Millennium Residences Saadiyat Island

Meaning ‘legacy’, Erth is made up of many striking elements, from its dramatic location as part of the Qasr Al Hosn cultural site, to its bold architecture. Inside, the polished concrete and bespoke furniture, along with modern majlis, make for a unique environment. Equally memorable is the food which, while modern, is anchored firmly in Emirati traditions when it comes to flavours, cookware and ingredients sourced from farms across the Emirates. A modern take on lamb machboos delivers tender lamb slow-cooked in a sweet and savoury teriyaki sauce, served with fluffy, fragrant rice. We suggest

The first thing you’ll be tempted by will be a quick dip as you wander past the pool of the Jumeirah Saadiyat Island. The smiling service team will make you feel instantly at home, while the open kitchen prepares an assortment of Lebanese, Greek, Turkish and Middle Eastern dishes, all designed for sharing. There are excellent freshly baked breads aplenty; just be sure to order something from the charcoal grill and finish with Umm Ali.

Almayass is where Lebanese and Armenian cuisine meet influences from around the Mediterranean. The original was founded in Beirut in 1996 and this large Abu Dhabi branch, where the circular booths are the prized seats, continues the tradition of offering an extensive menu of very generous portions – ideal for sharing. Start off with one of their fresh, vibrant Itch salads before moving on to Meshwi Shekaf – grilled veal with spiced bread. This spot is not just for one-time visits – you’ll have to come often to do this menu justice.

Set in Al Mina souq, just a stone’s throw from the fish market at Zayed Port, is this modern, seafood restaurant serving the best of the local catch, cooked with some global influences. Dishes are generously sized, prepared with evident care, use the best of Emirati ingredients and spices, and are perfect for sharing; those from the charcoal grill are a highlight, especially the locally caught hammour. Don’t leave without trying their signature dessert: the chocolate pâte à choux. Service is sweet, relaxed, warm and friendly.

Descend the stairs to the sound of pumping music and you’ll find yourself transported to Buenos Aires at his atmospheric restaurant in the Park Hyatt Hotel. The centrepiece is the open kitchen and the flaming wood-fired grills here. The menu does have some Lebanese influence but it’s really all about Argentinian dishes with great charred flavours and top ingredients, be they prawns or beef. If you really want to feel part of the action, sit at the counter.

Regulars of this exclusive international brand will instantly recognise the sultry and chic oriental décor within this branch, located within the Emirates Palace hotel. All the time-honoured classics are on the menu, like Peking duck, Chilean sea bass with honey and, on Saturday lunchtimes, their celebrated dim sum, all prepared with enormous skill. Opt for the premium dim sum and any of Hakkasan’s 'signatures', which are highlighted on the menu. A well-chosen wine list delivers an interesting global selection with plenty of top producers. Service is knowledgeable and engaging and the atmosphe

No one does understated sophistication quite like the Italians. This beautiful Italian restaurant at the Emirates Palace, which is under the direction of chef Antonio Guida who made and cemented his reputation in Milan, celebrates family-style – or ‘cucina di famiglia’ – cooking. Dishes may appear quite simple but the flavours are exhilarating. Purity and vibrancy are evident in sublime pasta dishes like the linguine all’ astice; the baccala cod with cannellini beans, seaweed puree and friggitelli; and the Miele e Polline, with the honey sourced from the hotel grounds.