Restaurant review: Year of the Horse, wishes and an intimate Lunar New Year experience at MiMi Mei Fair Dubai

Nestled within the prestigious Address Residences Dubai Opera, MiMi Mei Fair Dubai has crafted an immersive Lunar New Year celebration that transcends conventional dining. The restaurant’s centerpiece—an elegant wishing tree adorned with crimson ribbons and envelopes—invites patrons to participate in a meaningful ritual: penning their aspirations for the Year of the Horse and hanging them alongside others’ hopes, creating a collective tapestry of wishes.

The ambiance embodies refined intimacy, with mood lighting casting a warm glow across deep green and scarlet accents. Despite operating at full capacity, the space maintains an atmosphere of cozy exclusivity rather than crowded chaos, facilitating effortless conversation without auditory interference. The layout features distinct lounges, each with its unique character, making the venue ideal for romantic evenings or special celebrations though less suited for formal business engagements.

Culinary offerings commence with the symbolic ‘basket of wealth’ dim sum assortment, featuring prawn and coriander, truffle edamame, and chicken and chives dumplings—a standout opening act. The steamed XO okra provides a nostalgic yet sophisticated flavor profile, while rock oysters offer a briny freshness enhanced by citrus notes.

Main courses showcase smoked Chilean seabass glazed in black bean sauce, sweet and sour chicken with bell pepper and pineapple, and a braised truffled mushroom trio accompanied by stir-fried green beans and hakka noodles. The theatrical table-side preparation of wok-baked lobster—where staff expertly extract the tender meat—adds culinary drama to the experience.

The celebration concludes with classic crème brûlée, though the dessert serves more as a pleasant epilogue rather than matching the memorability of the savory courses. Priced at AED 478 per person for the Lunar New Year sharing menu, the experience positions itself as a premium occasion destination rather than everyday dining, justified by meticulous service, thoughtful details, and well-executed cuisine.