The 9th Cut

B3 Designers developed the concept and interior design for The 9th Cut, a steak restaurant and butcher shop located in the Novotel Dubai Al Barsha hotel.

B3 Designers were approached to create a new brand and interior concept for a meat-centred restaurant. Our brief was two-fold; to design an exclusive butcher shop with a steak restaurant in the back, combining retail and hospitality in one large footprint. The name The Ninth Cut eludes to the next level of butchery. With the city of Dubai offering cuisines and styles for everyone, the stakes are high for premium dining. With this in mind, we needed to ensure that the façade and interiors were exceedingly compelling, had a strong narrative, and touches of eccentricity.

The key idea is transparency and education between the produce and the craft of what is being served in the restaurant. It was key that the butcher shop worked independently from the restaurant, but that the restaurant was linked with the butcher shop. We created a division between the two spaces and introduced ‘the secret door’ which was key in making both spaces special. A guest at the restaurant can walk into the boutique shop and select the cut of meat they want cooked.

The design has a rich palate of materials and finishes composing an understated luxury and displaying a masculine energy. In the details, there are nods to traditional elements one might find in a butcher shop, while the restaurant presents a sophisticated dining area. The dining area faces a dramatic volcano-like cook line where the base is heavy rough stone, and the flames from the cooking equipment are visible. The canopy above is designed with perforated metal, decorated like smoke, where dynamic lighting provides visual movement. The meat is exhibited through abundant display and a central walk-in chiller that showcases the craft and skills of the butchers within. This is visible from both the restaurant and retail space. A wide range of global regions are showcased beautifully, teaching guests about cattle breeds, cooking techniques, and marinades & flavours. It's a luxurious education and narrative that sets your palette up for a delightful meal.