By Waqar Abdullah
The Quick Overview
In the ‘The Elite Food Restaurants’ world, ‘The Relax@12’ is one of the most amazing experiences in the world in terms of dining, luxury, ambiance, and the food served.
‘The Relax@12’ is a restaurant that serves Pan-Asian sushi and tapas while offering panoramic views of the city. Situated in the heart of the ADNEC district, ‘The Relax@12’ is a must-visit for the ‘socialites,’ ‘businessmen,’ and ‘night-owls’ in the city.
- Price Point: Medium-High (AED 250–350 for two)
- Must-Order Dish: Chinese Duck Crepes or the Fresh Flavours Sushi Platter
- Best For: Ladies’ Night, Post-Exhibition Drinks, or Late-Night Socializing
- Address: Aloft Abu Dhabi Hotel, Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street, ADNEC Area, 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
Your journey starts at the sleek and contemporary Aloft Abu Dhabi, which is located in the heart of the capital’s exhibition district. Once you get into the elevator and reach the 12th floor, the doors open into a new world of contemporary luxury. The first impression is of open-plan luxury with the chic lounge area indoors and the expansive outdoor area. The purple and blue lighting gives the ambiance of a relaxed and luxurious feel as you walk towards the glass balcony. The first thing that grabs your attention is the breathtaking 180-degree view of the Abu Dhabi skyline and the mangroves.
The Reputation: A Homegrown Success Story That Conquered the World
Relax @ 12 is an established homegrown brand within the social scene in Abu Dhabi. Although part of the international hotel brand Aloft, this lounge has carved out its own legacy over the years. It has become synonymous with the term “after work” and is known as the place to be seen in the evening among the professional crowd in the city. It is recognized as a staple in the city for its quality and vibrant ambiance. The venue offers the perfect blend between an easy-going sunset lounge and an electric nightspot.
The Hook: The Dual-Terrace Perspective of a Shimmering Metropolis
The real attraction of Relax@12 lies in its unbeatable 180-degree view, accompanied by its “seductive” sushi menu. Unlike most bars within an enclosed space, this one boasts a true sense of height and openness above the ADNEC district. You can indulge in expertly rolled maki and sushi-grade sashimi while gazing down at the twinkling city lights. This particular type of high-end Japanese fusion with an open-air rooftop view makes it a great choice for anyone visiting the capital.
The Setting: Interior Design & View
The Decor: A Masterclass In Modern Glamour and Metallic Accents
Interior design-wise, the design of the interior in Relax@12 is modern and incorporates a high contrast design that is considered sophisticated and energetic. For instance, you will notice the dark finish on the interior surfaces accompanied by metallic finishes and glass partitions. In addition, the lounge area is comfortable and spacious to facilitate social interactions. Lastly, the lighting design is critical in setting the mood for the entire experience. During the sunset period, the lounge is filled with natural lighting reflecting off the glass. In the evening, the lounge is set with deep purple and neon blue ambient LEDs to set the mood for a ‘club lounge’ that is considered exclusive.
The Abu Dhabi Factor: A 360-Degree Visual Feast of the City
While many popular spots offer the view of the Burj Khalifa, Relax @ 12 offers a breathtaking view of the Abu Dhabi skyline. From the 12th floor, you get an uninterrupted view of the iconic Capital Gate structure, known for its record-breaking lean. Moving away from the man-made wonders, you can see the serene Arabian Gulf in the distance, along with the lush green mangroves of the capital city. This view is sure to offer you a peaceful atmosphere that is not easily found in the heart of the city.
The Seating: Seamlessly Blending Indoor Comfort with Al Fresco Luxury
The venue offers patrons a strategic option between two different environments: the lounge inside and the outdoor terrace. The inside lounge is air-conditioned with a large bar in the center of the room where the action is concentrated. However, the outdoor section is the “jewel” of the place, especially during the winter season. This outdoor section allows patrons to feel the breeze while leaning against the glass rail balconies. You can choose to sit high to grab a quick drink or low to dine. Both sections offer patrons an unobstructed view of the city lights.
The Culinary Journey: A Deep Dive
Embark on a Refined Gastronomic Odyssey Above the Clouds
The Philosophy: French Precision Meets Asian Finesse
The culinary essence of Relax@12 is infused with the philosophy of “Refined Pan-Asian Fusion,” emphasizing bold and clean flavors, as well as the quality of presentation. Rather than emphasizing rich and traditional dishes, the Chef has taken the approach of “Social Dining.” This concept is all about trying various small dishes and sharing the different textures and flavors with the people at the table. Freshness is the main mandate, particularly for the seafood and sushi items. By using a combination of Japanese techniques and global ingredients, the dishes are light enough for a lounge setting and rich enough for a fine dining connoisseur.
The Starters: A Playful Dance of Texture and Temperatures
To begin our gastronomic journey, the Crispy Ginger and Salt Squid Fritters is a masterclass in textural contrasts. The outside shatters satisfyingly, giving way to a steaming hot, tender inside. This is beautifully balanced by the second dish, the Signature Sashimi Platter. The precise cut of the cold, buttery salmon and tuna is silky smooth, providing a refreshing contrast. While the squid is full of salty, aromatic ginger flavors, the sashimi is a celebration of the untainted flavor of the sea. The two appetizers showcase a dance of contrasts, hot and cold.
The Signature Main Course: The Legendary Miso-Marinated Black Cod
The real showstopper is the Seared Wagyu Beef Sliders with Truffle Glaze, a dish that draws the eye as soon as it comes out of the kitchen. The scent of black truffles, pungent and earthy, wafts across the table as the server approaches, complemented by the savory smell of high-grade, seared beef. Each of these sliders is a feast for the eyes, with a shiny brioche bun that is toasted to a perfect golden brown.
But as soon as that first bite is taken, it is clear that this is a dish of many parts, all of which work together in perfect harmony. The Wagyu beef, famous for its marbling, simply dissolves in the mouth, its juices bursting with a rich, savory flavor. The truffle glaze is like a fine silk, adding a richness to the dish without ever overpowering the sweetness of the beef. But perhaps the most surprising contrast is provided by a slice of pickled radish hidden inside, its tangy crunch a perfect counterpoint to the richness of the beef.
The Elite Tip
If you’re looking to experience the ultimate in authentic cuisine, it is worth noting that the Wagyu Grade 5 that is used in their premium offerings is top-notch. Also, the kitchen uses real Yuzu, imported from Japan, to give that signature citrus taste in their signature sauces. This is not your run-of-the-mill lounge menu by any means, but rather an elite gastronomic experience.
The Sweet Ending: A Masterclass In Sculptural Patisserie
The dessert menu includes the Mochi Ice Cream Medley, which is technically impressive due to the delicacy of the creation. This is not just a scoop of ice cream; rather, it is an exercise in temperature and elasticity. Each rice cake is stretched to the point where it is almost as thin as paper, enveloping a rich and intense gelato. The combination of the chewy, room-temperature rice cake and the cold, creamy ice cream is a unique experience. It is a light and refreshing dessert that cleanses the palate after the rich dishes of the main courses.
The Beverage Program: Sophisticated Mixology Beyond The Flavors
Besides the extensive variety of spirits, another notable feature of Relax@12 is its non-alcoholic beverages. The mixologists take their “Mocktails” as seriously as their alcoholic counterparts. One of their popular mocktails is the “Oriental Sparkle,” made with fresh passion fruit, muddled mint leaves, and a homemade lemongrass syrup. The emphasis is on flavors, not sweet fizzy drinks. The mocktails are as sophisticated as any cocktail, looking as good as they taste.
Service & Hospitality
The Experience: A perfect Balance of Casual-Chic and Professionalism
The service at Relax@12 can best be characterized as “casual-chic” friendly, and the staff here has managed to strike the perfect balance between professional service and the laid-back atmosphere that the rooftop offers. Although the atmosphere itself is quite upscale, the service staff here has managed to break away from the rather rigid formality that is often associated with the traditional fine dining environment. Instead, you get a rather welcoming attitude that matches the change from the sun-watching haven that the lounge transforms into after dark. You will find that the staff here is attentive without being too overbearing, so that your drink is always full but you are not made to feel like you are being rushed. In an environment where the standard of service is already so high, the staff here excels at making you feel like a “regular” from the very first time you set foot here.
Knowledge: Expert Guidance and Impeccable Culinary Pacing
The staff clearly knows the Pan-Asian menu well, providing recommendations based on your preferred flavor. If you ask the servers about the sushi dishes, they are able to explain the texture of the fish and the source of the ingredients without hesitation. Another notable aspect is the timing of the meal. The appetizers are served promptly after ordering, followed by a suitable break that allows you to take in the surroundings before the main courses are served. The meal is not rushed, including the transition from the meal service to the DJ sets. The timing ensures that the culinary experience is the focal point of your evening.
Final Thoughts & Rating
The Final Score
Relax@12 earns a solid 9.2/10. It masters the delicate balance between a high-energy nightlife venue and a serious culinary destination, though the view alone is worth the visit.
Who is it for?
This rooftop lounge is perfect for those who value breathtaking aesthetics and a vibrant social scene as much as they value high-quality, fresh fusion cuisine.
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Have you dined at Relax@12 yet? Drop a comment below with your favorite dish or tell us what you think of that iconic skyline view!
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