Bam Bu!

Standard Chinese food and excellent views across the water 2 Reviews

© ITP Images

From Time Out Abu Dhabi Eating Out 2010

There is something about the Abu Dhabi Marina. Whether it’s just the chaotic sprawling nature of it all, the ramshackle tennis court (complete with knackered sofa) or the rather dark nightclubs, it has this strange magnetic charm for lovers of the kitsch and weird. Bam Bu, although tame compared to some of the Marina’s odder denizens, shares this eccentricity. There is an undoubted ‘80s vibe running throughout the restaurant and the good news is that the prices are stuck in the decade of minimalism too. Banquet dinners come in at around Dhs100 (more including alcohol), but the spread is the real star with delicate fishcakes and devilish chilli chicken on offer. The Peking duck is an extra special treat, even if it takes a fair time to arrive.

But plenty of piping hot pancakes and lashings of sticky plum sauce (not too sweet, just right) make it one of the best in the capital. Truthfully, there is little that is delicate about Bam Bu. It is as brash and cheery as could be. Despite being at the Marina, it hardly boasts of stunning sea views, it is just a happy, cheap place to eat. A good atmosphere and plenty of staff enthusiasm make it one of the better Chinese restaurants in town for those willing to look past the cheesy décor and peculiar setting.

• Previous reviews
  • 30 December,2008- reviewed by Time Out Abu Dhabi staff

Time Out reviews restaurants anonymously and pays for meals. Of course, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or independence of user reviews.