Sponsored: Anchored around Abu Dhabi’s largest swimming pool and situated on the picturesque shoreline of Khor Al Maqta, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal is more than just a luxurious hotel, but a dining destination in itself.
With a fantastic array of restaurants and bars, the sophistication of The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal knows no bounds. Inspired by the architecture of the Italian Renaissance period, the sprawling resort snakes along the water’s edge while offering remarkable views across both the waters Khor Al Maqta and the Sheikh Zayed Mosque.
Giornotte is an all-day dining restaurant with a difference. The name combines the Italian words for “day” and “night”, thus reflecting the very essence of this chic concept. From expansive breakfast spreads with live omelette stations, fresh bakery items and juices galore, Giornotte offers elevated Mediterranean cuisine in a charming space that resembles a lavish Italian Villa. Home to the exciting Chef’s Brunch each Friday lunchtime, the restaurant becomes a hub of activity with chef fronted live stations preparing everything from foie gras and sushi to burrata salads, dim sum, ceviche and seafood soups. It’s a culmination of all seven of The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi’s signature restaurants, yet it’s the plated desserts and beguiling cocktails that you’ll remember most fondly. Available Fridays, from 1pm to 4pm. AED 320 (soft beverages), AED 420 (house beverages) and AED 599 (bubbly).
A family-friendly dining destination that embraces its Mediterranean inspiration, Giornotte’s weekly Pizza and Pasta nights are also not to be missed. With the warm feel of a homely Italian trattoria, families are encouraged to dig into an unlimited selection of antipasti, pizza, pasta and desserts that are ideal for sharing. Enjoy memorable evenings with your nearest and dearest, complimented by a selection of house grapes and hops. Wednesdays, from 6pm to 11pm (three-hour package).
Meat lovers in the capital will definitely want to pay a visit to The Forge. Named after the intricate process of forging a steak knife, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi’s signature steakhouse offers premium cuts of meat in an intimate and modern setting. Offering a dining room that encourages guests to linger, The Forge is ideal for a date night or a special occasion dinner. The restaurants new ‘Meat Flights’ promotion invites carnivores to indulge in a gastronomic journey featuring a selection of tenderloins from New Zealand, Australia and the USA in a unique tasting experience. Available Sunday to Friday, from 6pm to 11pm. From AED 189 per person.
For something a little more casual but no less tasty, the weekly Burger and Brew Nights take place each Tuesday, offering diners an evening of juicy flame-grilled burgers and thirst-quenching hops in unlimited quantities. Tuesdays, from 6pm to 11pm. AED 160 per person.
Li Jiang is an upmarket Asian restaurant featuring stunning Sheikh Zayed Mosque views, colourful walls of spices and modern furniture that transport guests into the heart of Asia. Renowned for its weekly Street Food Brunch, which includes culinary food cart classics from across Southeast Asia. The Saturday soiree is ideal for ending the weekend in style, with a menu of Korean BBQ, Peking duck, sushi and fried noodles alongside Asian-inspired drinks. Saturdays, from 1pm to 10pm. From AED 225 per person (three-hour package).
Allow Li Jiang to spice up your Monday Nights with their popular Sushi And Sake Nights which promise an evening of unlimited sushi, sashimi and rolls, complemented by Asian beverages and atmospheric music. Mondays, from 6pm to 11pm. AED 200 per person (food and unlimited sake cocktails).
Keeping things lively, Li Jiang also boasts a Happy Hour from 5pm to 7pm, Monday to Friday, with special prices on selected beverages.
For a taste of contemporary Lebanese delights, a visit to Mijana is a must. The menu features Lebanese favourites alongside regional specialities in a confluence of traditional and contemporary. Kick start the weekend on the terrace and enjoy Mixed Grill & Mezze Nights, which as the name suggests, offers mezze and flavoursome mixed grills in a delightful Arabian setting. Thursdays, from 6pm to 11pm. AED 160 per person (inclusive of food and unlimited soft beverages).
The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal is renowned for its sophisticated afternoon tea at Alba. Situated off the grand lobby, the comfortable and homely Venetian inspired location is ideal for catching up over a delightful afternoon tea that features savoury hors d’oeuvres, scones, chocolate treats and teas inspired by delicate floral aromas. Available daily, from 2pm to 5pm. AED 160 per stand.
For extended evenings and pre or post-dinner drinks, Sorso offers guests a traditional Ritz-Carlton bar experience. Featuring a selection of drinks and bite-sized meals, Sorso is the place to be for refined relaxation. G&T Nights offers a special juniper based menu available Tuesday to Saturday, from 5pm to 1am. While Wednesdays will help you to combat the mid-week blues with ‘Meet-Up At Sorso’, offering unlimited house beverages from 6pm to 10pm. AED 199 per person.
Finally, there’s no better place for those in search of relaxation than the largest swimming pool in the capital! Escape the monotony of city life with a day relaxing at the Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal pool and private beach. Day passes come with a food and beverage credit that can be redeemed on light bites and sumptuous sips at poolside hotspot Al Fresco. AED 150 (weekdays, inclusive of AED 100 F&B credit) and AED 250 (weekends (inclusive of AED 200 F&B credit).
There’s something for every occasion at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal this summer with seven distinct dining options to choose from.
GO: Visit www.ritzcarlton.com or call (0)2 818 8282 for reservations and more information.
