The Experience: Beyond the Basics
Stepping into 1004 Gourmet feels less like a chore and more like a treasure hunt. It is a specialized grocery store that focuses heavily on Korean and Japanese products. Whether you are looking for high-quality kimchi, specific grades of miso, or the elusive snacks you see on social media, you’ll find them here.
The store is clean, well-organized, and the staff is genuinely helpful if you are hunting for a specific ingredient for a new recipe. It feels curated rather than overwhelming.
What to Pick Up
Don't leave without checking their freezer section for dumplings—the variety is unbeatable. I personally love their selection of Japanese teas and the wide array of seaweed snacks. If you’re planning a hotpot night, this is quite literally the only place you need to stop.
Living in The Onyx Tower Area
If you are looking at real estate near The Greens or The Onyx, having 1004 Gourmet in your building or within walking distance is a massive lifestyle perk. The area is incredibly connected to SZR, making the commute seamless. It’s a very professional, slightly quieter pocket of Dubai compared to the chaos of Marina, making it ideal for young professionals or couples.
The Caveats
Let’s be honest: it’s not a supermarket where you go for your bulk household supplies like toilet paper or detergent. It is a niche, specialty grocer. Also, depending on the time of day, parking around The Onyx can get a little busy, so plan your trip accordingly if you are driving in from outside the immediate neighborhood.
FAQ
Is 1004 Gourmet good for everyday grocery shopping?
Not exactly. It is a specialty store focusing on Asian ingredients. You'll want to hit a larger chain for your basic staples.
Is there parking available?
Yes, there is parking available at The Onyx, but it can get congested during peak office hours.
Do they have a restaurant inside?
They offer a variety of ready-to-eat meals and snacks, but it is primarily a retail grocery experience.
Is it accessible by public transport?
It is reasonably close to the Dubai Internet City Metro Station, making it accessible if you are working in the area.