If there were any way we could keep this place to ourselves and get away without writing a review, we would. But, it’s kind of our job to tell you about Abu Dhabi’s restaurants, especially when they’re this good.
Matsu is pretty much the definition of a hidden gem. Unless you’ve heard through word of mouth, until now, there’s not been much mention of its existence. We were tipped off to its opening by someone to whom we’ll be forever grateful.
It’s upstairs at Yas Links Golf Club, but there’s every chance you’ll struggle to find it. Once you’re in the main building, follow the sound of gentle chatter and the clinking of cutlery on plates and you’ll be okay.
It’s a fairly simple, classic dining room. There are wooden beams and large lights hanging from the ceiling, but other than that, there’s not nuch décor to speak of. A large terrace outside overlooks the course, which is where we take a seat (the indoor space being completely full). There’s a small bar area as you enter, too, but we can’t imagine spending much time in there.
Staff, in fetching green robes, are reserved but helpful. They recommend four to five dishes between two, though there are many more on the menu that we want to try.
There are Japanese salads and soups, sashimi, sushi, chargrilled meat and fish, tempura, noodles, bento boxes and a selection of hot and cold starters. For the unitiated, it can be daunting, but, for those who are used to the snazzy likes of Zuma and KOI there will also be lots of unfamiliar dishes.
We play it fairly safe with some toro maki (six tasty rolls filled with the most delicious fatty tuna), a bowl of tempura udon (fat noodles in an earthy soup, topped with two juicy tempura prawns), and a tekka don bowl (sticky sushi rice topped with tuna sashimi, which comes with a bowl of miso soup).
Everything is perfect. The food is delicious, the service is great and, for the quality, it’s good value. We can’t wait to go back and try more. Don’t all rush at once, though, yeah?
WHAT IS IT…
A traditional restaurant that keeps things simple
WHY GO…
Because it could be the best Japanese food in the city
