The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort in Abu Dhabi has unveiled a breathtaking transformation of its beloved Southeast Asian restaurant, Sontaya. Reimagined with a fresh new look, Sontaya now offers an even more immersive and luxurious dining experience, blending authentic flavors with a mesmerizing setting.
A Paradise of Floating Pavilions
Nestled among floating pavilions that appear to drift over shimmering pools, Sontaya is a destination that effortlessly fuses nature, architecture, and cuisine. True to its name—“Sontaya,” meaning “sunset” in Thai—the restaurant provides an enchanting atmosphere where guests can soak in spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf while indulging in a culinary journey through Southeast Asia.
The setting is nothing short of magical. The gentle lapping of water beneath the pavilions, the golden hues of the setting sun reflecting on the pools, and the soft sea breeze make for an ambiance that feels both exclusive and serene. Whether you’re dining indoors or choosing an alfresco experience, every table at Sontaya comes with an unforgettable view.
A Culinary Experience Like No Other
Sontaya’s newly curated menu takes guests on a flavorful journey across the diverse cuisines of Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and beyond. Each dish is meticulously crafted to highlight the rich traditions and aromatic spices that define Southeast Asian gastronomy.
Signature Dishes to Indulge In
- Wok-Fried Beef – Succulent beef slices tossed in a hot wok with fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and a hint of heat for that perfect balance of bold flavors.
- Ginger Lotus Sea Bass – A delicate yet flavorful dish where perfectly steamed sea bass is infused with the warmth of ginger and the earthy richness of lotus root.
- Nasi Goreng – A vibrant Indonesian-style fried rice, stir-fried with prawns, vegetables, and fragrant spices, topped with a perfectly cooked fried egg for an irresistible combination of flavors.
- Green Chicken Curry – A Thai classic featuring tender chicken simmered in a velvety coconut-based green curry infused with fresh herbs, chili, and lime leaves for an explosion of taste.
Every bite at Sontaya is designed to transport guests straight to the heart of Southeast Asia, blending authenticity with modern culinary artistry.
Elevating the Experience with Artisanal Cocktails
Complementing Sontaya’s exquisite menu is a carefully curated selection of handcrafted cocktails that celebrate the region’s botanical heritage. Using Asian-inspired ingredients such as lemongrass, kaffir lime, and coconut, these cocktails bring a refreshing and aromatic twist to the dining experience. Whether you’re sipping on a Thai Basil Mojito or a Lemongrass-infused Martini, each drink is a masterpiece in itself, perfectly paired with the bold flavors of the cuisine.
An Unforgettable Ambiance
Beyond the flavors, it’s the setting of Sontaya that makes the dining experience truly exceptional. The seamless blend of contemporary elegance and traditional Southeast Asian charm creates an atmosphere that is both stylish and inviting. Guests can choose to sit in the open-air pavilions, where the sound of trickling water enhances the sense of relaxation, or opt for an intimate indoor setting with warm lighting and modern décor.
As the sun dips below the horizon, the restaurant transforms into an ethereal paradise, with lanterns casting a soft glow over the water, and the sea breeze adding to the charm. It’s a place where every meal is not just about food but about creating lasting memories.
Perfect for Every Occasion
Whether it’s a romantic dinner, a celebratory gathering, or a peaceful lunch escape, Sontaya is designed to suit every occasion. Its unique layout allows for both intimate dining experiences and larger group settings, making it a preferred destination for food lovers and those looking to celebrate special moments in an extraordinary setting.
Plan Your Visit
Sontaya welcomes guests daily with the following operating hours:
- Lunch: Friday to Sunday, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Dinner: Monday to Thursday, 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Reservations are highly recommended to ensure an uninterrupted experience. Guests can book their table by contacting:
- Phone: +971 2 498 8888
- Email: restaurant.saadiyat@stregis.com
Discover More at St. Regis Saadiyat Island
While Sontaya is the star of Southeast Asian dining at St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, the resort itself is home to a diverse selection of world-class dining experiences. Guests can explore the vibrant ambiance of Buddha-Bar Beach Abu Dhabi, indulge in refined cocktails at The Manhattan Lounge, or enjoy gourmet delights at the resort’s other signature restaurants.
For those seeking an exquisite dining experience that merges authenticity, luxury, and stunning natural beauty, the reimagined Sontaya at St. Regis Saadiyat Island is the perfect destination. Every detail, from the impeccable service to the thoughtfully designed menu, ensures that every visit is nothing short of extraordinary.
Experience the enchantment of Sontaya—a place where sunsets, flavors, and elegance come together to create an unforgettable dining adventure.
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