The homegrown concept serves Mediterranean cuisine in the heart of the Liwa Desert.
Staying put for the upcoming Eid holiday? You’ll want to add a new eatery to your plans. Meet Amanie, a homegrown concept at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. Reimagining dining at the resort’s iconic infinity pool, this adults-only destination pairs the stillness of Liwa Desert with the vibrancy of the Mediterranean coast, making for a fascinating contrast.
Amanie is the creation of Chef Giuseppe “Pino” Lavarra, a culinary visionary whose passion for Mediterranean cuisine is infused into every dish. Drawing on his decades of experience and Michelin-starred expertise, Chef Pino has carefully curated a menu that reflects both his Italian roots and innovative approach to food, with each plate capturing the essence of coastal living.
By day, the infinity pool’s tranquil waters mirror the vast sky, setting the stage for a leisurely lunch of fresh crudo and light, flavourful dishes, from Caramelised Onion and Fig Tart to Smoked Sepia Tabbouleh. And as the sun dips below the dunes, the atmosphere transforms, inviting guests to linger over the aperitivo menu with sharing plates that evoke the warmth of gathering around a Mediterranean table. Once night settles, the dinner menu takes centre stage, a refined yet relaxed affair where elegant dishes including Fresh Herb Chicken Piccataand Mediterranean monkfish pot au feu capture the depth of Mediterranean flavours, followed by tempting desserts such as Amalfi lemon white chocolate tart and Mango Ravioli.
Complementing the cuisine, Amanie’s bespoke beverage selection offers a refined pairing experience. Guests can sip on Mediterranean-inspired spritzers, botanical-infused mocktails, and a handpicked collection of wines sourced from the most renowned vineyards across Europe. Beyond the culinary offerings, Amanie is a destination shaped by its design, with every element meticulously considered to create an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and seamlessly integrated with the natural beauty of the Empty Quarter. The space, envisioned by award-winning international architecture firm OBMI, exudes natural textures and warm, earthy tones that echo the shifting sands.
As day turns to night, Amanie’s ambiance offers a journey that unfolds with the rhythm of the dunes. From a serene lunchtime retreat to an elegant evening under the stars, the eclectic sounds of the resort’s resident DJ sets the tone for a vibrant night. Music, culinary artistry, uninterrupted views of the Empty Quarter — this is a dining destination unlike any other in the capital.
Discover: Amanie. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Bateen Liwa, Abu Dhabi. @anantaraqasralsarab
