Latest news with #AVLU
What's On
14-04-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
Review: Avlu at Yas Mall Abu Dhabi
Can you really recreate Aegean charm inside a mall? Yas Mall has quietly transformed into one of Abu Dhabi's top dining destinations. Beyond shopping, it boasts an impressive lineup of restaurants that go far beyond the standard mall food court. With standout spots like Soraya, L'eto, Mezzaluna, and now AVLU, it has firmly established itself as a go-to for culinary enthusiasts. Conveniently located for both Abu Dhabi residents and visitors from Dubai, the mall takes full advantage of its prime Yas Island setting. AVLU Greek & Turkish Cuisine aims to bring the flavours of Turkey and Greece straight to the UAE capital. Like many of Abu Dhabi's top eateries, AVLU prioritises fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their breakfast spread is a shining example, featuring Turkish sesame simit, Canakkale Ezine cheese, seasonal fruits, and steaming cups of Turkish mountain tea. Look and Feel Drawing inspiration from the Aegean region, AVLU's design masterfully balances rustic charm with modern elegance. Soft whites, earthy pastels, and warm peachy tones create an inviting atmosphere that feels like a Mediterranean escape. The hand-painted murals – intricate artworks that took over a month to complete – tell rich stories of Aegean life. True to its name (which translates to 'courtyard' in Turkish), AVLU's standout feature is its courtyard-inspired dining space. Bathed in natural light, it offers an indoor, temperature-controlled sanctuary with a centrepiece lemon tree adding to the Mediterranean aesthetic. Images: supplied The Menu For lunch, we put ourselves in the capable hands of executive chef Olcay Hanci, and the menu does not disappoint. We start with grilled Greek octopus and baked manti (Dhs48), followed by a standout favourite – the aubergine millefeuille (Dhs48) layered with green Manouri cheese and Turkish labneh. The slow-cooked beef cheeks (Dhs128) are melt-in-the-mouth, while the Dolmadakia (Dhs34), made with Tokat vine leaves, dolma rice, and smoked yogurt, offers a fresh twist on a classic. For meat lovers, the Hunter's Board (Dhs695) is a feast designed for four, packed with chicken, keftedakia, and lamb souvlaki – a protein-packed spectacle that's perfect for sharing. Verdict: Beautifully designed with a menu that delivers on flavor, AVLU is a worthy pit stop for anyone visiting Yas Mall. AVLU, Yas Mall, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Mon to Thur 9am to 10.30pm, Fri to Sun 9am to 11.30pm. @ > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
FACT
17-03-2025
- Entertainment
- FACT
18 exciting ways to celebrate Mother's Day in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Celebrated in the UAE on 21 March and the UK on 30 March, these are the best places to treat your mother to a celebratory meal or a day of pampering. Mother's Day is all about celebrating the incredible women in our lives. While every day should honour the love and sacrifices of mothers, Mother's Day in Dubai serves as a gentle nudge to pause and celebrate the incredible women who have shaped us. This day offers a special opportunity to express your gratitude and affection. From dining deals to relaxing spa treatments, here's some inspiration. The newly opened restaurant AVLU at Yas Mall in Abu Dhabi honours mothers with a complimentary rose, Turkish coffee, and Turkish delights following a meal of authentic Greek and Turkish cuisine. Available on 21 March. GO: Visit for more information. If you're looking for something that blends relaxation and indulgence to treat your mother, then Banyan Tree Dubai has your answer. This Mother's Day, they're offering a Tea & Tranquility experience, which includes a 60-minute spa treatment followed by a Japanese-inspired afternoon tea at Tocha. Available until 31 March. AED 1300 for two. GO: Visit for more information. City Social Give your mother a sky-high experience at City Social, Grosvenor House Dubai, this Mother's Day. Celebrity Chef Jason Atherton has crafted a special lunch menu featuring dishes like Brittany oysters, smoked salmon blinis, signature roasts and decadent desserts, making for a perfect celebration. Available on 30 March. AED 295 per person. GO: Visit for more information. Hyde Dubai This Mother's Day, let your mum unwind at Hyde Dubai's Cinq Mondes Spa. With a 30 per cent discount on massages and facials and complimentary pool day access overlooking Burj Khalifa, they'll be treated to a day of pure bliss. Available from 18 to 24 March. GO: Visit for more information. This Mother's Day, indulge in signature Parisian dishes like Piroshki, Wagyu Ribeye, and Tortiglioni with Caviar. With special treats such as Pink Pavlova and signature mocktail, Reverence, your mum is guaranteed to have a ball of a time. Available on 21 March. GO: Visit for more information. Celebrate Mother's Day at La Nina and savour Latino-Iberian flavours that blend tradition with a modern flair. Indulge in signature dishes along with a fine selection of beverages in a warm and sophisticated atmosphere. Expect an evening of culinary artistry, warmth, and sophistication—perfect for creating lasting memories with your loved ones. GO: Visit for more information. Treat your mum to a taste of Paris at Le Relais de L'Entrecote this Mothers Day in Dubai. Renowned for its signature sirloin steak drizzled with a secret sauce, crisp walnut salad, and golden French fries, the restaurant invites you to celebrate the day with a delicious meal. Available on 21 March, from 1pm to 3.30pm, or 6.15pm to 12.30am. AED 155 per person. GO: Follow @relaisdelentrecotedubai on Instagram for more information. Marriott Hotel Al Forsan, Abu Dhabi Treat your mom to a rejuvenating two-hour spa package at Saray Spa located at Marriott Hotel Al Foran, Abu Dhabi. The package includes a 60-minute massage, a 30-minute facial, and a 30-minute scrub. Plus, you also get a chance to get 20 per cent off Elemis products. Available on 21 March. AED 520 per person. GO: Visit for more information. Celebrate Mother's Day at the newly-opened restaurant Mausam. With views of Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain, mums will receive a complimentary Rasmalai Milk Cake and a rose. Available on 21 March, from 10am to 12am. GO: Follow @mausamdubai on Instagram for more information. One&Only The Palm One&Only The Palm has something special in store this Mothers Day in Dubai. The Guerlain Spa has unveiled a Mother's Day Pampering Journey where your mum will get to indulge in three luxurious treatments — an Imperial Relaxing Massage, a tailor-made facial, and Bastien's Pedicure, promising three hours and 30 minutes of sheer bliss. Available on 21 March. AED 2,095 per person. GO: Visit for more information. Peaches and Cream Celebrate Mother's Day by the beach, where mothers dine free. Enjoy unlimited entrees, mains and dessert to keep the celebration going. With a photo booth on the ground and kids' activities on the agenda, mums can kick back and relax. Available on 21 March, from 1pm to 4pm. AED (soft beverages), AED 499 (house beverages) and AED 599 (premium beverages). GO: Visit for more information. Spoil your mum with a luxurious Queen Cleopatra Arabian Experience at Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk. This treatment includes a 30-minute milk, honey and lavender hammam steam exfoliation, followed by a bespoke 60-minute massage. With complimentary pool access, your mother is guaranteed to have a relaxing Mother's Day in Dubai. Available until 21 March. GO: Visit for more information. The Smash Room For mums who prefer to let off steam in a fun and unconventional way, The Smash Room's special package is just the place to be. Here, she'll get to enjoy 25 per cent off any original smash session without the stress of kids, work or household chores. Available from 21 to 23 March. GO: Visit for more information. Give your mother the gift of pure bliss and relaxation at The Spa at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi. With the Endless Relaxation Retreat, she'll enjoy a deeply restorative 90-minute massage where she can choose from a range of oils and massage styles at 30 per cent off. If facials are more her thing, the Serenity Escape offers a luxurious facial along with a complimentary 30-minute massage to top it all off. Available throughout March, from 11am to 10pm. GO: Visit for more information. The St. Regis Downtown Dubai Enjoy a luxurious afternoon tea at The Ginori Terrace at The St. Regis Downtown Dubai. Expect savoury bites like Duck Tartlets, Beef & Truffle Buns, and Shrimp Beetroot Brioche alongside sweet treats, including Rhubarb Mini Tart, Lemon Choux, and Passion Fruit Macarons. End your experience with a giant strawberry cookie. Available until 31 March. AED 210 (including coffee, tea and non-alcoholic beverages) and AED 295 (bubbly). GO: Visit for more information. The Westin Mina Seyahi Celebrate Mother's Day with a classic British Sunday Roast at Mina's Kitchen. Featuring roasties, Yorkshire puddings, fish & chips, and more, mums will receive a complimentary dessert, flower stand access, and a voucher for a free blow-dry or a 30-minute massage that they'd surely need. Available on 30 March, from 1pm to 4pm. AED 295 (soft beverages), AED 350 (house beverages) and AED 450 (bubbly). GO: Visit for more information. This Mothers Day in Dubai, honour the special women in your life at TOTO and indulge in signature dishes like Ravioli TOTO or Filetto TOTO. Pair them with your favourite beverages in an ambience that blends Italian charm with modern elegance. Plus, all mothers will be treated to a complimentary tiramisu, which will make for a sweet ending. Available on 21 March. GO: Visit for more information. Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah If your mum loves an elegant afternoon tea, she'll adore what Peacock Alley has in store for her this Mothers Day in Dubai. Expect to indulge in perfectly brewed teas, sandwiches, fresh scones, and desserts like tiramisu, eclairs and blueberry lemon cake. They'll also enjoy a complimentary glass of bubbly. Available until 31 March, from 2pm to 6pm. AED 179 per person with 30 per cent off for mothers. GO: Visit for more information.
FACT
29-01-2025
- Entertainment
- FACT
The Hot List: All the new restaurants in Abu Dhabi to try in 2025
Keeping track of all the new restaurant openings in the capital is a full-time job. But if you love finding the latest hotspots for dinner and drinks before anyone else, these are the culinary hotspots to see and be seen at this month. Here are the best new restaurants in Abu Dhabi to try this month. Located in Yas Mall, AVLU pays homage to the Aegean coastline. The highlight of this charming restaurant is its courtyard-inspired dining area, which features a lemon tree in the centre and murals on the walls. The menu blends Greek and Turkish traditions with a modern twist. Expect to indulge in Grilled Octopus, Iskender Kebab, Salt-Cooked Wild Seabass and Slow-Cooked Turkish Lamb Shoulder. Each dish is served with olive oil from the Aegean coastline so that your experience is as close to authentic as possible. GO: Visit for more information. Maki offers an ideal spot to indulge in Japanese flavours along the Al Qana waterfront. The restaurant's interiors blend traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary urban flair and samurai artwork. The menu at Maki offers a variety of options, each designed to showcase the precision and artistry of Japanese cuisine. The chef's recommendations include the Katsu Sando, Ryujin Shrimp Roll, Samurai Brisket Roll, Seafood Miso Soup, Wagyu Brisket Gyoza and San Sebastian Crème Brûlée. Whether you're a sushi lover or a ramen enthusiast, this one's for you. GO: Visit for more information. Rosemary Restaurant brings the North Mediterranean to ab Al Qasr Hotel on Abu Dhabi's glittering Corniche. This restaurant exudes a warm, inviting atmosphere and dishes that transport you to the Mediterranean while fresh ingredients anchor the menu, so you can expect to indulge in the likes of Hummus, Grilled Octopus and Paella. An array of Sangria flavours will also be available for you to try, be it fruity or spicy. And like the namesake, you can also prepare to enjoy several rosemary-infused mocktails. GO: Visit for more information. Overlooking the greens at Yas Links Golf Club, Villa Sélène blends coastal charm with sleek contemporary design, offering a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. The menu celebrates Mediterranean flavours, featuring signature dishes like succulent Baked Sea Bass, Lobster Salad, Prawn Tartare, and Ragatoni Al Ragu. With panoramic views of lush fairways and tranquil waters, Villa Sélène is ideal for romantic dinners or lively gatherings. GO: Visit for reservations and more information.
