LA dining hotspot opens in Dubai

Restaurant and lounge concept The Nice Guy an LA hotspot opens in Dubai at Emirates Towers. This is the brand’s first international outpost that was in the making for three years.

A joint venture between The h.wood Group and MKIA Hospitality The Nice Guy Dubai is evocative of the brand’s flagship location in West Hollywood. In addition to an intimate lounge and restaurant space, the venue will also feature an outdoor patio and terrace. The Nice Guy Dubai will follow suit of its predecessor as a highly sought-after, reservations-only destination, complete with a world-class line-up of classic Italian cuisine, including signature menu items and crafted cocktails.

“The emergence of The Nice Guy in the region has been nearly three years in the making,” said John Terzian, Co-founder of The h.wood Group. “The original concept from when we were opening in LA was our first venture into a hybrid restaurant/lounge. Having explored the F&B scene in Dubai, we felt strongly that The Nice Guy experience would be a breath of fresh air for our clientele in the Middle East. The Nice Guy Dubai also marks the first step into organic construction for The h.wood Group, which is juxtaposed with a fun and upscale lounge atmosphere, ideal for the Dubai nightlife and dining scene.”

“We approached The h.wood Group team after spending years following their success and the power behind the name ‘The Nice Guy.’ Not to sound cliché but there was something about the name that instantly clicked, and I knew it was exactly the venue that Dubai needed. My main goal working with the team in LA is to maintain the vision of The Nice Guy brand,” added Managing Partner and Co-Founder of MKIA Hospitality, Mohammad Irshaid. “Therefore, when it came to creating the Dubai venue, we have worked to keep the same layout and design elements from the establishment in LA.”

A nod to the original West Hollywood venue designed by John Sofio of Built, Inc., upon entry, guests will be greeted by a vintage marble and brass bar. Its size, scale and shape invite patrons to step into a uniquely intimate social atmosphere that simultaneously encourages conversation and a sense of camaraderie. The booths that line the exterior wall offer a private dining setting for guests, while the larger booths flanking the room stimulate the elevated nightlife scene that vibrates throughout the evening. The decor found throughout the Nice Guy Dubai also mirrors the custom inlaid carpets paired along with classic lighting fixtures that add warmth and comfort to the space, showcasing its signature decadent, yet inviting feel. With a commitment to sustainability, the interiors are constructed with a variety of organic materials that can be found in the custom cedar walls, enriched tones and reimagined ceiling design.

Commenting on the menu Culinary Operations Director of The h.wood Group Michael Teich said, “We have revamped the menu especially for Dubai but will keep the essence of The Nice Guy LA by bringing fan favourites from overseas. Historically, our menu takes guests back to a time when gathering to eat and drink was the foundation for a great night on the town. So, we curate the menu by turning classic foods on its head.”