Experience the wondrous world of Warayaki at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi.
Hidden within the gilded corridors of the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi, Strawfire by Ross Shonhan is a dining experience that captures the essence of Japan’s cultural heritage, transformed through a contemporary culinary lens. Ross Shonhan, the celebrated chef behind Bone Daddies in London, invites diners on a journey that harmonises artistry, tradition, and innovation.
Strawfire is a Japanese Steakhouse that showcases the traditional Japanese cooking technique of Warayaki. This straw fire cooking technique has existed for hundreds of years and hails from the Kochi Prefecture in the south of the country. The fires are mesmerising to watch, and a seat overlooking the central kitchen is highly recommended.
The restaurant’s interior is a visual feast designed to evoke the spirit of the Japanese harvest festival. Guests enter through sliding doors into a bar, where sheathes of straw bow over low-slung seating and a light fitting resembling a full moon casts an ethereal glow over the drinking den.
The intimate abode opens out into the main dining room. The design draws on natural materials like wood and stone, with textured walls mimicking rice fields at harvest time. Golden drapery evoking dancing flames is enhanced by Kumiko panels and bespoke furnishings. The atmosphere is elevated by the occasional roar of the open kitchen’s fire, where chefs deftly manipulate the straw flames that give the restaurant its name. Venture into the private dining room with a communal table and silk walls, and discover a striking Shimenawa rope traditionally used in Japan to mark sacred spaces. The rope weighs 830kg and is the largest synthetic Shimenawa ever made.
The dining experience begins with the First Taste of Strawfire Menu (AED 450 per person), a carefully curated selection of dishes highlighting the bold flavours and techniques synonymous with Shonhan’s culinary philosophy. Crafted for sharing, the tasting menu begins with Japanese Wagyu Sashimi, a luxurious introduction featuring thinly sliced wagyu complemented by mizuna greens, bonito powder, and a savoury gyu tare sauce. Each bite encapsulates the umami-laden richness of premium wagyu, balanced beautifully by the herbaceous mizuna.
The Tuna Tartare is a playful and artistic creation served in a crisp monaka shell. The delicate flavours of fresh tuna are elevated by spring onion and zingy wasabi mayonnaise, creating a harmonious blend of creaminess and spice. Alongside this, the Sushi & Sashimi Selection, featuring fresh fish and garnished with pickled ginger and wasabi, offers an authentic nod to Japan’s culinary traditions.
The lighter, vegetarian-friendly Avocado dish provides a textural delight, with creamy avocado enhanced by crispy gyoza skin and a citrus dressing that adds a refreshing tang. In contrast, the Salmon Toro, prepared namban-style, delights with its delicate marinated vegetables and tender, flavorful fish. The Takoyaki, a dish synonymous with Japanese street food, offers octopus-infused spheres garnished with mountain yam and bonito flakes—a nostalgic yet elevated interpretation.
For mains, the Westholme Wagyu Striploin MB4-5 takes centre stage, presented on a tabletop barbeque, creating a superb smoky flavour. The Crab Don, featuring Japanese omelet, asparagus, salmon roe, and crab fat aioli, is a decadent creation with layers of flavour and texture. Finally, Green Beans dressed in chilli bean paste and sesame offer a light yet satisfying vegetal counterpoint.
The meal concludes with the Strawfire Dessert Platter, a selection of signature sweets, seasonal fruits, and artisanal ice creams and sorbets—a fitting end to an exceptional menu. The tasting menu encapsulates Strawfire’s philosophy: bold flavours, precise techniques, and a celebration of Japan’s culinary heritage.
Service at Strawfire is impeccable, with the staff displaying a level of attentiveness and knowledge that befits a venue such as Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi. Each dish is introduced with an explanation of its ingredients and inspiration, enhancing the storytelling that underpins the experience.
At Strawfire, every element—from the decor to the plating—has been carefully considered to evoke the spirit of the Japanese harvest. It’s a celebration of nature and craftsmanship, where the rich traditions of Japan meet the dynamic energy of modern cuisine.
A sophisticated, luxurious and blazing dining experience. Ignite all your senses.
GO: Visit www.mandarinoriental.com for reservations and more information.
