Chef Sadab’s second edition takes diners on a rich, aromatic journey through royal Awadhi cuisine
Let’s get one thing straight — Rangoli isn’t just a restaurant. It’s a vibe.
A riot of colour, pattern, and scent, the space is inspired by its namesake: the intricate, joyful floor art found outside Indian homes during festivals. And honestly? That energy carries straight into the food.
For its second edition of the Rangoli Travel Diaries, the team at Yas Island Rotana has packed up our taste buds and flown them straight to Lucknow, the City of Nawabs.
Curated by Chef Sadab Qureshi — a hometown hero with deep roots in the region — this special menu is a bold tribute to the soulful, spice-laced world of Awadhi cuisine.
View this post on Instagram
We kicked things off with a pair of vibrant, ice-cold mocktails that were anything but an afterthought.
The Nawaab-E-Khas delivered fizzy, citrusy refreshment with a fragrant twist, while Maharaja’s Delight was a beautifully balanced, masala-spiced pour that paired perfectly with the rich flavours to come.
Then came Murgh-ke-Passande — tender chicken in a yellow chili marinade, grilled to smoky perfection and theatrically finished tableside with vetiver root for a hit of earthy drama.
It’s the kind of dish that makes you stop mid-bite and go, wait, what is that flavour? (In the best way.)
You might also like: Read our review of one of Abu Dhabi’s most loved Sunday Roasts
But the showstopper? The Nali Nihari — a slow-cooked lamb shank that fell apart at the gentlest nudge of a fork. Deeply savoury, rich without being heavy, and served with classic accompaniments that tied it all together. If you’re a fan of big, bold flavour, this is your main character moment.
Every detail here — from the elegant Lucknowi tableware to the tableside sizzle and aromatic hits of saffron and rose — is designed to immerse you in a story. And it’s one worth tasting.
Rangoli Travel Diaries: Edition 2 runs for a limited time. Whether you’re a die-hard foodie or just looking to try something beautifully different, this is one trip you don’t want to miss.
For bookings, call 02 656 4173
Follow Yalla for all the latest on dining in Abu Dhabi
