Birthdays are always a very special day, regardless of how many candles you are blowing. And if you live in Abu Dhabi or happen to be around on your big day? Well, the city has plenty in terms of restaurants where you can mark the occasion with friends and family. Read on.
Villa Toscana
With its flavourful yet simple Tuscan cuisine, Villa Toscana is among the capital’s greatest locations to enjoy a memorable dining experience. A birthday party held here is a great opportunity to see how elegantly Italian specialties are served. The restaurant’s interior is decorated with paintings that cover the walls and ceilings of the dining area and a collection of dark wood furnishings in an antique finish. Although dining at Villa Toscana is never inexpensive, the good news is that everything this venue has to offer is suited to special occasions.
Villa Toscana, The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, [email protected], 02 694 4553
COYA Abu Dhabi
This hip and trendy Peruvian eatery was always going to be tough to beat. In fact, it continued to rack up dining awards because of its fresh ceviches, flavourful tacos, and countless other outstanding dishes. We urge you to try it if you haven’t already, whether it’s for a relaxed day out or your birthday celebrations – an immersive experience inspired by vibrant Latin American culture awaits!
COYA Abu Dhabi, The Galleria Al Maryah Island, [email protected], 02 306 7000
Byblos Sur Mer
If you’re looking to accent your birthday celebrations with authentic Lebanese dishes and breathtaking views, then the always elegant Byblos Sur Mer is where it’s at – panoramic views of the private marina are available to diners at this restaurant, which is located inside InterContinental Abu Dhabi. The sheer range of hot and cold mezzeh, each ideal for sharing, is just the proverbial cherry on top.
Byblos Sur Mer, InterContinental Abu Dhabi, 800 423 463
Zuma
Looking to stray from the standard birthday dinner and explore uniquely interpreted Asian cuisine? Zuma is the spot for you. Serving some of the city’s most delicious and inventive Japanese dishes, this is where Abu Dhabi’s young and trendy crowd gathers – and rightfully so. The restaurant’s alluring waterfront views are enough to instantly get people in the festive spirit. For a special occasion, we suggest going izakaya style, ordering dishes that are designed to be shared at the table.
Zuma, The Galleria Al Maryah Island, 02 401 5900
Cho Gao Marina Walk
Live DJs, a playful atmosphere, and Pan-Asian flavours come together in this enormous restaurant that also boasts has a roomy terrace that overlooks the waterfront and transforms into a sleek al fresco lounge every evening. You and your friends can dine on the likes of fresh sashimi, spicy Thai curry, and fragrant Vietnamese salads before moving over to the bar area for a round of drinks.
Cho Gao Marina Walk, InterContinental Abu Dhabi, 800 423 463
Kopitiam by Chandy’s
For a birthday dinner that’s entirely unexpected, head to Kopitiam for a laidback night rife with Malaysian cuisine. This recently opened restaurant in Abu Dhabi already has a cult following owing to authentic dishes like char kway kak, char kway teow, and nasi lemak done right. Go on, mix it up this birthday!
Kopitiam by Chandy’s, Al Falah Street, 050 234 7278