Why you need to experience Abu Dhabi’s first dining in the dark concept

A beachfront location, Arabian elegance, and now a dining concept that has never been seen before in the capital. Bab Al Qasr Hotel & Residences is always a top spot to visit in Abu Dhabi and now we have one more reason to head there with the new Dining in the Dark experience.

Pitch Black Dining is located on the second floor of the hotel at Fresh Basil, and is a one-of-a-kind experience that takes you from light to dark and known to unknown.

Are you ready? No electronics or light-emitting objects are allowed in the pitch-black dining room including cellphones, watches, lighters and cameras. The lack of distractions (including the lack of light) sharpens diners’ senses – allowing you to focus on the tastes, fragrances, mouthfeel and sounds around you.

Upon arrival at Fresh Basil – Pitch Black Dining, the staff will welcome you with a mixed drink and canapés while they explain the concept and the dining process in detail. You will put your electronics in a secure box, select drinks to go with your meal, then step inside.

The servers will assist you to the table wearing night vision goggles, and once you’ve become acquainted with the feeling of complete darkness, you will enjoy a three-course set mystery menu, one course at a time.

Each course has been created with flavours that flow from dish-to-dish, but you won’t know what you’re eating until the end. (The menu can be modified for dietary restrictions, allergies, and preferences).

After the Dining in the Dark is complete, you’ll be escorted to the de-briefing area where you’ll meet the chef. You will be asked to guess which good you ate, and afterwards the mystery will be revealed by uncovering each course.

The meal package starts at Dhs249 per person. The menu has been carefully curated by Executive Chef Yvan Marclay and Head Chef Gayan Rupasinghe and goes for 60 to 90 minutes. There will only be 20 diners per evening, so make sure you book ahead.

Dhs249. Mon-Fri 7.30pm-10pm. Bab Al Qasr Hotel & Residences (056 992 2078).