Ahead of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island is getting fans of Formula 1, which starts in December, excited with a limited-edition dining experience.

Inspired by racetracks around the world, Taste The Race takes place at the multi-cuisine restaurant Garage until the end of September.

Taste the Race reviewed

As I entered the luxurious lobby of W Abu Dhabi, I was greeted by the warm employees and led to the Garage dining area. The vibrant space overlooking the race tracks is the perfect ambience aligning with the theme of Formula 1.

The set menu is a representation of five places where the F1 races have taken place; Japan, Singapore, America, Abu Dhabi, and Italy. Guests can opt for two options, either a three-course meal for Dhs99 or a five-course meal for Dhs125, making it worthwhile for anyone visiting with friends or family.

Upon perusing the menu, I wanted to try every single dish on it as they were interestingly put together. The Japanese section, curated by Nikkei House, perfectly aligns authentic dishes from the country with the Formula 1 racetrack theme. Their salmon teriyaki donburi was delightfully fresh, with salmon fish marinated in Teriyaki sauce, served with sticky rice. Their sushi rolls were also outstanding and left me craving more.

From the Singaporean menu, I tried the coconut noodle laksa soup, a delicacy that reflects Singapore’s multicultural heritage with a tinge of spice. The chicken rice was served with signature a house sauce and was rich in aroma as well as taste.

The Arabic menu was one I was most excited about with different Arabic dishes from around the Middle East, including the United Arab Emirates. The mezze bar cooks and presents traditional dishes such as chicken shawarma, a lamb pita along with smooth hummus, fresh tabbouleh, and the crispiest fattoush. The chicken shawarma was one of the best, with a really rich garlic paste, served with mini fattoush salad and French fries. This menu was impressive and curated in such a way that resonated with the Arab culinary experience. 

To finish, the Tart Van served Italian desserts from a classic tiramisu to a fresh frutti baba au rhum. The freshly made desserts were the perfect end to the meal. The tiramisu, in particular, was one of a kind, with the espresso flavour seamlessly blending in with the chocolate taste. The zuccotto cake and cannoli were also impeccable to taste with a sweet cocoa alongside tangy raspberry.

From the chefs to the staff, guests are guaranteed to be well looked after during the Taste the Race dining experience.

@wabudhabi