The recently opened Cooper's at Park Rotana is fast becoming an Abu Dhabi favourite. The open plan and outside patio keep the warm wood panelling and raw brick walls from imitating the cramped, shadowy atmosphere of so many British-style pubs and the overall effect is a spacious and welcoming venue.
Though Australian night on Sundays doesn’t offer anything truly unusual (kangaroo or emu would certainly be interesting), it’s definitely still worth investigating. The menu isn’t huge – there are only four antipodean specials – but you’ll find a selection of beverages you’ll be hard pressed to find elsewhere in town.
The chefs at Cooper's obviously see the benefit of doing a few things well. The chicken sausage roll is a unique variation of the standard meat pie. Made with minced chicken rolled in pastry then baked and served with fries, the generous roll is almost enough for a light main course.
The Aussie mains are a treat for meat lovers. The towering burger, with a wide concoction of ingredients including beetroot and fried egg, is like no other burger in town. And while it’s practically three meals in one, none of the many flavours overpower the others.
Lamb is a staple of the diet down under, and Cooper’s have got it spot on. Tender and juicy, the dish is a delicate (if not a little fatty, but therefore tasty) cutlet. Served with traditional bubble and squeak, Cooper's fancy version of plumped up leftovers works well to complete the meal.
Sunday night sports regulars can soon look forward to the addition to rissoles on the barbeque too, helping round off an authentic Aussie experience. Overall, Cooper's offers a welcoming, well-rounded theme night that will please all diners – whether they’re from down-under or just down-town.
What? Cooper's Australian Night on Sundays
Where? Park Rotana (near Khalifa Park)
Cost: AED 50 and under
Why? A very sociable jaunt with some wholeheartedly good, well priced food
Why not? Cooper's is undoubtedly a pub and those who don’t drink may be offended by the alcohol centrepiece
We say: Australian or not, the food will please all – and it’s enough to make you forgive the repetitious, one-hit-wonder style music
Contact: 02 657 3333
Laura Fulton
