While it’s unlikely many people will pop over to Jumeirah Al Wathba for an evening meal, this restaurant is perhaps good enough to tempt you.
Of course, there’s always the option of booking a room and staying the night, which we wholeheartedly can recommend – this desert resort is an absolutely stunning addition to Abu Dhabi.
Terra Secca (which translates as ‘dry earth’, fact fans), is a fairly formal destination, without being stuffy. In fact such is the relaxed atmosphere around this place, there’s nothing remotely intimidating about the restaurant, so leave your preconceptions at the door, thank you very much.
Staff are great, happy to make you feel comfortable and take any dietary considerations on board, and quick to bring the drinks and starters, which is always nice.
We start with an antipasti platter, and when it arrives it’s an absolute beast.
The board is heaving under the mounds of olives, breads, cheese and meat. It would be the perfect choice for a couple who don’t want to have a full-on three course meal. This and a couple of glasses of grape – sorted.
We are not that couple, however, and our order does not stop with the platter. We do polish most of it off though, as it’s all delicious. Would order again.
For a more dainty starter, try the Sicilian red prawns (in that little photograph over to the right).
When it comes to mains we are drawn to the pasta menu.
As we devour thick ribbons of fresh pasta, coated in a perfect tomato sauce studded with clams and prawns, it’s hard to think that there are many better ways to eat.
Across the table, a pizza is going down a treat, too.
One thing you’ll notice here is the menu is short enough for the kitchen to be able to cook everything to order. Homemade pastas, hand-pulled dough and great attention to detail. It’s clear this is a restaurant headed up by an Italian chef who really cares about the ingredients.
There’s also a lovely terrace which makes the most of the restaurant’s unique setting, and a bar upstairs that is perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks.
Prices aren’t too bad, either, especially for such an impressive location. So next time you’re thinking of heading out for a special meal, give Terra Secca a chance. You won’t regret it.
WHAT IS IT…
A cosy restaurant in a luxury desert resort
WHY GO…
The antipasti platter is pretty amazing
