When Bambu first popped up on our feeds as a brand-new nightlife spot in Abu Dhabi, we immediately wanted to book a table. Eye catching décor, pan-Asian and Latin dishes, vibey themed nights, and the all-important flower wall (for the ‘gram, duh).
This spot certainly grabs your attention, and it comes from the team behind Easy Tiger (a local favourite) and Viewz Bar (a buzzing sports bar across the hall from Bambu). That’s some serious genetics.
You might not expect such a vibrant spot to appear inside the unassuming Cristal Hotel. While the hotel isn’t as flashy as some of Abu Dhabi’s more scene-stealing properties, once you walk into Bambu you’ll forget all about the world outside.
The ceiling is completely covered with jungle vines and leaves, creating the impression of a jungle resort. The room is strung with multi-coloured lights and lanterns, and the floor is covered in zig-zag tiling. The whole thing combines to give the zany impression of a jungle-related fever dream and we’re absolutely here for it.
An extensive menu features more mixed drinks than you can shake a bamboo stick at, plus a few whites, reds, and hops. There are Latin, Asian, Tiki and juniper-based drinks sections to choose from with a huge range of mixed drinks featuring some kooky names.
When it comes to bar bites, a slightly muddled mix of Japanese, pan-Asian, and South American dishes awaits, with prices ranging from around Dhs55 for a small plate to Dhs225 for a wagyu beef striploin.
Regardless, we’ll be coming back to Bambu, and soon. With its playful décor, lively music curation and joyful vibe, stepping inside is like taking a trip to a tropical Narnia.
If you’re looking to escape Abu Dhabi’s concrete jungle, put this on your list.
