New Lunch Vibes at Garage, Yas Island

Sure, Garage is known for its wild brunch parties on the weekend, but if you’re skipping past it the rest of the week, you’re seriously missing out. It’s actually a brilliant all-day dining spot too - laidback vibe, cool interiors, and loads of food options that’ll please even the fussiest person in your group.

The concept’s built around different ‘hubs’, each one with its own mini menu. You’ve got the Nikkei hub doing a Japanese-Peruvian fusion, the pan-Asian Steam Table, Arabic street food at Souk Social, Italian from La Tavola, and the latest addition, Naan Stop, dishing up Indian faves. Basically, you’re covered no matter what you’re craving.

Kick things off light with the spicy tuna jagaimo (AED55) from the Nikkei hub - crispy potato base, silky tuna, and a mellow little kick that hits just right. You get four in a portion, and yes, there may well be a bit of a scramble for the last one. The foie gras kibbeh (AED70) from Souk Social totally catches us off guard – it’s rich, but that fig chutney balances it out beautifully … it’s very easy to keep going with these but be sure to pace yourself.

The tandoori lamb chops (AED150) are a must: they’re super tender, loads of flavour, and that spice level that warms you up without blowing your head off. It’s definitely on our “get again” list.

But the dish that really steals the show? The beef short rib (AED160) from the Steam Table hub! It arrives wrapped up in a giant lotus leaf with rice, mushrooms, and vegetables. There’s proper drama when it’s unwrapped, and the meat is so soft it just slides off the bone - so good.

We also enjoy the seabass – the branzino scottato (AED145). Meaty and flaky, the vegetables on the side areas spot on, and the creamy ragout ties it all together. There’s nothing heavy, just really nicely done.

We wrap up with the babamisu (AED55) – a mashup between rhum baba and tiramisu. It looks like it belongs on a Pinterest board and tastes even better. There’s a crunchy wafer, tart raspberries, soft sponge and a creamy filling - just a lot of good things happening, making for an excellent dessert experience.

There are some decent veggie options scattered throughout the hubs, so everyone’s looked after. Staff are great - super friendly and helpful - and even in the middle of summer, the racetrack views out the back are still a bit of a flex. This is the perfect place to impress your guests in Abu Dhabi.

Before you leave, swing by the beer tap wall: each pump is labelled with a bit of Abu Dhabi’s road map. It’s not self-serve, but still a cool touch.

If you’re thirsty, there’s a decent cocktail list too. We like The Creeper (AED50) which has vodka, grapefruit and tonic and the very F1 track-esque, Degrease (AED55), a charcoal and rum situation. For something lighter, the Nut and Bolt mocktail (AED45) hits the spot.

Whether you’re in the mood for a chilled midweek lunch, want to mix cuisines with your friends, or just feel like somewhere with good food and cool vibes, Garage is a solid shout.

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Where: Garage, W Abu Dhabi

Timing: Sunday - Friday 12:30-4:30PM

Booking: call 02 656 0000 or WhatsApp 0506 421 011