SAADIYAT ISLAND RESTAURANTS
If you’re after tranquillity, Saadiyat Island restaurants deliver luxury and romance. Known for their chic outdoor terrace dining in Abu Dhabi, the venues here offer the perfect backdrop for a memorable Valentine’s dinner.
YALLA’S TOP PICKS
MAZI Abu Dhabi: A Romantic Greek Escape
Celebrate love and togetherness at MAZI Abu Dhabi, where the sharing tradition of Greece takes center stage. With its cozy ambiance, contemporary Greek cuisine, and a menu inspired by the diverse regions of Greece, MAZI offers an unforgettable dining experience for couples seeking something special.
From Aegean island-inspired flavors to Northern Greece’s culinary treasures, every dish is crafted using sustainable, seasonal ingredients that honour the essence of Greek gastronomy.
Yalla’s Dish Recommendation: Feta Tempura – a playful and delicious blend of crisp feta, lemon marmalade, and caper meringue, perfect for sharing.
For bookings, call 02 498 8888
The Market Brunch at Sim Sim: A Culinary Journey of Global Flavours
Create unforgettable memories with your loved one at The Market Brunch at Sim Sim, Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas. This award-winning brunch offers a vibrant and romantic setting, blending world-class cuisine with the charm of a farmer’s market and breathtaking views from the Sim Sim terrace.
Indulge in an array of live cooking stations featuring international dishes, the freshest seafood, sizzling BBQ delights, Mexican favorites, pasta creations, and a wide selection of cheeses, salads, and desserts. The ambiance is elevated with live music, adding a lively yet intimate touch to the experience.
Yalla’s Dish Recommendation: The Canadian Lobster – perfectly prepared and bursting with fresh, decadent flavors.
For bookings, call 02 697 0000 or WhatsApp 056 994 8890
VALGERAND: A Nordic Brunch Delight
Take your loved one to the beautiful Mamsha promenade and indulge in a unique brunch at Valgerand. Running every Saturday, the brunch offering adds a Nordic twist to classic dishes. With an array of flavours, the menu caters to meat lovers, salmon fans, and vegetarians alike.
Brunch includes three main items, one side dish, and one dessert, starting from AED 249 with soft drinks. Elevate your meal with Sturgeon Caviar for AED 200 or Beluga Caviar for AED 500. Every Saturday, midday to 4pm
Yalla’s dish recommendation: The Salmon Wellington – oven-baked salmon with spinach and artichoke encased in a golden puff pastry, a truly indulgent choice.
For bookings, visit valgerand.com
Beirut Sur Mer: A Romantic Levantine Escape
This Valentine’s, indulge in a culinary love affair at Beirut Sur Mer, nestled along Abu Dhabi’s picturesque Mamsha Al Saadiyat. With turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf as your backdrop, this beachfront gem is the perfect spot for couples to savour authentic Lebanese flavours.
From vibrant mezze to perfectly grilled mashawi, each dish bursts with the romance of the Levant. The beachfront terrace, generous portions, and warm hospitality make it an unforgettable dining destination.
Yalla’s Dish Recommendation: Don’t miss the succulent mixed grill platter, perfect for sharing with your special someone.
For bookings, call 054 395 4000
NIRI Restaurant & Bar: A Japanese Culinary Escape
Set against the stunning backdrop of Mamsha Al Saadiyat, NIRI Restaurant & Bar combines sleek design with authentic Japanese flavours for a dining experience that’s both refined and romantic. Whether seated by the sushi counter or enjoying the relaxed ambiance of the terrace, every detail at NIRI exudes understated elegance.
Begin with NIRI’s famed sushi selections like the Spicy Salmon Maki or Ebi Tempura Maki, or indulge in skewers such as Tori Momo and Tebasaki. Vegetarians will find delight in plates like Yasai Gyoza and Spinach Nasu Goma. For mains, highlights include the Unagi Don, Beef Katsu Don, or the exquisite Sashimi Set. End your meal on a sweet note with your choice of sorbet or ice cream.
Yalla’s Dish Recommendation: Unagi Don – a flavourful bowl of grilled eel atop perfectly seasoned rice, offering a harmonious blend of tradition and taste.
For bookings, call 02 546 8886
Taparelle: A Mediterranean Love Affair
Celebrate romance and fine dining at Taparelle, the newly opened French-Italian gem in Manarat Al Saadiyat. Blending art, culture, and culinary excellence, Taparelle offers a warm and intimate setting, perfect for sharing exquisite Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Dine in the sunken garden.
From tapas-style plates to heartier options, the menu is crafted for moments to savor together. Highlights include the Seabass Carpaccio, Scallops Grenobloise, and wood-fired pizzas like the Artichaud, topped with artichoke, capers pesto, and parmesan. Conclude with the Almond Citrus Cake, a delightful nod to the Eastern Mediterranean.
Yalla’s Dish Recommendation: Scallops Grenobloise – perfectly seared scallops with a touch of elegance and flavours to make your evening unforgettable.
For bookings, call 02 657 5832
AL MARYAH ISLAND RESTAURANTS
For a sophisticated touch, Al Maryah Island restaurants are a top pick. Home to some of the city’s finest fine dining Abu Dhabi experiences, this area is perfect for couples who crave elegance.
YALLA’S TOP PICKS
Majlis by Pierre Hermé: A Sweet Valentine’s Rendezvous
Celebrate love this Valentine’s at Majlis by Pierre Hermé, where Parisian pâtisserie meets Emirati charm at Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island. This chic culinary haven fuses French artistry with Arabian warmth, offering a truly romantic experience for couples.
Indulge in legendary creations like the Ispahan Macaron – rose cream, lychee, and fresh raspberries – or the exquisite Tarte Infiniment Pistache D’Iran. Whether for coffee, dessert, or an elegant lunch, every bite is a masterpiece.
Not only that, you’ll get some of the best views of the Abu Dhabi skyline in the capital!
Yalla’s Dish Recommendation: The Mogador Macaron – a dreamy blend of passion fruit and milk chocolate ganache.
For bookings, visit the Majlis Lobby Lounge Reservations
COYA Abu Dhabi: A Peruvian Valentine’s indulgence
Celebrate Valentine’s in style at COYA Abu Dhabi, where contemporary Peruvian cuisine meets a vibrant, romantic atmosphere. Nestled on Al Maryah Island, this award-winning lifestyle brand promises a multi-sensory dining experience, from exquisite ceviches to perfectly grilled anticuchos.
Pair your meal with a handcrafted creation from the innovative Pisco Bar & Lounge, and let the bold flavours transport you to the heart of Peru. A perfect fusion of culture, taste, and romance awaits.
Yalla’s Dish Recommendation: The refreshing sea bass ceviche, delicately marinated and bursting with zesty flavours.
For bookings, contact COYA Abu Dhabi
La Petite Maison: A Taste of Côte d’Azur Romance
Nestled in The Galleria Al Maryah Island, La Petite Maison offers a setting as captivating as its cuisine. Watch the sunset over the city skyline as the terrace blooms with bougainvillea and olive trees, evoking the charm of the French Riviera. Inside, bright artwork, elegant shutters, and a lively atmosphere transport you to a world of timeless romance.
The menu features light, flavorful dishes crafted à-la-minute with the finest ingredients, including Mediterranean classics like marinated tiger prawns, Provencal sea bream, and pasta infused with French elegance.
Yalla’s Dish Recommendation: Côtelettes d’Agneau Vivienne – tender lamb cutlets with olive and aubergine caviar, pine nuts, and a taste of luxury in every bite.
For bookings, call 02 692 9600
Flamingo Room by tashas: African Glamour and Romance
Experience an enchanting dining escape at Flamingo Room by tashas, nestled on Al Maryah Island. With its chic African-inspired design and elevated culinary offerings, this sophisticated venue provides the perfect setting for a romantic evening. From lunch through dinner, the ambiance exudes understated elegance, ideal for creating lasting memories.
Yalla’s Dish Recommendation: Prawns au Gratin – a decadent blend of prawns, cream, herbs, and parmesan, served with a perfectly toasted baguette for a touch of indulgence.
For bookings, call 02 675 9301
ABU DHABI CORNICHE & CITY
Nothing beats the romance of dining by the sea, and Abu Dhabi Corniche restaurants deliver just that. And don’t forget the districts nearby too. From outdoor terrace dining Abu Dhabi to cosy, intimate spots, this area is perfect for a romantic dinner.
YALLA’S TOP PICKS
Catch at St. Regis: A Valentine’s culinary escape
This Valentine’s, elevate your dining experience at Catch at St. Regis Abu Dhabi, where beachfront luxury meets exquisite flavours. Delight in the lively Catch the Hour, an evening escape with curated beverages, Savoury bites, and live DJ beats. Set against the Arabian Gulf, it’s the perfect spot for romance and indulgence.
Yalla’s Dish Recommendation: The rich and flavourful wagyu ribeye – a true showstopper for a memorable date.
For bookings, call 02 694 4553
Ray’s Grill: A Valentine’s date with a view
Take your Valentine’s celebration to new heights – literally – at Ray’s Grill, perched on Level 63 of Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers. This Michelin-selected steakhouse pairs perfectly cooked cuts from Australia, Argentina, and the USA with jaw-dropping 360° views of Abu Dhabi and the Arabian Gulf.
The serene ambiance and glittering cityscape below make it an unforgettable setting for romance.
Yalla’s Dish Recommendation: The tender Australian Wagyu Ribeye, a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece.
For bookings, call 02 811 5666
Erth Restaurant: A Celebration of Emirati Heritage and Romance
Nestled in the heart of Abu Dhabi, near Al Hosn and the Cultural Foundation, Erth Restaurant is a sanctuary of Emirati elegance and culinary artistry. With its design and dishes deeply rooted in Emirati heritage, the restaurant offers an intimate and soulful dining experience, perfect for sharing moments of romance and connection.
Explore a menu that blends nostalgia with innovation, featuring dishes crafted from the UAE’s rich bounty of ingredients. Each plate tells a story, weaving together tradition and creativity in every bite.
Yalla’s Dish Recommendation: Braised Lamb Machboos – tender, succulent lamb served with fragrant Emirati spiced rice, a dish that embodies the warmth and richness of Emirati hospitality.
For bookings, call 02 679 4014 or 058 600 6922
Verso: An Italian Romance at Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi
Experience the charm of Italy at Verso, where authentic flavours and a warm, inviting ambiance set the stage for a romantic escape. With its cozy interiors, stunning alfresco seating, and an open kitchen that fills the air with irresistible aromas, Verso is the perfect spot for sharing special moments over hearty Italian fare.
From creamy burrata to wood-fired pizzas and indulgent dolci, every dish is crafted to be savoured slowly and shared with love.
Yalla’s Dish Recommendation: The Croccante Amarena – a decadent creation of milk ice cream, amarena cherry almond, hazelnut, and chocolate, meticulously prepared over 48 hours for the ultimate sweet finale.
For bookings, visit Verso at Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi
Hakkasan Abu Dhabi: A Michelin-Starred Romance
For a truly unforgettable dining experience, Hakkasan Abu Dhabi offers lovers an enchanting setting with its award-winning modern Chinese cuisine and luxurious ambiance. Located within the majestic Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, this Michelin-starred venue combines elegance and romance, perfect for a night to cherish.
Indulge in signature dishes like the Peking Duck with Caviar or the Crispy Duck Salad, while the alfresco Hakkasan Terrace offers a stylish backdrop with city skyline views and bespoke cocktails.
Yalla’s Dish Recommendation: Dim Sum Selection – exquisitely crafted and beautifully presented, each bite is a perfect harmony of flavours.
For bookings, call 02 690 7739
Epic Love Stories Brunch
Saturdays 12.30 pm – 4pm
Celebrate love and indulge in a feast inspired by the greatest love stories of all time at Urban Kitchen, Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi. The Epic Love Stories Brunch transforms dining into an immersive experience, blending romance, nostalgia, and exquisite flavours to create unforgettable memories.
Begin your afternoon with love-inspired welcome cocktails before exploring themed culinary stations that bring legendary romances to life. From the Garden of Eden Salad Bar to Romeo and Juliet Italian Mains and Lady and the Tramp’s Pasta Live Station, every dish tells its own love story. Highlights include Veal Ossobuco, Bone-in Short Ribs with BBQ Sauce, and live stations offering fresh pasta creations like Raviolo filled with spinach and ricotta.
Set in a romantic and elegant atmosphere, the experience is enhanced by captivating storytelling through food, creating the perfect setting to share with loved ones.
Yalla’s dish recommendation: The Bone-in Short Ribs with BBQ Sauce – tender, smoky, and utterly indulgent.
AED 265 with soft drinks, AED 395 with house beverages, AED 595 with bubbly. Children dine for AED 95. For bookings, WhatsApp 056 410 2847