EAT

Sky high tea at Conrad

Acrobatics, scones and a 50-layered cake to celebrate the UAE’s Golden Jubilee

‘U p in the Air’ is a special afternoon tea experience performed in the Conrad’s lofty lobby. The acrobatic affair – available Thursday to Saturday – is a cirque d’extravaganza, featuring world-class gymnasts to celebrate the UAE’s Golden Jubilee. Its edible elements include slices pulled from a vertiginous 50-layered cake, dainty afternoon tea staples such as warm British scones, and tuna sandwiches and lemon-infused crème fraiche with caviar pearls. In accordance with high tea tradition, Up in the Air does not neglect its sweet offerings, either. You’ll find a troupe of irresistible desserts, including a tangy lemon and raspberry roulade, pistachio panna cotta, and of course a tea collection that adds the final slice of authenticity to the experience.

Until December 8

a Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, Thur to Sat 1pm and 3.15pm, Dhs325 for adults. Tel: (02) 811 5666. hilton.com

The perfect pairing

Sacci Abu Dhabi launches new grape and cheese night

You most likely know Sacci Abu Dhabi in Westin Abu Dhabi for serving up one of the most delicious pizzas in the capital. But for a variation on its delicious cheesy goodness, why not try the new cheese and wine evening that takes place every Wednesday from 7pm to 11pm. The deal includes a bubbling pot of cheese fondue, plus pizza or pasta prepared by Chef Giovanni and your choice of red or white, all for Dhs159. a Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa, Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Wed 7pm to 11pm. Dhs159 per person. Tel: (0)2 616 9999. sacciabudhabi.com

Turkey takeaway

Christmas all wrapped up thanks to PJ O’Reilley’s

If you’ve been tasked with organising a festive get together, why not take the pressure off cooking by ordering in your very own takeaway turkey? PJ O’Reilley’s looks mighty fine, too. Order your turkey and get all the trimmings such as chipolata stuffing, candied yams, root vegetables, bacon roasted Brussel sprouts, spuds and cranberry sauce, plus a traditional Christmas pudding.

December 5 to 30

a Order your via 800 101 101 or email restaurants.lrmad@lemeridien.com. pjspubabudhabi.com

TORI NO SU

Setting suitably high standards in Japanese fine dining at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers

Alittle Japanese lesson to start: Tori No Su literally translates to ‘bird’s nest’. It’s pretty apt, then, that Tori No Su is nestled in the corner of the skyscraping shards that comprise Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers.

Cool and slick, the recently revamped destination is a fun mix of traditional and modern Japanese culture. Classic sushi and ramen dishes appear alongside contemporary flavour combinations, while the elegant dining room is jazzed up with neon light features (you won’t be able to resist getting a shot with the luminous wings) and chic, yet casual staff donning colourful cartoon T-shirts and swanky ‘mom-style’ jeans.

We’re immediately impressed by the vast array of starters and it’s difficult to decide which little morsels to choose. However, realising that there are only four main course options confirms our feeling that this is a spot to share a number of light bites, rather than have your own hearty dish.

Not feeling quite adventurous enough to try the sea urchin Wagyu roll, we start with some beautifully presented sashimi and sushi. The rounded robata chicken skewers and mighty shrimp tempura are expertly made. We could order several rounds of small bites and call it a night here. Indeed, the fact that the grilled sweetcorn is one of our top picks, just goes to show what superb ingredients and immense skill goes into each recipe.

The charred broccolini salad is delightful, although we wish we had ordered it along with our mains. Cooked al dente and covered in a creamy sesame dressing, it would have been a brilliant accompaniment to the chicken teriyaki and miso black cod. The delicate white fish of the latter is so soft it practically melts away in your mouth.

It’s surprising to hear that the yuzu miso burrata is a bestseller. But, then again, what UAE menu doesn’t feature at least one appearance from this cheese?

Admittedly, the Japanese-inspired crème brûlée is a totally divine and caramel-like conclusion, so we’re not adverse to the less authentic dishes. Meanwhile, the mochi, served dramatically impaled on a thick metal skewer, comes with a theatrical trail of dry ice that spills all over the table. We find it all hugely entertaining and the indulgent little ice creams are gorgeous and creamy.

New head chef Yosuke Matsuoka needn’t worry about living up to his predecessor. In fact, his fresh and innovative approach to dining could bring this hotspot a whole legion of new fans. a Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, Wed to Mon 7pm to midnight. Tel: (0)28115555. @torinosu.conradetihadtowers

RATING

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