By Waqar Abdullah
The Quick Overview
In the world of ‘The Elite Food Restaurants’, ‘The Hakkasan Abu Dhabi’ is one of the world’s most amazing experiences in terms of dining, luxury, ambiance, and the food.
Hakkasan Abu Dhabi is a restaurant that offers opulent and award-winning design along with refined Five-starred Cantonese cuisine. It is located at the heart of the iconic Emirates Palace and is a must-visit for couples looking for a romantic dinner and for luxury lovers seeking a world-class culinary experience.
- Price Point: Ultra-Luxe
- Must-Order Dish: Jasmine Tea Smoked Wagyu Beef Ribs or Peking Duck with Caviar
- Best For: Anniversary, Romantic Date Night, or Saturday Dim Sum Brunch
- Address: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, West Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, UAE
The Concept & First Impressions
Immerse Yourself in the Elevated Elegance and Sophisticated Energy
The Arrival: Stepping into a World of High-Octane Luxury
To get to Hakkasan, you must take a trip through the magnificent hallways of the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. This entrance promises a sense of unparalleled opulence before you even get a chance to enter the doors of Hakkasan itself. As you enter, you will immediately be struck by the difference from the golden opulence of the Emirates Palace to the dark, moody decor of Hakkasan. The hostesses are gracious in their greeting as they approach the sleek black reception desk. A long, dark hallway leads you even deeper into a labyrinth of intricately carved wooden “cage” screen designs. These blue-lit latticed screen designs promise a sense of mystery and complete privacy for every dining experience. It’s as though you have left the desert heat behind and entered a sophisticated oasis. Every detail, from the heavy doors to the background music, promises exclusivity and high fashion, an entrance that promises to be an event in itself.
The Reputation: A Homegrown Success Story That Conquered the World
Hakkasan is a world-famous international export that was initially known for its presence in London’s Hanway Place. It was known for being the first Chinese restaurant to be given a Michelin star. This Abu Dhabi location is successful in continuing this illustrious reputation within the heart of the UAE. It is an international brand, but Hakkasan works beautifully within its regal Middle Eastern surroundings. It has continued to uphold the same stringent quality of the original while meeting the local need for opulence. It is considered by many food critics to be an integral part of the city’s fine dining. It has continued to be given its very own Michelin star since their presence in the capital. This reputation means that every diner expects nothing but perfection.
The Hook: The Dual-Terrace Perspective of a Shimmering Metropolis
The real draw of Hakkasan Abu Dhabi is the marriage between a high-energy lounge environment and world-class technical Cantonese cuisine. Most high-end establishments try to offer either a “party” environment or a “good food” environment, but Hakkasan Abu Dhabi pulls off both environments magnificently. One can have a nice intimate dinner behind the carved screens and still feel the electric buzz from the blue-lit lounge. Moreover, the outdoor space offers a unique “Hakkasan Terrace” experience that cannot be had at their underground locations in London. This space allows patrons to enjoy Michelin-starred dim sum while taking in the views of the palace gardens. This is a level of architectural excitement found at very few restaurants around the world.
The Setting: Interior Design & View
The Decor: A Masterclass In Modern Glamour and Metallic Accents
The interior of Hakkasan Abu Dhabi is a masterful example of “Chinois” chic, employing dark wood, marble, and the signature blue glass to create a sultry setting. You will find the signature “cage” latticework that has come to be synonymous with the Hakkasan brand throughout the dining area. These wooden screens, carved to divide the large space into intimate, private spaces, are cleverly placed to ensure that every table feels as if it has its own VIP booth. The lighting also plays an important role in creating the mood for the evening ahead. Dim, amber-toned spotlights are trained specifically on the center of the table. This has the effect of making the bright, vibrant hues of the Cantonese cuisine stand out against the dark furniture, while the rest of the area remains bathed in a soft, enigmatic shadow. The backlit blue glass of the bar area provides a striking, modern contrast to the traditional wooden screens, creating a high-fashion look that extends from the lounge area into the dining area itself.
The Dubai Factor: A 360-Degree Visual Feast of the City
Whereas Dubai boasts the Burj Khalifa, the “Abu Dhabi Factor” at Hakkasan is, of course, the majesty of Emirates Palace. The restaurant is situated within one of the world’s most expensive and opulent buildings. You do not simply dine with a view of a tower block; you dine with a view of a literal royal landmark. From the outside terrace, diners can look out across the extensive, beautifully manicured palace gardens. The gardens, in turn, lead the eye across the sparkling turquoise expanse of the Arabian Gulf. The skyline of the Corniche can be seen in the distance, providing a stunning backdrop of modern architecture. This is a view of space and peace, so often absent from urban dining. It is a combination of palace opulence and natural beauty, as epitomized by the UAE coastline. It is, therefore, a view that is both historical and, in many ways, incredibly futuristic.
The Seating: Seamlessly Blending Indoor Comfort with Al Fresco Luxury
The restaurant offers two different sitting areas that can accommodate different moods. The indoor area includes the ‘Ling Ling’ lounge and dining area, which offers a cool, air-conditioned environment. This indoor area is best for people who want to experience the exclusive soundtrack that Hakkasan offers. This indoor area seems to be a high-end club where food is the main focus. However, the outdoor area, which includes a wooden deck, is the real star of Hakkasan during the cooler winter months from October to April. This area includes comfortable lounge chairs and small dining tables, which enable visitors to have an outdoor dining experience with the sea breeze. This area seems to be a favorite for many visitors, as they can have a relaxed, social dining experience under the stars. Regardless of whether you choose the indoor ‘cages’ or the outdoor deck, the seats are comfortable and ergonomic, offering a different perspective on this magnificent property.
The Culinary Journey: A Deep Dive
Embark on a Refined Gastronomic Odyssey Above the Clouds
The Philosophy: French Precision Meets Asian Finesse
The culinary philosophy at Hakkasan Abu Dhabi follows the idea of the ‘Evolution of Cantonese Tradition.’ The executive chef, Lee Kok Hua, does not believe in molecular cooking or other gimmicks that are currently popular in the food world. Instead, he focuses on the accuracy of wok cooking and the subtle art of the dim sum master. The entire kitchen staff treats ingredients with a great deal of respect and accuracy. They use high-quality ingredients from around the world, which are then combined with other ingredients to reflect the location of the restaurant in the Middle East. This ensures that the food served here is a mix of the expected and the unexpected, making for a truly unique dining experience. Every dish served here is a reflection of the dedication to the use of ‘balance,’ ‘texture,’ and ‘wok hei,’ or ‘breath of the wok,’ which makes the food served here the real star of the evening.
The Starters: A Playful Dance of Texture and Temperatures
The starter course begins with a masterclass in contrasting textures and temperatures. First, the Supreme Dim Sum Platter presents as a colorful jewel box of steamed perfection. It includes a gold leaf har gau and an abalone shumai, both of which are served piping hot. The skins of the dumplings are delicate and elastic, giving way to a rich and savory interior. In stark contrast, the Crispy Duck Salad presents a refreshing and crunchy contrast. This dish includes shredded duck, which is fried to a precise and golden crisp. It is served with pomelo, pine nuts, and shallots, and a zesty plum-based dressing. The cold, bursting-in-your-mouth citrus of the pomelo cuts through the warm and rich fat of the duck. These two appetizers demonstrate the kitchen’s mastery of playing with the boundaries of textures and temperatures. You feel the soft steam of the dumplings and then the sharp, cold crunch of the salad. Therefore, your palate is perfectly prepared for the heavier dishes to come.
The Signature Main Course: The Legendary Miso-Marinated Black Cod
The Jasmine Tea Smoked Wagyu Beef Ribs is the epitome of Hakkasan’s culinary expertise. As the waiter removes the cloche, a gentle puff of fragrant smoke wafts out, releasing the fragrance of expensive tea. The dish is understated but powerful, with the dark, glazed ribs delicately placed on the plate. The first bite is a revelation, with a texture so tender it is almost like a confit. The beef is slow-cooked for hours before being smoked to give it deep, woody flavors. The outside is thin and caramelized, adding a hint of sweetness to balance out the richness of the meat. This is not just a piece of steak; it is a combination of smoke, salt, and fat. The jasmine tea lingers at the back of the tongue, giving it a clean finish for this indulgent bite. It is one of the most ordered and photographed dishes in the city for a reason.
The Elite Tip
When you order the beef, you should ask about the source of the Wagyu Grade 9+. They use a honey glaze made from the beehives on the Emirates Palace premises, which adds a sense of place to the international flavors.
The Sweet Ending: A Masterclass In Sculptural Patisserie
The dessert menu does not feature sugar rushes but rather technically brilliant dishes like the “Spiky Lemon.” This is a visually stunning dish, more like something you might expect to find in a modern art gallery than a traditional dessert. It consists of a brightly colored lemon curd center surrounded by a light, zesty mousse. The spikes are actually tiny peaks of yuzu-flavored meringue, which are piped onto the dish for a sharp look. It is a sophisticated combination of flavors, both tart and creamy, which helps cleanse the palate of a heavy meal. You can expect different textures of citrus, from dried zest to fluid gels, to be hidden away within it. It is a dessert that demands great patience and a steady hand from the kitchen staff, ensuring that the meal is ended on a high note of culinary skill rather than just sweetness.
The Beverage Program: Sophisticated Mixology Beyond The Flavors
The beverage menu at Hakkasan is just as thought out and complex as the food menu. The mixologists at Hakkasan take the non-alcoholic beverages, called “Orchard Spritzes,” just as seriously as their vintage spirits. They offer house-infused flavors of ginger, lemongrass, and lychee to craft a complex taste profile. One example is the Green Destiny, which includes cucumber and lime with a hint of elderflower for a nice botanical taste. The drinks are specifically crafted to complement the bold and spicy flavors found in Cantonese cuisine. This gives the patrons an option to forgo the alcohol without losing the cocktail experience. Each cocktail is served in high-end glasses with hand-cut ice and garnishes. This gives the patrons a sense of belonging to the high-energy bar scene.
Service & Hospitality
The Experience: A perfect Balance of Casual-Chic and Professionalism
Service in Hakkasan Abu Dhabi is delivered with a level of accuracy and precision that rivals the high-stakes environment of the Emirates Palace. This service can be classified as a ‘white-glove’ service, but with a contemporary ‘casual chic’ flair. Observe how the staff navigate the complex maze of wooden screens with a level of choreographed elegance. They are always present, never intrusive on your private conversation. This is a hard act to pull off, and the staff here does a great job of reading the room. Are you on a romantic evening out? They are respectful and discreet. Are you on a high-energy business dinner? They adapt to your pace with equal efficiency. Every interaction starts with a warm, professional greeting that makes you feel like a valued regular. They take great pride in the Michelin-starred accolades of the restaurant, and this shines through in the meticulous service they deliver. From the immaculately crumbed table to the synchronized placement of plates, the service is flawless.
Knowledge: Expert Guidance and Impeccable Culinary Pacing
They have a comprehensive and encyclopedic knowledge of the vast array of Cantonese cuisine offered on the menu. They do not merely inform you of the ingredients; instead, the history and “wok hei” method are explained for each signature dish. When you ask for a recommendation, the servers thoughtfully offer their suggestions according to your personal taste buds. They can expertly guide you through the complex drink menu to procure the perfect drink to accompany the spicy or delicate dishes. Moreover, the timing of the meal is meticulously managed. The servers and the kitchen staff constantly communicate to ensure a logical flow of the meal. You do not feel rushed to finish a course, nor do you feel you are waiting too long between the appetizers and the main course. This “Goldilocks” timing allows you to indulge in the complexity of the flavors without losing the flow of the meal. This is the kind of professional consistency that the Hakkasan brand has established worldwide.
Know Before You Go
Dress Code: The Dress Code: Effortless Elegance and Urban Chic
The dress code of Hakkasan Abu Dhabi is Smart Chic. The location of this outlet is at the most regal hotel in the world. Hence, the dress code is of a high standard. You should wear classy evening wear or business casual wear. The dress code for men includes formal trousers, collared shirts, and formal shoes. Women should wear formal dresses or stylish jumpsuits and heels. In addition, the outlet prohibits swimwear, gym wear, and flip-flops. Even on Saturdays, during Dim Sum Lunch, the “dress to impress” attitude is seen at Hakkasan. Wearing your best dress is a must to mingle with the high-fashion crowd of the “blue room” and the palace.
Best Time to Visit: The Timing: Catching the Golden Hour and the Evening Buzz
However, the absolute best time to visit would be around 30 minutes before sunset. This would enable you to witness the change from day to night for the Emirates Palace. By arriving early, you can sit on the perimeter sofa outside the venue. This will enable you to witness the sky change from gold to indigo over the Arabian Gulf. At the same time, the palace lights will start to switch on, creating a mystical atmosphere over the gardens. This will enable you to have a pre-dinner cocktail while basking in the views of the Abu Dhabi skyline from the most photogenic spot. This would also enable you to have a relaxed start to your meal before the main dinner rush starts at 8:30 PM.
Reservations: The Reservations: Why Planning Ahead is the Ultimate Pro-Move
It is highly recommended to make a reservation, especially if you are planning to dine here on weekends or during special events. The restaurant is a prime dining destination for tourists and locals alike. Hence, it is advisable to book a table at least a week in advance if you plan to dine here on a popular Saturday Dim Sum Lunch. Thursdays are also peak hours at this establishment, as it is a popular night out at the lounge and bar areas, thanks to the thriving nightlife. If you want a “cage” table or a prime spot on the terrace, it is best to request this when making a reservation. The staff here will do their best to accommodate your request, but it is best to plan ahead if you want a prime spot. You can book a table through their official website or the Mandarin Oriental concierge.
Final Thoughts & Rating
The Final Score
Hakkasan Abu Dhabi deserves a full 9.5/10 score. It is one of the last truly global brands that lives up to the enormous hype surrounding it year after year. The kitchen produces technical perfection in Cantonese cuisine with a consistency that is hard to find in the high-end luxury segment. Moreover, the architectural splendor of the Emirates Palace adds an extra dimension to the entire dining experience. You do not just pay for a meal; you invest in an environment of ultimate exclusiveness. The only point for improvement would be the price point, which puts this firmly into the “special occasion” category. However, the quality of the ingredients and the impeccable service justify every single dirham spent. It is a masterclass in the execution of fine dining in a royal palace.
Who is it for?
This location is ideal for individuals who are as interested in moody decor and high-fashion flair as they are in complex culinary flavor profiles. This location represents the ‘pinnacle’ of Abu Dhabi’s luxury lifestyle for the traveler, and as a result, this is your primary destination for luxury dining and relaxation. This location represents the ideal environment for a romantic anniversary, where privacy and dim lighting are key components for a memorable evening out. This location also represents a key destination for business professionals looking for a way to impress business partners with a globally recognized brand and service standards that are second to none. This location represents a key destination for foodies who are as interested in the technical ‘wok hei’ as they are in the Michelin-starred standards represented within every dim sum basket, regardless of whether you are a resident or a first-time visitor.
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Have you dined at Hakkasan Abu Dhabi yet? We would love to hear from you! Share your experience in the heart of the palace! Tell us your favorite dish from the menu. Was it the signature Peking Duck or the Jasmine Tea Smoked Ribs?
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