Set in the super-cool Yas Viceroy, Atayeb is an ideal spot for anyone looking for some top-notch Arabic food. Billed as a fusion of “Arabic-Mediterranean cuisine”, it offers up dishes from Morocco, Tunisia, Lebanon and Syria. All dishes are freshly cooked, and while the place is smart, it still has a leisurely vibe, and has a mix of couples and larger family groups dining.
The menu is long without being overwhelming, boasting a range of hot and cold mezze.
We opt for some hummus, cheese borek, the signature falafel and stuffed vine leaves.
Portions are huge and the borek is a delight. The melted cheese is perfectly gooey, while the filo it’s encased in is light, fresh and not at all greasy.
Everything comes with mountains of puffy, piping hot Arabic bread, which is used to greedily scoop up the rich, smooth hummus. The stuffed vine leaves are the weakest of the bunch, being a tad oily with an overpoweringly herby flavour.
Next we plump for the mixed grill (which is again on the large side) brimming full of kebabs, lamb cutlets and chicken. The meat is good quality and the spices are spot on.
For a leisurely Arabic dinner experience, pop this Yas Island spot on your list.
The bottom line
Excellent dishes in a swish setting.
