Warayaki flames, bold flavours, and showstopping design make Strawfire Abu Dhabi’s hottest dining destination
Stepping into Strawfire at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental is about entering a world where fire, flavour, and tradition come together in an unforgettable fusion. Chef Ross Shonhan, already a legend in the culinary world, brings the art of Warayaki to life, a Japanese cooking technique that uses straw-fired flames that effortlessly takes every bite to the next level.
The atmosphere is electric from the moment you walk in, whether you’re mesmerised by the 7.3-metre Shimenawa rope hanging in the private dining room or soaking up the dramatic golden hues of the main dining area.
The design is an intricate homage to Japanese culture, with hand-painted silk adorning the walls and a lounge that evokes the serenity of a full moon harvest. It’s a visual feast that sets the stage for what’s to come.
Let’s talk about the food – because, wow.
The First Taste of Strawfire set menu is an absolute must. From the moment the Wagyu beef sashimi hits your table, it’s clear: you’re in for a treat. The beef is sliced so thinly, it practically melts in your mouth, enhanced by the umami punch of bonito powder and gyu tare. It’s delicate, it’s luxurious – it’s everything you want in a bite.
Next up, the Yellowtail tiradito is a zingy showstopper. Fresh, vibrant, and packed with punch, the rocoto dressing and pickled kumquat bring out the fish’s natural sweetness in a way that’ll leave you speechless. Then, there’s the Australian Wagyu striploin. Imagine a perfect balance of smoky char and melting tenderness – this is the art of BBQ, Japanese style. The crispy exterior gives way to a melt-in-your-mouth centre that’s all umami goodness. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to slow down and savour every single bite.
And if that’s not enough, the menu keeps delivering with jaw-dropping bites.
The Spaghetti Mentaiko, with its creamy butter sauce and seaweed topping, is an indulgent delight, while the Westholme Wagyu striploin, served with Japanese BBQ sauce, is a smoky triumph. Don’t miss the Tuna tartare, either – wrapped in a crisp monaka cracker and balanced with tangy wasabi and spring onion, it’s a perfect harmony of textures and flavours.
But what really sets Strawfire apart is the sensory experience. Watch the flames dance, feel the heat rise from the open grill, and let the aroma of sizzling dishes captivate your senses. It’s theatre and dining combined – where every meal feels like a performance and every dish tells a story.
The service? Impeccable.
The hosts are perfectly attuned to your every need, refilling drinks before you can ask, and clearing plates with a quiet precision that enhances the overall experience. It’s clear that this isn’t just a restaurant – it’s an experience, one that combines the best of Japanese tradition with modern flair.
At Strawfire, every dish is a masterpiece, every bite an exploration of flavour. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to linger, soak in the atmosphere, and indulge in the kind of dining you won’t soon forget.
For bookings, call 02 690 7999
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