JAZZ & HIGHJINX AT PENELOPE'S YAS MARINA

It's jazzy, it's sophisticated and it's here!


The much-awaited Penelope’s Brasserie & Jazz Bar Américain has opened at Yas Marina and is a welcome addition to Abu Dhabi nightlife in so many ways. From its iconic French Riviera-esque interior design, to the incredible cocktails on offer and some excellent food, this is Abu Dhabi's new place for the 'it' crowd and anyone who loves outstanding live music.

The stunning marina waters, mega-yachts, and the Yas Marina Circuit provide the backdrop to Penelope's, which comes alive with the sounds of melodic jazz. Sit back and be transported to the French Riviera with a seriously hip live band and some of the best cocktails in Abu Dhabi.

The brainchild of restaurateurs Hamdan Al Khalfaji and Layla Kardan, the celebrated jazz artist behind Papillion, the swanky cabaret club in Dubai, Penelope’s brings you a fully-themed experience, with the jazzy sounds of the age of Ella Fitzgerald and Audrey Hepburn lighting up the night.

With black and white tiled floors, dramatic mood lighting, and elegant art-deco inspired interiors this is the place for guests to enjoy a sophisticated evening, with live jazz.


Split into a lounge area, to sit back and enjoy the entertainment, or a complete dining option overlooking the marina, you can choose whichever option suits your mood. Dominated by an impressive bar, making some even more impressive cocktails, don’t be surprised if you while away the whole night here. At the moment there is only outside seating, perfect to enjoy this fabulous weather, but there are plans in place to expand this for the hotter months to come.


We started the night with cocktails, how every perfect night should start. We loved the fruity, sweetness of the French Kiss, and the refreshing cucumber infused vodka in the Tchin-Tchin. The bell pepper infused tequila in the P&P was an interesting mix, and certainly one for those who don’t like their cocktails sweet and with a little spice!

Penelope’s specialises in sharing-style French Mediterranean cuisine, with a classic French brasserie experience on the terrace, the perfect place to enjoy the art of the French aperitif hour. 


Starters were a flavourful tuna tartare, with a light hint of truffle and a delicious citrusy sweetness from the yuzu. The Burgundy snails were incredible, tender and perfect with the buttery brioche spread with an oh-so-garlicky paste. Sitting on a bed of colourful shells, this was a truly Insta-worthy dish. For mains we enjoyed the lobster linguine, with smooth, al dente linguine and tender chunks of lobster in a light fresh tomato dressing. Decadent and delicious! The wagyu entrecote was fabulous and came with a sweet lemon mustard.


The French are masterminds at dessert, and here Penelope flexes her metaphorical muscles. The vanilla crème brûlée was impossibly smooth, and the apple tarte tatin was buttery perfection, with a light pastry that was delightful with the vanilla bean ice cream.


While you are enjoying your meal or after-dinner drinks, revel at the house jazz band playing effortless and tinkling jazz tunes. Expect iconic hits like Fever and Diamonds are a girls best friend as you sip on your poison of choice and enjoy the sultry evening watching the boats bob on the marina.

With some exciting offers like a ladies night with free flowing wine (which is absolutely free for ladies), and an aperitif happy hour this is the new go-to venue on Yas Marina.


And as if you needed anymore encouragement Penelope's is offering diners a massive 50% off their a la carte menu throughout December.


This could also be the perfect place to spend your New Year's Eve, celebrating like Gatsby with a stunning 3 course set sharing menu, a bottle of champagne per table, and a perfect view of the Yas Island fireworks.


Check out all their deals here.

Penelope’s is open nightly from 6:30PM – 2AM and with lunchtime opening hours coming soon.


Here's a glimpse into what to expect.

Lorenna White

11/28/2022