Tech on platter

Located at Kempinski Central Avenue, Zenon combines modern technology with luxurious dining, creating an unforgettable experience. Creating a niche, Zenon brings luxury dining experiences and a unique menu to the table to woo the taste buds. In conversation with Oktay Unlu, General Manager of Zenon Restaurant to understand more about the brand’s concept and its meaningful positioning.

Why did you choose Dubai for the launch of Zenon, a restaurant concept that blends Mediterranean and Asian cuisines with AI technology?

Dubai is the perfect setting for Zenon. The city is renowned for its innovation, luxury, and diverse culinary scene, which is both competitive and open to new concepts. Dubai’s cosmopolitan audience is highly discerning and tech-savvy, making it an ideal market for introducing a restaurant that merges the best of Mediterranean and Asian cuisines with cutting-edge AI technology. The city’s diners appreciate novelty, quality, and immersive experiences, which aligns with the Zenon experience. We saw a unique opportunity to bring something truly innovative to the region.

You’ve introduced a unique menu with bold flavours. After conducting your consumer research, how would you describe the region’s food scene and its consumers?

Dubai’s food scene is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, and the consumers here are adventurous and open to exploring new dining concepts. However, they also expect high-quality ingredients and exceptional service. Our research revealed that while diners are keen to try new things, they also value authenticity and innovation. At Zenon, we’ve created a menu that reflects these insights by fusing Mediterranean and Asian flavours. We focus on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to ensure that our dishes resonate with the local palate, while offering something unique enough to stand out in a competitive market.

AI is central to Zenon’s operations. What drove the decision to make AI such an integral part of the dining experience?

AI was incorporated into Zenon to elevate both the guest experience and operational efficiency. By using AI, we can personalize each guest’s journey, from tailored menu recommendations to immersive 3D visuals that enhance the atmosphere. In a competitive market like Dubai, we wanted to offer something extraordinary that sets us apart. AI allows us to create a seamless, multi-sensory dining experience that’s not just about food but also about the overall engagement and enjoyment of the guest. It has enabled us to combine technology with gastronomy in a way that enhances service and entertainment simultaneously.

How have consumers reacted to this AI-driven experience? Could you share any notable success stories?

The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Guests are often amazed by how AI is integrated into their dining experience, particularly with personalized recommendations and interactive visuals. One standout success was when a regular guest commented on how the AI remembered their favourite dishes and tailored their experience accordingly. This level of personalization has helped foster customer loyalty and created memorable experiences that keep guests returning. The AI integration has been a major differentiator for Zenon, and it’s become a talking point among our guests, further driving interest in our unique concept.

Using technology to drive a restaurant’s operations is quite innovative. How do you see this shaping Zenon’s story going forward?

Technology is a key pillar of Zenon’s story. It drives both our operational efficiency and the overall guest experience. AI allows us to craft a dining journey that feels futuristic and immersive, where each visit is personalized and unique. This tech-driven approach has already helped us stand out, and as word spreads, it strengthens Zenon’s reputation as a leader in blending gastronomy with advanced technology. We believe that this approach will continue to resonate with Dubai’s forward-thinking audience and position Zenon as a destination where technology and culinary art converge.

Dubai’s diners are very quality conscious. How does Zenon maintain high standards in terms of raw materials and ingredients?

Quality is at the heart of everything we do at Zenon. We prioritize sourcing only the finest ingredients, working closely with local suppliers to ensure that our produce is both fresh and sustainable. Additionally, we import specialty items to preserve the authenticity of our Mediterranean-Asian fusion cuisine. This attention to detail in procurement not only meets the expectations of our discerning clientele but also aligns with our commitment to sustainability and innovation in the kitchen. By focusing on quality, we ensure that every dish is a reflection of our dedication to excellence.

What’s next for Zenon? How do you plan to grow the concept in the near future?

Our next step is to continue evolving the Zenon experience. We’re exploring new immersive technologies, such as augmented reality dining experiences, to further enhance guest engagement. We’re also planning collaborations with renowned chefs and local F&B professionals to introduce seasonal menus and exclusive dining events. As we grow, we’re looking into expanding the Zenon brand to other markets that have a demand for unique, tech-driven dining experiences. Our ultimate goal is to stay at the forefront of innovation while continuing to deliver exceptional service and culinary excellence.