Alba Terrace – Abu Dhabi

Today we are visiting the stunning Alba Terrace created by world renowned Chef Tom Aikens, famed for being the youngest chef to have ever been awarded two Michelin Stars. Alba Terrace offers guests the finest locally sourced coffee, light lunches and sharing plates, all to be enjoyed over good conversation. Located on the Marina side of the hotel, Aikens has created a serene, coastal Mediterranean-style feel Alba Terrace.

Bathing in the natural sunlight, Alba Terrace boasts floor-to-ceiling glass doors, a large brass clad bar and is host to vibrant brunches and tasting evenings. The bright ambience of Alba Terrace is a true reflection of the Mediterranean. A crisp, light colour palette and smooth terrazzo surfaces lead to bright lime oak wall panelling, sheer curtains and vibrant plants, bringing the outdoors, in.

On the lush outdoor terrace, a series of intimate seating areas are available, under pavilions or next to the pool they provide guests with the opportunity to dine al-fresco, reminiscent of elegant Italian summers. A sunken group dining area provides a semi-private space for outdoor gatherings.

Alba Terrace has recently launched its business lunch menu which is available 12noon to 5.00pm everyday except Fridays. Two courses will cost you a mere AED 95 per person whilst for a little bit extra you can treat yourself to three courses, priced at AED 120. Both come with water, a soft drink and coffee or tea.

Guests have a choice of four starters, four mains and three desserts. Starters range from Mediterranean Salad, Beef Carpaccio, Fried Calamari to Pistou Soup. I opt for the Mediterranean Salad, with seared red snapper, feta and pistachio whilst my dining companion selects the Pistou Soup, with basil and parmesan.

The Mediterranean Salad arrives and is bursting with colour, light and flavourful it makes for a great summer dish. The Pistou Soup (which we did take some convincing to order) smells delightful, a light soup with density added by the vegetables, don’t overlook this humble dish.

For mains we have a choice of Grilled Chicken Paillard, Risotto Verde, Alba Pizza or Beef Ragu Pasta. Each and every dish sounds divine but it’s the Risotto Verde with rocket, kale, spinach and pecorino that captures my imagination. Unfortunately, due to a few intolerances my dining companion is unable to select any of the dishes. The well trained team at Alba Terrace go through the menu and kindly offer him the Pan-Fried Sea Bass with orzo, red pepper relish and basil artichokes as an alternative.

The Risotto Verde is sensational, the creaminess of the pecorino is equally matched by the crunchy kale, creating a contrast of textures. This dish not only tastes good but gives you a sense of warmth, like a home cooked meal. The Pan-Fried Sea Bass is another great choice, the fish is light with a salty undertone, the vegetables sit in a small broth that again exude a celebration of taste and quality produce.

Being very honest at this point we are feeling quite full, but our curiosity doesn’t allow us to resist seeing what Chef and the team have created for dessert. Having absolutely no will power we order dessert. We select the Seasoned Poached Fruits with vervain and almond alongside the Rosewater Pavlova, with rose syrup, soaked figs and pomegranate. We only manage a few bites but in keeping with the theme of exceptional food the desserts do not disappoint.

And finally…..after a month of reviews I find a restaurant that offers me almond milk with my coffee, thank you to The Abu Dhabi EDITION!  It’s the attention to details like this that has seen the hotel grow from strength to strength and those that have visited once have all returned time and time again.

All the restaurants at The Abu Dhabi EDITION serve a range of great tasting food, produced with quality ingredients. The staff are extremely knowledgeable and are able to recite the menu and detailed ingredients of each dish on a whim, which is very reassuring if you have any type of dietary requirements.

Starting at AED 95 to AED 120 for three courses the business lunch at Alba Terrace not only provides great value for money but more importantly exceptional quality food for guests to enjoy. Whether you are looking for a great business lunch or just want to catch up with friends Alba Terrace’s business lunch menu is a great option, plus the menu is also available on a Saturday meaning that you can dine in style without breaking the bank.

Business Lunch, available daily except Fridays. Served from 12noon to 5.00pm. AED 95 for 2-courses or AED 120 for 3-courses.

Alba Terrace, The Abu Dhabi EDITION, +971 2 208 0000