FACT Review: Flamingo Room by tashas spread its wings to Abu Dhabi 

The plush and playful dining experience showcases South African cuisine. 

Flamingo Room by tashas has been bringing a touch of jungle chic to the Middle East. The restaurant can already be found in Dubai and Riyadh, and it has now opened in Abu Dhabi. Located in The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, it showcases fun flavours from South Africa.

South African restaurateur Natasha Sideris has a loyal following in the UAE. She is behind the popular café tashas and fine dining restaurant Flamingo Room by tashas. So, if you want to sample flavours inspired by her hometown, visit the new Abu Dhabi branch. 

Flamingo Room by tashas in Abu Dhabi is a sophisticated spot. Bringing together a range of concepts, the site is home to a restaurant, bar and shop. Africa Lounge serves Afro-fusion bites, Perlage is a Champagne-inspired bar and Collective Africa is a luxury shop. 

Flamingo Room by tashas tastefully fuses together food, finesse and fun. The décor is distinct – it sounds like it shouldn’t work, but the execution is so eclectic yet elegant. Chandeliers shaped like flowers hung from the ceiling, and a bar decorated with bamboo-style leaves caught our eyes. Look out for the vibrant patterns, from peacocks on cushions to zebra prints on chairs. 

The brand’s signature soft pink tones can be found across venue, from the seats to the walls. Potted plants add pops of colour, and golden hues add a shimmer and sparkle. If you’re looking for a memorable meal, book a table by the floor-to-ceiling windows and enjoy the Insta-views.  

Flamingo Room by tashas in Abu Dhabi’s menu spans starters, mains, pastas and sharing desserts. The Fried Calamari was a crispy creation that sat on top of zingy lime mayonnaise. The Crab and Lobster Croquettes came with saffron aioli and lemon vinaigrette, and were soft, small and succulent. 

The mains include two sharing dishes, Calamari Mozambique and Salmon Wellington, which come with a choice of sides. The salmon sat on a bed of the colourful and classic French sauce, Beuure Blanc. The pretty plate boasts a yellow sauce topped with pink salmon roes. Cut in half, the Norwegian salmon is encased a golden-brown puff pastry. 

The desserts are on the decadent side, from Cream Puff to Twisted Canelé. The Panna Cotta is a classy concoction and comes with berry jelly on top as well as a dusting of berries.   

Flamingo Room by tashas in Abu Dhabi’s beautiful décor extends to its drinks. Even the menu has been carefully considered with sketches of cocktails. The signature Flamingo Room Cocktail brings to life the good vibes, and comes in pink and with a flamingo logo on the foam. Combining gin, lemon and rose, it is a refreshing drink. Plus, there is an extensive list of wines. 

On our visit, Flamingo Room by tashas in Abu Dhabi attracted a mixed crowd, from well-heeled ladies and locals to families. Despite not being busy, the service was rushed, and staff took away plates before we finished. If you’re looking for something swift, the three-course dinner was done in less than 90 minutes. 

Flamingo Room by tashas in Abu Dhabi: plush, pretty and plenty of personality.  

GO: Visit www.flamingoroombytashas.com for more information.