New In Town: The Cove at West Bay Abu Dhabi

Balinese vibes on Abu Dhabi’s picturesque corniche.

Eagle-eyed residents in the capital may have noticed a slew of development taking place at the far end of Abu Dhabi’s picturesque corniche in recent weeks. After months of speculation, the Radisson Blu Abu Dhabi has revealed the latest surprise at the five-star property, and it has been well worth the wait.

The Cove at West Bay Abu Dhabi is a stunning beachfront venue that comprises a luxurious beach club, al fresco restaurant and late-night lounge rolled into one impeccable venue. Design elements are heavily inspired by Balinese boho chic, with swinging chairs, comfortable seating, billowing curtains and light fittings made from up-cycled fishing baskets. The venue is ideally situated upon a deck that stretches out over the pristine white sand, offering picture-perfect views of the Arabian Gulf and a remarkable transformation for the old Hiltonia Beach Club.  

While the Instagrammable decor is strictly Balinese, helping to bring a unique tropical vibe to the Abu Dhabi shoreline, the soundscape is purely Balearic, with diners engulfed in a soundtrack of ambient house and hypnotic percussion that perfectly suit the venue.

With views of the ocean, The Cove at West Bay Abu Dhabi offers one of the most delightful al fresco dining destinations in the city. A true day to night venue, The Cove effortlessly segues from leisurely lunches into sophisticated dinners and extended after-hours fun, with a backdrop to match. Transforming a sun worshippers paradise by day into a relaxed and vibrant lounge by night.

With a menu to match the space’s vivacity, a selection of beguiling libations is complemented by sushi, salads, pasta, skewers and grills. The cuisine does an exemplary job of reflecting the location, with a heavy reliance on seafood, fresh produce and lighter choices that are ideal for a day at the beach. We begin with a selection of intricately rolled makis that include the fiery Spicy Salmon Roll (AED 65) with its complementing flavours of salmon, avocado and Sriracha, alongside the Dragon Roll (AED 75), combining unagi, tempura prawns and cucumber with a generous adornment of tobiko. The sushi is, without a doubt, some of the best we’ve had in the capital and represents the highlight of any meal at The Cove.

Appetisers include a delightful Seabass Ceviche (AED 75) featuring wild-caught seabass, bejewelled pomegranate seeds and cool avocado, and The Cove’s take on Rock Shrimp Tempura (AED 99), which are crisp and generously slathered with a Japanese Sriracha mayo that offers a sufficient amount of heat.

While Canadian lobster and New Zealand mussels take pride of place amidst the main courses, we’re tempted by the Pulpo A La Gallega (AED 115). This beautifully plated octopus tentacle is undeniably tender and seasoned with paprika, wrapping beautifully around the accompanying roast potatoes. 

The dessert menu offers five options including the light and creamy Cove Cheesecake (AED 55), served with an addictive caramel sauce and a Warm Chocolate Fondant (AED 60) that boasts a moist and pleasing texture and an altogether impressive ‘ooze.’ Service is snappy and the restaurant is busy on a weekday lunchtime when we visit.

Not to be confused with Cove Beach on Reem Island, The Cove at West Bay Abu Dhabi is a venue that seemingly came out of nowhere to shake things up in the capital and reservations are essential, as the venue is becoming increasingly popular as the word gets out. More than just a restaurant, The Cove at West Bay Abu Dhabi is a multi-faceted venue that offers premium access to the private beach at an additional cost, alongside the soon-to-open wave pool which will be the biggest in the capital upon completion.

The Cove at West Bay Abu Dhabi is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and is one new venue that is well worth checking out!

GO: Email westbay.abudhabi@adnhmc.com or call (0)2 692 4375 for reservations and more information.