Abu Dhabi Week drops anchor at Yas Marina to discover more about the new and improved dining delights now on offer at the destination
Yas Island has been a hub of activity this past year; with construction vehicles zipping around the length of the island as a handful of new tourist attractions take shape. One such development – the recently opened and refurbished Yas Marina – certainly has us excited.
Operated and managed by Camper & Nicholsons Marinas, the marina now offers seven new licensed restaurant outlets and facilities. The expanded dining and entertainment district will feature a little bit of everything, making it an ideal day out for all – families, friends and couples.
“We are delighted to welcome residents and visitors of all ages to the newly developed Yas Marina,” said Cedric Le Rest, general manager of Yas Marina. “Whether you are afloat or ashore, Yas Marina provides an unforgettable and affordable experience. We believe the addition of some new casual licensed and affordable dining options, combined with some fantastic lounge concepts will be a great addition to Abu Dhabi’s dining and entertainment options.”
Ready to take the plunge? Check out what’s on board…
Aquarium
This new seafood restaurant with stunning panoramic views over the Marina is set to become a firm favourite with the capital’s diners. Run by the same team that operates the hugely successful Ornina at Al Raha Beach, Aquarium’s Thai chef is on hand to create gastronomic delights for anyone who enjoys their seafood cooked and served to perfection.
Guests choose their fish from the wide selection on display and then have it cooked to their liking, or allow the chef to come up with his own creations.
Owner Mario Samaha says:“We are offering a new culinary journey here in Abu Dhabi and we know our guests will be pleasantly surprised by what we have to offer.”
For more information call: 050 238 5883
Café d’Alsace
This new café, features a cuisine unique to Abu Dhabi. The European fusion offerings here draw their influence from its namesake – the Alsace region in France – where French, German and Swiss fare combine to make a truly tempting bistro menu.
“We want people to know that Yas Marina is really transforming and becoming a hot spot for the restaurant scene. You don’t find this concept anywhere else, and we are really proud of the quality of our products,” adds Danio Von Lutterotti, assistant restaurant manager, Café d’Alsace.
We recommend you sample the Flammkuchen, also known as Tarte Flambe, or the French’s answer to pizza. Picture a crispy, paper-thin crust topped with sour cream and a variety of toppings.
For more information call: 02 496 3200
Cipriani
Residents of the capital will be excited to know that the fine-dining Italian favourite on Yas Island has reopened. With outlets in the likes of New York, Los Angeles, Venice, Hong Kong, and Miami – the improvements to the restaurant here in the capital will see guests relaxing in a more homey and approachable environment.
“Our food is predominantly Venetian food. It is mainly the food that the mothers used to cook at home, born from the traditional old style of cooking,” says Marco Boito, Cipriani Yas Island general manager.
New editions include a private dining room with a separate kitchen to host small scale events, with seats for approximately 50 people.
For more information call: 02 657 5400
Rozanah
Featuring delicate metal latticework and metallic tones throughout the venue, this Lebanese restaurant is stylish and elegant.
The menu includes authentic Lebanese and Middle Eastern cuisine presented in an innovative way. “We are not redefining the food – instead we are differentiating ourselves asides from the quality, with the both the service and presentation itself,”says Najem Khalil, marketing director for Royal Catering.
For more information call: 02 496 3200
Iris
An upscale trendy bar and restaurant, with a strong following in Lebanon already, has made it to the capital’s shores. The sunset lounge is known for its variety of fresh fruit drinks, Mediterranean cuisine and earthy vibe, that is sure to be popular with the young and trendy.
“Come and experience our food and drinks, the ambience and this unique setting. Once the sun starts to go down and the music comes on – it’s an amazing vibe,” says Charbel Basbous, general manager of Iris.
Be sure to check out the olive tree table – a signature element seen in every outlet.
For more information call: 055 160 5636
Stars ‘N’ Bars
Regulars of this American-style sports bar and restaurant will discover quite a few changes to this haunt. In addition to a new outdoor terrace and shisha lounge, complete with hexagon bar and cabanas, the family-friendly menu offerings have also increased.
Terry Lynch, general manager of Stars ‘N’ Bars, is excited about the improvements: “It’s a fantastic location, you can’t fail to be blown away by it.”
Be sure to check out the new resident DJ and keep an eye out for the amazing
live entertainment.
For more information call: 02 565 0101
Diablito Food & Music
Just like the name says, this restaurant will feature a two-storey venue that offers delicious Spanish tapas and plenty of live music. Yas Marina is home to Diablito’s first outlet outside of Spain.
When we asked barman Diego Pereira about why they chose the capital as their port of call he smiles and answers, “Why not?”
Featuring décor shipped from Spain, live entertainment, Spanish chefs and one amazing view, we couldn’t agree more.
Post Formula 1 look out for their brunch offerings and special Saturday promotions.
For more information call: 050 917 5605
More to come
Want more on Yas? Then why not check out some of the amazing promotions on offer at the Yas Marina from 8th November onwards:
Ladies Night – every Wednesday night from 7pm to 9pm, ladies can enjoy special beverages
Sunsets @ Yas – every Thursday get a head start on the weekend with happy hour from 5pm to 8pm at select outlets
Film Fridays – every Friday from 7pm to 9pm the family can enjoy an outdoor movie at the marina
Yas Marina Market – every Saturday from 10am to 2pm browse a special market offering handicrafts, jewellery, clothing, local produce and gifts
Formula Fun
With the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix kicking off this weekend, why not race down to be part of the fun? Every restaurant will be open to the public throughout F1, just be sure to call ahead to see if reservations are required.
