FROM SPICE TO SPIRIT: ROOH BY PRIYA REDEFINES MODERN INDIAN DINING

Dubai’s dining scene will soon welcome Rooh by Priya, a modern Indian restaurant and tapas bar led by acclaimed chef Priya Joseph opening soon in Jewel of the Creek, Dubai. Rooted in familiar Indian flavours and shaped by a global culinary perspective, ROOH presents Indian cuisine through a contemporary, social dining lens that feels refined yet relaxed, expressive yet grounded.

Jewel of the Creek is a symbol of Dubai’s evolution, seamlessly blending Old Dubai’s heritage with New Dubai’s ambition. Inspired by Deira Creek—Dubai’s commercial heartbeat for centuries—it reimagines waterfront living through luxury residences, world-class hospitality, a vibrant marina, and premium retail and business hubs. 

Recognised as one of Asia’s leading women chefs and among the top women chefs in Singapore, Chef Priya brings years of experience across Indian, Southeast Asian, Mediterranean, and European cuisines. At Rooh, her cooking centres on clarity of flavour and thoughtful restraint, with dishes designed for sharing and returning to rather than one-off fine dining moments.

What sets Rooh apart is its modern spice philosophy. Spices are layered with intention, never overpowering, allowing each dish to build depth gradually while preserving balance and freshness. Signature techniques include slow-developed masalas, gentle smoking, and finishing spices introduced at the table to heighten aroma without overwhelming the palate. The result is Indian food that feels both comforting and current, honouring tradition while speaking fluently to today’s diner.

The experience unfolds around elevated dining and a vibrant tapas bar, where pan-Indian bar bites with global influences meet a carefully curated cocktail programme designed for pairing and sharing. Interactive elements such as a chai and dessert trolley introduce movement and spontaneity, encouraging guests to linger and engage in a way that feels natural rather than performative.

Opening shortly at Jewel of the Creek, Rooh by Priya is located along the waterfront promenade, offering uninterrupted views across the water. The setting transitions seamlessly from daytime dining to sunset drinks and evening gatherings, positioning Rooh as a natural meeting place rather than a destination reserved only for special occasions.

While the interiors are warm and contemporary, it is the rhythm of the space that defines the atmosphere. Natural daylight gives way to soft evening lighting, creating an environment suited to casual meals, family gatherings, celebrations both big and small, and unplanned evenings that extend effortlessly.

Rooh by Priya is also proudly woman-led, backed by all-women investors, bringing a distinctive voice to Dubai’s premium dining landscape. This spirit of collaboration and creativity is reflected throughout the restaurant, shaping an experience that feels inclusive, welcoming, and quietly confident.

Designed for repeat moments, Rooh by Priya is a place where evenings begin casually and end memorably. A space where food is shared, conversations unfold easily, and familiar rituals turn into reasons to return.

Speaking ahead of the opening, Chef Priya Joseph says, “Rooh is about food that feels familiar yet exciting. I wanted to create a place where flavours bring comfort, spark curiosity, and draw people together. Somewhere relaxed, modern, and full of soul.”

Created for the way Dubai gathers and unwinds, Rooh by Priya invites guests to return time and again. Evenings stretch by the creek, shared plates arrive without rush, and dining becomes less about an occasion and more about moments that linger.