Taking a bite out of the big apple
When the magnificent St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort invited us for a bite at 55 & 5th, The Grill to check out their upscale New York-inspired eatery we didn’t need to be asked twice.
Entering the restaurant we are enveloped with dark woods, brick walls and golden glass bubble chandeliers hanging from the enormous ceiling. Understated elegance at its best, we settle into our comfortable leather armchairs and order.
To start, we sample a miniature eggs Benedict mouthful, complements of the chef, with a small spoon of caviar on the side. The morsel can only be described as a mouthful of sunshine, and we can’t wait for more.
When our celery soup arrives, the server presents us with a bowl without any liquid; instead we are served a small, gelled celery root flan which admittedly looks quite empty against the plate. Undaunted by our surprise, he then pours a warm brown broth into the plate, effectively melting the flan into the soup. Earthy but surprisingly light, the soup’s presentation really does wow us.
Afterwards we gobble up a seared scallop with potato and risotto on the side in two-seconds flat – and we’re not exaggerating!
Cooked to perfection and perfectly accompanied with a salty chicken jus that balances out the mild flavour, you are in for a truly melt-in-your mouth affair.
On to the main course, our 220g USDA prime Scotch fillet arrives sizzling and just the way we like, well done and without frills - just good ol’ meat. Chef Jason Oakley dry-ages the meat to intensify the flavour and we certainly can vouch for his method. Our steak was quite possibly the best we’ve had in Abu Dhabi. And for those who like to take a walk on the spicy side, the steak sauce features two types of Peruvian chillies to wake up your taste buds.
For dessert we gobble up the coffee espuma, an orange and mint flavoured mascarpone and coffee ice cream concoction that again is served in style. Layered in a glass, bubbles rising up to meet our spoon, we can’t help but be delighted. If you’re looking for some truly wonderful food, impeccable service and a splash of glamour, this is the steak house for you.
What? 55 & 5th, The Grill, St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort
Cost: Appetizers and mains range from AED 200, dessert AED 45
We say: Grilled to perfection!
Contact: 02 498 8888
Sawaiba Khan
