As Dubai’s perfect winter season sets the stage for al fresco dining, Asado Nights by Chef Rodrigo emerges as an unmissable culinary experience. Led by Chef Rodrigo Llanes, this gourmet South American barbecue blends authenticity with innovation, bringing the essence of Argentina’s grilling traditions to a cosmopolitan audience.
The Inspiration: A Culinary Ritual Brought to Life
For Chef Rodrigo, Asado is more than just cooking over fire—it’s a ritual, a moment of connection. “From the day I arrived in Dubai, I knew this city was a meeting point of cultures, and I wanted to share a fundamental part of my Argentine identity—the barbecue experience,” he shares. At Asado Nights, this vision comes to life through an immersive dining experience, where the warmth of tradition meets contemporary refinement.
Signature Flavors: A Taste of Argentina’s Finest
The heart of Asado lies in its premium cuts and expert fire-grilling techniques. Among the standout dishes, Chef Rodrigo highlights: Rib-eye – Tender, rich, and deeply flavorful, perfectly cooked over an open flame.
Entraña (Skirt Steak) – A juicy, robust cut that embodies the essence of Argentine barbecue.
Empanadas – A deceptively simple yet intricate dish, crafted with carefully selected meat and a perfected balance of spices.
Each dish is a testament to Asado’s dedication to quality, with meats sourced from Argentina and beyond, ensuring the finest selection of cuts.
The Art of Fire: Crafting a Luxurious BBQ Experience
What sets Asado Nights apart is its commitment to elevating tradition through refinement. “We respect traditional techniques but enhance them through dry aging, curated tableware, and precise grilling methods,” he explains. Using quebracho and oak wood for distinctive smoky notes, Asado embraces fire as both an art and a science, controlling heat levels to achieve flawless textures and depth of flavor.
But the experience extends beyond the food. The setting at NOÉPE is infused with South American warmth—from the crackling sounds of fire to the rustic ambiance, complete with leather, wrought iron, and the rich aroma of smoldering embers. The service, inspired by Argentine hospitality, is welcoming and generous, making every guest feel at home.
A Culinary Experience Shaped by Dubai’s Palate
Dubai’s dynamic dining scene has influenced Asado’s approach, inspiring creative touches like incorporating Arabic spices and offering halal and vegetarian-friendly options while preserving the essence of Argentine barbecue. “Dubai’s diners have an endless curiosity for gastronomy, and that pushes us to innovate while staying true to Asado’s roots,” says the star chef.
Memories Forged Over Fire
For Chef Rodrigo, one of the most rewarding moments came when an Argentinian guest shared, “This made me feel at home, even though I was thousands of miles away.” It’s this emotional connection—more than just the flavors—that makes Asado Nights truly special.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Asado Nights
With plans to introduce a Fire Tasting Menu, where each dish showcases a different grilling technique, and monthly South American wine-pairing events featuring live music, Asado Nights continues to evolve.
As long as Dubai’s cool season permits, this is one outdoor dining experience you don’t want to miss. Whether you’re a barbecue purist or simply seeking a refined yet rustic evening by the fire, Asado Nights at Park Hyatt is an invitation to indulge in the magic of open-flame cooking.
By: Lucas Raven
