Almayass in Abu Dhabi is a Lebanese-Armenian restaurant that offers a high quality experience in a down to earth setting. On the terrace, you can enjoy al fresco dining next to the water at Galleria Mall, whilst looking across to the city skyline, and enjoying a range of hot and cold mezze dishes. Indoors, it’s a little cosier with plush red seating, large glass lamps giving off a golden glow, and a combination of floral wallpaper and stone walls.
To eat, you can expect all of the classic Lebanese and Armenian dishes, presented in a contemporary way. For lighter bites there are options such as tabbouleh and fattoush, cold mezze options like dips, vine leaves and stuffed aubergine, and hot options like fried halloumi, falafel and lamb sweetbreads. The mains offer plenty of grilled options, such as kebabs, boneless chicken and lamb chops, but one of the customer favourites is definitely the lamb or chicken shawarma that comes tucked into a pitta with salad and yoghurt.
For something a little sweeter, Almayass offers sweet pastry options such as Osmaliyat and Knafet which both use Kataifi pastry and are stuffed with a ricotta cheese and drizzled with a syrup. For something a little creamier, there is muhallabieh, which is a milk pudding garnished with nuts, rose petals and a sugar syrup, or the semolina based pistachio treat of mafroukeh, which is both creamy and crunchy.
This is one restaurant you’re guaranteed to leave without gaining a hangover the following morning, as it’s an alcohol free establishment. For cold drinks you can expect fresh juices and mocktails, and for hot drinks there is coffee, hot chocolate and Armenian tea.
This is a great spot to enjoy authentic food in a laid back setting, and it works for both a casual meal with friends, and a place to celebrate special occasions.