Bord Eau by Nicolas Isnard — Restaurant in Abu Dhabi

Background

Michelin Chef Nicholas Isnard takes over the helm at Bord Eau, Shangri La Abu Dhabi.

Review

In my travels over the last year I have become increasingly aware of the pressure properties are under to provide comfort food in a noisy party atmosphere.

Charm, grace and food as an adventure are it seems more difficult to come by, the norm is to have to listen to rowdy music often from two separate sources whilst you eat something very close to what you have cooked at home.

So it is wonderful to be cooked for by an adventurous talented chef in convivial charming surroundings where dinners create the gentle atmospheric conversational hubbub in the background.

The food uses the orthodoxy of classic French cooking but the inspiration for the tastes and ingredients are world in nature.

My choices were curated by the chef.

The first course took me to Lebanon with Gilliardeau Oyster, burned egg plant and Sturia Caviar. The jelly the Oysters sat in was perfectly balanced and sat well on the palette. The burned eggplant was a bed of mouse which complimented the Caviar perfectly. The perfect example of food I would never cook at home and yet felt very comfortable to me, not to rich or tart or sweet, perfectly balanced.

For the second course I shot East to Java, well Indonesia. The Laksa soup minus chilli's was reduced to a gorgeous cream and the cod was found at the bottom of the most divine Mille Feuille, a crips pastry top hiding all sorts of hidden adventures in taste and texture and when you reached the cod it melted in your mouth, not over heated but full of natural taste. I would definitely not have thought of the Mille Feuille and its secrets.

Equally with the dessert. I landed in the Dominican Republic for Guanaco 70% (the perfect strength) dark chocolate with a touch of vinegar, which had a surprisingly soothing affect flattening out any sense of a chocolate overload.

So a wonderful adventure, beautifully served up with Champaign, next time I will have the Rum which unfortunately was not available on this occasion, next time!

I wish Nicholas and his team all the best with this new venture, another potential jewel in the crown of Abu Dhabi's eateries.

In the meantime I will be back to celebrate my...

Our experience at Bord Eau by Nicolas Isnard was truly unforgettable. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with impeccable service and a stunning ambiance that set the stage for what was to come. The restaurant itself is elegant and sophisticated, with a touch of modernity that added to the overall experience.

We opted for the a dish from each country, which allowed us to try a variety of dishes that showcased Chef Isnard's creativity and talent. Each dish was beautifully presented and bursting with flavor, showcasing a perfect balance of textures and aromas. From the delicate Caviar to the succulent Wagu, each bite was a delight for the senses.

But what truly set Bord Eau apart was the use of elements in the dishes. We experienced dishes that were infused with different elements, which added an extra layer of intrigue to the dining experience. It was amazing to see how these elements changed the way we perceived the flavours and textures of the food, making each dish a truly unique and exciting experience.

Overall, dining at Bord Eau was a culinary journey like no other. The combination of exceptional food, stellar service, and innovative use of elements made for a dining experience that was truly unforgettable. I would highly recommend Bord Eau to anyone looking for a dining experience that is both luxurious...

Last night, my spouse and I indulged in what can only be described as an extraordinary culinary journey at Bord’eau — a confidential fine dining French establishment.

Opting for the six-course tasting menu, we were guided through a thoughtfully curated progression of flavor, texture, and technique. Each dish was a testament to classical French mastery, elevated with contemporary flair and exotic twist — from the delicate amuse-bouche to the perfectly executed mains, not a note was out of tune. The wine, selected with discernment by the sommelier, danced effortlessly with the food.

The ambiance was equally enchanting with just the right lighting and decor. It felt like stepping into a quiet pocket of Parisian elegance.

Service, too, was flawless. Rémi and his team were attentive but never intrusive. Every dish arrived with quiet confidence, and every question was met with genuine enthusiasm.

This was jut not dinner - it was an amazing experience that lingers on the palate. This place is a must-visit for any...