We Made It to Girl & The Goose – and We’re Obsessed

There’s something extra special about supporting a homegrown Dubai success story, and this one’s got all the heart and flavour you could ask for. If you haven’t heard of it yet (where have you been?), Chef Gabriela Chamorro started Girl & The Goose as a humble supper club during the pandemic. Like many others at the time, she was looking to make the best out of a tough situation; but instead of sourdough starters or banana bread, she brought her deep love of cooking and the flavours of her Nicaraguan heritage to the table. And Dubai loved her for it.

Now, her supper club has grown into a gorgeous full-fledged restaurant that’s putting Central American cuisine front and centre, with thoughtful fusions inspired by Thai, Japanese, French and Italian influences. The result? A menu that’s authentic yet elevated, bold yet refined — and absolutely delicious.

Let’s Talk Food

We asked Chef Gabriela to send us a few of her favourites, and wow did she deliver! The Duck Confit Flautas were So freaking good. Crispy, flavourful, and totally crave-worthy. The Lobster Bisque with Yuca Gnocchi? An unexpected fusion dish that somehow manages to feel both comforting and exotic — rich, creamy, and just the right amount of indulgent. Another standout? The Costillas de Res, slow-cooked short ribs in a rich Pinol sauce, served in a clay pot. Deep, soulful flavours that felt like a hug in a bowl.

An entire section of the menu is dedicated to ceviche. The standout for me was the Seabass Aguachile, served with a scoop of jalapeño sorbet. Yes, sorbet. Spicy, cold, refreshing, and wildly delicious. Throughout the meal, we were thrilled to see so many authentic ingredients used with pride: plantains, yuca, chorizo, wild corn, chayote, and achiote.

Save Room for Dessert

Even though I almost passed on dessert (I was so full), I’m so glad I didn’t. We shared the Tres Leches Cake and Churros, which were fried fresh to order and served with not just chocolate sauce, but the ultimate caramel dream: dulce de leche. (she even let me take some home for my husband — thank you, Chef!).

Drinks & Vibes

The cocktail menu is just as well-curated as the food, with a clear nod to agave lovers. We treated ourselves to a flight of agave spirits which included one tequila, two mezcals, and a raicilla. Wine lovers can let the vino flow freely with bottles starting at just AED 169.

We went on a Monday night, typically a quiet night in many restaurants, and were so pleased to see the place fill up; a testament to how well-loved it’s already become. Chef Gabriella was in, and we even got to meet up with her business partners who happen to be the fine folks behind CQ French Brasserie (formerly Couqley). This restaurant is a homegrown gem, run by good people. You can feel the love that’s gone into building this place.

I can’t wait to head back to work my way through the rest of the ceviches and try everything on the empanada menu. The restaurant highlights dishes from across Central America including traditional plates from Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, and of course, Nicaragua, so there’s still so much more to explore.

If you haven’t made it to Girl & The Goose yet, go. Whether you’re a foodie, a cocktail lover, or just someone looking for a meal that feels both comforting and exciting, this spot absolutely delivers.