By Shahana Noor
The Quick Overview
The LPM Abu Dhabi unifies an architectural style reminiscent of the Riviera and Mediterranean delicacies all in one establishment. It is located at the very heart of Al Maryah Island, and is a definite destination for food enthusiasts and business travelers looking for quality food.
- Price Level: Luxury / Ultra-Luxury
- Recommended Dish: Burrata et Tomatoes or the celebrated Vanilla Cheesecake
- Ideal For: Business Luncheon, La Vie en Rosé Brunch on Sundays, or Couples’ Anniversary
- Location: Level L1, B Section, The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE.
The Concept & First Impressions
The Arrival: A Gateway to the Riviera
Entering LPM Abu Dhabi is like moving from the blazing sun rays of the desert into the light and warm breeze of the French Riviera. Its entry point, situated within the luxurious premises of The Galleria, becomes a passage into the French Riviera. On entering the restaurant, you immediately feel the lively energy emanating from the long bar packed with excited people clinking their glasses. Apart from the energy at LPM Abu Dhabi, the air is laden with the smell of freshly squeezed orange juice and bread, assuring you of a sumptuous dinner. One aspect which cannot be forgotten when talking about LPM Abu Dhabi is its warmth and hospitality. Every visitor entering the restaurant gets to feel the genuine friendliness of the welcoming staff of the restaurant. The decoration style of the restaurant can be described as being classic yet stylish. Apart from the elegant touch provided by the white table clothes and cutlery, bright colored paintings displayed throughout the place contribute towards creating a lively atmosphere. Should you choose to have your dinner in the terrace area, you will be able to take in the beautiful scenery of the vegetation around you, which consists of bougainvillea and olive trees. You will be able to see firsthand where the blue waves of the Arabian Gulf meet the glass towers of the skyline.
The Reputation: The Global Standard for Dining Experiences
Even though LPM may seem like an indigenous brand in the UAE, it is actually a premium global brand that was founded in London, in the area of Mayfair. Initially, the concept of this restaurant was inspired by the iconic “La Petite Maison” restaurant in Nice, France that specialized in Provencal cuisine and its simplistic elegance. Throughout its global development, the brand continued to uphold an unparalleled standard for the quality of their services. Moreover, LPM does not adapt to market tendencies. Instead, it dictates the trends when it comes to the French-Mediterranean dining experience. The restaurant has successfully applied its unique concept to fit Abu Dhabi. That is why, LPM occupies one of the leading positions in the “Middle East & North Africa’s 50 Best Restaurants” ranking annually.
The Hook: The Ritual of the Table
What sets LPM apart from the myriad luxury restaurants dotting the city landscape is the restaurant’s signature “Interactive Still Life” table setup. While most luxury dining establishments place the finished product on the table, at LPM, the Mediterranean ingredients themselves are served right before the diner’s eyes. Every table will have a wooden board complete with a freshly sliced lemon that has been cut perfectly, fresh vine tomatoes, and a knife. This is meant to motivate guests to participate in their own appetizer ritual by slicing the fruits and vegetables, and dressing them up with olive oil and sea salt. This is a testament to the quality of the produce they offer; indeed, this simple gesture says it all about the purity of the ingredients.
The Setting: Interior Design & View
The Decor: A Blend of Artistic Elegance and Mediterranean Glow
In this manner, the interiors of LPM Abu Dhabi serve as an elegant canvas where old French style meets with a contemporary touch. The designers opted for the colors of creamy off-white and beige shades to achieve a spacious and vibrant effect in the main dining room. Please pay attention that there is the flooring of warm, parquet wood to add some classical European luxury to this place. Additionally, you will see the tables covered by white fabrics in order to get the visual contrast with numerous colorful and eclectic paintings hanging on the walls. This is something specific for LPM as their artworks always look bold and unique without being too formal. The lights serve as an instrument for transformation of the bistro into a cozy lounge during nighttime hours. During the day, thanks to its big windows, the restaurant receives plenty of light that not only illuminates the interior but makes the silver cutlery and crystal wine glasses shine. At night, the lighting gets dimmed and turns golden, which gives the leather banquettes a romantic aura. Dimmed light spots focus attention on both the artwork and center of each table, creating the feeling of a personal space even amid the hubbub of an overcrowded environment. Such a step guarantees the equal suitability of the restaurant for either a strong corporate lunch or merry midnight dinner party.
“The Abu Dhabi Factor”: Waterfront Elegance
Dubai’s trademark might be its tall skyscrapers, but what sets the “Abu Dhabi Factor” of LPM apart is its elegance in waterfront dining. The restaurant sits right on the edge of Al Maryah Island, offering diners stunning views of the turquoise blue of the canal. Rather than feeling the hectic bustle of a city street, diners get to take in the scenery of the Maryah island promenade, as well as the skyline of the city itself. On bright days, the glinting glass windows of the nearby Financial District reflect the water, lending the view an urban yet calm quality.
Seating Options: Between the Vibrant Lounge and the Botanical Terrace
Deciding on which seating option you would prefer at LPM means selecting between two different atmospheres in particular when it comes to the preferred season – the UAE’s much-desired winter season. At that time of year, one may choose to dine indoors within the luxurious dining hall and lounge which feature a lively and vibrant environment, with you right in the middle of all the excitement. Listen to the shakings of cocktails from the bar and the chatter among Dubai’s social elites. The indoor booths are made of the finest quality of leather and fabrics for your comfort while observing the perfect coordination of the servers. But the outdoor terrace has no equal at all as soon as the temperature plummets. The entire space becomes a botanical garden which reminds one of a private terrace in Saint-Tropez. Olive trees potted and pink bougainvillea bushes form partitions between individual tables giving everyone their space and the fresh air they can breathe. The furniture is wrought iron and there are soft cushions on it making it look like a Mediterranean seaside café. Since the outdoor terrace is above the sea water, its occupants feel a cool sea breeze making outdoor eating possible throughout the majority of the year. If you feel like staying indoors to feel the artistic atmosphere or out in the garden, this place has something for everyone.
The Culinary Journey: A Deep Dive
Philosophy: Provencal Simplicity and Seasonal Authenticity
The philosophy behind the preparation of food at LPM is largely influenced by the culture of Nice and the coastal regions surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. The philosophy steers clear of the artificial nature of molecular gastronomy but embraces the beauty inherent in the ingredients. There are immense respect and appreciation for the ingredients by the chefs, and there is always an emphasis on maintaining their integrity in each and every dish served at LPM. At its core, the philosophy is built around the notion of cuisine du marché, meaning that there is a lot of flexibility and adaptability in the use of ingredients in order to capture whatever is in season. The preference for bright and sunny flavors keeps the chefs from using heavy, creamy sauces or reduction methods.
The Starters: Contrasting Flavors and Textures
The first dish comes in the form of the Burrata et Tomatoes. This starter serves up a great example of the perfect balance in textures. The shell of the burrata is firm when touched, but softens immediately as one bite into its creamy interior which then melts and covers your palate. The tomatoes come off quite sharply, offering acidity that refreshes and clears the mouth. The dish is also carefully balanced from a temperature point of view – while the cheese is quite cold and refreshing, the tomatoes are sweet and room temperature. On the other end of the spectrum are the Escargots de Bourgogne. The snails in their delicious buttery garlic sauce are quite hot when brought to the table. The texture of the escargots is tender and chewy at the same time – the complete opposite of what one finds in the burrata which is smooth and soft in its texture. The dish is quite grounding and earthy in comparison to the light and refreshing burrata.
Signature Main Course: The Vivienne Lamb Cutlets
Côtelettes d’Agneau “Vivienne” is an epitome of the culinary artistry of the LPM menu. At first glance, its simplicity of presentation is all about the bright hue of well-done meat and black and richly colored eggplant caviar. The scent will take your breath away, and it will be a combination of smoky aromas of grilled charcoal, roast garlic and thyme – it tells you how perfect the grill skills of the chef are. With the first taste of the lamb, you will realize why it deserves to be called a masterpiece of culinary art. This meat is perfectly pink and tender and easy to cut with your knife, and it offers a distinct flavor of savory minerals that is superbly matched by the sweet taste of eggplant. Tangy olives complete the picture with their distinctive zest and make this a balanced flavor performance, where each ingredient plays its own unique role.
The Tip: The Quality of the Source
To grasp the harmony of the flavors, one needs to consider the quality of the kitchen’s source. As an example, the establishment employs extra virgin olive oil that comes from premium groves located in the South of France. It is not just a dressing for the food, but rather one of the foundational elements of its flavor profile. In addition, the kitchen is also very careful when choosing the protein sources, always making sure that products like the Grade 7 Australian Wagyu are perfectly aged before being cooked on the grill.
The Sweet Ending: A Lesson on Texture
While most eateries rely on the excessive use of sugar in their desserts, the Vanilla Cheesecake at LPM manages to strike technical equilibrium. This is because it eschews the dense and heavy consistency that most desserts have. In its place, it has a fluffy and melt-in-your-mouth consistency, as if the dessert were clouds that float in your mouth when you take a bite. It also has a very thin layer of crispy and buttery crust that provides the needed crunchy consistency. Usually, a light and slightly sour compote made from berries comes alongside this dessert to provide that sharp flavor needed by the palate.
Beverage Program: The Art of Non-Alcoholic Mixology
Regarding the beverage menu of LPM, it is essential to highlight that non-alcoholic beverages are given the same degree of attention and creativity as classic cocktails. In fact, the mixologists are devoted to their “mocktails” and ensure that the preparation of these cocktails is accompanied by the use of home-made shrubs, herbs, and bitters. In simple words, you may treat yourself to a drink made from fresh cucumbers, elderflower, and spicy ginger beer for a unique taste experience. Additionally, the floral side of your cocktail may become the main focus since you may have a cocktail with a perfect mixture of lavender syrup and lemon juice. Finally, one should note that the beverages match the salinity of Mediterranean cuisine perfectly.
Service & Hospitality
The Experience: Smooth “Casual-Chic” Hospitality
Unlike other places in Abu Dhabi where hospitality is characterized by stiff protocol and formality, LPM is a breath of fresh air in its own right. In other words, the service at LPM is “casual-chic.” While being extremely professional in their operations, the employees have a friendly and informal manner of engaging customers. Notably, one will observe that the servers are well coordinated and move around the dining room in a manner that implies that they possess white-glove etiquette training. However, when communicating with the clients, they employ a warm and personal attitude. For instance, unlike in other establishments where the servers stand a considerable distance from the clients, those at LPM do not hesitate to converse with them, thus transforming the elegant ambiance to that of a casual neighborhood eatery.
Knowledge and Timing: A Thoughtfully Selected Flow of Foods
The extent of the staff’s knowledge of the menu is absolutely amazing and very necessary for such a project based on the idea of food sharing. In fact, once you sit at the table, the server will introduce you to the “Niçoise” concept and explain what foods go well with each other. They won’t simply give you information regarding the ingredients but will also provide details on the taste characteristics and even suggest the optimal way in which the foods should be consumed. In case you aren’t sure what should go with what, the restaurant staff will make you feel like a pro and give you their recommendations according to your preferences and not just recommend the costliest options. This is something that luxury restaurants usually find very hard to get right, but LPM excels in managing what I would call “the Mediterranean flow.” At the end of the day, Abu Dhabi’s customers tend to mix up business and leisure; LPM gets the timing of the service spot on. Your appetizers will not arrive before you have had the pleasure of cutting your own tomatoes and lemons in front of you at the table. After that, you will receive your main courses just as soon as the appetizers have been taken off the table. So, you do not have to worry about either eating too quickly or spending too much time wondering where your next dish is going to come from. All of this makes it easy to keep the conversation going during your lunch hour.
Know Before You Go
The Dress Code: “Smart Casual” and “Chic”
The environment at LPM Abu Dhabi is quite smart due to the sophistication of the establishment which has its origins from Europe. Your choice of attire must reflect this elegance by opting for an appearance of either “smart casual” or “chic”. The best attire for men will be either tailored trousers or chinos of premium quality along with a sharp shirt or polo. Although sneakers will do, it is advisable that they are paired with loafers and formal shoes. For ladies, you may choose to wear some beautiful sundresses, or even separate clothes like blouses along with skirts. However, one thing must always be kept in mind – LPM is a fine dining restaurant, and therefore any form of swimwear or sportswear or even rubber slippers would not be considered appropriate. This, however, does not mean that the ambience is not vibrant enough; rather, on the contrary, it adds charm to your overall experience of visiting the restaurant.
When to Go: Chasing the Golden Hour
Time becomes an important aspect to consider if you wish to feel the magic that the waterfront location offers. One should try to get there no less than 30 to 45 minutes before the sunset, especially in case you plan on having some drinks before dinner. During that time period, you will be able to catch the “Golden Hour” when light hits the waters of the Al Maryah canal and turns the city skyline into something spectacular. Seeing how the ambiance changes from one of a brightly lit lunch spot to that of a more subdued and golden one is part of the magic of the experience. Those who like an energetic vibe will definitely enjoy the late evening times on Thursdays and Fridays. If you would rather have some tranquility, sunny weather and a Mediterranean ambiance, then the Sunday “La Vie en Rosé” brunch will be your best bet. Weekday lunches can also be recommended if you are coming with colleagues. No matter what day you choose, by arriving early, you will be able to appreciate the artistic touches of the interior before it fills up completely.
Reservations: How to Prepare Your Visit
Given the fact that it is one of the favorite places to eat in the capital city, the reservation is obligatory. You will have to book your place at the table not less than several days before your visit; especially if you wish to enjoy your weekend dinner or Sunday brunch. This establishment has a rather sophisticated system of reservations, but the places, which are always in high demand, such as perimeter sofas on the terrace, are usually booked very soon. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you specify your preferred type of seating while making a reservation; although, as usual, they cannot promise you any specific table. As regards your mid-week visit, you can choose a particular time without being limited; however, do not forget about the “Petit Menu” lunch menu, which is regularly in great demand. If you are planning to visit this amazing place for some anniversary or celebration, let them know about this fact beforehand in order to provide a better service. Although the bar area accepts walk-ins, this place can be visited with a prior reservation only, which guarantees you will not miss anything in this unique cuisine.
Final Thoughts & Rating
Final Rating: 9.5/10
LPM Abu Dhabi gets a very close to perfect score due to its outstanding capacity to provide consistency within the restaurant business, which is extremely inconsistent by its nature. This establishment manages to combine extremely high standards of food quality with an intense environment, which is hard to achieve for any other place. The focus on Niçoise simplicity does not come across as marketing but is clearly evident in every single dish served at the place, whether it is seasoned tomatoes or lamb cutlets. Although the menu is rather expensive due to its luxurious character, the real value of LPM comes in its excellent service and use of fresh products.
For Whom Is It?
This place is ideal for the “sophisticated socialite” who appreciates artistic beauty just as much as food culture. For the individual who enjoys a dining room filled with lively sounds of chinking glasses and conversations, LPM is an excellent choice. It is a perfect dining venue for businesspeople entertaining clients in a place that gives a sense of power but comfort. Furthermore, this dining establishment acts as a perfect spot for couples marking an important milestone but who do not want a stiff dinner date experience offered by other restaurants that are considered as having “white-glove” services. In essence, if one admires a fresh lemon, artistic pieces, and waterfront views, LPM is the right place in the capital city.
Call to Action: Speak Up and Be Heard
LPM Abu Dhabi isn’t simply a place where one goes for a meal; it’s an overall experience, an experience that will last long after the last bite of cheesecake has been taken. Its combination of flavor and luxury make it a truly unique gem amongst The Galleria’s offerings. Have you been to LPM Abu Dhabi yet? Leave a comment down below about your favorite dish or what you enjoyed most about their terrace view!