By Precious
The Quick Overview
At Zuma Abu Dhabi, one can enjoy the best of both worlds—Japanese precision and the bustling atmosphere of izakayas. Situated at the center of Al Maryah Island, this restaurant is a mandatory destination for both corporate personalities and culinary lovers.
- Price Point: Ultra-Luxury
- Recommended Dish: Miso Black Cod
- Suitable For: Corporate Lunch, Weekends, or Celebrations
- Location: Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi Global Market, Abu Dhabi, UAE
The Concept & First Impressions
The Arrival
The moment when one enters Zuma in Abu Dhabi makes one feel like he or she stepped into a carefully thought-out paradise. One first has to make one’s way down inside the upscale environment of The Galleria in Al Maryah Island. Entering the dining area here is not the same as it is elsewhere. One needs to take an elegant glass elevator or stairs to access it. There is a special idea behind such architectural design. It enables one to descend into the very center of the restaurant and simultaneously enjoy magnificent views. They will definitely include the sparkling blue of the Arabian Gulf, visible from floor-to-ceiling windows. The air is filled with unique energy, including the smell of charcoal on the grill. Wood, natural stones, and granite are the main elements of the enormous underground room, giving it an industrial yet intimate feel.
The Reputation
Unlike other UAE-based businesses that have been founded locally, Zuma is an imported establishment. Its original idea comes from London, all the way back in 2002. Rainer Becker, a German chef, came up with the concept after six years spent in the Japanese capital Tokyo. He sought to take the relaxed concept of an izakaya restaurant in Japan and bring it worldwide. Since its opening at Knightsbridge, Zuma has successfully opened branches in prominent global locations such as Hong Kong, New York, and Istanbul. The Abu Dhabi branch opened its doors in 2014. Very quickly, it has gained a reputation for being among the top fine dining places within the capital. Unlike many foreign establishments, Zuma is known to deliver its trademark quality every single time, hence its excellent reputation.
The Hook: The Ritual of the Table
What makes Zuma stand out is its distinctive design featuring the “three kitchens.” While the majority of dining establishments typically feature only one concealed space from which food preparation takes place, Zuma offers the guests an opportunity to explore three unique zones. There is the main kitchen, sushi counter, and robata grill, all of which make the cooking process feel like watching a performance. Sushi chefs prepare sushi using the finest cuts of fish before diners’ eyes, while the robata grill sparks flying across the flames created by the use of binchotan charcoal in the cooking process. These factors guarantee that there is always diversity on the menu, including dishes ranging from the light sashimi to the smoky, heavy meat dishes. Very few places in Abu Dhabi offer such variety in their menu offerings combined with high-quality food preparation and presentation.
The Setting: Interior Design & View
The Decor
The inside of Zuma Abu Dhabi is the ultimate blend of organic and industrial design features. The first element to capture the eye upon entering the restaurant is the sheer grandeur of the stonework and timbers in it. Fine granite stones and hefty timber pieces set off the dining sections. The organic elements provide a feeling of permanence that is very different from the surrounding modern cityscape. Moreover, there is a bit of industrial feel created by the incorporation of steel and glass elements. This approach helps ensure that the interior is both luxurious and chic, but never looks outdated. Finally, the lighting has an important role to play in the creation of the right ambiance. During the daytime, large windows let plenty of natural light into the restaurant. However, during nighttime hours, the restaurant takes on the appearance of a dimly lit romantic lair. Spotlights accentuate the dishes and the kitchens, while the rest of the area is enveloped in shadows.
“The Abu Dhabi Factor”
Although Dubai is famous for its Burj Khalifa, Zuma Abu Dhabi does not fall behind in offering something amazing as well. Indeed, the restaurant has a magnificent location by the sea on the picturesque island of Al Maryyah. Thus, customers have an opportunity to see the stunning views of the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf. Moreover, one can observe dhows and luxurious yachts floating around the Gulf during the meal. The skyline of the city forms a beautiful background to this landscape, particularly at dusk time. This proximity to nature gives diners a chance to relax in the middle of one of the busiest capital cities in the world. Being in the Abu Dhabi Global Market area, the restaurant offers views of modern buildings as well. This combination of nature and urban development is known to many residents as the “Abu Dhabi factor”.
The Seating Options
The venue provides various seating arrangements for the discerning diners, allowing each guest to find an appropriate place according to their preferences and needs. You may opt for the main restaurant area, which will provide you with an immersive experience regarding Japanese cuisine. This space keeps you close to the activities taking place in the sushi and robata kitchens. Alternatively, if you are looking for a more comfortable dining experience, the lounge area with luxurious sofa seats might be an appropriate choice. This zone attracts many people after work hours seeking to enjoy their cocktails and appetizers. Should you prefer outdoor seating, the terrace area is especially important during the colder winter months. You have an opportunity to enjoy your meal outdoors while being in direct contact with nature, eating right at the edge of the water. This area is equipped with air conditioning, making it possible to use it even during transitional periods.
The Culinary Journey: A Deep Dive
Philosophy: Provencal Simplicity and Seasonal Authenticity
At Zuma Abu Dhabi, the concept of “disciplined innovation” prevails as opposed to following trends that can quickly disappear. Although it is derived from the izakaya Japanese restaurant concept characterized by casualness and drinking while eating, the establishment chooses to follow a different path. The uniqueness of Zuma lies in its commitment to perfection, with its cuisine featuring an amazing three-kitchen system. This way, regardless of where in the restaurant a dish comes from – whether it is from the general kitchen, the sushi section, or the robata grill – it adheres to international standards of excellence. In this restaurant, the use of molecular techniques is replaced by the natural quality of ingredients used.
The Starters: Contrasting Flavors and Textures
Often, it all starts with an interesting combination of temperatures and textures. Just take for example the dish “Sliced Yellowtail with Green Chili Relish.” The frozen and creamy texture of yellowtail immediately turns to melted butter upon entering the mouth; however, the sharpness of ponzu and pickled garlic give way to crispy and acidic flavors. Contrastingly, “Rock Shrimp Tempura” provides a warming and satisfying sensation. As one bites down into the dish, he or she experiences an immediate crumbling of the light, fried batter, only to discover hot shrimp below. A spicy mayonnaise adds a finishing touch to this unique dish.
The Signature Main Course
It should be noted that the Miso-Marinated Black Cod stands out as the highlight of Zuma. As soon as the dish appears in front of you, you will be instantly immersed in the scent of sweet soybeans and burnt cedar wood. In terms of presentation, the dish looks quite basic; a generous piece of shiny fish meat is carefully placed on a green hoba leaf. Once you try the first bite, you can feel how easily the pieces of the flesh break off into your mouth. The marinade used is usually soaked for three days, which results in a perfectly crispy crust with an intense flavor of honey and nuts. This crust is very important because it gives you the necessary “snap” before you get to the buttery texture of the Alaskan black cod.
The Tip: The Quality of the Source
For the hardcore meat lovers, try going beyond the usual choices and ask for the Wagyu Grade 9+ Sirloin. What does it mean when we say “Grade 9+”? The higher the number, the more marbled it is; thus, it would have a silken-like texture rather than ordinary beef. The meat is seared over highly flammable binchotan charcoal from Japan that emits a higher degree of heat than conventional woods. Thus, this ensures not only that the juice is locked but also adds a delicate and unique flavor of smoke that one cannot create in one’s own kitchen.
The Sweet Ending: A Lesson on Texture
Dessert, in most cases, serves as a sweet bonus at the end of the meal. But the Chocolate Caramel Fondant at Zuma Restaurant is truly something special. It comes with an extremely well-baked hard crust that keeps inside an oozy center made out of dark chocolate and salted caramel. The magic is in the combination served together: agedama (flour pearl) and vanilla bean ice cream that complement each other in perfect harmony. The softness and coldness of the latter help cut off the heat from the cake, whereas the first one provides an additional crunchy texture to the dessert.
Beverage Program: The Art of Non-Alcoholic Mixology
Zuma’s beverage menu does not take non-alcoholic mixology any less seriously than its renowned cocktails. The so-called “cleansers” are made from natural ingredients such as cold pressed juices, house cordials, and not from sugary soda. For example, the Boutoko is an excellent combination of grapefruit, passion fruit, and almond syrup. It is shaken with some cranberry juice and presented in a glassful of crushed ice. It is both sour and nutty. By adding botanical flavors and citrus zest, they create refreshing beverages to cleanse the palette after meals of wagyu beef and fatty fish.
Service & Hospitality
The Experience: Smooth Hospitality
Unlike many other places of luxury within Abu Dhabi, where the formality of a dining room may be quite intense, Zuma takes a decidedly different approach – one of calculated casual-chic. Indeed, the staff in many restaurants in Abu Dhabi often seems to strive for perfection in their formal manners. Zuma, however, is characterized by a more dynamic and synchronized manner in which the team works. Everything done by the staff in Zuma is executed almost like a dance, but at the same time, it is clear that there is no lack of professionalism in any of their movements. The waiters and waitresses work efficiently, but never forget to stop for a bit of friendly conversation when necessary. It thus makes the dining space very relaxed, yet still upscale and sophisticated. The restaurant seems equally fitting for a dinner in a tuxedo as well as a lunch in business attire. All of the needs are anticipated and served “invisibly,” with a quick change of the napkin and water glass refill.
Knowledge and Timing: A Thoughtfully Selected Flow of Foods
Employees in Zuma Abu Dhabi are closer to being gourmet guides than regular servers because the menu offered by the restaurant is extensive and based on an izakaya concept which is not very common. Thus, in-depth knowledge is crucial when it comes to having a successful meal here. In fact, most servers know exactly what kind of fish is served or from which kind of wood the robata grill was made. Additionally, they tend to make suggestions about how to enjoy a perfect “flow” of meals beginning with cold starters and ending with heavier grilled meals. Finally, the timing of food delivery is impeccable despite the big number of guests who visit the restaurant. For instance, you will see that dishes come to the table one after another in such a manner that no table gets overcrowded but you still have time to enjoy each dish. Moreover, Zuma makes sure that no client is rushed to finish his meal so that the table could be occupied by other people. At the same time, Zuma is flexible enough to provide speedy service to the clients who are in a hurry, particularly those who attend the “Ebisu” lunch business.
Know Before You Go
The Dress Code: “Smart Casual” and “Chic”
The Zuma Abu Dhabi follows a “Smart Elegant” dress code policy, which you must adhere to in order to be allowed access into the premises. Although it may be lively inside, the restaurant requires you to dress smartly. Men should wear long trousers and closed footwear in order to have a smooth entry. You must not wear swimsuits, beach attire, or sports outfits, among other things. Moreover, flip-flops, open sandals for men, and sleeveless shirts are not accepted by the restaurant. Even though tailored shorts are allowed at weekends due to the casual Brunch experience, people usually tend to dress well while dining at the restaurant in the evening. If you plan to attend the bar and lounges late in the night, dressing well can make you fit in. For the ladies, however, this means being stylish and fashionable. This could range from a midi dress, an elegant jumpsuit, or even separate clothing pieces that can go well with some heeled sandals or fancy flats. The mood is lively yet the management of the establishment tends to enforce their dress code policy strictly, making sure that the guests adhere to it upon entering the establishment to uphold its prestige. It should also be emphasized that the UAE National Dress is always appropriate within the premises.
When to Go: Chasing the Golden Hour
The choice of the right time of visiting the establishment can improve the entire experience. To catch a glimpse of the amazing view of the waterside, one should be in the restaurant 30 minutes before the setting of the sun. At this time, one is guaranteed to be seated on a perimeter sofa or by the window as the sky starts changing color. One would get to enjoy the transition of colors from turquoise to deep orange and gold. Besides, the early evening gives you an opportunity to relax without the hustle of the dinner service that starts at 8 PM. When you feel like going for a particular mood, you can always check the date and time and get your perfect experience. For instance, the Saturday “Baikingu” Brunch that starts at 12:30 is a famous social event where there is live sushi and Robata station until the end when a sake barrel-breaking ceremony takes place in honor of all guests. On the other hand, one can go to the efficient “Ebisu” Business Lunch between 12:00 to 3:00 PM on week-days. This menu is aimed at offering speed and convenience; thus, it is popular among ADGM professionals. The late-night lounging sessions every Friday and Saturday evening continue to remain irresistible, owing to the energetic presence of live DJs.
Reservations: How to Prepare Your Visit
Zuma’s tables should be booked well ahead of time as the restaurant always ends up being packed to the brim each day. This is particularly true during dinner as well as the popular Saturday brunch session. Booking for smaller parties (up to six people) can be done online through their official Seven Rooms platform. In case you have an interest in booking for larger parties (seven or more) as well as private rooms, then you need to do so by contacting the restaurant’s reservations office from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The restaurant has a very strict reservation policy. However, sushi and robata bars are not reserved in advance. In the case that you intend to visit during the weekends, it is recommended that you make a booking ahead of time by several days at least. Although the area is quite spacious, the best tables facing the sea front, along with sofas in the lounge area, tend to go fast. As such, you can be sure not to miss out on an experience like no other in the capital city.
Final Thoughts & Rating
Final Rating: 9.5/10
Zuma Abu Dhabi continues to be one of the few establishments in the city that can live up to such high standards. Having been in business for many years, Zuma continues to maintain excellence when it comes to its food offerings and service delivery. The food preparation at this restaurant can only be described as near perfection, especially the robata grill specialties. Also, the level of customer service delivered at Zuma is quite efficient and effective in handling even the most stressful dinner times without compromising on the personal touch. Although expensive, the Dubai-style glamour adapted to Abu Dhabi’s waterfront is quite impressive. Nonetheless, sometimes, the overwhelming popularity of the establishment makes it very busy. Therefore, based on its quality and architecture, I would give Zuma Abu Dhabi a rating of 9.5 out of 10.
For Whom Is It?
This is the perfect place if you love beautiful things as much as taste. Should you find yourself craving an energetic atmosphere, where music is as carefully selected as wines, then Zuma is the perfect fit. This venue makes for the ultimate destination if one needs to impress business partners in such an elegant and refined environment. What’s more, the restaurant makes the ideal backdrop when planning unique parties like anniversary dinners or celebrating birthdays. Couples will adore the romantic ambience created by dimmed lights, as well as views from the water’s edge. For large groups, the communal approach to izakaya food is ideal. And finally, if you are a fan of meticulously prepared sushi and meat on a grill, then Zuma must be your first choice in Abu Dhabi restaurants.
Call to Action: Speak Up and Be Heard
Do you have experience eating at Zuma Abu Dhabi, or does it remain on your list of places you must visit? It would be great to get your opinion on the matter. Was it the Black Cod that lingered in your dreams after leaving, or do you remember a certain sushi roll being your favorite? Comment below with your preferred dish and give us your thoughts! Also, make sure you share our guide with your favorite dining companion and plan for your next dinner date on the water.