It’s new, it’s bold, and yes — you absolutely need a reservation
During a day out exploring Yas Island, we decided to check out the latest buzz in Abu Dhabi’s food scene — Bla Bla Bar. Tucked along the shimmering waterfront of Yas Marina, this new dining destination is turning heads with its stylish vibe, playful menus, and front-row views of the iconic Yas Marina Circuit.
What started as a pop-up during the adrenaline-filled Grand Prix weekend has now cemented its place as one of the capital’s most exciting culinary hotspots. And from the moment we walked in, it was clear why.
A Bold, Red-Hued Welcome
The interiors at Bla Bla are hard to ignore — in the best way possible. Vintage glamour meets bold modern flair, with plush red accents, dramatic lighting, and a lively, upbeat soundtrack. It’s the kind of place that instantly puts you in a celebratory mood.
From our window seat, we could see the dazzling façade of W Abu Dhabi and a sweeping view of the circuit. It’s easy to imagine how electric the vibe would be on race day. But even without the roar of F1 cars in the background, the atmosphere at Bla Bla is high-energy and exciting.
We were welcomed by a warm, upbeat team who knew the menu inside out and seemed genuinely passionate about the experience they were curating.
A Golden Start
We kicked off our evening with the Gold Fashion — Bla Bla’s luxe twist on the classic Old Fashioned. Priced at Dhs60, it came with a theatrical tableside gold spray that left glimmering flecks in the air. It was fun, it was Instagram-worthy, and it set the tone for the creative flair that would follow.
This isn’t your typical bar menu. Bla Bla takes its food seriously, and the dishes reflect a confident mix of global influences, bold flavours, and thoughtful presentation.
Small Plates, Big Impact
We ordered a selection of small plates, catering to a mixed group of picky eaters, bold adventurers, and serious foodies — and every dish delivered.
The beef tartare (Dhs54) was a flavour-packed punch with an Asian twist. A subtle chilli kick added just the right amount of heat, balanced by fresh herbs and crisp texture.
But it was the cold spinach goma (Dhs26) that surprised us all. It sounds simple on paper — just spinach in a sesame sauce — but the execution was next-level. Creamy, crunchy, and completely addictive, it had us going back for seconds… and thirds.
The lamb chop (Dhs68) was another favourite, bursting with Korean barbecue-style flair. The meat was grilled to perfection and coated in a rich, fiery orange glaze. Paired with a Korean-style sauce, it delivered that magical balance of sweetness, heat, and smoky char.
Then came the showstopper: the black cod (Dhs68). Anyone familiar with the legendary Nobu-style cod knows how easy it is to get wrong. But Bla Bla absolutely nails it.
Marinated over two days — first in milk, then in honey — and finished on the grill with a drizzle of unagi sauce, the cod was melt-in-your-mouth buttery. Every bite was soft, delicate, and laced with umami-rich goodness. Even the pickiest member of our group was completely won over.
For the Seafood Lovers
Seafood fans are in for a treat at Bla Bla. The octopus (Dhs78) came grilled to tender perfection, with a punchy yuzu kosho mayo that brought a citrusy heat. It was one of the more complex flavour profiles of the night — a little heat, a little tang, and a lot of texture.
The king crab (Dhs78) was another hit. Sweet, succulent, and coated in a slightly tangy glaze, it offered that perfect balance between indulgence and freshness. Each bite was satisfying without being too heavy.
Don’t Skip the Skewers
One of the standout bites of the evening was the wagyu beef terrine (Dhs38). Skewered and grilled, the juicy layers of wagyu came together with a zingy sauce that melted on the tongue. It was rich, luxurious, and seriously moreish.
For those who prefer poultry, the chicken thigh (Dhs24) is a great pick. Tender pieces of grilled chicken are served with aji verde — a bold, spicy Peruvian green sauce that takes things up a notch. It’s simple, satisfying, and packs just enough heat.
Dessert Worth the Wait
We were running late for our next stop, but skipping dessert wasn’t an option — not when dulce de leche ravioli was on the menu.
What arrived were little sugar-dusted parcels of joy, filled with gooey caramel and served alongside a creamy scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of warm, rich filling and cold, smooth ice cream was a perfect end to the night.
It’s one of those desserts that sounds a little gimmicky but absolutely works. It’s comforting, playful, and completely delicious.
Final Thoughts
Bla Bla Bar is not just a place to grab a drink — it’s a full-on dining experience. Every dish is packed with personality, and the presentation, service, and vibe all work in harmony to create something memorable.
Whether you’re heading there for a night out, a special occasion, or just want to catch up with friends somewhere fun, Bla Bla delivers across the board. The menu is adventurous without being intimidating, and the price point feels fair for the quality and creativity you get.
In a city where new restaurants open almost every week, Bla Bla Bar sets itself apart — with flair, flavour, and an atmosphere that keeps you coming back.
Verdict
If you’re in Abu Dhabi and looking for a bold, fun night out with incredible food, Bla Bla Bar needs to be at the top of your list. Come for the views, stay for the flavours, and make sure you book ahead — this one’s not staying a secret for long.
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