Nestled in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s luxurious Galleria on Al Maryah Island, Zuma Abu Dhabi delivers a perfect blend of elegance, high-quality ingredients and artistic presentation. Whether you're a family enjoying a leisurely lunch, a business professional holding a team get together or ladies that lunch, Zuma Abu Dhabi is a place that truly welcomes everyone.
Offering a contemporary twist on traditional Japanese dining, Zuma Abu Dhabi is all set across one floor and incorporates a distinctive lounge, bar and restaurant area all overlooking the waterfront setting. Additionally, the private dining room is perfect for events and celebrations, seating up to 14 guests.
From the moment CEO TODAY stepped inside, we were greeted with warm smiles by an attentive staff with the General Manager going above and beyond to make us feel at home, ensuring every detail was meticulously taken care of. Watching the lunch time rush, what stood out most was how effortlessly the service staff balanced the needs of families, children and business professionals dining in the same space. Indeed, Zuma Abu Dhabi has mastered the art of inclusivity without compromising on its trendy and upscale ambiance.
Starters
Our culinary journey began with a selection of three stunning starters:
Yellowtail Sashimi with Yuzu Truffle – This delicate dish was a revelation. The buttery softness of the yellowtail paired with the citrusy brightness of yuzu and the umami richness of truffle created an explosion of flavours that lingered long after each bite.
Crispy Fried Squid with Green Chili & Lime – Light, crispy and packed with a delightful kick, the squid was cooked to perfection. The subtle heat from the green chili balanced beautifully with the zesty lime, making this an addictive starter.
Beef Tataki with Truffle Ponzu – A standout dish that was melt-in-the-mouth tender.
Mains
Zuma’s main courses showcased the pinnacle of Japanese culinary expertise. We opted for a variety of dishes to experience the full range of flavours:
Spicy Beef Tenderloin with Sesame, Red Chili & Sweet Soy – A signature dish that lived up to its reputation. The beef was tender and juicy, complemented by a perfectly balanced sauce that packed heat, sweetness and depth.
The famous Miso-Marinated Black Cod Wrapped in Hoba Leaf – A true Zuma masterpiece, this dish featured flawlessly cooked cod infused with miso's deep, caramelised notes.
Grilled Tiger Prawns with Yuzu Kosho & Shiso Butter – CEO TODAY'S favourite! Juicy and full of flavour, the prawns were grilled to perfection. The citrusy tang of yuzu kosho and the rich shiso butter combined to create a mouthwatering dish that was both fresh and felt indulgent.
Lamb Cutlets with Korean Spices – Zuma’s take on lamb was exquisite. The meat was cooked perfectly with a smoky char that complemented the bold Korean spices.
Chilean Sea Bass with Green Chili & Ginger Dressing – A beautifully presented dish with a stunning depth of flavour. The green chili provided a subtle heat while the ginger dressing added a hint of freshness that paired beautifully with the soft, flaky fish.
Dessert
To end our meal on a high note, we indulged in three showstopping desserts:
Chocolate Fondant with Matcha Ice Cream – The fondant was rich and velvety oozing warm chocolate upon first bite. The matcha ice cream provided a pleasant bitterness that balanced the sweetness beautifully- the kids loved it and wanted more!
Yuzu Cheesecake with Raspberry Sorbet – A light and zesty dessert, the tangy yuzu cheesecake was a perfect contrast to the sweet and tart raspberry sorbet with every bite feeling refreshing.
Zuma’s Signature Dessert Platter – You can't go wrong with one of these! A feast for both the eyes and all the guests. This selection included an array of delicacies from fresh fruit to ice cream to intricately crafted sweet treats, all presented with meticulous attention to detail. The grand finale of a spectacular meal.
Cocktails & Mocktails: Zuma’s beverage menu was just as impressive as the food. Highlights include: Amami punch (vodka, kaffir gin, guava, coconut, lime), Hikari spritz (sweet vermouth, italicus, yuzu tonic, prosecco) and the Zuma mai tai (Zuma rum grog, pineapple, blood orange, orgeat, lime, bitter).Conclusion
Zuma Abu Dhabi is more than just a restaurant—it is an experience. The high-quality food, exceptional service and breathtaking waterfront views create an atmosphere that is both luxurious and welcoming. The attention to detail in every dish, from presentation to flavour balance is truly remarkable.
Additionally, Zuma boasts multiple seasonal island concepts and European destinations including Zuma Mykonos, Zuma Ibiza, Zuma Porto Cervo, Zuma Capri and Zuma Cannes.
If you’re in Abu Dhabi and looking for an unforgettable lunch or dining experience, Zuma should be at the top of your list. It’s a place where impeccable craftsmanship meets culinary innovation and where every dish tells a story of passion and perfection. Whether you’re savouring a beautifully plated starter, indulging in a main course or enjoying an exquisitely crafted cocktail, Zuma Abu Dhabi guarantees a meal to remember.
For reservations, please call +971 2 401 5900 or email reservations.ad@zumarestaurant.ae.
Location: Abu Dhabi Global Market, Al Maryah Island
Food and venue photography credits: Gavriil Papadiotis (www.gavriilux.com)
More info here: www.zumarestaurant.com
