A Fusion Of Architecture, Art And The Alchemy Of Fire
Strawfire by Ross Shonhan, located within the prestigious Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi, offers an evocative sensory journey where design and cuisine converge in celebration of the Warayaki – the ancient Japanese technique of flame-searing over burning rice straw. Every detail, from the restaurant’s glowing interiors to its expressive dishes, captures the drama, warmth and spirit of fire.
Guests step into an amber-lit setting where draped fabrics, metallic textures and sculptural forms evoke the movement of flame and smoke. At the heart of the space, the open-kitchen becomes a stage, where chefs perform the art of Warayaki in a captivating dance of fire and precision. Velvet-green furnishings, handcrafted Kumiko lattice panels, and soft golden tones strike a delicate balance of intimacy and artistry, while the Tsukimi Lounge glowing beneath a suspended moon, offers a celestial escape for crafted cocktails and quiet conversation.
Within Strawfire lies the Toyama Room – a private yet communal sanctuary inspired by Japan’s mountainous Toyama region celebrated for its artisans, pristine landscapes and exceptional sushi from Toyama Bay. Accommodating up to 18 guests around a sculptural table carved from a single piece of wood, the ceiling features hand-painted silk inspired by Japanese artwork, while the space is wrapped in silk panels depicting scenes by masters like Utagawa Hiroshige and Katsushika Hokusai. Its main highlight is the 7.3 metre Shimenawa rope, handcrafted in Toyama, symbolising sacred connection and protection. The Toyama room glows with quite grandeur, celebrating the harmony between nature, craftsmanship and community.
The Kumiko Room is a refined space that blends Japanese craftsmanship with contemporary design. An illuminated Kumiko wooden screen offers glimpses into the kitchen, framed by emerald green velvet seating and straw bale accents. Enclosed in elegance, the Kumiko Room is a sanctuary for those who seek connection, refinement and culinary artistry.
Extending gracefully from this tranquil setting, the terrace within the iconic Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental offers captivating views of the palace grounds and Abu Dhabi’s night skyline, blending Strawfire’s sophistication with the elegance of its surroundings.
Guided by Chef Ross Shonhan, the menu mirrors the spirit of the design – refined, elemental and deeply sensory. Each dish honours the essence of Warayaki, balancing authenticity with innovation. Highlights include Tuna Tataki with ponzu and pickled onion, Spicy Miso Chilean Sea bass seared over straw flames for a subtle smokiness and Dry-Aged Westholme Wagyu, grilled to perfection to reveal its rich depth and texture.
The experience continues with Lobster and Scallop Gyoza, Japanese Milk Bread with seaweed butter and vibrant vegetarian dishes such as Avocado with feta and Sudachi dressing, reflecting Strawfire’s commitment to seasonality and craftsmanship. To finish, diners can indulge in Yuzu and Pineapple Baba or the signature Nutella Taiyaki with miso-caramel ice cream, a playful reinterpretation of Japanese street tradition through a fine-dining lens.
More than a restaurant, Strawfire is an ode to craftsmanship, nature and fire – where every flame, ingredient and detail embodies Japanese artistry reimagined for Abu Dhabi’s cosmopolitan stage. Reserve your table and discover the ancient art of Warayaki brought to life.
