Latest news with #Strawfire
What's On
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
4 of the best dishes to try in Abu Dhabi this week: July 21 to 24
Friends and foodies – we're back with a new list of dishes you need to try in Abu Dhabi. Old, new, classic and iconic, these plates in the capital will satisfy all your cravings this week. From rich, peppery starters to refreshing sorbets and hearty seafood mains – this is your week in Abu Dhabi, in food. The starter: Marinated sweet peppers at LPM Abu Dhabi We all love a good LPM moment – these marinated sweet peppers, drenched in silky, rich, olive oil, are a classic favourite of the enlightened and a great way to introduce yourself to the legend of LPM. Location: LPM Abu Dhabi, The Galleria, Al Maryah Island Times: Monday to Friday, 12pm to 1am, Saturday and Sunday, 12.30pm to 1am Cost: Dhs45 Contact: (0) 2 692 9600 @lpmabudhabi The raw: Tuna tataki at Strawfire Strawfire's carefully-curated menu features a selection of dishes that highlight fresh ingredients cooked over the open flame. Sample the tuna tataki from the raw plates, served with pickled onion, garlic chips and ponzu. Location: Strawfire, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental Times: Daily, 6pm to 12am Cost: Dhs98 Contact: (0) 2 690 7999 @strawfireabudhabi The main: Wild Chilean sea bass at 99 Sushi Bar If you're looking for a taste of seafood in the capital, this spot is just where you need to be. Try this wholesome, hearty, flavourful main – wild chilean sea bass with yuzu buerre blanc, chimichurri and kaluga caviar. Location: 99 Sushi Bar, Four Seasons, Al Maryah Island Times: Daily, 12pm to 3.30pm, 7pm to 12am Cost: Dhs310 Contact: (0) 2 672 3333 @99sushibaruae The dessert: Orange sorbet at Antonia The capital's beloved Italian spot has just what you need to stay refreshed this summer – sample the orange sorbet at Antonia for a summer sweet tooth satisfaction like no other. This is a home made sorbet made from Amalfi oranges from Sorrento. Location: Antonia, across various locations Cost: Dhs40 Contact: @ Images: Socials/Supplied > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
The National
30-03-2025
- The National
Strawfire review: Fireballs meet fine dining at Abu Dhabi restaurant
Refined dishes created with delicacy, elegance and an eyebrow-searing fireball in the kitchen – it's just another evening service at Strawfire by Ross Shonhan. In the few months it has been open, the high-end Japanese restaurant at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental has built a scorching-hot reputation. And within minutes of my arrival during a packed Sunday service, it's easy to see why. We take the seats closest to the glass-encased kitchen. The glass isn't there to stop guests from overhearing any exotic language that may arise in high-pressure kitchens – à la The Bear – it's there to stop our table from going up in flames. The restaurant embraces the traditional Japanese cooking technique of warayaki, which translates to 'straw fire', hence its name. Before our welcome drinks arrive, a chef is bundling bales of hay into a deep oven and igniting them. The dry straw takes about a nano-second to erupt into metre-high flames before dying down just as quickly. Shonhan and the team prepare dishes over the rice straw-fired flames, promising the method infuses each bite with deep flavour and smokiness. This isn't the only tradition that inspires the restaurant. The whole venue showcases Japanese craftsmanship, including a 7.3-metre shimenawa rope that hangs from the ceiling of the private dining room – and weighs nearly one tonne. It symbolises sanctity and protection, and is the largest ever produced, I'm told. There are hand-painted silks on the walls, pampas grass dotted throughout and vast rose gold cloths draped across the ceilings of the main room. It's dark, sophisticated and grown-up – and a bit paradoxical with the commotion going on with the kitchen firestarters. But I love it. There is something for everyone here. There's à la carte, a tasting menu (Dh450 each) and an omakase menu (Dh550 each). While it isn't cheap-bite-on-the-way-home dining, it certainly isn't overpriced for a restaurant that I suspect will end up with a star at the next Michelin Guide Abu Dhabi awards. Take the edamame, for example. It costs Dh30, while it's Dh35 at Wagamama. That's not sneering, I love an easy 'Wagaz' on a Friday. But it's not the sort of price I expect to see at a classy venue dripping in gold. On the waiter's recommendation, I opt for the tasting menu titled First Taste of Strawfire. It rattles through 10 of the restaurant's best dishes and covers seafood, sushi, raw, hot, meat, veggie and dessert courses. As another fireball roars over my shoulder, the first courses arrive. The Wagyu sashimi is sliced so thinly it's almost translucent. But there's boldness with a sprinkle of bonito powder and sticky gyu tare sauce. It's followed by an outstanding tuna tartare. The fish is marinated in the Goldilocks of wasabi mayonnaise – not too hot, not too mayo-y – and it's all sandwiched together in the style of a monaka, which is a traditional sweet snack of bean paste between two wafers. Strawfire's wafers have been shaped into a flower and hats off to the chef tasked with making batches of these fragile morsels each morning, especially when the kitchen resembles Dante's Inferno every now and then. But unlike Dante, this is a journey through heaven, though admittedly with more fire. Dishes such as sushi and sashimi; a particularly excellent avocado salad (who knew avo' seared by flames was a thing); salmon toro with plenty of crispy skin; and takoyaki flow out all with theatrical flames in between. The latter is the Japanese version of cheesy dough balls, with plenty of pizzazz and octopus stuffed inside, and is a strong challenger for dish of the day. Mains of Wagyu strip loin, served above a glowing piece of coal, and crab don (essentially a rice clay pot, though not served in the dish it was cooked in, rather sadly) plus a side of green beans round off the savoury courses. Although I've lost track. I've also lost count of the fireballs threatening to melt the chef's face – they never do, he never even flinches. Not even the dessert platter – ice cream, sorbet, fruit and burnt cheesecake, of course – served on a bed of smoking dry ice can temper the burning desire building inside me to come back the day after, and the day after that. It's the best new Abu Dhabi venue I've been to since Mika in Yas Bay. The tuna tartare (Dh45) is reminiscent of the corn bombs at Orfali Bros, in that they go down in two bites, are utterly moreish and something I'd cross mountains for – barefooted. While we're unlikely to hear a cacophony of spoons scraping against the bottom of clay pots at a high-end restaurant anytime soon, it is still a shame the crab don (Dh140) isn't served in the vessel it's cooked in so I can prise off pieces of burnt rice. But that's probably more of an indication of my Neanderthal dining practices than a mark against this Michelin contender's star power. While the menu doesn't fit into traditional three-course formatting, those looking for a cheaper or lighter meal can tuck into the edamame for Dh30 to start, spaghetti mentaiko (Dh75) for main, and finish with a scoop of ice cream or sorbet (Dh25). Dh130 for a three-course meal here screams value. For splurgers, there is sea urchin sashimi (Dh300), Wagyu strip loin priced at a how-deep-are-your-pockets Dh380 per 100g and a large dessert platter for Dh450. Aussie-born Shonhan arrived in Abu Dhabi with an outstanding kitchen pedigree, having worked at London's Dorchester Hotel, Nobu and Zuma. His approach to cooking is storytelling. 'Almost all these dishes are a collection of things I have experienced on my travels,' he tells me. He's been working on Strawfire since 2021 ('I'm involved in every element, from design, branding, menu planning and so on'). Of his dishes, he chooses the avocado salad as his favourite for vegetarians; the short rib is a 'definite' for carnivores; the warayaki tuna is for seafood lovers; and to round things off, he says the popcorn cooked over coals tableside is the perfect evening's end. Strawfire is open daily from 6pm to midnight. Reservations can be made by calling 02 690 7999. This review was conducted at the invitation of the restaurant
Khaleej Times
06-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Strawfire's iftar at Emirates Palace offers a Japanese twist on tradition
When it comes to iftar, the classics never fail but what if you infused them with bold Japanese flavours? That's exactly what Strawfire has done, and let me tell you, it's a game-changer. Hosted at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi, this limited-time dining experience merges elegance, tradition, and innovation against the stunning backdrop of Qasr Al Watan and the Abu Dhabi skyline. First impressions Dining at Emirates Palace always comes with an air of grandeur, and this iftar was no exception. Set within The Majlis by the Sea, the ambiance was immaculate - there was soft lighting, high arches, and a seamless indoor-outdoor flow, offering both intimacy and spectacle. But the real highlight? The food. The feast begins The chicken miso soup was a comforting start, delicate yet rich, with a depth of umami that set the tone for the meal. The vegetable kakiage was crisp, light, and addictive, especially with that tangy tendashi and a squeeze of fresh lemon. But the sweet potato gyoza? That was the surprise star of the starters. The feta and ponzu created a contrast of creamy and citrusy flavors that worked beautifully together. The sushi selection A good sushi platter can make or break an experience, and Strawfire didn't disappoint. The California rolls, made with blue swimmer crab, avocado, cucumber, and tobiko, were fresh, well-balanced, and indulgent. The prawn tempura maki packed a punch, with the crisp tempura and that silky amarillo mayo adding the perfect touch of richness. The main event The Australian Wagyu MB 4-5 striploin was cooked to perfection; it was tender, juicy, and enhanced by the deep, smoky sweetness of the Japanese BBQ sauce. It was accompanied by a crispy vegetable hot stone rice, which had layers of texture, from the crunchy bits at the bottom to the luscious onsen egg melting into the mix. The green beans, tossed in a bold tobanjan sauce and sesame dressing, were a surprisingly standout side, offering just the right kick of spice. A sweet finish By the time dessert rolled in, I was already impressed but the Strawfire dessert platter took it to another level. The date pudding was moist and indulgent, while the baklava monaka added a unique Japanese-Middle Eastern fusion twist. Seasonal fruits balanced out the sweetness, making for a perfectly satisfying end to the meal. Final verdict? Strawfire's iftar at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental isn't just a meal, it's an experience. The balance of traditional flavors with Japanese finesse is executed with precision, making it one of the most unique Iftar offerings in Abu Dhabi this Ramadan. At Dh350 per person, it's a splurge, but one that's absolutely worth it. Would I go back? Without a doubt.
What's On
03-03-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
6 incredible things to do in Abu Dhabi this week: March 3 to 6
Ramadan begins in Abu Dhabi… The Holy Month is here, and with it comes love, light, giving and a wonderful time of togetherness. There's loads of great things to do in the city throughout Ramadan. Take your pick from this list here. Monday, March 3 Try a new iftar menu at Strawfire Experience a refined fusion of Japanese flavours with a contemporary twist on traditional Iftar. Begin with comforting chicken miso soup, crispy vegetable kakiage, and sweet potato gyoza, followed by a sushi selection featuring California rolls with blue swimmer crab and prawn tempura maki. For the main course, savour Australian Wagyu MB 4-5 Striploin with Japanese BBQ sauce, crispy vegetable hot stone rice, and green beans. End on a sweet note with a Strawfire dessert platter of date pudding, baklava monaja, and seasonal fruits. Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, sunset to 10.30pm, Dhs350, Tel: (0)2 690 7999. Engage in a community initiative At Umm Al Emarat Park, every evening, the Iftar cannon will mark the breaking of the fast at the Main Gate, starting from the last day of Sha'ban – February 29 – at Maghrib prayer time. In partnership with the Red Crescent, the park will also distribute 'Kisr Al-Siyam' Iftar boxes, providing community members on-the-go meals to break their fast. Umm Al Emarat Park, Abu Dhabi, throughout March, @ummelemaratpark Tuesday, March 4 Celebrate Layali Ramadan by Saadiyat Nights This experience will run daily from 9pm to 3am. Guests can indulge in a selection of culinary delights, including Emirati specialties and international cuisines. There wll also be a blend of cultural and musical activations, featuring live entertainment, artisans and a dedicated retail area. Layali Ramadan by Saadiyat Nights, throughout March, Saadiyat Island, Tel: (0) 54 277 7731, saadiyatnights Check out a new exhibit at Louvre Abu Dhabi For the first time in the UAE and the region, a new exhibition, Kings and Queens of Africa: Forms and Figures of Power , in collaboration with the musée du quai Branly – Jacques Chirac, offers an exceptional glimpse into the lives of Africa's most revered and powerful figures. Think royal attire, spiritual symbols and stories of authority and cultural significance. Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, until May 25, 2025, Tues to Thurs, 10am to 6.30pm, Fri to Sun, 10am to 8.30pm, Tel: (600) 565566, @louvreabudbabi Wednesday, March 5 Gather the gang for a quiz night Lock, Stock and Barrel is hosting a cheeky mid-week quiz night, with plenty of prizes to win. The quiz is free to enter but you can buy four food and drinks tokens for Dhs150 redeemable across the menu. End the night on a rocking note with the live band. Lock, Stock and Barrel, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, Wed, 8pm to 10pm, 10pm to 12am, F&B tokens for Dhs150, Tel: (0) 4 423 8308, @lockstockabudhabi Thursday, March 6 Shop lululemon's Ramadan collection Activewear giant lululemon has launched a specially-curated Ramadan collection, designed to inspire healthy and beneficial movement, and support individuals as they move through Ramadan. Shop practical, modest silhouettes to stay in shape during the Holy Month, as well as travel essentials for the Eid holidays. @lululemonme Images; Supplied/Getty
What's On
06-02-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
9 incredible things to do in Abu Dhabi this weekend: February 7 to 9
All the fun to be had in Abu Dhabi this February… If you clicked on this, you wanted a quick, neat list of fun things to do in the capital. February is here, with the promise of great fun and even greater choices. These are all the amazing things you can do in Abu Dhabi this weekend. Friday, February 7 Catch the last of the Mubadala Tennis Open It's a slam-bang week on the courts. This week has seen some of the top tennis stars in the world descend on the courts at the Zayed Sports City International Tennis Centre for the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open, which will be contested until Saturday, February 8. Catch stars like Ons Jabeur, Beatriz Haddad Maia, Daria Kasatkina and more. Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open, Zayed Sports City, Abu Dhabi, Feb 1 to 8, 2025, from Dhs25, @mubadalaabudhabiopen Celebrate Bob Marley's birthday in style View this post on Instagram A post shared by PON DI BEACH (@tingirieauh) Ting Irie, the UAE's first Jamaican restaurant & lounge with locations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi , has planned a celebration for Bob Marley's 80th birthday in both locations with an unforgettable experience. The evening will be filled with soulful reggae tunes, vibrant island vibes, and a specially curated exclusive menu featuring Jamaican classics like the jerk chicken. Tuck into three courses and three drinks to celebrate this icon. Ting Irie, Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Fri, Feb 7, from 7pm, Dhs225, Tel: (0) 2 886 7786, @tingirieauh Try a brand new spot Popular London-based hotspot NAC has brought its newest outpost to the UAE capital, and they've just set up shop at Abu Dhabi Marina Mall. Ideal for brunch, lunch, dinner or even desserts, you can enjoy small plates of chicken sliders, classic appetisers including the charred honey sweet potato and flamed aubergine, as well as brunch highlights like the Turkish style eggs, and sweet options including the ricotta pancake with dulce de leche and banana. NAC, Abu Dhabi Marina Mall, Al Kasir, Abu Dhabi, @marinamallad Saturday, February 8 Explore Strawfire's newest dining room View this post on Instagram A post shared by Strawfire (@strawfireabudhabi) Strawfire by Ross Shonhan introduces the Toyama Private Dining Room, named after Toyama, a region in Japan renowned for its breathtaking mountain ranges and exceptional sushi crafted with the freshest seafood from Toyama Bay. At the heart of the room lies the world's largest synthetic Shimenawa rope, a 7.3-meter, 830kg handcrafted masterpiece deeply rooted in Japan's Shinto heritage. Symbolising protection, sanctity and a connection to the divine, this extraordinary rope was created by master artisans from Nawawaseya in Toyama, specialists in crafting Shimenawa for sacred spaces. Strawfire by Ross Shonhan, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, West Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, Tel: (0) 2 690 7999, @strawfireabudhabi Watch art in motion at Louvre Abu Dhabi In 1929 production Frau im Mond, Fritz Lang brings you the story of a tenacious scientist who blasts off for the moon in pursuit of riches he believes he'll find there. Will he or won't he? Head to the iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi to find out. Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, Feb 8, 7.30pm, @louvreabudhabi Check out a limited-time beach club View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fahid Beach Club By Barbossa (@fahidbcbybarbossa) There's the limited-time Fahid Beach Club by Barbossa that will disappear once summer comes around, so you'll want to enjoy this while it lasts. Open every Friday and Saturday from midday, this child-friendly, pet-friendly venue is brought to you by the minds behind Yas Bay favourite Barbossa, with reservations available for families with children until 6pm, while pets are allowed at beach tables and sunbeds until 7pm. Fahid Beach Club, Fahid Island, Abu Dhabi, 12pm to 10pm Fri and Sat, from Dhs150, fully redeemable, @fahidbcbybarbossa Sunday, February 9 Tuck into an Indian Sunday roast View this post on Instagram A post shared by Punjab Grill Dubai (@punjabgrilldubai) Punjab Grill, the Michelin-recognised Indian fine-dining restaurant, is offering Sunday roast with an Indian twist, with a menu that combines the best of both worlds. Whether you're after a hearty lamb shank, fragrant fish polichattu, juicy tandoori chicken, or a vegetarian feast with paneer tikka and tandoori subzi, there's something to please everyone. Choose from plenty of sides and beverages. Punjab Grill, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Canal, Abu Dhabi, Sun, starts at Dhs120, Tel: (0) 50 668 3054, @punjabgrillabudhabi Destress with The Smash Room View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Smash Room Abu Dhabi | ذا سماش روم ابوظبي (@thesmashroomauh) You might also like These top Abu Dhabi restaurants made the MENA 50 Best list for 2025 The Smash The Limits package is what you need to leave your weekly stressors behind and start your new week on a relaxed note. Designed for those ready to shatter any obstacles standing in the way of their goals, this experience is all about pushing past limits and embracing self-care through the thrill of destruction. Here's what's in the package – smash 40 glass items, 1 TV, 1 CPU and 1 printer for Dhs200 per person. The Smash Room, Nahil Building, Abu Dhabi, Mon to Thurs, 12.30pm to 10pm, Fri to Sun, 12.30pm to 11pm, Dhs200, @thesmashroomauh Catch the last of the Al Hosn Festival Al Hosn Festival is the perfect way to experience Emirati culture firsthand, taking place in a significantly historical site at Qasr Al Hosn. The festival will allow visitors to have a true authentic experience of Emirati traditions, where you'll be completely immersed in the full culture, including food, hospitality, dress, customs, performances, and crafts. Visit the souks and take a look at the products of local suppliers, and appreciate the care and passion gone into each item. Explore the amazing food, the performances, interactive exhibitions and workshops. Al Hosn Festival, Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi, Jan 25 to Feb 9, 4pm to 11pm, @alhosnfestival Images: Supplied/Social/Getty
