Tucked inside the luxurious Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi, Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi isn’t just a restaurant. It’s a culinary experience wrapped in nostalgia, elegance, and bold reimaginings of India’s heritage-rich cuisine. With royal architecture, gold accents, and panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf, the venue instantly sets the tone for what’s about to unfold—a regal Indian dining affair like no other.
Helmed by one of India’s most celebrated chefs, Hemant Oberoi, the restaurant is a statement of legacy, passion, and contemporary finesse. With a career that spans over four decades, Oberoi brings with him not just recipes, but stories, traditions, and a vision of modern Indian food that still honours its roots.
Where Indian Tradition Meets Fine Dining
At Martabaan, tradition isn’t left behind—it’s simply elevated. The name “Martabaan” itself refers to the ceramic jars once used in Indian households to preserve pickles and curries. These jars, known for their robust flavours and long-lasting taste, are the perfect metaphor for what the restaurant offers—time-honoured dishes, with a timeless impact.
Chef Hemant Oberoi takes the soul of Indian food and dresses it in fine dining elegance. The result is a menu that feels familiar, yet refreshingly new. Think butter chicken reinvented with sous vide precision, or biryani infused with unexpected but delightful herbs. From the ‘Nalli Nihari’ slow-cooked lamb shank to the ‘Martabaan Ka Meat’ cooked in pickling spices, each dish is art on a plate, both in presentation and flavour.
Designed to Impress, Crafted to Remember
The interiors of Martabaan are a tasteful blend of modern luxury and Indian opulence. High ceilings, regal chandeliers, and a soft gold palette create a space that is both intimate and grand. The ambience is refined without being stiff, making it perfect for both formal dinners and relaxed celebrations.
One of the highlights of dining here is the view. Large glass windows look out over the Gulf, and as the sun sets, the golden hour glow hits the restaurant in the most cinematic way. Whether you’re on a romantic date, entertaining clients, or showing your guests the best of Indian cuisine in the UAE, Martabaan rises to the occasion every single time.
Curated for the Curious Palate
The menu is thoughtfully designed for both seasoned lovers of Indian cuisine and those experiencing it for the first time. Chef Oberoi doesn’t just cook meals—he curates stories. Every item has a purpose, often inspired by royal kitchens of India, old family recipes, or childhood memories of regional flavours.
There’s a charm in how the classics are treated—with respect, but also a sense of play. The ‘Galouti Kebab’ melts in your mouth as it should, while the ‘Beetroot Tikki’ surprises with its earthiness and crunch. For vegetarians, the selection is just as indulgent—signature lentil stews, spinach and cottage cheese koftas, and house-made pickles that are a nod to the martabaan jars themselves.
Each meal is complemented by handcrafted mocktails and a wine list that has been expertly matched to the spice profiles. If you’re lucky, Chef Oberoi might even stop by your table to explain the journey behind a particular dish—adding a personal layer to your dining experience.
The Chef’s Legacy Lives On
Hemant Oberoi isn’t a stranger to excellence. From serving world leaders and celebrities to being the former Executive Chef of the Taj Group of Hotels, his legacy is built on bold ideas and disciplined execution. Martabaan is a continuation of that journey, but it also reflects his personal style—innovative yet rooted, global yet proudly Indian.
It’s clear that Martabaan isn’t about trends or flashy gimmicks. It’s about setting the gold standard in how Indian food is perceived in the international dining scene. In a city like Abu Dhabi where world cuisines collide, Martabaan carves its niche by staying authentic and daring.
Not Just a Meal, But a Cultural Encounter
One of the most impressive things about Martabaan is how it subtly introduces guests to India’s diversity. The menu isn’t confined to one region—it travels. From the spicy notes of the South to the aromatic gravies of the North, the journey is both educational and enjoyable. It’s the kind of place where each visit brings a new surprise, especially with seasonal dishes and limited-time specials.
Even the plating borrows from different elements of Indian design—ornate brass, marble textures, and handcrafted utensils that elevate the overall experience. You leave not just full, but with a deeper appreciation for a cuisine that’s often misunderstood or simplified.
Perfect for Celebrations and Intimate Moments
Martabaan has become a go-to for special occasions. From birthdays to anniversaries to business dinners, the service and setup ensure each guest feels like royalty. The staff is well-versed in the details of every dish, and the pacing of the meal is relaxed but efficient—giving you the time to enjoy, reflect, and connect.
There’s also a strong emotional connection that guests often speak about after their meal. Maybe it’s the flavours that remind them of home, or the pride in seeing Indian cuisine treated with such elegance. Either way, Martabaan leaves a mark.
What’s Next for Martabaan?
As the UAE continues to cement its place as a global food destination, Martabaan is playing a pivotal role in that narrative. The restaurant isn’t just maintaining its reputation—it’s growing it. There’s talk of chef collaborations, tasting menus for the adventurous, and even culinary workshops that bring guests closer to the kitchen.
It’s a living, breathing space for food lovers—an example of how fine dining can be warm, welcoming, and full of heart.
Final Thoughts
Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi is not just one of Abu Dhabi’s top Indian restaurants—it’s one of its top restaurants, period. With a rich vision, impeccable execution, and a heart that beats for tradition, it turns every meal into a memory.
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