This is a great place to dine in Abu Dhabi with entertainment too.
It’s Friday night and Team Yalla could think of nothing better than seeing the weekend in with a bang so off we head to Siddharta Lounge by Buddha Bar, a fabulous new dining destination at Yas Bay Waterfront.
As the sun sets and nighttime falls, Yas Bay Waterfront comes to life and at the heart of the entertainment is Siddharta Lounge by Buddha Bar, one part of the Trilogy – By Buddha Bar, which as the name suggests combines three unique destinations in one.
Occupying a top floor and with stunning views over Yas Bay, is Siddharta Lounge, while underneath are the popular Bushra and Zeera dining destinations – the former offering Middle Eastern fusion cuisine created by the award-winning chef Greg Malouf, the latter showcasing modern Indian cuisine. The Trilogy is a Buddha Bar world first – three of their world-famous brands in one location.
Siddharta Lounge is approached via a red carpet and dedicated elevator, giving an air of exclusivity and glamour, with staff and security on the door checking you have a reservation – you need one such is the popularity of this place.
As you enter the very hip, open-plan and open-air, voluminous interior, you’re struck by the magnificence of the 180° panoramic view of Yas Bay – the twinkling of the lights across the water and the night sky add only to the electric atmosphere.
We arrive at 8pm and the place is already busy with guests streaming in.
A charming and informative mixologist guided us through the beverages that he and his team had created, which are all unique, some come with great theatre – try Make a Wish – a delicious and fun drink that will not disappoint in presentation or taste!
The drinks contained many interesting and well-sourced ingredients including Yamamomo, known more commonly as Japanese bayberry, and locally as ‘peach from the mountain’. The fun and outlandish glassware, the playful and sophisticated textures and flavours, all make this a great experience.
The team running Siddharta Lounge is clearly very experienced and well guided by the charming and delightful Anna at the helm, who attentively oversees them and the guests, ensuring we are all well looked after throughout the evening.
As lovers of seafood, we were delighted with the range of dishes on offer, including expertly crafted sushi and sashimi.
The focus of the menu is coastal Mediterranean dishes and modern Asian favourites with the aim being to offer an exciting update on nouvelle cuisine with carefully balanced dishes.
We began with lightly battered salt and pepper calamari and eggplant with miso. Both were excellent, the eggplant was the best we have ever tasted – the drizzled miso sauce providing a wonderful sweetness to the succulent aubergine.
Next, we had tiger prawns and a risotto; the tiger prawns were grilled to perfection and served with asparagus and gremolata.
The risotto, served with a delightful and novel mix of feta, pistachio, lime and basil, was exceptional. An interesting take on a classic dish, which worked wonderfully.
A live DJ added to the great vibe but the pièce de résistance comes later in the evening, in the form of dancing – we won’t tell you anymore – you’ll have to go there to find out! It’s a great touch and only adds to the fun and great atmosphere!
The Abu Dhabi hospitality scene continues to grow and excel, and Siddharta Lounge adds more glamour, a great vibe, sophistication, and fun…and what fun!
If this has whet your appeitite, then book your spot by calling 050 601 1194. For more information, visit Siddharta Lounge
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