“The more gold and shiny the better” seems to be the general mantra in Abu Dhabi.
But few hotels in the capital have taken it to quite the extreme that Bab Al Qasr has.
Literally dazzling in the sunshine, the iconic building is a hugely impressive sight. It’s the kind of exterior that makes you desperate to explore the inside.
However, we are just one of two tables when we arrive at Peruvian restaurant Limo.
We’re seated outside on the narrow terrace, where we quickly realise that there isn’t a single vegetarian option on the menu, which for our veggie friend is quite a surprise (although maybe they should’ve checked before agreeing to come along…). However, the server is able to offer us some meat-free alternatives without much trouble. The fact she doesn’t need to check with the kitchen first, suggests this is perhaps a regular request. The actual menu is full of interesting and colourful plates. The ceviches, sashimi, pastas and mains, including lamb stew and grilled fish, sound very tempting (but show solidarity with our buddy, for the starters at least).
When the food arrives, the vegetarian anticuchos, featuring skewers of mushroom, onion and peppers on a pile of creamy mashed potato, and kataifi shrimps, decorated with boiled eggs and fresh tomatoes, are both more than worth the wait.
The flavours and textures work together perfectly, and both plates deserve a photo before we dive in.
Our mains come soon after, and despite the fact that the vegetable fried rice is really very tasty, it’s still a bit unimaginative compared to the sensational nature of the appetisers.
However, our pollada peruana is a brilliant dish featuring half a roast chicken, perfectly roasted new potatoes (yes, we had all of the carbs) and green salad.
It’s quite simple, but a sprinkling of paprika adds an extra kick that’s offset wonderfully by the creamy sauce covering the potatoes.
Although our meal doesn’t quite reach the lofty COYA levels of Peruvian greatness, the dishes are creatively presented, and taste fantastic, too.
WHAT IS IT…
Colourful and fancy South American dishes
WHY GO…
For proof that you can find brilliant Peruvian food outside of COYA
