The story
At Sand & Koal, dinner begins with sand between your toes and the sound of waves. Set directly on the beach at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental in Abu Dhabi, this restaurant and bar explores the possibilities of live fire cooking. The menu is built around raw, smoked, and charred seafood, unique meat cuts, and grilled skewers. Thinly sliced crudos arrive alongside cocktails from the bar, while a live DJ sets the tone as yachts cruise the waters beyond.
The atmosphere is boho-chic, evolving through the evening. Sand & Koal is designed as a gathering spot for lively brunches and large parties, with vibrant teal ocean views framing the experience. The restaurant’s focus on modern cuisine, centred on fire and fresh ingredients, earned it a Michelin Recommended distinction in 2026 — a recognition of its distinctive approach to coastal dining in the capital.
Open for dinner, with outdoor seating directly on the sand, Sand & Koal merges the energy of a beach bar with the precision of a serious kitchen. Whether you come for the grilled skewers or the smoky crudos, the setting is unmistakably Abu Dhabi.
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