Blue Grill — Restaurant in Abu Dhabi

Sadly, the Blue Grill is no longer the dining experience to rave about. In the past I have visited numerous times while staying on Yas Island and surrounding areas, and recommended it as the top choice in Abu Dhabi; easily out doing places such as BOA, Rodeo Grille, and The Meat Company. The simple classy wine bar has been removed and replaced by a salad bar (more worthy of going to the buffet down the hall). The decor of red carpets and darker dim lit romantic and classical atmosphere has been replaced with a variations of blue decor, seemingly to better match the namesake. Additionally, it appears that the dress code (smart casual) that was once in place is no longer, as a family dressed in shorts and athletic tees was quickly seated nearby. Upon seeing all of these changes, we opted to give the appetizers we loved a chance before deciding on main courses (Normally the Australian Wagyu for me and the Dry Aged Irish for her). The quality of the menu and recipes has also changed (no surprise the prices have not). Hunks of over cooked calamari that closer resemble onion rings and taste of fish sticks. These were once the most incredible calamari that changed my wife's view on eating them; could not stop raving. The scallops were also over salted, over cooked, and half the size they had previously been. Sadly, we chose not to order mains at that point for fear of even greater...

We've been Blue Grill regulars for over 3 years, but after last night's experience we won't set foot in the place again. The ambiance has gone - it's now more brightly lit than a works canteen. The no children policy seems to have been abandoned - this used to be one of the precious, rare, child-free dining experiences in the UAE. The menu has been radically overhauled and not for the better. The same has happened to the wine list: when I queried why a Malbec was listed under the Shiraz section, our highly-trained and expert waiter explained that it was because "they both taste the same." The service was dreadful, whereas it used to be friendly and attentive. In the past they served complimentary "amuse-bouche" appetizers, but last night we were presented with 2 plates of beef charcuterie to share between 3 people - this made about as much sense as giving us 2 bowls of soup to share between 3. When the main courses arrived, the waiting staff left the empty starter plates on the table and had gone before we could call them back. The main courses were good - that at least hasn't changed - but the whole dining experience was so disappointing that we most certainly won't...

Last eve we attended tasting event @bluegrill_yasisland of their newly launched menu prepared by chef Mokhtar and it was incredible experience. Nestled on Yas Plaza, @bluegrill_yasisland at @yasislandrotana has built a reputation for quality steaks from around the globe.

@bluegrill_yasisland new menu offers variety of juicy, thick meats which are too good to turn down.

We tried slow cooked short ribs along with two chunks of beef – tenderloin and rib-eye that were cooked to absolute perfection, meaning our knives slice through the tender meat with consummate ease.

I personally loved their clam chowder soup,short ribs,both ribeye and tenderloin steaks and ofcourse yummiest desserts so next time when you are there don’t forget to try these dishes.

It’s a laid-back venue, thanks to the lighting and an outstanding service that was all what you expect from a fine dining restaurant.

Check out @bluegrill_yasisland for business lunches, family time or a catch-up dinner - it’s the perfect place to meet and greet with your friends and families while enjoying a meaty feast 🥩

Location : Yas island Plaza - Abu Dhabi - United...