Yesterday I spent the afternoon wandering through Taste of Abu Dhabi, and it reminded me why food festivals are some of my favourite events in the city. It wasn’t just about trying different dishes — it was the whole atmosphere. The smell of grills heating up, kids running around on the grass, people carrying tiny tasting plates, and the soft winter sun sitting low in the sky. It felt warm, relaxed, and full of good energy.
I started with dessert because why not? A small cup of chocolate ice cream with chunks of cookies and a drizzle of syrup was the first thing I grabbed. It melted fast in the heat, so I ate it even faster. Simple, cold, and perfect.
From there, things got more interesting. One of the stalls served crunchy tempura-style sushi topped with a mountain of crispy flakes. It looked chaotic but tasted great. A little soy sauce on the side, some pickled ginger, and it all came together.
Next was a plate of prawn pad thai. The noodles were soft, the peanuts added a nice crunch, and the lime on the side brightened everything up. It was one of those dishes you finish without thinking.
Around the corner, I found a stand with tiny wood-fired pizzas. They were almost snack-sized, but they had that smoky oven taste that you only get from real fire. Right beside it was a creamy mushroom risotto with shaved cheese on top. Comfort food at its best.
Another plate that stood out was a spicy rice dish loaded with vegetables and big pieces of meat. The fresh spring onions on top gave it a nice pop of flavour. Small plate, strong taste.
I also tried a few bites of grilled fish and some creative sushi rolls topped with nuts and sauce. Each dish had its own little twist, which is what I love about these events — the chefs look like they’re having fun.
As the sun started to set, the whole space turned golden. People gathered near the picnic tables, families pushed strollers around, and the lines at each stall got longer. The “Experience Abu Dhabi” sign made the perfect backdrop for a quick snack photo — this time a cup of fries with a smoky dip. Simple but satisfying.
When the sky shifted to deeper colours, the grills fired up again. Smoke drifted across the field, and you could hear the sizzle every time something hit the flames. It gave the place a cosy evening vibe, even with the crowds walking around.
Taste of Abu Dhabi felt like a mix of community, flavour, and weekend energy. You walk in hungry and walk out full — not only with food, but with a good mood too. If you’re in the UAE during the event, which happens around mid November, it’s one of those events worth spending a few hours at. You get to try a bit of everything, enjoy the open air, and see the city come together in the most relaxed way.
Travel is one of the easiest ways to experience new cultures, try new things, and grow as a person, and days like this remind me why it’s always worth getting out and exploring.
