Vasco's - Restaurant Award Highly Commended

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From Time Out Abu Dhabi Eating Out 2010

Vasco’s has a firm place in the hearts of this city. Sure, you can question the strange mechanised raffia ceiling fans that waft rather limply at diners and the décor is a little on the kitsch side (even namesake explorer Vasco da Gama might have pulled up anchor), but the atmosphere is spot on. While other restaurants struggle to get people through the door, the denizens of Abu Dhabi seem to have their compasses pointed directly at Hiltonia Beach Club. Outside, the terrace peers down on the Corniche waters and the tone is jovial, echoed by a cheery, skittering staff, who are lightening quick if, at times, a little chaotic. The menu is pretty much a threefold experience, as comfortable as a snuggly new sofa.

Starters dance between the Mediterranean and the Indian Ocean, before giving way to the mains, divided into seafood, Italian and Indian dishes. Tiger prawn skewers, amberjack, spicy curries and giant ravioli all vie for position as the noise of the open kitchen rises. What arrives is surprisingly delicate too. The Portuguese hammour is something special, and even if the presentation is a little rushed, its flavours are intense. With a small bar, a bustling terrace and happy atmosphere, this is undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable restaurants in the capital. It isn’t cheap, but if you’re exploring the Corniche you’d struggle to find a friendlier, more satisfying conclusion.

• Previous reviews
  • 03 January,2009- 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.