Ilios Beach Club Review: A Gimmick-Free Greek Experience at Surf Abu Dhabi

The UAE’s coastline is dotted with beach clubs as far as the eye can see – from luxurious destinations like Nobu by the Beach to more laid-back favorites like Barasti. But if you're looking for a beach club that pairs great food with the thrill of surfing, then Ilios Restaurant and Beach Club at Surf Abu Dhabi is your go-to spot.

What sets Ilios apart? It’s not just the sun, sea, and surf. It’s a relaxed, no-gimmick approach to Mediterranean dining, offering authentic Greek dishes in a vibrant yet laid-back atmosphere.

Where to Sit and What to Expect

Getting to Ilios involves a little navigation through Al Hudayriat Island’s maze of roads, but once you arrive, the venue greets you with sprawling, picturesque views. The Surf Abu Dhabi complex is home to the world’s highest man-made wave – but we won’t be surfing today. Instead, we’re heading straight to Ilios for a delightful meal.

The restaurant spans two levels: Upstairs is Euphoria Lounge, perfect for watching the surf while enjoying a drink, and the ground floor hosts Meraki, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that boasts a terrace overlooking the wave pool. The stylish décor combines earthy tones with clean, minimal lines, creating an effortlessly chic vibe.

The Menu: A Journey Across Greece

Ilios’ executive chef, Denis Placereani, takes guests on a culinary journey across Greece, without resorting to the gimmicks that have become all too common in Mediterranean dining. The menu offers a broad selection of Greek specialties, including fresh fish, octopus, lamb chops, pasta, and even sushi.

When our friendly waitress suggests the sea bass from the fresh fish counter, we opt for it, but she quickly returns with an even better suggestion: Dover sole. Our decision? Stick with the original choice. And that, as we soon discover, was our first mistake.

Starters: Fresh and Flavorful

We begin with a classic Greek salad – a simple yet essential dish in Greek cuisine. While the feta is slightly saltier than expected, it pairs well with the homemade bread that’s baked on-site. Next up are the Florinis, marinated red peppers imported from northern Greece, which are so delicious they practically beg you to lick the plate clean. The grilled octopus starter is another standout, enhanced by tangy pickled onions. And the fritto misto? It’s like a holiday in the Mediterranean, with deep-fried squid and prawns making you want to take a seat by the beach with a cold drink in hand.

Mains: Fish and the ‘Size Surprise’

As our waitress clears the plates, we’re all set to enjoy our mains. However, we’re unprepared for the massive sea bass that arrives – it’s more like a whole fish feast than a typical entrée. The fish is grilled to perfection over coals, with just the right amount of seasoning and lemon to bring out its natural flavors. It’s delicious, but we quickly realize that it’s probably best to size up the fish options next time to avoid over-ordering.

As a side, we’re also served tree-sized asparagus and a mountain of Padron peppers, making for a satisfying – if slightly overwhelming – meal.

Standout Dish: Florina Peppers

While everything we’ve tried is fantastic, one dish takes the crown – the Florina peppers. These sweet, marinated peppers are drizzled with olive oil and seasoned just right. But the twist? Chef Placereani’s addition of crispy confit garlic lumps and aged balsamic spheres, which elevate the dish from simple to sensational. These garlic lumps could easily be mistaken for a gourmet snack, and it’s hard not to imagine them selling out as a snack option.

A Chat with the Chef: Denis Placereani’s Culinary Journey

Chef Placereani’s passion for cooking started in his family’s restaurant in Italy, and he has since traveled the world, gathering inspiration for his style, which he describes as “uncomplicated, vibrant, and globally inspired.” He loves experimenting with different flavors and ingredients from various cultures, and his menu reflects that diversity.

Some of his favorites include the mushroom risotto (perfect for vegetarians), the expertly grilled Wagyu rib-eye (ideal for carnivores), and the trio of tartare for seafood enthusiasts. But when it comes to dessert, Chef Placereani recommends the citrus éclair, a perfect sweet ending to the meal.

Conclusion: A Beach Club with Flavorful Fare

Ilios Beach Club at Surf Abu Dhabi delivers an impressive dining experience, combining fresh, flavorful Greek cuisine with the thrill of surfing. Whether you’re enjoying a sunny day on the terrace or unwinding after catching a wave, the food is consistently top-notch, from the refreshing starters to the satisfying mains. Plus, the Mediterranean-inspired décor and inviting atmosphere make it the perfect spot to spend a laid-back afternoon by the sea.

Next time you’re in Abu Dhabi, don’t miss out on this hidden gem where great food, waves, and a relaxed vibe come together in perfect harmony.