New at Bab Al Qasr: Rosemary Brings a Taste of the Mediterranean

There’s a new Mediterranean spot in town, Rosemary at Bab Al Qasr hotel. Located on the Corniche, the hotel offers lovely water views, and Rosemary is the latest addition to its dining scene. The space is simple and modern, with plenty of room whether you’re after a casual lunch or dinner with friends.

The menu focuses on Mediterranean flavours, with plenty of dishes made for sharing, from tapas-style plates to more substantial mains.

Starting off with a few small plates, the gambas prawns (AED70) come in a fresh tomato salsa-style sauce with a light, summery flavour. Chicken croquettes (AED60) are golden and crisp, served with a side of garlic sauce.

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Angus spare ribs (AED135) are among the better mains: these are soft, juicy, and easy to share. The gravy has good flavour, and the sides of creamy mash and a mix of roast-style vegetables including courgette, beetroot, and carrots complement the dish nicely. They’re flavoured (suitably!) with rosemary, bringing a distinctly Mediterranean flavour to the dish. 

Seabass (AED135) is pan-fried and served with a colourful mix of baby asparagus, spinach, capsicum, and saffron pommes nature, along with a puttanesca sauce. The fish is fresh, soft, and well-seasoned.

Seafood paella (AED135) also features on the table, with five types of seafood – tiger prawns, hammour, clams, mussels, and squid – all folded into saffron-laced bomba rice. The seafood is well-cooked, and the portion is generous enough for sharing.

Surprisingly, the apple tart (AED45) stands out. Apple is such a great flavour and there isn;t enough of it in Abu Dhabi - this dish is fresh, and the rosemary vanilla ice cream, apple cider caramel, and caramelised hazelnuts bring a great balance of sweetness and crunch. This is definitely worth ordering if you’re in the mood for dessert.

Mocktails are especially refreshing. Coconut kiss and Arabian passion (AED42 each) are packed with tropical fruit purees and juices – solid options if you’re skipping alcohol. There's also a full bar menu with plenty of cocktails and wines. Rosemary offers nine signature sangrias (AED49–60); The signature spice with red wine, spiced rum, and orange liqueur isn’t for everyone, but if bold, aromatic drinks are your thing, it might hit the mark.

Fridays at Rosemary bring a themed Paella Night, complete with live flamenco dancing. Prices start at AED199, and there’s a bit of theatre to the experience, which works well for groups.

Overall, Rosemary is a decent new addition to Bab Al Qasr – a few solid dishes, good drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere.  There’s an exclusive dining space that works well for social or work gatherings too. If you’re in the area or staying at the hotel, it’s worth stopping by.

Where: Rosemary, Bab Al Qasr

Timing: daily | 11:00AM - 11:00PM

Bookings: +971 2 205 3003