Hearty feasts, festive cocktails, curated staycations — it’s all happening circa now.
‘Tis the season to eat, drink and be merry and, in Abu Dhabi, there’s only one address that matters: The Abu Dhabi EDITION. A multitude of dining offers aside, this design-led property is also hosting seasonal spa specials, a full-fledged retreat at Rossano Ferretti Hair Spa, and staycation deals for both Christmas and New Year’s Eve. As for the many culinary indulgences you can choose from? Read on.
Library Bar
Served until 31 December, the à la carte selection of festive cocktails at Library Bar are designed to complement the holiday vibes all round, each concoction crafted with exceptional ingredients and embodying the joy of the season. The Festive Spiced Punch is a harmonious blend of rum, enriched with the umami of marmite butter and miso. Notes of cinnamon, vanilla, and cloves mingle seamlessly with crisp apple juice in this beverage, creating a sophisticated sip that warms the soul. In contrast, the Winter in Hokkaido echoes the essence of winter with vodka, combined
with Kome Shochu and the bright zest of yuzu. Here, apple and cranberry lend a touch of sweetness, topped with soda for a refreshing finish.
Those with a preference for complex flavour profiles, meanwhile, can opt for the Sol de Jerez that’s rooted in a refined mix of cognac and Amontillado sherry. Luscious peach and zesty orange are accented by patchouli and nutmeg, while sweet vermouth adds depth, resulting in a cocktail that’s as enticing as it sounds. Last but not least is the aptly named Fireside Fable, created to warm the senses with a blended scotch whiskey expertly fused with figs and Granny Smith apples. Luxurious yet comforting, it’s enhanced by cardamom and cinnamon before ending on a
note of grated nutmeg.
Alba Terrace
The festive season is once again paired with Mediterranean flair at Alba Terrace, where the return of cooler weather translates to al fresco dining in a setting reminiscent of the ease and elegance of Italian summers — complete with cosy seating areas under pavilions and lush green foliage surrounded by clear blue pools of water. And come Christmas Day, this eatery will host an elaborate brunch, starting with a vibrant selection of starters (Kingfish Crudo, Cretan Dakos, and Baby Beetroot Salad included).
You can also savour warm, wood-fired creations like Wild Mushroom Pizza before moving on to decadent mains such as whole-baked sea bass, grilled lamb leg steak, seafood paella, and panfried potato gnocchi. And true to the Alba Terrace experience, your meal can be enhanced with Amalfi-inspired cocktails. Further indulgence will come courtesy of desserts like gingerbread molasses cake and blood orange upside-down cake. Ranging in price from AED 495 (Soft Beverage package) to AED 695 (Bubbly package), the Christmas Day brunch will be served from 1pm to 5pm.
Oak Room
Succulent roasts and all the sides are a given at Oak Room, an achingly cool steakhouse where the art is edgy and the menu features an elevated take on British culinary classics. Following the offerings curated especially on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, the festivities will continue on 31 December as the New Year’s Eve dinner rings in 2025.
You’ll begin with indulgent starters such as Gillardeau Oysters, A5 Wagyu, and Lobster Carpaccio, warming up for expertly prepared mains such as Chateaubriand and Dover Sole. And because this celebratory feast will be served from 7pm to midnight, you’ll mark the year-end with a sweet finale in the form of Salted Caramel S’more Cobbler. Go ahead and splurge for this special occasion — the Bubbly package is priced AED 795 per person.
DSCVR: The Abu Dhabi EDITION. Al Bateen Marina, Abu Dhabi. @abudhabiedition
