The Sheraton is one of Abu Dhabi’s veteran hotels, and Lebanese and Armenian restaurant Al Mayass has an old-school charm that immediately makes us warm to it.
There’s a homey feel and a traditional look to the dining room, and we like that it’s not trying to be too flashy or glamorous.
Our server is happy to help us choose from the long list of mezze (many of which we have to admit being unfamiliar with), and when we can’t decide between beetroot and spicy hummus, we’re offered half a portion of each.
This turns out to be brilliant move. Both the colourful bowls are totally delicious, and we’re soon onto our second basket of warm Arabic breads as we devour the flavour-filled dips.
Meanwhile, we’re impressed with the huge bits of chicken in the shish taouk, and it comes neatly presented with a few crunchy vegetables and pot of light garlic foam.
But the star of the show is the batinjan harr (aubergine with loads of amazing Arabic spices). This absolute triumph of a dish is full of fresh flavours and we can’t stop raving about how beautifully cooked the pieces of purple vegetable are.
However, the grilled halloumi, served with just a few slices of cucumber, is a bit underwhelming. There’s nothing bad about it, but compared to the other sensational plates it’s a bit unimaginative.
We leave desperate to return and try a few more plates from the long list of creative mezze.
WHAT IS IT…
Lebanese and Armenian specialties
WHY GO…
Mainly for the super fried aubergine
