If you ask Abu Dhabi’s residents where the best place for sundowners is, Hidden Bar is always one of the most common answers.
Located at the ultra-luxurious Rosewood Abu Dhabi, its enormous sweeping terrace and even larger collection of gins (300+ and counting), has long attracted a vibrant crowd.
The Venue
With the happy hour deal running over sunset, every evening sees the terrace and bar become filled with professionals from the surrounding offices, and stylish fun-loving regulars.
But, while its high-quality cocktails, upbeat vibes, and gorgeous Downtown views are raved about constantly, it’s never really been regarded as a place for dining.
However, with the launch of its new food menu, this is about to drastically change.
The Food
Managing to catch one of the last tolerably humid spring nights, we choose to sit outside in front of the sensational waterfront vistas.
We love that most of the new menu is made up of small sharing plates. Perfectly befitting the elegant yet laid-back ambiance, the delicate bites are just as suited to casual after-work gatherings, as they are romantic date nights.
Alongside the wide choice of salads, fresh oysters, calamari, and cheese and charcuterie platters, Italian Chef Liborio Colonna has also added a selection of rustic pizzas, and a handful of very tempting mains.
Our server helps us navigate the enormous gin and cocktail menus, and he recommends two blends that are precisely suited to our tastes. It’s the ideal start to the evening, and our refreshing gin and tonics go brilliantly with the mammoth, marinated giant olives that certainly live up to their name.
Even on a Monday, the place is buzzing, and we are in immensely high spirits as we tuck into our spread of appetisers.
We can’t resist trying both the tempura cod and braised lamb tacos – they’re both delicious, and it’s hard to say which one we like most.
The dainty and tasty Wagyu beef sliders are also quickly demolished, but the crispy cauliflower with masala coating surprises us by being the absolute best of the lot.
Feeling in the mood to indulge, we then share the Wagyu steak with frites. Served on a large coal bucket, the theatrics are immensely enjoyable, and the premium cut of meat is so big we’re grateful we didn’t attempt one each. Served with a bright and refreshing chimichurri sauce – and a fabulous glass of red – it’s far superior to anything you’d expect to be served in a nightlife venue.
We somehow find room for one of the new desserts, too. On our friendly server’s recommendation, we opt for the best-selling hazelnut crème brûlée, and we still can’t thank him enough for the suggestion.
Taking the Italian classic to new heights of amazing, the hazelnut notes are just the right amount of powerful, and we savour each rich and creamy spoonful like it’s our last meal on earth.
Sophisticated, yet served in reasonably generous portions, every dish is incredible.
The Verdict
While its terrace is arguably the most spectacular in the city, Hidden Bar is a perfect summer venue. The cosy armchairs give it a warm and welcoming feel, while the glamorous works of art and shimmering bar elevate the mood, and make every visit feel like an event to remember.
Giving the rest of Al Maryah Island’s restaurants a run for their money, the superb new menu establishes it as not only a stunning spot for drinks, but also as one of the city’s most desirable culinary hotspots. @rosewoodabudhabi.
