Day to night dining destination harnesses the power of open-fire cooking on the beach
Abu Dhabi, UAE-: Sand & Koal has been announced as the next dining destination to launch at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi as the hotel continues to cement itself as a culinary and experiential hub. Having witnessed the rising demand for immersive dining, Sand & Koal will open on 1 December to explore the endless possibilities of live fire in a restaurant and bar environment that revolves around the clock.
The distinctive name – Sand & Koal – derives from the al fresco location and the innovative cuisine that it serves. It also represents day, through Sand, and night, with Koal. The scenic, beach-front setting will allow for casual lounging and leisurely lunches, picturesque sunset drinks at dusk and torch-lit fine-dining, with views of the Palace architecture and the Arabian Sea in every direction.
On the menu are wholesome vegetable-based recipes, raw, smoked and charred seafood, unique meat cuts, grilled skewers, and delicious crudos. Winning dishes are finished table-side for a sense of entertainment and interaction, whilst minimalistic plating allows the natural taste of the ingredients to shine – with the added bonus of smokiness and depth from the grill.
The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is committed to responsible sourcing, upholding farm-to-table, fin-to-grill and nose-to-tail practices in an effort to promote local agriculture and minimise waste. The ever-evolving, seasonal menu showcases the most unique and high-quality ingredients, perfectly balancing fresh vegetables, seafood and meat.
Michael Koth, General Manager of Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi commented: “Open-fire cooking has taken the world by storm in recent years as an inventive, theatrical and
complex method that requires both precision and subtlety. Sand & Koal fulfills our fans’ desire for exceptional, unscripted, home-grown food and beverage concepts by offering a vibrant atmosphere, engaging service, amazing mixology and exceptional eats – centrally positioned on the beach to unite fire and water elements.”
The free-spirited daytime experience will be accompanied by chilled DJs and smooth saxophone, before darkness descends and Koal’s fire dancers take centre stage. Guests can enjoy unique, interactive experiences including a chef’s table and private VIP gazebo for up to 15 people. There will also be a set brunch menu with live cooking on Saturdays, backed by Sand & Koal’s premium beverage selection and creative cocktails using charcoal and smoke.
Upon opening in December, this new and elevated dining concept will be the perfect place for gourmands looking for fresh, new flavours and a unique dining experience in Abu Dhabi.