Ballis to offer a Dining Experience Rooted in Craft and Tradition at INA

Dubai’s culinary landscape is about to be set ablaze with the opening of INA, a highly anticipated dining concept at J1 Beach, led by renowned Australian-born Chef Glen Ballis. Making his Dubai debut, Ballis brings a back-to-basics yet elevated dining experience to the city, built around the primitive art of fire-cooking. INA promises to be more than just a restaurant, offering a multi-sensory escape where fire takes center stage, creating bold flavors and unforgettable moments.

Chef Glen Ballis is no stranger to global culinary acclaim. His extensive experience spans across kitchens from Thailand to Singapore, Shanghai to Russia. His journey has been one of blending cultures and philosophies, with a strong connection to his Australian roots where simplicity and authenticity reign supreme. INA represents a new chapter in Ballis’ illustrious career, allowing him to introduce Dubai to his instinctive, craft-driven approach to cooking.

At the core of INA’s philosophy is a celebration of fire. Each dish reflects Chef Ballis’ deep passion for cooking with primal techniques, bringing together fresh, ethically sourced ingredients to create a menu that’s both comforting and innovative. This focus on quality shines through every flame-infused creation, making the dining experience at INA as much about the artistry as it is about the taste.

Chef Ballis shares his excitement, saying, "It’s an honor to be part of this exciting new concept in Dubai’s dynamic dining scene. Our back-to-basics approach allows each ingredient’s natural essence to shine, bringing a bold yet refreshing take on fine dining. Together with my team, I hope to inspire diners and take them on a memorable sensory journey unlike anything else."

INA’s menu is a carefully curated selection of fish, meats, vegetables, and grains, all sourced with an ethical mindset. Fire, the key element of INA’s open-flame kitchen, brings these ingredients to life. Guests can look forward to sharing plates designed for communal indulgence, with each bite bursting with bold, smoky flavors. INA’s guest-visible kitchen is a spectacle in itself, where diners can witness the passion, precision, and creativity that goes into every dish, from flame-seared meats to delicately charred vegetables.

But it’s not just about the food. INA’s bar program is equally impressive, with an artistic collection of cocktails and mocktails that mirror the kitchen’s philosophy of using fire to infuse depth and character into every sip. The harmonious interplay of fire and fresh ingredients extends beyond the plate, making the entire dining experience one of immersive indulgence.

True to its name, which means ‘fire’ or ‘flame’ in Nigerian Yoruba, INA embodies warmth and energy in every sense. The venue’s design is a celebration of craftsmanship, with bespoke woodwork, hand-selected artwork, and plush furnishings that wrap guests in comfort and style. Whether diners are savoring the cool winter breeze under the retractable open-air roof or retreating into the luxurious interior during the summer months, every detail of INA is designed to captivate and relax.

INA is more than just a dining destination; it’s a space for connection, conversation, and celebration. Every visit is tailored to personal preferences by a knowledgeable team dedicated to making each moment intuitive and seamless. This dedication to hospitality, combined with Chef Ballis’ culinary mastery, ensures that every guest will leave with memories that linger long after the night ends.

Dubai is ready to embrace this bold new concept, where fire, flavor, and energy come together to offer a dining experience that will set a new standard in the city’s culinary landscape. Set to open its doors at J1 Beach, INA is poised to redefine Dubai’s dining scene. With Chef Glen Ballis at the helm, INA will offer a unique, immersive experience rooted in tradition, craft, and a passion for fire. The combination of exquisite flavors, captivating ambiance, and exceptional service makes INA a dining experience unlike any other in the city.