Circo: Primo Italian…in Abu Dhabi?
Welcoming guest blogger, The New Glitterati, to the team! The fact I was invited to this dinner (and instead went to Social) makes me super sad — it clearly would have been worth the trip. And a warning, do not read while hungry!! Overview Abu Dhabi is not particularly known for its Italian food, and it’s certainly not a go-to for us. Circo is tucked down in the InterContinental next to the Belgian Cafe and the first thing we saw, aside from the well-executed circus-themed decor, was the gleaming “Time Out Abu Dhabi – Best Italian, 2015” plaque proudly placed by the entrance. It’s been awhile since I’ve had a legit Italian meal and we were excited to try something new and see what the ‘Dhabs had on offer. Plaques notwithstanding, Circo has a lot to live up to. The child restaurant of New York’s famous Le Cirque, beloved by…
BOA Steakhouse: Must Do Brunch!
By now, I think you’ve probably realized I enjoy brunch in the United Arab Emirates. Honestly, when else can you find such a low key meal that offers something for everyone? Don’t want to drink, no worries! Want to eat buffet style? go for it. Want to go for broke and consume an entire bottle of champagne? Why not? Thus, when asked to join friends yesterday at BOA Steakhouse, Hubs and I who have been abusing our livers plenty decided, why the hell not? I’m so glad we did! Reservations? I didn’t make them and given the crowd, it seemed possible you could rock up without them, however, I think it’s good to call ahead. (Only wish they wouldn’t have seated us directly next to the toilets and I guess if requesting a table, be sure to be seated more ‘centrally’ in the restaurant). Ambiance? Well… It’s chic, but…
Best Weekend in Abu Dhabi? Fairmont Bab al Bahr 36 Hour Weekend Package.
Having visited and taken advantage of this experience no less than 3 times, I can honestly say the Fairmont Bab Al Bahr’s 36 Hour Weekend Package is among the most relaxing ways to spend two days in the capital. We first went for this package back in 2010, when we were residents of Dubai, and have been back when living in Doha and with friends during our current stay in Abu Dhabi. With an all you can eat and drink brunch, early check in, a luxe room, breakfast, lunch and a late checkout – it’s a great value. There is enough time to go big at brunch and completely recover the next day. Finally, given the proximity to the Souq Qaryat Al Beri, if the weather isn’t too warm, you can walk over and have a look around (or another drink). Reservations? Made online (and not through a third party). Given the package, I…
Zuma: A Must Visit in the Capital
When sending off a colleague earlier this week, we asked her where she wanted to go and she only had two requests: Hakkasan or Zuma. Either is a fine choice, but I think Zuma was ultimately the better selection for a group (for reasons I’ll go into below). Reservations? I didn’t make them, but we were seated easily at a circular 8 top. Given how crowded the restaurant was on a Sunday night, I would say that reservations are essential. Ambiance? Zuma is modern cool. From the moment you walk up to the fancy entrance (located between the Rosewood Hotel and the Galleria), you realize this is a very unique space. The open concept kitchen, oversized bar and attractive staff add to one of the best spots in the city. It is such a popular place among my employer that we ran into two other independent groups of people I work…