The highly anticipated Abu Dhabi Race Weekend is just around the corner, set to light up Yas Island from December 5th to December 8th. Positioned steps away from the iconic Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Plaza Hotels promises an exhilarating combination of high-speed action and remarkable dining experiences, creating a race weekend like no other. This year, Yas Plaza Hotels has partnered with some of the most celebrated local and international culinary brands, ensuring motorsport fans and food enthusiasts alike can revel in a sensory feast spanning six unique dining destinations and a vibrant afterparty venue at Central Plaza. Get ready to explore exceptional flavors and exciting vibes in the heart of Abu Dhabi.
Filini Garden x Antonia’s: An Italian Gastronomic Journey
For an authentic Italian experience, Filini Garden partners with Antonia’s, a beloved local brand, bringing the essence of Italy to Yas Plaza. Chef Simone, Antonia’s culinary master, showcases signature dishes that capture Italy’s heritage with a unique twist. Among the offerings are the Burrata Pizza, Diavola Roman-Style Square Pizza, and classic Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe and Rigatoni Amatriciana.
Antonia’s menu stands out due to its 72-hour fermented pizza dough—a blend of rustic Italian flour, olive oil, salt, and a 50-year-old sourdough starter. Each pizza is baked to perfection in a specialized Italian oven, yielding a thick, bubbly, yet light crust that is a testament to traditional Italian craftsmanship.
Filini Garden adds its own touch with delicacies like Scallops and Prawns Pizzaiola, Sea Bream Filet with Saffron Chickpea Cream, and the classic Veal Shank Milanese Style. Complemented by Italian aperitifs, vermouths, or a classic Negroni from the Italian Mixology House, and the lively beats of the Italian Swing Band Trio, Filini Garden promises a vibrant and unforgettable Italian dining experience.
Lila Taqueria at Amerigos: A Taste of Authentic Mexico
For those seeking bold, vibrant flavors, Lila Taqueria brings the heart of Mexico to Amerigos. Under the creative guidance of Chef Shaw Lash, this experience celebrates traditional Mexican cooking with a wood-fired twist. Signature dishes include Chipotle-Honey Glazed Shrimp Tacos, Carne Asada Oaxacan Style Steak, and Mexico City Style Duck Quesadillas.
Each taco is crafted with hand-pressed heirloom corn tortillas using local ingredients and imports directly from Mexico to preserve authenticity. Paired with tequila-based cocktails and Modelo Especial, Lila Taqueria captures the spirit of Mexico’s bustling street food scene. With live entertainment adding to the ambiance, guests are transported straight to Mexico, making it a must-visit during the race weekend.
Stills x CarniStore: The Ultimate BBQ Smokehouse Experience
Carnivores will not want to miss the thrilling collaboration between Stills and CarniStore, delivering an American BBQ experience that is both rich and hearty. Known for its hormone-free, ethically sourced meats, CarniStore brings a range of slow-cooked, oak-fired delicacies like Smoked Brisket, Pulled Beef Sliders, and juicy Wagyu Burgers.
The menu at Stills extends to include popular items like Salmon and Hass Avocado and Mushroom Flat Bread, catering to varied palates. To accompany the hearty fare, guests can choose from a selection of bourbon-infused cocktails and craft beers, setting the perfect atmosphere for race day. With live entertainment energizing the venue, Stills x CarniStore is the ideal spot for BBQ lovers and those craving robust flavors.
Rangoli x Spice Lab Tokyo: Indian-Japanese Fusion at Its Finest
Rangoli joins forces with Spice Lab Tokyo, an innovative concept brought by Chef Tejas Sovani from Japan. This extraordinary fusion combines the six Rasas of Ayurveda—Sweet, Sour, Salty, Bitter, Pungent, and Astringent—with the Japanese notion of Umami, resulting in a multi-dimensional culinary experience.
On the menu are signature dishes like Donabe Hyderabadi Oxtail Biryani, Duck Pepper Fry Dosa, Wagyu Sirloin, and Mont Blanc. Meanwhile, Rangoli presents Smoked Lamb Chops, Koyla Samosa, and Lamb Biryani to complement the Japanese flavors. Guests can enjoy this unique combination with Nyetimber Sparkling Wine, Indian and Japanese single malts, including Hibiki and Indri. This culinary venture is a must for adventurous diners eager to explore the marriage of two rich culinary heritages.
Belgian Café (Beer Garden): The Best of Belgian Flavors
The Belgian Café transforms into a lively beer garden, offering an extensive beverage selection including the 1765 Belgian IPA alongside signature Belgian fare. Dive into favorites like Tarte Flambee “Flammkuchen”, Local Tiger Prawns in Garlic Butter, T-Bone Steak, and the iconic BBC Burger.
Set against the backdrop of the Yas Marina Circuit, the Belgian Café provides an ideal setting for those looking to relax and enjoy hearty flavors. With a vibrant ambiance and Belgian classics on the menu, this spot guarantees a spirited race weekend experience for food lovers and race enthusiasts alike.
Y Bar: Asian Flavors with a Twist
Dive into a world of bold Asian flavors at Y Bar during the Abu Dhabi race weekend. Featuring specialties like Peruvian-Inspired Salmon Crudo, Gochujang Chicken Wings, and a Chicken Katsu Sandwich, Y Bar combines classic Asian ingredients with a modern twist. The Ramen Bar is a particular highlight, featuring comforting bowls of Shoyu Chicken Ramen and Spicy Miso Ramen—perfect to keep guests fueled all weekend.
Adding to the experience, the Wine Lab at Y Bar allows guests to explore over 50 wine labels from both old and new worlds, offering the perfect pairing for vibrant Asian dishes. The blend of global wines with diverse Asian flavors makes Y Bar a must-visit for an immersive dining experience during the race.
Central Plaza: The Ultimate Afterparty Venue
After a day filled with culinary delights and thrilling race events, head to Central Plaza for an unforgettable afterparty. Featuring an electrifying lineup with two DJs, a three-piece band, and a four-piece band, Central Plaza promises non-stop entertainment from Friday to Sunday, 5 PM to 3 AM. With open-air vibes, delicious F&B options, and high-energy performances, this is the place to unwind, dance, and make memories under the Abu Dhabi sky.
With such an exciting lineup of culinary experiences and afterparty vibes, Yas Plaza Hotels is set to elevate the Abu Dhabi Race Weekend to new heights. Whether you’re craving a Negroni with Italian flair, fiery Mexican tacos, or a hearty American BBQ, each venue at Yas Plaza offers a unique experience that celebrates global flavors and lively atmospheres. Don’t miss out on this culinary extravaganza—experience the best in food, drinks, and entertainment during an unforgettable race weekend.
