< PreviousFood 50 November 2022 timeoutabudhabi.com ARE YOU READY TO eat your way across Italy? As much as you might want to, there’s no need to step on a plane this time. Forget airport hassle and jet over to Cafe Milano in the Four Seasons Abu Dhabi for the Sunday brunch. The Viaggio in Italia Sunday brunch is a seated brunch that runs from noon to 4pm and has the distinction of focusing on a new region of Italy each week, depending on where the chef draws inspo from. All the more reason to make a habit of booking in. Sit back in the large, bright space and take in the photogenic views of the water on one side or watch the bartenders work away. You’re given the fresh menu before plates are brought to the table – this isn’t surprise dining. You’ll likely know some popular dishes while others you might not have tried or have seen on a menu very frequently. As much as we get the “no carbs at brunch” philosophy, we Ànd ourselves missing some bread, especially when the restaurant makes it a ceremony to bring around hot bread to diners, and there are sauces to soak up with each course. Similarly, some diners might feel shortchanged if they come on a week when pizza isn’t on the menu. Or potentially even pasta. Gasp. Given the upscale rep of Cafe Milano, Dhs265 for soft packages and Dhs360 for grape and mixed drinks is very reasonable for the seated brunch, especially considering the attention that goes into each plate, and the weekly changing menu. As the Italians say “mangiamo (let’s eat)” BRUNCH IN FOCUS Viaggio in Italia Sunday brunch at Cafe Milano O Dhs265 (soft), Dhs360 (grape, mixed drinks), Dhs95 (kids). Sun noon-4pm. Four Seasons Abu Dhabi Al Maryah Island, fourseasons.com (02 333 2444).Food timeoutabudhabi.com November 2022 51 WHAT IS IT... A Sunday brunch serving the cuisine of a different Italian region each week WHY GO... For a good-value way to experience one of Abu Dhabi’s best restaurants It’s a pretty ambitious move to switch the brunch up weekly per region. It gives brunch-goers a reason to come back and an excitement about what is happening next. Is it Sardinia or Sicily? Time will tell if guests prefer surprises or if everyone will wait for well-known regions like Naples or Milan – but isn’t that what the à la carte menu is for? Switch things up on your Sunday, and be surprised with whatever brunch is being brought to life this week.52 November 2022 timeoutabudhabi.com Don’t miss this epic two-day bonanza. Nightlife timeoutabudhabi.com/food-drink One Republic Amplified Music Festival timeoutabudhabi.com/food-drinktimeoutabudhabi.com November 2022 53 ABU DHABI IS is really spoiling us for choice when it comes to music festivals and gigs this month. Yes, there is a brand new music festival coming to the capital, and it’s going to be an absolute hoot. Heading to the UAE for the Àrst time ever, AmpliÀed Music Festival will be taking over Yas Island from November 11 to November 12. The two-day long event will be playing host to some of the hottest international acts you won’t want to miss. Taking place at Yas Links Abu Dhabi, headliners for the event include One Republic and Cigarettes After S** (yes, that one). Ministry of Sound Disco had initially been announced as one of the headliners, who were billed to perform with a 15-piece Funk and Soul band covering all the best disco tracks like Ain’t Nobody by Chaka Khan. However, the dates have now been postponed and will be announced at a later date. Tickets for AmpliÀed Music Festival are on sale, and if you’re quick enough you might be able to snap them up before they sell out. Single day access tickets cost Dhs149, golden circle from Dhs249, and a weekend golden circle festival pass will cost Dhs499. One Republic, famed for their huge hits Apologize and Good Life, will be returning to the UAE and headlining on Friday November 11 for yet another high-octane show. American dream-pop band CAS are performing at AmpliÀed Music Festival on Saturday November 12 after their sold out gig at the Hard Rock Cafe in June, after an overwhelming reception to them arriving in the UAE. Founded by Greg Gonzales in El Paso, Texas, in 2008 with his bandmate Phillip Tubbs, CAS’ unique dreamy-songs like Apocalyse, K. and Cry have grown a huge following all over the world. Their lyrics are often based on the themes of romance and love, as well as Gonzales’ “androgynous” voice. We can’t wait. O From Dhs149. Nov 11-12. Yas Links, Yas Island, livenation.ae. Cigarettes After S** Yas Links54 November 2022 timeoutabudhabi.com Nightlife LOOKING TO IMPRESS someone? Bars with sky-high views and stylish lounges with equally stylish guests are likely the Àrst things that pop into your mind, Abu Dhabi has a number of both, but there is only one speakeasy-inspired spot in the Louvre Abu Dhabi that you can still visit even after the museum goes down. And that is Marta Bar. It’s a completely different mood to the museum and is one of the true hidden bars in the city – not least because after hours you’ll need a reservation and two golf carts to get there. Given the exclusivity that comes with going to Abu Dhabi’s most famous museum after hours, bookings are highly recommended, particularly if you want a streamlined experience and do not want any snagging issues to dampen a memorable evening. Vibe killer. Portions are generous and food can be for sharing. It’s a short menu containing some of Fouquet’s most ordered dishes, including the signature tartare and burger. Desserts, unsurprisingly, are French- leaning, and come upstairs from Fouquet’s. Conversely, drinks are prepared at Marta’s lengthy bar before being whisked downstairs which means many shakers. When you have the illuminated Louvre dome and Saadiyat’s waters at your doorstep it seems a tad silly not to have incorporated those vistas in some way with Marta and outdoor seating, but what the space lacks in views makes up for with a cosy, insular vibe with dark lighting and the plushest of chairs. The intimate space is surprisingly open from noon, but you’d never know the time in the dark interiors. For the full experience (and views), Àll your stomach at Fouquet’s then head up to Marta to end the evening. Marta isn’t quite a masterpiece, but give it a go and you might just Ànd yourself inspired. WHAT IS IT... A chill speakeasy-style bar inside Abu Dhabi’s iconic museum WHY GO... The appeal of visiting the Louvre Abu Dhabi after hours never really gets old Time Out reviews anonymously and pays for its drinks Marta Bar O Tue-Sun (noon-midnight), Thu-Fri noon-1am. Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, louvreabudhabi.ae (50 699 6781), 02 205 4200). BAR IN FOCUSPartner content The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal welcomes the artist until January 2023 TRACEY PRESTON JOINS SORSO AS NEW RESIDENT PERFORMER Calling all music lovers and regulars of Sorso Premium Bar by The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal. Get excited because a new line-up of entertainment is in store at this plush bar. Brilliant jazz vocalist and recording artist Tracey Preston has taken the stage, joining the destination as its new revered music star. Wondering what’s in store? Tracey has joined Sorso as a resident performer over the next four months with her band, so gear up for outstanding performances. Born & raised in Philadelphia, she is known for her signature rhythm and blues sound, so get ready to sway to her gospel choir sounds, soulful melodies, and more. She’s even performed alongside top musicians including Vivian Green, Jessica Reedy, and BET’s Sunday Best winner, Joshua Rodgers. Tracey has also performed on BB Kings in New York City and FOX’s Good Day Philadelphia. And at the Top of 2020, she wowed audiences across the world by appearing in NBC’s The Voice. Cool, right? Hop over to Sorso Premium Bar from Wednesday to Saturday every week to enjoy tunes by this vocalist, as well as the Perfect Start deal, which is available every day between 5pm and 7pm. When hunger hits, sink comfortably into your chosen spot and take your pick from selected drinks on offer with The Perfect Start. Drinks start from just Dhs35, while you can dive into Italian cold cuts and cheese from Dhs100. Dig into your bites of choice and soak up the vibe. At the edge of your seat for Tracey’s upcoming weekly sets? With Sorso’s unbeatable atmosphere, wide range of drinks and prime entertainment options, there’s no doubt you’ll become a regular. We’ll see you there. O The Perfect Start: Dhs35 (house drinks), Dhs100 (meat cuts and cheese board). Jazz bar: Open Mon-Sat 5pm- 1am, Tracey Preston performance, Wed-Sat, 8pm-11pm. O For more information head to ritzcarlton.com. 56 November 2022 timeoutabudhabi.com Nightlife WHO’S RAY? NO one is entirely sure, but what we do know is that his place has very good views. In fact, Ray’s Bar boasts Abu Dhabi’s highest 360-degree skyline view, and that is the major draw. The recently reopened Ray’s Grill is technically located one level higher, and might tempt you to see what’s new at the steakhouse, but if it’s a relaxed bar you’re after with some nibbles, you won’t Ànd yourself complaining when you step out of the speedy lift at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers for Ray’s Bar on level 62. The space has remained opened during the temporarily closure of the steakhouse. If you’ve enjoyed the unmatched views of the popular afternoon tea at Observation Deck at 300 previously, you will still be wowed at Abu Dhabi’s cityscape at night at Ray’s. It is a completely different feeling. The vistas at Ray’s Bar might make your head spin, but the rest of the place is suitably chill with dim blue-tinged lighting meant to set the stage for those special views outside Tables are placed at the windows and frequently separated by dividers and plants for privacy. It suits the low-key mood as Ray’s Bar is less about a crowd cheering for sports games and more about solo travellers or couples chatting over a main meal and drink. Bar snacks are served from 6.30pm until 10.30pm and drinks until 12:30am. Olives and squiggly crisps are brought to the table after drinks orders. The menu is lighter on bar snacks, with classic nibbles (fried calamari) and comforting mains (burgers, quesadillas are some of the most popular dishes at Ray’s Bar O Open daily, 6pm-1am. Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, Al Bateen (02 811 5666). WHAT IS IT... A chill bar boasting the city’s highest 360 degree skyline view WHY GO... Sip bevvies from the 62nd floor of Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers Ray’s Bar), but the drinks menu is extensive with pages and pages on a leather-bound book, including a few mocktails and a speciality beverages. Staff totally get that you want to take a selÀe, especially given the high number of hotel guests rocked up at the bar. Equally, there’s no judgement if you’re an Abu Dhabian who doesn’t want to miss a photo opp. And they will make sure you get that perfect angle. So, snap, snap away. At least the burger makes sense. Time Out Editor’s Choice Double Cheese available at stores across the UAE this November HOUSE AD - PICKL_Final_12674093.indd 6527/10/2022 11:56:1658 November 2022 timeoutabudhabi.com Whether you want a total style overhaul or a quick mani/pedi, these uber-hip salons get our seal of approval. timeoutabudhabi.com/shopping IN NEED OF a hair or nail appointment? Step this way. If you’re an Abu Dhabi resident or simply visiting, we are spoilt for choice when it comes to salons in this great city. Whether you want a complete colour change, a quick trim or a top-to-toe beauty experience, you must visit one of the best salons in Abu Dhabi. Luckily, there are loads dotted around the city with friendly, knowledgeable stylists on hand to ensure you leave with a look you love. What’s better than leaving your appointment feeling even more confident than before? Read on for our round-up of the best salons in Abu Dhabi that need to be on your radar. You can thank us later… Boho Salon Located in Khalifa City, this gorgeous oasis offers everything from colour services, hair treatments and extensions to eyelash extensions and scalp treatments. What’s more, if you have beautiful curls that are in need of some serious attention, book your appointment with the curly hair specialists Tender loving care Boho Salon Wellbeing timeoutabudhabi.com/sport-wellbeingtimeoutabudhabi.com November 2022 59 who can whip your curls into shape in no time offering cruelty-free hydration treatments for those who want to confidently rock their natural hair. O Open daily 10am-9pm. Khalifa City Al Rayyana, bohosalon.ae (02 546 6996). Tara Rose Salon This award-winning salon has three branches around Abu Dhabi – Khalifa City, Marasy and Saadiyat – all offering a comprehensive list of services ranging from hair and nails to massages, facials and waxing. It’s well-known for its experienced hairstylists who really listen to their clients. Be sure to keep an eye out for special offers, too. Tara switches them up monthly and previous deals have included 50 percent off all keratin treatments. O Open daily 9am-8pm. Khalifa City, Marasy and Saadiyat, tararosesalon.com (92 583 2065). House of Allure Whether you’re in the market for a glamorous updo, wash and blow-dry or new blunt haircut, House of Allure does it all, and then some. These hair geniuses are responsible for some of the most creative colour transformations in the city, but they also know a good treatment when they see one. We recommend opting for Hair Botox. Don’t be intimidated by the name – it is a straightening system. Hair Botox is considered the lightest and least damaging protein treatment, and is highly effective at taming unruly locks. O Open daily 10am-9pm. Villa 256, Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street, houseofallurespa.ae (02 666 6317). Glamour UAE Experts in everything from bleaching to balayage, look no further than Glamour UAE for a complete hair overhaul. Colour is where the dream team really shines – whether that’s pretty pastels or statement-making bold hues, you’ve come to the right place. Our favourite shade of all has to be rose cappuccino for the name alone (check out their Instagram to see what we’re swooning about), but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. The staff (cherry-picked by the very best in the business) always get it spot on. You can pop in to get your make-up, nails, brows and lashes done, too, so don’t be shy and book it all for your big night out. O Al Zeina, Al Raha Beach and Khalidiya, Al Ain Tower, glamoursalonsuae.com (02 555 9902). Bedashing Beauty With more than 20 locations across the UAE, and a whopping 13 in Abu Dhabi alone, Bedashing Beauty covers all your beauty needs. Created for time-poor women on- the-go, its Bedashing chair and beds were designed with multiple treatments in mind – that means you can have a facial AND a mani/pedi at the same time. What better way to spend your day getting pampered in the chair without having to lift a finger in the process? Treat yourself now. O Various locations around Abu Dhabi, bedashingbeauty.com (600 560 037). Colorista If you’re looking to change your hair colour to anything vibrant, rainbow-styled or just quite frankly dazzling (although they do great highlights and balayage, too), we suggest a trip to Colorista. Its expert stylists are knowledgeable and love a good chat. They cater to all hair types, so whether your hair is curly, straight or coily, you’ll leave with the hair transformation you deserve. Additionally, the Abu Dhabi salon offers a broad range of beauty services. O Open Sat-Thu 9:30am-8pm; Fri 11am-8pm. Novotel Al Bustan Hotel, Rabdan, coloristaladiessalon.com (02 501 6188). McQueen Spa and Beauty Salon A luxury destination for all things beauty and wellness, McQueen Spa and Beauty Salon is a favourite among influencers for its playful manicures, sleek haircuts and full body treatments in a calming space. Be sure to try the new hibiscus mask which utilises the popular herb to treat hair fall, promote regrowth and prevent premature greying. They even serve iced coffee alongside their treatments – what’s not to love? O Open daily 10am-10pm. Shakbout, Abu Dhabi City, mcqueenspa.ae (02 582 9892). Bedashing BeautyNext >