Li Beirut, Jumeirah Etihad Towers – Abu Dhabi

Having heard so many good things about Li Beirut, my better half and I proceeded to drive all the way to neighbouring Abu Dhabi and spent the better half of the evening at this amazing restaurant located at the Jumeirah Etihad Towers (yes, the very same building that featured the jaw dropping stunt from the latest Fast and Furious movie) – and I am glad that the food and setting lived up to my expectations.

The restaurant is tastefully decorated with dim lights, with a posh-feel, lending a cosy vibe. We were seated outside, the weather was surprisingly cool and the view was simply breath taking – the Abu Dhabi skyline providing a beautiful and romantic backdrop. The service staff that tended to us was really attentive, professional and knowledgeable about the food – and had such a beautiful smile. It’s one of the small gestures that turn a good experience into one worth cherishing.

For starters, I ordered from the hot mezzeh and opted for the chicken liver – it was divine to say the least. My partner selected from the cold mezzeh, and he was a happy camper digging into the moutabel and hummus – the smile on his face was a vindication that it was the right decision to leave the comforts of Dubai and drive up north.

We were craving seafood, so for main course I feasted on char-grilled tiger prawns – they were cooked to perfection, with the succulent meat melting in my mouth.

My better half settled for pan-seared seabass fillet accompanied by mussel ratatouille and saffron foam – and once again, he couldn’t stop gushing about how fresh and exquisite the fish tasted, evoking memories of many a fishing trip. I reckon a fishing trip is long due. Hehe.

To round of the perfect dinner experience, for desserts I had the chocolate globe, deliciously infused with berries and tropical flavours – a decadent dessert to say the least. Shout-out to the manager on duty Rawad, who dropped by to check up on us and exchanged friendly banter – you along with your staff deserve a big pat on the back for a job well done.

All in all, when the food, the wine, the service and the overall ambience come together in perfect harmony, it just elevates the entire dining experience to a whole new level. We will definitely return, for I may have left my heart in Abu Dhabi and also to try their signature zaatar crusted lamb.