Having won the approval of culinary enthusiasts in Dubai, where it became one of the must-visit restaurants in the city, the award-winning lifestyle experience SAL is now making waves on Abu Dhabi's dining scene with a second venue.

Europe-inspired Eating in Abu Dhabi

Gracing the shores of Jumeirah Saadiyat Island from February 2024, SAL’s second venue is committed to delivering a sophisticated and relaxed dining experience in a stunning new beachfront setting.

Drawing inspiration from the barefoot chic for which destinations such as Capri, Saint-Tropez, and Mykonos are renowned, SAL Saadiyat Island celebrates iconic dishes that hail from the sun-kissed southern Mediterranean.

Taking the reins is head chef Vincenzo Nigro, who arrives with two decades of experience having worked at some of the world’s best-known luxury hotels. From the kitchen, he’ll oversee a carefully crafted menu that captures the essence of this fascinating region. And because dishes are designed for sharing, SAL encourages a communal eating experience that mirrors the warmth and friendliness of the Mediterranean culture.

Begin your gastronomic adventure by enjoying freshly shucked oysters with a lemon and red wine vinegar dressing and indulge in prawns cooked in a roasted tomato sauce, crispy calamari with spicy mayonnaise or tuna tartare with caviar, and a refreshing ponzu sauce.

As for mains, sea salt-crusted sea bass and a catch of the day promise to tantalise your taste buds while dishes such as king crab and homemade trenette pasta – a Ligurian speciality – showcase the delicate flavours of the Mediterranean.

In addition, meat lovers can relish grilled lamb chops and a hearty wagyu beef tomahawk steak that pays homage to the region's rustic cooking traditions. Finally, be sure to save room for dessert, as SAL continues to weave a European angle into its sweet offerings with delights like vanilla pecan millefeuille and the Italian classic tiramisu, while ice creams, sorbets, and seasonal coupes glacées deliver fruity refreshment.

The restaurant ensures inclusivity with vegetarian and vegan options, such as spinach, artichoke and truffle salad, along with a dedicated children’s menu featuring treats like manchego croquettes, and chicken Milanese.

An Immersive Setting with Irresistible Views

Jumeirah Saadiyat Island’s architecturally impressive design provides the perfect canvas for SAL's culinary masterpieces. Just as the glittering installation in the lobby – formed of a 2000kg hand-blown Bohemian crystal – mirrors the vibrant underwater marine life, the beach club and restaurant takes full advantage of its location on the shores of Saadiyat Island.

Feel the pristine white sands of Saadiyat Beach in between your toes or relax in one of the private cabanas before taking a seat amid the casual elegance of SAL, where a backdrop of crystal-clear azure waters sets the tone for a dining experience that’s as visually captivating as it is gastronomically delightful.

SAL joins a line-up of exceptional, award-winning venues that are on offer here – from Tean, the resort’s signature Levantine-inspired restaurant, to the sustainable, contemporary dining found at White, and the authentic Italian food served by popular beachfront destination Mare Mare.

Whether you’re a devoted fan of SAL at Jumeirah Burj Al Arab or a newcomer to its culinary delights, this new outpost in the UAE capital is an opportunity to indulge in the magic of SAL Saadiyat Island while admiring one of Abu Dhabi's most spectacular views.

For more inspiration, visit @Sal_Saadiyatisland on Instagram.