SushiSamba Abu Dhabi Review: Sophisticated Fusion Food at Its Best

SushiSamba, the renowned New York import, has made its way to Abu Dhabi after establishing itself as a top dining destination in Dubai. This tri-cultural fusion of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian flavors is now ready to captivate Abu Dhabi residents. Since its opening in late December, the restaurant has quickly earned a place on the city’s dining hot list. On a Saturday evening, my dining companion and I experienced this culinary gem firsthand.

What to Expect at SushiSamba Abu Dhabi

Located at the iconic Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, SushiSamba Abu Dhabi occupies the space previously held by Vakava, a Latin grill and lounge. The restaurant spans two levels, offering indoor and outdoor seating options. The main restaurant is located on the ground floor, with a sushi and robata grill counter, perfect for watching chefs work their magic.

On the first floor, you'll find a stunning outdoor terrace and bar, offering incredible views of the Corniche waters. There's also a private dining room and Samba Lounge, a for-hire space with its own dedicated bar. The ambiance is sleek, modern, and intimate with lush greenery scattered throughout, creating a tropical atmosphere that pays homage to the Amazon rainforest.

Although part of the Conrad, SushiSamba Abu Dhabi has its own entrance and valet service, ensuring a separate experience for its patrons. As we were seated on the balcony close to the water, we were treated to stunning views of the skyline, although the UAE’s chilly evening weather forced us to move indoors. Still, the outdoor area was bustling, with many guests keeping warm under blankets provided by the restaurant.

The Menu at SushiSamba Abu Dhabi

SushiSamba stays true to its Dubai roots with a menu that features fan-favorite dishes alongside a few Abu Dhabi exclusives. One standout is the Wagyu Dhabi sushi roll (Dh175), a fusion of Japanese wagyu, fried leeks, truffle aioli, and avocado. This dish delivers rich and decadent flavors that make it worth every bite.

The menu includes an array of sushi, from SushiSamba’s own creations to classic rolls and a selection of nigiri and sashimi. For those looking to indulge further, the restaurant offers a caviar pairing option, with prices ranging from Dh999 to Dh3,800.

One of the menu highlights is the green bean tempura, which has become a personal favorite of mine. The crispy green beans, served with black truffle aioli, are light, crispy, and utterly addictive.

For those craving ceviche, the sea bream ceviche (Dh80) is a must-try, with green chilies providing a welcome kick.

Fusion Dishes that Shine

SushiSamba Abu Dhabi really comes to life with its fusion dishes. The yellowtail crispy taquitos (Dh58) are a great example of the restaurant’s ability to blend Japanese and Mexican flavors seamlessly. The taco-style presentation of yellowtail with avocado, white miso, coriander, and lime is full of textures and bold flavors.

The salmon tartare (Dh89) is another highlight, served with avocado, tobiko, caviar, and crispy nori. The combination of creamy, rich salmon and the crispy nori base is an absolute delight.

Robata and Mains

SushiSamba’s robata grill is another standout feature of the restaurant. For mains, we sampled the Chilean sea bass robata (Dh118), which is grilled to perfection and drizzled with white miso and finely chopped chives. This dish is light yet flavorful, offering the ideal balance of smoky char and tender fish. Pairing this with the Australian black angus tenderloin (Dh298), topped with foie gras and spicy soy, is an indulgent treat. The beef is so tender it can be picked up with chopsticks and melts in your mouth.

Desserts to End on a Sweet Note

No meal at SushiSamba is complete without indulging in their Japanese doughnuts (Dh65). These warm, sugary dough balls filled with dulce de leche ganache offer a delightful contrast of textures and flavors—perfectly sweet and comforting.

Final Thoughts: A Near-Perfect Dining Experience

SushiSamba Abu Dhabi offers an exceptional dining experience that is both sophisticated and fun. Whether you're visiting for a casual meal or a special occasion, the restaurant’s innovative fusion dishes, stunning ambiance, and impeccable service ensure a memorable experience.

Would I return? Without a doubt. SushiSamba Abu Dhabi brings an exciting and dynamic culinary experience to the city, blending traditional flavors with fresh, creative twists. It’s a must-visit for food lovers and anyone looking for a sophisticated dining experience.

Contact Information:
SushiSamba Abu Dhabi
Location: Podium 1, Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers
Reservations: Call 02 811 5882