DRINK

Cobra Kai at the Media One Hotel is our bar of the month

Time for a movie lesson: in 1984’s Karate Kid, little Danny LaRusso enlists the help of Mr Miyagi to help him fight the karatekicking bullies at school. While Danny learns the art of wax on, wax off in Miyagi’s garage, the bullies cause chaos with their evil sensei in Cobra Kai dojo.

It’s fitting then that in Media One’s latest venue you must choose your path at the foyer; the door on the right takes you into Mr Miyagi’s restaurant (p63) while Cobra Kai bar teases you to the left. Tonight, we’re at the mercy of Cobra Kai.

The décor inside is undeniably garish. Neon signs promising to “love you long time” in hues of pink and red clash with the primary coloured furniture. Bright birdcages hang from the ceiling, and a giant cherry blossom tree almost eclipses the DJ booth. For a bar that’s just opened, it’s surprisingly busy. Bartenders dressed in karate kit hand over a concise cocktail list. Drinks with tongue-in-cheek names are served in everything from tin cans to coconuts. A fruity No Money No Honey (Dhs 60) cocktail is served in a bag and looks good but takes a while to arrive. Bar bites are just as fun. The dynamite shrimp (Dhs55) is perfectly matched with a spicy tangy mayo, and the chicken lemongrass skewer (Dhs49) served in a bamboo boat is messy but good. Over the top, chaotic and in your face – Cobra Kai is just the right place for a mischievous crowd. Sensei would be proud.

One Hotel, Media City, Dubai, daily 4pm to 3am. Tel: (04) 4207489. Metro: Nakheel. mrmiyagisdubai.com