Meat: There’s a certain contented expression that you’ll only ever witness on the face of a man who’s been to Chamas. Though it’s a full-time all-you-can-eat joint, there’s none of the dry, lukewarm nonsense you might be used to. Instead, red-scarfed waiters with massive spits of freshly grilled beef, chicken wings, lamb chops, duck and (believe it or not) pineapple parade around the dining room, hacking off their wares at your request. And sure, the salad bar is one of the best-stocked in the city, but over-fill on greenery at your peril – the rare smoked beef is one of the tastiest meaty treats in Abu Dhabi.
Dhs255 (food only). Intercontinental Abu Dhabi (02 666 6888)
Sushi: Whether it’s that there’s a massive backlog of fish and rice to get rid of, or that the city’s hotels are simply feeling rather generous, unlimited sushi deals are popping up all over the place. You’ll find the best value at Toshi, where, for a mere Dhs95, you can pick as many dishes as you like from the à la carte menu. The Malaysian-style ‘fusion’ rolls (packed with mango, seaweed and lord knows what else) aren’t really worth wasting much stomach space on, but the traditional Japanese concoctions are very good indeed – we’d recommend piling the unagi maki rolls and the tuna nigiris particularly high.
Dhs95 (food only). Grand Millennium (02 443 9999)
Mussels: While we don’t have the Belgians to thank for much (forgive us, Jean-Claude van Damme), the small European nation certainly knows what it’s doing with a big sack of shellfish. Those unfamiliar with the traditional delicacy of potted mussels can get their fill at Stills every Monday during the month of May, where you can choose to have your on-tap molluscs cooked up in a choice of four different sauces: classic grape and garlic, mustard and cream, roquefort or leek and hops. Each pot also arrives with a side of toasted bread and Belgian-style fries, perfect for mopping up that fishy broth.
Dhs99 (food only). Crowne Plaza Yas Island (02 656 3000)
Tapas: With Pearls & Caviar slightly on the wallet-worrying side, its Sunday night Supper Club offers a great opportunity to try out some of its signature creations at a reasonable price. While the miniature platefuls are rotated weekly, keep an eye out for the fiery, wasabi-laced tuna tartare and the tempura prawns served with chermoula – a spicy North African dipping sauce. Best of all, though, the price also includes free-flowing mixed beverages and the company of DJ Emile, who spins soothing chillout tunes while you gobble up the miniature platefuls and gaze across Maqta Creek like a tortured artist.
Dhs195 (including drinks). Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri (02 509 8888)
Korean food: Though its mid-week offerings leave a little to be desired, every Thursday, the Holiday Inn’s Silk Route Café lays on a Korean spread to be reckoned with. There are cold salads and kimchi to check out, before moving on to chicken, beef and seafood dishes, with plenty of noodles and rice to accompany. You’ll want to take a seat on the small outdoor terrace for the best dishes, though – that’s where you’ll find a Korean-style gogi gui barbecue, grilling up fresh meat and fish. Remember to give the chef a hearty kamsahamnida (thank you) on your way out. He’ll probably have no idea what you’re going on about, but still.
Dhs125 (food only). Holiday Inn (02 657 4888)
