Abu Dhabi's Dining Scene Heats Up: Ross Shonhan Unveils 'Strawfire' at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

Strawfire' at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

This October, Abu Dhabi’s culinary landscape is set for a fiery transformation with the much-anticipated opening of Strawfire at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. Helmed by acclaimed chef and restaurateur Ross Shonhan, Strawfire promises to bring a bold new dining experience to the city, fusing the ancient Japanese art of Warayaki cooking with cutting-edge design and immersive storytelling.

A New Culinary Adventure Awaits

Prepare to embark on Abu Dhabi’s premier culinary adventure, where traditional Japanese techniques are reimagined through a modern lens. At Strawfire, diners will experience the visceral thrill of Warayaki cooking—a method that uses straw and fire to create intensely flavorful dishes. The restaurant’s aesthetic is equally captivating, with five distinct spaces offering unique, theatrical dining experiences. Whether you choose to dine in the intimate Tsumiko Lounge, the vibrant Warayaki Room, the serene Kumiko Room, the open-air Terasu, or the exclusive Toyama Room, each area is designed to evoke a different aspect of Japanese culture and culinary artistry.

A Feast for the Senses

Shonhan’s vision for Strawfire goes beyond the plate. The restaurant is an artistic masterpiece, adorned with bespoke Japanese art installations that add layers of cultural depth to the dining experience. One of the most striking features is the private dining room’s extraordinary Shimenawa rope—a 7.3-meter-long, 830-kilogram symbol of protection and purity in Japanese tradition. Suspended above the dining table, this monumental piece is the largest synthetic Shimenawa ever created, making it a must-see for art and culture enthusiasts alike.

“I’m thrilled to bring the stories of Japan to Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi through cuisine, beverage, and craftsmanship,” said Chef Ross Shonhan. “Strawfire is designed as a spectacular collision of ingredients, techniques, art, culture, and conversation. This unique concept epitomizes the theatrical nature of dining out while serving a modern mix of Japanese cuisine. I cannot wait to welcome our first guests later this year.”

An Immersive Dining Experience Like No Other

The essence of Strawfire is in its name—combining the golden hues of straw, the glowing embers of fire, and the deep, smoky tones of the grill. Every aspect of the dining experience is crafted to ignite the senses, from the visually stunning decor to the richly layered flavors of the dishes. Shonhan’s commitment to excellence ensures that Strawfire will not only be a feast for the taste buds but a holistic sensory journey that redefines luxury dining in Abu Dhabi.

With more exciting details to be revealed in the coming months, Strawfire is poised to become the city’s most sought-after dining destination. Get ready to experience a culinary spectacle like no other at the iconic Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental this October.