub and considering our existing clientele, we knew it would be a concept they would be excited about.
Will you host any special promotions or events?
Adding value for guests is important, which is why we’ve ensured that our cheese, charcuterie and wine nights also have cold cuts instead of the usual cheese and wine that most places offer. The idea is to go one step further to increase value for guests. Similarly, we introduced our Ladies’ Night on a Wednesday since most places offer it on Mondays or Tuesdays.
