By Shahana Noor
The Quick Overview
99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant is a place where you can enjoy Michelin-standard cuisine, coupled with beautiful water views. Situated right on the center of Al Maryah Island, it’s an absolute spot for those who are fond of gourmet dishes and romance.
- Price Point: Ultra-Luxe
- Dish Not to Miss: Tiger Prawn Tempura with Spicy Creamy Sauce or 99 Black Cod
- Good For: Date Night, Business Meal, or Any Special Occasion
- Location: Four Seasons Hotel, The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE
The Concept & First Impressions
The Arrival: Paving the Way to Exclusivity
As soon as one steps inside 99 Sushi Bar on Al Maryah Island, the sense of entering an exclusive haven of luxuriousness emerges immediately. First of all, the visitor starts moving along the stylish corridors of The Galleria and reaches an entrance which is at the same time subtle and impressive. Then, the mood lighting creates an intimate ambiance around him. Indeed, the predominant material used in the decoration of the venue is velvet while dark woods complement it. As opposed to city malls, which are often very loud and ostentatious, this establishment opts for subtlety and elegant simplicity. Finally, large windows open up onto the glittering waters of the Arabian Gulf. In summary, it is evident that the transformation of the hotel lobby to the restaurant area was thought out. Another unique experience begins with the terrace, where you can feel different, yet equally captivating, impressions. With the breeze blowing through the terrace and the majestic view of Abu Dhabi cityscape, you have all reasons to relish the evening dinner here. The restaurant layout allows you to enjoy a private environment since there will be no nearby tables disturbing you. Furniture pieces here seem to be massive and high quality. In addition, the service is provided with military precision, and the air is permeated with the fragrance of high-quality incense. All those elements create an ambiance for a culinary performance.
The Reputation: From Madrid to the Middle East
99 Sushi Bar is an internationally reputable export, born in Spain before taking the UAE by storm. The concept was created in Madrid, where the de la Rica brothers revolutionized the fusion of the Mediterranean and Japanese cultures. The establishment came to Abu Dhabi with an already huge reputation regarding the highest level of quality and skills. The importance of this history is essential, as it allows one to understand the special character of a European touch in a Japanese concept. Despite many restaurants having difficulties transferring their fame from one country to another, this particular place successfully remained faithful to itself. Finally, it gained the prestigious title of Michelin-star, becoming the authority in this sphere. Hence, the patrons do not simply visit the place for some sushi; they come for an international standard of excellence. The move to expand into the Middle East is an adventurous one that proved to be highly profitable. The group maintained their approach in the new territory by adopting the “99” approach where only the best quality ingredients are used in preparation. This global background lends the restaurant a sense of reliability which the local restaurants aim to have. One will note that the Spanish touch is seen through the innovative ways of using olive oils and salt. In addition, the brand has been able to maintain its boutique nature in spite of its global presence.
The Hook: The Gold Standard of Atlantic Bluefin
What sets this restaurant apart from the myriad others found all around the city is the fact that this venue worships the Atlantic Bluefin Tuna, which is the secret of their success. Instead of serving any old fish, they make sure that their “Thunnus Thynnus” has been fished sustainably from the coast of Spain. This makes the flavor of their tuna exceptionally rich and buttery. You are not having an average fish, but you are getting to experience the absolute best of what marine delicacies can offer. The “hook” doesn’t only come from the ingredient but also from its preparation. The fat tuna (Otoro), for example, is so precisely prepared that when you take a bite of it, it literally melts in your mouth. The reason why most restaurants cannot offer the same experience is that they don’t have access to Spain’s premium fisheries in the same way that our restaurant does. Moreover, the staff is so trained in handling premium ingredients, which makes them treat those products with great respect. The focus on just one ingredient and the hard work that comes with it make the diners feel trusted. They know that if we can do this well to one ingredient, then we can surely do everything else even better.
The Setting: Interior Design & View
The Decor: Class in the Dark
The decoration inside 99 Sushi Bar has the style of a dark and masculine approach that focuses on high-quality materials. Black and gold colors create an exclusive feeling. The interior walls are textured, which means that they catch the amber light, which is another important part of this design technique, as it helps to create the necessary atmosphere. The spotlights are placed so that the dining tables catch enough light for the colorful sushi plates to stand out against the background of darkness. Moreover, the seats are upholstered with velvet to create the necessary soft touch, while the glossy marble catches the light from the illuminated city. Every decision made seems deliberate and helps build the “haute” image of the restaurant. For instance, the industrial elements have been refined instead of being rough, thus ensuring that the place retains its elegance. In addition, the bar section is equipped with an amazing array of top-class liquor and sake bottles within glass enclosures. The highlight of the room, therefore, makes you focus on how social the establishment is. Given that the space is acoustically treated, there is no disruptive noise coming from conversations. You will be able to have a personal chat without the people sitting at the adjacent table overhearing your discussion.
The “Abu Dhabi Factor”: Waterfront Classiness
Whereas the majority of locations in Dubai tend to highlight the Burj Khalifa, the 99 Sushi Bar in Abu Dhabi emphasizes its magnificent waterfront positioning. In particular, the dining establishment is located right next to the waterfront of Al Maryah Island, providing spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf. From inside the premises of the restaurant, the visitors can admire the reflection of the moonlight from the water through the large windows. Such a view adds relaxation to the vibrant taste of the meals served in the restaurant. The skyline of the city across the water forms an incredible skyline of the city. The atmosphere changes according to when you choose to dine here. When visiting during the sunset period, the sky becomes painted with pinks and oranges that sparkle on the reflective glass of the skyscrapers. At dusk, the lighting from the Rosewood and Four Seasons hotels becomes visible from the hotel’s promenade. The beauty of such an area adds value to the restaurant as few places offer such a prestigious setting. Such an ambience will encourage diners to stay back even after the main course. The positioning of the restaurant above makes one feel secluded from the hustle and bustle at the mall.
The Seating: Inside the Fashionable Lounge or the Outdoor Terrace
Sitting arrangements are crucial, particularly when it comes to deciding whether one wants to dine indoors or outdoors. The indoor lounge is designed with fashion in mind, providing an ideal place for those who wish to be in the same fashion-sense environment as the main dining area. It would be suitable for business lunches and dinners that require one’s undivided attention to the conversations rather than being distracted by the surroundings. On the other hand, as temperatures drop, the outdoor terrace becomes the most desirable location within the premises. The terrace lets you embrace the vibe of Al Maryah Island to its fullest potential. Outdoor heating and comfy furniture guarantee that the guests stay cozy in even the windiest weather conditions. Since the terrace looks directly at the promenade, it feels like it’s closer to the heart of the city. After spending some time in the gloomy dining room, going out on the terrace feels like a breath of fresh air. For frequent guests, it is more enjoyable to first sip on drinks on the terrace and then head indoors for dinner. In contrast, the terrace can be used for a leisurely weekend brunch with close friends.
The Culinary Journey: A Deep Dive
The Philosophy: Technique and Excellence Meet Premium Ingredients
99 Sushi Bar’s kitchen works according to the philosophy of merging the cutting-edge Spanish cooking techniques with the rich Japanese tradition. The Chef prioritizes the quality of raw ingredients above everything else. Such an attitude towards cooking can be best called “haute cuisine” since each ingredient is treated as a luxurious item. Rather than hiding the taste behind complicated sauces, the culinary professionals rely on their knowledge of modern science to accentuate the flavors. Thus, one could achieve the exact desired texture by applying certain techniques such as temperature control or aging. Since the products are sourced worldwide, the menu reflects a fusion of several cultures. As a result, every single dish must correspond to the criteria of technical excellence before it is served at the table.
Starters: A Battle of Heat and Cold
The dinner often starts off with the 99 Katsu Sando, giving diners a delightful start to their dining experience with something that warms their palate. The appetizer consists of a battered Wagyu beef fillet placed inside two slices of fluffy milk bread that have been slightly toasted. Here, diners find a juxtaposition of textures – the outside provides a crisp bite, but the meat is soft and tender to the tongue. An added element of surprise comes in the form of a spicy glaze along with mustard. On the other hand, the Capo-Miso is an amusing variation of a classic dish. The appetizer resembles cappuccino by having a creamy foam floating at its surface. Although the bottom part is served warm and rich, the foam imparts a cold sensation with each sip. Soybeans and algae give the broth its signature umami taste that stays in one’s mouth long after the soup is consumed. Consequently, shifting between the meaty sandwich and this frothy soup helps to keep your senses active. The starters illustrate the culinary expertise of the restaurant in handling the earthy and whimsical sides of Japanese cuisine.
The Signature Main Course: The 99 Black Cod
The 99 Black Cod is much more than just food, but a piece of art that brings together all the flavors the restaurant stands for. As soon as the dish comes out, you will feel a pleasant smell of caramelized miso glazing in the air. The dark black and burnt look of the fish creates a perfect impression of its smoky taste. Just one bite of the fish will be enough to enjoy its tender meatiness, which will fall apart into chunks in your mouth like butter. The difference between the sweet and crispy outer layer of the fish and juicy flesh is amazing. Red miso gives the fish an intense flavor and an extra layer of sweetness, which goes great with the natural fatness of the Alaska fish. It takes a few days to prepare this dish as it requires a special technique of marinade penetrating into the deepest parts of the fish.
The Tip: While you are looking at the menu, try to spot the A5 Grade Wagyu from Gunma Prefecture as it is the highest rating available for Japanese beef and guarantees exceptional marbling, which will provide you with a “melt-in-your-mouth” experience. Furthermore, the chefs use Spanish Saffron in their dishes to give them a distinctive floral golden color.
The Sweet Ending: Technical Proficiency with the Dessert Course
To avoid being considered “just sweet,” desserts include dishes such as Mochi Skin with Galangal and Coconut that exhibit technical proficiency through their ingredients and flavors. For example, instead of following tradition by preparing a dessert with only sweet flavors, this one challenges that concept with the use of spicy and herbal flavors. Notably, its exterior layer is hand-stretched into an extremely thin but elastic layer. On the other hand, the interior consists of cool tropical flavors from the coconut mousse along with a spicy touch from the galangal, which is similar to ginger in flavor. As a result, there is a refreshing finale that leaves the mouth fresh instead of heavy.
The Beverage Program: Artisanal Drink Creation
The non-alcoholic beverages menu at 99 Sushi Bar gets equal consideration from the mixologists like the food’s menu. The mocktails here are crafted with a complex approach that includes homemade infusion and botanical reduction techniques. The Yuzu and Lemongrass Spritz, for instance, features the combination of citrus with earthiness provided by the fresh herbs. Japanese teas are the base used in the making of some of their drinks because they give the drinks an authentic touch with natural tannins. The beverages have not been made sweeter to preserve their crispness, hence being perfect for food pairing. It is therefore evident that such a Virgin creation is equally tasteful as a normal cocktail.
Service & Hospitality
The Experience: An Example of Elegance in Formality
When it comes to the service provided at 99 Sushi Bar, one can speak about the perfection and elegance of its employees’ behavior that reaches the “white glove” level of precision. It is hard to be exceptional in such a hospitable city as Abu Dhabi; yet, this place definitely impresses people by their performance. You can notice that all the employees behave in such a way that makes one feel special from the moment of his or her arrival. There is always someone who refills your glass of water or tidies up your table. However, there is no stiffness in this approach, but only professionalism and respect for the guest. The service here works so effectively that even your requests come to mind before you formulate them.
The Knowledge: Exploratory Guidance and Timing
The entire staff has an encyclopedic knowledge of the menu, which is vital when dealing with such an intricate culinary experience. When you want to know more about a particular cut of tuna, they will provide you with details on where it comes from and how much fat it contains with no difficulty whatsoever. Essentially, you are treated more like a client to whom the culinary consultants are making recommendations. For example, they may even recommend a particular order of your dishes to ensure the progression of their flavors. In addition, timing during the entire meal is done perfectly. This means that you have time to enjoy each texture of your food without feeling rushed. You won’t be left standing between two courses, either.
Know Before You Go
Dress Code: Smart Casual and More
As you prepare yourself for dining at 99 Sushi Bar, please bear in mind that you will be dining in an atmosphere of luxury and elegance. The dress code for 99 Sushi Bar is smart casual or chic, hence ensure that you dress accordingly. In general, men will be found wearing tailored pants and shirts with a collar. Women, on the other hand, usually put on designer dresses or stylish outfits. It is absolutely essential that you do not come wearing swimsuits, sportswear, or flip-flops, as these do not fit into the dress code. Given that you will be surrounded by business tycoons and stylish locals, dressing well is essential.
Best Time to Visit: Golden Hour – Perfect Timing
In order to make the most of your time at the restaurant, it is recommended that you arrive at least half an hour before sunset. The reason being that it will give you enough time to get yourself a perimeter sofa on the terrace. If you don’t pre-order the seats, you may find it difficult to secure them due to their high demand. The process of waiting for the sun to set behind the Arabian Gulf as you indulge in your signature mocktail is one of the best moments at the restaurant. Once the sky changes from its golden color to its dark blue, the lights inside the restaurant turn to their night-time mode.
Reservation Tips: Prepare for Fame
As 99 Sushi Bar is considered one of the best places to visit, a reservation is advised. In particular, if you wish to visit this restaurant during the weekends, a reservation would be extremely important because many people consider this place a hub for social elites and celebrities. If you want to take part in the special events, such as the weekly Ladies’ Night on Thursdays and weekend brunches, you had better make your reservation several days ahead of time. It is convenient to do so either by phone or via their official website. Moreover, if you are going to celebrate your anniversary, it will be beneficial for you to write about it in the comments section of your order.
Final Thoughts & Rating
The Final Score 9.2/10
99 Sushi Bar, Abu Dhabi, deserves a perfect 9.2 out of 10 for its dedication to quality and ambience. There aren’t many places where the quality of food matches the atmosphere so brilliantly. The restaurant doesn’t depend only on its Michelin star rating, rather it strives towards living up to its reputation through every dish that it serves. Though there can be no denying that the pricing at the restaurant is high, what one pays for here is the unique quality of ingredients along with excellent services. What is being paid for here is the level of perfection that isn’t easy to achieve anywhere else in the city. The only deduction from the score is owing to the intense luxury of the ambiance, which may appear to be slightly formal for a casual outing.
Who Is It For?
This place will be perfect for the gourmet food lover, who not only appreciates taste but also pays attention to aesthetic value. If you admire the culinary skills required for a flawless slice of Bluefin tuna, then you are bound to fall in love with the place. The establishment provides an excellent atmosphere for a couple who wants to mark a special occasion, as the dim lights and waterfront surroundings will add to their romantic mood. Furthermore, the establishment makes an impressive venue for business travelers seeking to make a good impression on their clients with their refined dining experience. If you are one who loves the finer things and demands technical excellence from your kitchens, then you are in for a treat at 99 Sushi Bar.
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Have you been to 99 Sushi Bar – Abu Dhabi? Was it the Black Cod or the fabled Atlantic Bluefin that impressed you? Let me know in the comments what your favorite dish was, and don’t forget to mention whether the view from the terrace met your expectations!