If you're someone who appreciates authentic Kerala cuisine, Idukki Gold Restaurant in Abu Dhabi is a must-visit! Our recent dining experience here was truly delightful, and it's safe to say that this spot has earned a place on our list of favorites. Despite a few minor inconveniences due to crowd and congestion, everything else was top-notch — from the food to the service to the thoughtful extras like valet parking.
We decided to try their famous beef and porota combination, and honestly, it exceeded expectations. The beef was cooked to perfection — tender, juicy, and well-marinated with rich Kerala spices that brought out bold, traditional flavors. The porota was flaky, soft inside, and had that lovely slightly crispy texture that’s a mark of a well-made Kerala porota. Every bite reminded me of the kind of meals you get back home in Kerala. It's rare to find that level of authenticity and taste in a city like Abu Dhabi, where competition is high and options are many.
What impressed us the most was how they managed to keep the flavors traditional while still maintaining quality and hygiene in a busy setting. Clearly, their kitchen knows what they’re doing, and the chefs deserve special appreciation.
Now, the place does get crowded, especially during peak hours. That’s actually a good sign because it shows how much people love this restaurant — but it does mean you might have to wait a bit or feel a bit cramped during busy times. That said, the staff are well-trained and manage the rush quite efficiently. Service was still smooth and we didn’t have to wait too long for our food, which was a relief.
One of the best aspects of Idukki Gold is the fact that they offer free valet parking — a rare and extremely helpful feature, especially for a restaurant located within Abu Dhabi city. Anyone who's driven around the area knows how tough it is to find parking. This thoughtful gesture made the whole dining experience more relaxed and convenient. You don’t have to stress about finding a spot or walking a long distance, especially when the weather is hot.
The ambiance of the restaurant is warm and welcoming, with simple yet tasteful decor that reflects the Kerala theme subtly without being overdone. The tables were clean, and despite the rush, the staff made sure to keep things tidy and organized.
Overall, Idukki Gold is a fantastic place if you're craving authentic Kerala food — especially beef and porota! Yes, it gets a bit congested, but the incredible flavors and convenient extras like valet parking more than make up for it. It's the kind of place you’ll find yourself wanting to return to again and again. Highly recommended for families, foodies, and anyone who wants a genuine taste of Kerala in the heart...
Read more📍 Good Location: The restaurant is conveniently located, making it easily accessible. Whether you're exploring Idukki or just passing through, you won't have trouble finding it.
🌟 Nice Ambiance: Idukki Gold Restaurant boasts a charming ambiance that sets the perfect mood for a memorable dining experience.
💁 Helpful Staff: The staff here are incredibly friendly and attentive.
🍽️ Good Service: The service is swift and efficient, ensuring that your food arrives hot and fresh. You won't be kept waiting, and the staff is more than happy to accommodate any special requests.
🍲 Tasty Food: The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the food. The restaurant offers a wide array of delicious Kerala dishes that will satisfy your taste buds. From traditional favorites to unique specialties, there's something for everyone.
🍽️ Many Options in Kerala Food: If you're a fan of Kerala cuisine, you're in for a treat. Idukki Gold Restaurant offers an extensive menu, allowing you to explore a variety of regional delicacies.
🧹 Neat & Clean: Hygiene is a top priority here. The restaurant is spotlessly clean, which is especially reassuring in these times. You can dine with confidence in a safe and clean environment.
💰 Average Price: For the quality of food and service you receive, the prices are quite reasonable. Dining here won't break the bank, making it an excellent value for your money.
🌆 Very Rush in Weekend Days: Be prepared for a crowd, especially on weekends. It's a testament to the restaurant's popularity. I recommend making a reservation if you plan to visit during peak hours.
🚗 Difficult to Find Parking: The only downside is that finding parking can be a bit of a challenge, especially when the restaurant is bustling. Plan some extra time for parking, or consider using public transportation.
In conclusion, Idukki Gold Restaurant offers an outstanding dining experience with its excellent location, warm ambiance, helpful staff, delicious food, and reasonable prices. Just be prepared for the weekend rush and the occasional parking hassle. Overall, it's a must-visit for anyone looking to savor authentic Kerala cuisine in a...
Read moreA Disappointing Experience at Idukki Gold Restaurant
It is with great regret that I write this feedback about my recent visit to Idukki Gold Restaurant, Abu Dhabi Downtown, on 21st December 2024, between 2:45–3:00 PM. My friend and I were looking forward to a pleasant dining experience, but what unfolded was far from satisfactory.
My friend, being quite hungry, chose this restaurant based on its reputation. We initially ordered meals, only to be informed by the waiter that they were out of stock. Following this, the waiter presented us with the menu, and we decided to order beef biryani. However, shortly after, the waiter returned and informed us that only chicken biryani was available. Adjusting to the situation, we ordered dum chicken biryani instead.
To our disappointment, what was served was not dum biryani but a poorly prepared dish where the rice and masala were cooked separately. The flavor was substandard, and the dish was barely edible. We expected a signature taste synonymous with the restaurant's name, but instead, we were served something that fell far below basic culinary standards.
When we brought this issue to the attention of the manager, his indifferent attitude was both shocking and unprofessional. He displayed no sense of accountability or concern for the subpar experience we had endured. The cashier did offer an apology, but it felt insufficient, especially given that the situation was not a mere mistake but indicative of a systemic disregard for quality and customer satisfaction.
What added insult to injury was being charged 29.8 AED for a dish that, in our opinion, was not worth more than 5 AED. This level of quality, paired with such poor service and lack of accountability, is unacceptable.
I strongly discourage anyone from dining at Idukki Gold Restaurant, as both the food and service fail to meet even the most basic expectations. I hope the management takes this feedback seriously and makes significant improvements to avoid further disappointment to...
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