Beach Rotana in Abu Dhabi is a luxury, five-star hotel with a whole host of facilities from events spaces to weddings and several dining options, too. Its waterside location is one of the first reasons to visit, as it looks out across the beach and to the cosmopolitan skyline beyond.
The hotel has a clean contemporary feel which extends through to its international buffet restaurant, Essence. Essence is a large, open plan and multi-level space with an informal yet polished aesthetic. The entrance takes the form of an eye-catching staircase, dramatically leading down to the main floor where there are plenty of places to sit, from the central section with four-seater tables to the elevated areas suitable for larger groups. Dark wood is featured throughout the design, contrasted with cream and plenty of plants which gives the space an injection of freshness. This dining experience is interactive and so guests are invited to walk around and peruse the options, chatting to the staff and chefs who are more than happy to share more information about the wealth of dishes available.
The international buffet spans continental options, British dishes and plenty of local delicacies so that you feel connected to the surrounding culture. As you walk around, the options are seemingly endless with a fresh sushi counter, an eclectic mix of healthy salads devised with a modern Arabian twist, as well as live cooking stations which create a theatrical element to the dining experience. There is also an a la carte menu if that’s more your style and, of course, dietary requirements are catered for.
Sit inside, or go out and enjoy the calming terrace which benefits from the beautiful sunny weather, a gentle sea breeze and light, beachy furnishings, all of which make for a calming place to be.