the abu dhabi edition is a stunning property situated along the al bateen marina and is know for its excellent dining venues along with the stunning views of the marina and the abu dhabi skyline beyond.
it was a lovely evening yesterday and we headed out to try the iftar buffet that takes place at the market at edition after hearing rave reviews about it and we were quiet impressed.
the venue
the restaurant is bright and inviting with white walls featuring floor to ceiling shelves loaded with herb plants and full length glass on one side opening on a terrace that overlooks the marina. the colors are bright and the ambiance cheerful.
it’s a traditional iftar with contemporary touches featuring distinctive dishes with fresh flavors created by michelin-starred chef, tom aikens and local culinary genius, mohamad orfali. there ae many unique features like the extensive drinks section and the arabic ice cream collection.
we arrived just as the call to prayer was heard and we hurriedly settled down on out outdoor table and proceeded to break the fast. the place was absolutely full which is always a great sign and raises our expectations about the food.
the table is set with bowls of dates, water some drinks and a few of their signature starters to get us going which was a very nice touch as after a long day fasting one needs some time to recharge before heading off to the buffet.
the drinks
we have got to talk about the drinks having been to a fair share of iftars this ramadan where you will get a few of the classic ramadan favorites we were amazed by the sheer variety on offer at the market. there was a range of drinks in cute little single serve bottles on beds of ice with the most amazing combinations apart form the regulars.
the red velvet, a combination of ginger ale, tonic and sour grapes was amazing and so was the spicy flamengo which was a mildly spicy hibiscus watermelon drink. the jallab and the tamarind were superb as well and moreover the presentation was stunning.
the food
the food is spread out in distinct sections, we head on over to the cheese board and the server offers to put together a sampler platter along with some of the flavored bread with was very nice. we loved the garlic buns fresh form the oven which went well with the cured meat and the cheese.
there is a whole section of colorfully plated single serve portions of salads and dips right behind that look stunning and are irresistible. the beetroot hummus, tabbouleh and the chicken salad are simply outstanding.
we spot the hot mezze section and are served some crunchy spring rolls along with a delightful spicy muhammara dip, there are some very nice sauces and dips to add flavor to everything which is a thoughtful touch.
there is a huge grill station serving freshly grilled skewers of shrimp, a delightful lamb kofta and some succulent chicken and beef kebabs. there is fresh baked arabic puffy bread to go with this and a selection of dips, the beef skewers went perfectly well with the chimichurri and we loved the shrimp.
we headed back to our table to find that we had been served some excellent grilled beef skewers and a decadent grilled chicken on a bed of couscous which we loved.
the food is excellent, each dish is a stunning creation with perfectly balanced taste and we just cant resist trying everything. we went across to the curry section, the butter chicken and the dal makhani were finger licking good. we topped this off with the delightful biryani and it was simply heavenly
there is a very nice arabic salona that we tried next with a spoon of the shrimp and saffron rice and the flavors are again immaculate, its amazing how everything is just perfect here.
the desserts
there is a huge dessert counter that is a must try filled with a range of arabic and international favorites. after all the food there is just so much we can try, we settled for some of the kunafa was was divine, the pistachio crème brule and the chocolate mousse were delightfully light and we loved the tiramisu.
next to the dessert section is the arabic ice cream collection filled with a range of unique and colorful ice creams and we just had to try. they suggested a sample platter which was perfect, we got mini scopes of he most popular ones to try, the activated charcoal ice cream was a first for us and we loved the popcorn ice cream as well and again the presentation was stunning.
the verdict
the iftar at the market is a truly exceptional celebration of flavors, each dish was spot on and tasted delightful, the variety is extensive and the service is flawless. we must say we loved every bit of it.
then there is the setting, the views are simply to die for and the weather was great so the outdoor patio really made the experience extra special.
the partnership between chef, tom aikens and mohamad orfali shines through in each dish and the arabic ice cream collection is like nothing other in abu dhabi.
the package
the iftar buffet takes place from sundown to 8.30 pm and is priced at only aed 198 per person which given the exception food and the huge variety is an absolute steal.
the contact
for reservations and more information call +971 2 220 8000 or emailrestaurantreservations.auh@editionhotels.com