Abu Dhabi’s newest lifestyle destination is officially open on Yas Island, offering a wealth of options to stay, play and dine.
Akiba Dori
The Abu Dhabi outpost of this casual Japanese concept presents a modern store-front styled space, with its design and vibe inspired by the food halls of Akihabara, home of anime culture and all things electronic in Japan. Here, diners can choose from indoor and al fresco seating, the latter boasting one of the best panoramic sunset views on the waterfront. The menu features a selection of classics – sushi, curries, sandos, sliders and gyozas included. But we’d be remiss not to mention the unique Tokyo-style Neapolitan Pizzas that Akiba Dori is known and loved for.
Asia Asia
The lavish Asia Asia, which you might already know from Pier 7 in Dubai, takes its inspiration from the ancient Spice Route and is furnished and decorated with cherry blossom and decor from the Far East. Greeted by the aroma of lemongrass and white Jasmine incense, accompanied by the soft chime of temple bells, the breathtaking interiors and internationally-sourced antiques, artefacts and collectables, the Pan-Asian restaurant and bar blend the best of oriental fusion with international flavours. Expect a menu of sumptuous sushi, delightful dim sum and wok-fried favourites.
Cafe Del Mar
The current talk of the town, Café del Mar is also on site. The trendy new beach club features music, Mediterranean bites, standout cocktails and a touch of Spanish charm amidst an artificial beach. It’s an adults-only playground where good vibes and ambient music converge to create a one-of-a-kind destination. So whether you’re looking to take a dip in the infinity style pool while riding a giant flamingo inflatable, sip cocktails on the beach or indulge in a meal, Café del Mar brings a touch of Ibiza to the UAE capital.
Central
Little is currently known about the soon-to-open Central. Still, judging by the initial renders and Instagram account, we can expect a casual arcade and bowling alley experience inspired by Pac Man, Super Mario and everything in between. In addition, it looks like air hockey, classic arcades games and a fun and funky dining element are also on the agenda.
Daikon Izakaya
A casual Japanese Izakaya from the team behind Dakion Ramen in Dubai’s JLT neighbourhood, Daikan Izakaya serves up hearty, wholesome and authentic ramen and yakitori dishes in an industrial, fuss-free setting. The terrace is generally full of hungry diners slurping steaming hot bowls of ramen, so make sure you arrive early to secure a spot overlooking the waters of the Arabian Gulf.
Emmy Squared
Renowned for its Detroit-style pizza and handcrafted sandwiches, Emmy Squared will debut in Abu Dhabi later this year. As the first international location for the brand, the licensed restaurant will be the first of its kind in the UAE when it opens at Yas Bay Waterfront. Specialising in Detroit-style pizza, Emmy Squared’s pizza is known for its square shape, crispy bottom, fluffy focaccia-like dough, caramelised cheesy “frico” crust, and signature sauce stripes. In addition to the signature pizzas, guests can enjoy handcrafted sandwich options served on a buttery pretzel bun, including the popular double-stacked grass-fed burger “Le Big Matt.” Fresh, seasonal salads, Sriracha crystal glaze wings, cheesy garlic sticks and other signature dishes will also be available.
Etihad Arena
Abu Dhabi’s award-winning landmark of entertainment presents an 18,000 capacity arena in the heart of Yas Bay. With regularly scheduled events, you can expect to laugh with your favourite comedian, enjoy spectacular live shows or perhaps watch a UFC match.
Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island
Forming a centrepiece of the new Yas Bay development, the Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island offers 545 rooms, numerous dining options, a stunning central swimming pool and an eforea spa. Better yet, all guests registered in the room receive access to one Yas Island Theme Park per day during the duration of their stay.
Hunter & Barrel
Diners at this 250-cover venue can expect a focus on communal dining and mouth-watering sharing platters, continuing the Australian brand’s culinary and thematic homage to ancestral hunter-and-gatherer techniques through a carefully curated menu and interiors. For mains, meat, seafood and vegetables come to the fore via Hunter & Barrel’s signature skewers, speciality steaks, and salads, with highlights including Wagyu tomahawk, spicy gazelle fillet skewer, lobster fettuccine, and roasted chiles rellenos. Dessert options include baked pain perdu, chocolate-walnut brownies and pavlova.
La Carnita 2.0
Another Dubai favourite has taken up residency in the capital. Designed with the help of some of the best street style artists, La Carnita is the spot to enjoy delicious tacos and churros, washed down with a fresh cocktail or beer.
Lock Stock & Barrel
The beloved party bar finally has an outpost in the capital. Known for its kinetic vibe, live music and finger-lickin’ food, LSB presents a casual social hangout in the heart of the Yas Bay development. So whether you’re out for a big one, keen for a delicious bite with mates or wanting to catch the sporting action, LSB has got you covered.
Paradiso
A celebration of life helmed by the culinary sensation Nicole Rubi – the talent behind La Petite Maison – and triple Michelin star Chef Pierre Gagnaire, the restaurant pays homage to Italy, the Mediterranean and the world of cinema. The menu features gourmet dishes that use and reinvent local flavours, focusing on seasonal products and showcasing some of the Mediterranean’s most legendary recipes. Highlights include the escargots, cauliflower bavardoise Paradiso’s signature pizze and lamb shoulder preserved with spices. The accompanying wine list embraces an equally wide choice, ranging from small producers in Italy to prestigious estates in France.
The Lighthouse
Another yet-to-open concept is The Lighthouse. A casual restaurant and concept store featuring a curated selection of gifting items and an innovative, Mediterranean-inspired menu. The Lighthouse is a gathering point for the region’s creative community, allowing them to share both meals and ideas over freshly prepared dishes made with seasonal produce.
The Trilogy by Buddha-Bar
Siddharta Lounge, Bushra and Zeera collectively feature a captivating voyage of world-class entertainment, cuisines, mixology, music and design. Filled with creative twists and surprises at every turn, The Trilogy promises guests an eclectic experience that channels the DNA of the iconic Buddha-Bar brand. The new outpost of Siddharta Lounge – already a much-loved hotspot in Dubai and Muscat – invites guests to create stunning sunset moments whilst relaxing with light bites and refreshing mixed drinks. At Bushra, Michelin-starred chef Greg Malouf serves traditional Middle Eastern dishes in unexpected and creative ways. In comparison, Zeera is a casual-chic restaurant that accents Indian cuisine with an inventive spin.
WHITE Abu Dhabi
Taking over the space formally occupied by MAD, WHITE has officially made its debut in the capital. The nightlife hotspot presents a one-of-a-kind multi-sensory clubbing experience, with state-of-the-art sound and eye-catching visuals, including floor-to-ceiling animated LED screens and full-colour crowd scanning lasers. The venue boasts a floor plan of standing and seated capacity, including a VIP section where guests can party until the hours with a soundtrack of Hip-Hop and R&B tunes.
