Jap an e s e re s t a ura n t s / T a ste
Soba Casual, light and friendly, Soba is ideal for those who like a variety of Asian cuisines. The menu is predominantly Japanese, with dishes such as sushi and beef teppanyaki. However, there are also splashes of Thai, Malaysian and Singaporean cuisines. Recommended dishes include the signature sushi rolls, especially the salmon philly rolls, which are deliciously fresh and light, while the prawns with basil sauce and the beef teppanyaki from the main menu are not to be missed. As the name suggests, Soba – which is a thin Japanese noodle made from buckwheat – has a great selection of noodle and rice dishes. The restaurant is furnished in neutral tones with plenty of natural light and appeals to those looking for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner with family and friends. The Chinese chef also passes on his knowledge during weekend sushi classes. Where: Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi When: Daily, noon to 3pm and 7 to 11.30pm (12.30am on weekends) / Contact: 800 101101
Benihana
A l s o t ry Toki
Hilton Abu Dhabi 02 6811900
One of the city’s most popular Japanese restaurants, it has private dining rooms and a sushi counter. Tori No Su
Jumeirah at Etihad Towers 02 8115555
Due to open this summer, big things are expected from this modern Japanese restaurant. Toshi
Grand Millennium Al Wahda
Whether it’s juggling kitchen utensils, catching salt and pepper shakers in their hats or making food dance across the grill, the chefs at Benihana have also earned a great reputation for their entertaining teppanyaki antics as well as their excellent cooking skills. This intimate restaurant is popular with all ages and nationalities and the chefs even manage to impress their Japanese guests. Guests sit at communal tables, so while it's not the ideal place for a romantic meal for two, you are guaranteed a fun and highly social evening out. Begin the meal with deliciously fresh sushi, sashimi and prawn tempura, but try not to overdo it. The teppanyaki portion sizes are notoriously generous. Choose from chicken, beef, salmon and seafood, accompanied by rice and a selection of vegetables. Each dish is cooked to perfection right in front of you. However, the real stars of this restaurant are the chefs. Watch closely as they make an onion ring volcano, dice and chop at great speed, or flirt with danger while juggling razor-sharp kitchen utensils. For one lucky guest, they may even finish with a personalised message written across the teppanyaki grill.
02 4439999
This Southeast Asian restaurant offers a great selection of Japanese dishes.
Where: Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi, Tourist Club Area When: Daily 6 to 11.30pm / Contact: 02 6979011
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