The National is a contemporary grand café concept created in collaboration with celebrated chef Geoffrey Zakarian and developed by TGP International for Expo 2020 Dubai. Inspired by the timeless character of classic American brasseries, the concept combines refined yet approachable dining with an atmosphere rooted in sophistication, comfort, and social energy.

Positioned around the iconic Al Wasl Dome at the heart of Expo 2020 Dubai, The National was designed to offer an elevated all-day dining experience that balanced the familiarity of a neighbourhood brasserie with the scale and vibrancy of one of the world’s largest global events.

The Brief

TGP International was appointed to create and develop the concept alongside Chef Geoffrey Zakarian, translating his vision of modern American dining into a fully realised hospitality experience for the Middle East market. The objective was to establish a brasserie-style restaurant that felt timeless, internationally relevant, and operationally suited to the high-volume demands of Expo 2020 Dubai.

The project required the creation of a space that preserved the warmth and elegance associated with Zakarian’s culinary identity while introducing a new audience to his signature style of seasonal, accessible American cuisine prepared using classic techniques. TGP was responsible for shaping both the guest experience and the long-term positioning of the brand as a scalable international concept.

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Interior Design

The interior design was developed around the idea of an effortlessly sophisticated American grand café, blending classic brasserie influences with contemporary detailing. Warm materials, layered lighting, elegant finishes, and open social seating created a welcoming atmosphere that encouraged guests to gather throughout the day and evening.

Located in the dynamic setting surrounding Al Wasl Dome, the restaurant was designed to feel both energetic and timeless, capturing the theatre and movement of Expo while maintaining a strong sense of intimacy and comfort. TGP International carefully balanced operational functionality with refined aesthetics to create a seamless dining environment capable of serving a diverse international audience.

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Outcome

The National successfully introduced Chef Geoffrey Zakarian’s contemporary American dining style to Dubai through a concept that combined culinary credibility with broad international appeal. The restaurant became a key dining destination during Expo 2020 Dubai and demonstrated how a chef-led hospitality experience could be adapted into a scalable global format without losing its identity or authenticity.

The success of the project further strengthened TGP International’s expertise in developing internationally recognised restaurant brands through concept creation, operational strategy, and design execution. The National stands as an example of how timeless hospitality principles, when combined with clear storytelling and strong brand positioning, can evolve into enduring and internationally adaptable dining concepts.

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