There is no such thing as an end-of-year slump for Abu Dhabi's dining scene, which has a slew of new restaurants opening their doors to diners this month. Here are five to check out, including much-anticipated imports from New York and London.
Brooklyn Chop House
Cuisine: American steakhouse
With locations in Times Square and the bustling financial district in New York, Brooklyn Chop House has brought its signature steaks to the UAE capital. It is known as a go-to spot for Hollywood A-listers, including Mary J Blige, Jamie Foxx and Cardi B. The Abu Dhabi outpost's atmosphere channels New York's energetic dining scene, with urban-style decor, while dark woods and burnt orange tones dominate the space, which has indoor and outdoor seating options.
Premium meat cuts, from Wagyu to lamb rack, are on the menu, but Asian food lovers can also enjoy its diverse offering, which includes a signature Pecking duck served with traditional accompaniments. Seafood enthusiasts can opt for Alaskan king crab legs or the luxurious lobster tail. For dessert, check out the double-height chocolate.
Tuesday to Sunday, 6pm-11pm; W Abu Dhabi, Yas Island; 02 656 0000
Pappas Taverna
Cuisine: Greek
Also at W Abu Dhabi, this Mediterranean spot aims to transport guests to the sun-drenched shores of Greece, which the original location in New York's Greenwich Village has been doing over the years. Greek culinary traditions are front and centre, with dishes such as charred octopus and spinach pie filled with creamy feta cheese as starters. Mains include braised Australian lamb shank and baked stuffed sole rolls served with buttery lemon sauce. To complete the Greek experience, try the galaktoboureko, a flaky filo pastry filled with velvety milk custard cream.
Wednesday to Monday, 6pm-11pm; W Abu Dhabi, Yas Island; 02 656 0000
SushiSamba
Cuisine: Nikkei
Located on Podium 1 of Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, the celebrated Dubai restaurant has brought its blend of Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian culture and cuisine to the capital. The venue spans two floors, with a terrace boasting views of the Arabian Gulf. There's an intimate private dining room too, as well as the brand's Sambaroom.
Executive chef Obed Villegas leads the kitchen, serving dishes from traditional Japanese tempura and sushi to Peruvian anticuchos and ceviche. Abu Dhabi diners can now tuck into signature items, such as black cod and sea bream ceviche with green chilli, coriander and cancha corn, as well as Japanese doughnuts. There are dishes exclusive to the capital, too, such as the Samba WagyuDhabi roll.
Sunday to Wednesday, 6pm-1am, Thursday to Saturday, 6pm-2am; Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers; 02 811 5882
Taparelle
Cuisine: French-Italian
Taparelle in Manarat Al Saadiyat brings together art, culture and food. Its menu features tapas-style plates like sea bass carpaccio, wood-fired tomato, and scallops grenobloise, alongside heartier dishes such as oxtail ragu. A wood-fired oven in the outdoor section serves up classic pizzas in a variety of flavours. The kitchen is led by head chef Omaka Marie, while Imad Obeid, the founder behind Niri Restaurant and Bar, is credited as the founder.
Daily, noon-11pm; Manarat Al Saadiyat; 02 657 5832
NAC Abu Dhabi
Cuisine: French bistro
Named after the original location in Mayfair, North Audley Cantine is a French bistro with outposts in Dubai and Riyadh. It will soon open a branch at Marina Mall, bringing its signature well-lit elegance to the capital. If the Abu Dhabi outpost is anything like its counterparts, the restaurant will serve a range of breakfast-to-dinner delights, such as salmon paillard and conchiglie pasta.
Monday to Thursday, 10am-11pm, Friday to Sunday, 9am-midnight; Marina Mall; 04 379 177
