Oak Room

There are steak rooms and then there is Oak Room.

Proclaiming itself an “English steakhouse that celebrates world-class ingredients with British rock ‘n’ roll flair”, you might balk at the flamboyant descriptor, but there’s no costume in this show.

What Oak Room really brings to the table, is edge.

This is a sharp place, with well-dressed staff running a trendy dining room – but it’s all a backdrop for the stylish performance of a kitchen helmed by acclaimed Brit chef Tom Aikens.

For meat, this Al Bateen eatery, at The Abu Dhabi EDITION, is frequently touted as one of the top steakhouses in the city. Not least by us – in 2019, Oak Room walked away with the gong for Time Out Abu Dhabi’s Best Steakhouse.

Open for dinner most weeknights and a weekly brunch, it also serves up a roast dinner on weekends.

And with those rock ‘n’ roll vibes located just opposite Library Bar, Oak Room can attract high-flying business men and women ready for a good meal after they clock off, as well as couples looking to enjoy a secluded table on the terrace.

If you don’t know what to get, you can even speak to the “meat sommelier” (yes) who can share expert advice on the cuts, cows and more. Even if you have a go-to cut, there is an extensive steak selection that might make you switch your usual order, as well as a number of other signatures including spatchcock baby chicken and a wagyu and lobster burger. Then choose from the range of sides and sauces. A meal can be washed down with signature mixed drinks or “highly recommended” grape beverages.

In a shock to no one, this isn’t the first spot you’d bring your vegetarian friends, especially with the meat focus continued to sides. Wagyu fat chips or mac ‘n’ cheese with pulled beef short rib, anyone? However, the fish and chips, a signature lentil burger and curry accommodate vegetarians and those with other dietary requirements.

Still no clue? If you’re still having trouble deciding between the steaks (as well as other signatures) there is the Oak Room Intro available on selected weeknights which allows undecided diners to sample a selection of dishes, with add-on plates and free-flowing beverage upgrades available.

Before you’re served your meat, staff present a box from which to select your steak knife, depending on the handle weight. The novelty of it does not get old. How many places do that?

Oak Room is one of those places that will make you wonder just how something seemingly simple can be done so well.

You think you could replicate it at home, but you know you will never be able to.

First of all, where are you going to get that Grade 7+ Sanchoku wagyu striploin from? Don’t bother, because it’s never going to hit the highs Oak Room does.