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This month we venture to a world of luxury at The Abu Dhabi EDITION. Strategically situated along the Al Bateen Marina, the view on arrival is distinctive and memorable. Illuminated, the exterior is reminiscent of the lateen sails of the traditional Dhow boats once famous in the region.
The Abu Dhabi EDITION is the first EDITION to open in the Middle East, a ground-breaking hotel concept brought to life by Ian Schrager, the visionary behind contemporary luxury as we know it, in collaboration with Marriott International. Good food is centric to any EDITION and The Abu Dhabi EDITION is no exception, boasting three signature restaurants created by world renowned chef Tom Aikens, the youngest chef ever to be awarded two Michelin stars.
With 198 guest rooms and suites as well as 57 exclusive residences, this jewel of Abu Dhabi delivers the best of both worlds: polish with personality, perfectionism with individualism and comfort with charisma and charm. This balancing act encompasses not only exceptional design, but also personal, friendly, modern service as well as outstanding, one-of-a-kind food, beverage and entertainment offerings ‘all under one roof’. Inspiring views reveal the Abu Dhabi skyline and marina, many guests can experience them from their balconies.
For our stay we are residing in The Abu Dhabi EDITION Superior Suite. Upon entering the Superior Suite, we are taken back by its spacious and elegant design. To the right is a restroom and ahead of us is a large living room boasting comfortable sofas and a large working desk. The wooden flooring is a refreshing change. The bathroom set-in off-white marble features a restroom, large walk-in shower and a standalone bathtub. In the bedroom the walls feature beautiful wooden panelling, light neutral tones echo throughout the room, making us feel like we have escaped to a country retreat. As appeasing as all the décor is, what is most important is that it also creates a comfortable atmosphere in which to relax. Be sure to use the gowns, which are also available for purchase, you’ll feel as if you have just wrapped yourself in a cloud.
After a swift check-in and having enjoyed some relaxation time in our room we make our way to Alba Terrace for lunch. Alba Terrace offers locally sourced coffee, light lunches and Mediterranean style sharing plates. The restaurant has a spanning outdoor terrace for those wishing to dine al-fresco or a delightful indoor dining room.
For starters we enjoy the Burrata and the Fried Calamari. The Burrata served with confit tomato, basil and tomato oil is a great light and fresh starter. The Fried Calamari in black ink and garlic aioli is a stark contrast to the subtle flavours of the burrata, this dish has a distinct salty taste and a crisp texture to the bite.
For mains we both opt for the Tagliatelle with cherry tomatoes, rocket and basil. Simplicity is key, a few ingredients brought together to create a light and wonderful lunch dish. Wanting something sweet we share the Apple Tart ingeniously paired with cinnamon ice cream.
With sometime between lunch and dinner we decide to visit The EDITION Spa. As we enter the spa we are warmly greeted by the team and taken to the relaxation area. The spa features separate zones for men and women, consisting of seven treatment rooms, including two Hammams, a facial room and couple’s treatment suite. The women’s area also houses a beauty salon and a relaxation lounge. The men’s area features a barber shop by Chaps & Co.
Feeling slightly tense from the working week we opt for a message. We ask our therapist to focus on our shoulders, where we carry the most tension. The dimly lit treatment room offers a sense of calm from our busy day. The massage is performed well, and the therapist uses a selection of massage techniques from rubbing, kneading to stretching. The combination of these techniques ensures that any muscle tension is relieved.
After a relaxing afternoon its back to the room to get ready for dinner. Tonight, we will be dining at the Oak Room, the hotels popular steakhouse that promises a bit of British rock ‘n’ roll flair.
As we enter the restaurant the British rock ‘n’ roll flair becomes evident, subtly done, Oak Room offers a touch of class with a slightly naught edgy. Chef sends us a delightful amuse bouche of mini tuna tartar tacos with caviar, the tone is set.
From our appetizers we both select the English Crab with basil mayonnaise, pickled cucumber and yoghurt. The dish arrives and the presentation is very interesting, as we slice through the pickled cucumber layers of fresh crab fill our plate the sharpness of the pickle in contrast with the slightly sweet yoghurt is sublime.
If you know me, you’ll know I have a distinct weakness for ricotta so when I see that Oak Room offers Housemade Ricotta with aged balsamic, heritage tomato and basil, it only seems right to order a dish. Served with aged balsamic, the balsamic vinegar is meticulously extracted from the barrel, aged to perfection it is then carefully placed in the centre of the fresh and creamy ricotta. Another incredible dish.
For mains, I order the Fish and Chips, a plump cod fillet, tartar sauce, crushed peas and triple cooked chips. From the speciality steaks my companion selects the Westholme Wagyu Striploin grade 6+, 250g with bearnaise sauce.
The Fish and Chips are superb, thick cut chips and an enormous piece of cod perfectly battered; I almost feel like I’m back in the U.K. My dining companion is enjoying his steak, succulent and juicy, the cut is impressive. Oak Room has a few cuts not found in other steakhouses, so for meat eaters amongst us Oak Room should most definitely be on your radar.
Overall our stay at The Abu Dhabi EDITION was fantastic. It is very rare that you can find a hotel with this much style to be this comfortable. Whilst many hotels claim to be a home away from home solemnly do they deliver. However, this is where The Abu Dhabi EDITION excels. Its soft furnishings, candle lit lobby, distinct scent, fabulous dining options and warm and welcoming team are what make The Abu Dhabi EDITION one of the best hotels we have ever experienced.
The Abu Dhabi EDITION, +971 2 208 0000
