If you ever find yourself in Souk Qaryat Al Beri and hear pumping beats and chattering voices coming from the end of one of the hallways, you’re nearing Atlon. This new bar and bistro is starting to make a name for itself on Abu Dhabi’s party scene with a reputation for good music and a fun atmosphere, despite an unusual location.
Atlon officially opened on New Year’s Eve 2022 and has since been serving shisha, drinks and a little menu of bar bites with terrace views of the canal. The atmosphere is mostly down to loud music from the DJ booth and spinning colourful spotlights that flit across the room (a little garish, but we’ll allow it).
The bar is buzzy on a Saturday night, and the space split into various sections, with booths, tables and stools, plus an area for pool, all scattered with cheeky neon signs.
For a venue with fairly scattered focus, the bar snacks are pleasantly surprising. Case in point the barria tacos, which come generously loaded with pulled short rib and Mexican chillies, all stuffed in a seared tortilla with barria sauce.
Atlon’s fish and chips is also a good shout, arriving in a basket filled with chunky chips, topped with a crispy fillet.
Certainly, the bar’s buzz and popularity is a testament to Abu Dhabi’s unique nightlife scene. A quirky spot for a quick drink if you’re in the area, but not quite a destination in its own right.
