Meet Me at the Marina

When we arrive at Le Boulanger Café we are seated inside, much to our dismay, and sadly miss out on the night’s truly spectacular views of the breakwater. The café has recently changed its decor, putting in smaller tables to help open up the already gigantic space. Space that it desperately needs on weekends, when the café is bursting with people eating food and smoking shisha.

It is a relatively quiet night but there is still a rather long wait for food. The food, when it comes, however, does not disappoint. Le Boulanger Café has hired a new executive chef, Ahmed Mansour, and his Lebanese influence certainly shows.

The variety and freshness of all of the traditional Arabic mezzes we are served could only be described as delightful. Our favourite perhaps is the fattoush salad, which is fresh, zesty and full of flavour. The sambusik, this one with a minced beef filling, would have to be a close second.

We feel like we’ve just begun to hit our stride as we tuck into another round of main courses. This time we go for some of the more international options appearing: seafood pasta, beef and chicken fajitas, and grilled fish and prawns. Perfect for a nibble or two, the Arabic mezze or the very popular club sandwich seems like the way to go when you’re not quite up to finishing off the large portions served up for the mains.

Le Boulanger has eleven branches in and around Abu Dhabi and is currently opening six more. With food like this, there’s no wonder why this café has become so popular. If you’re looking to catch some stunning views we suggest you come early. Valets are available and recommended if you plan on parking, as the car park is a bit of a walk from the café.

Sawaiba Khan

What? Le Boulanger Cafe, Marina Branch
When? 7.30am to 2am, daily
Cost: Appetisers AED 20-30, Mains AED 30-40
We say: Definitely worth the wait
Contact: 050 666 3869