ALMA: Poolside Mexican Refinement at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

An Open Air Culinary Sanctuary

ALMA occupies a distinctly convivial realm, removed from the palatial grandeur of the indoor dining establishments within Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. Positioned adjacent to the Oriental Wing pool, this resplendent open air venue extends an invitation to savour Mexican cuisine whilst enveloped by panoramic views towards the beach, creating an atmosphere of refined ease that belies its monumental setting. The restaurant remains accessible to visiting diners through the Oriental Wing without requirement of a day pass, establishing ALMA as a genuine culinary destination of considerable distinction.

Authenticity Elevated Through Contemporary Technique

The kitchen presents an array of meticulously crafted offerings that honour the essentials of Mexican gastronomy. Fresh ceviches, hand rolled tacos executed with precision, and sumptuous sharing plates such as lamb barbacoa feature prominently upon the menu, whilst tostadas provide additional textural variety. The culinary approach embraces modern technique without surrendering to fusion for its own gratification, maintaining throughout an admirable fidelity to recognisable Mexican forms and flavours. The beverage programme follows an equally measured philosophy, with traditional ingredients such as tamarind, hibiscus and horchata complementing contemporary creations, bringing acidity, spice and luminous freshness to a setting where the pervasive warmth and seaside ambiance naturally favour lighter, more vibrant flavours.

A Rhythm of Daytime Indulgence

ALMA operates from 9 am through 7 pm, establishing itself as an institution of daytime and early evening dining. This temporal frame proves most felicitous for an extended midday repast, refreshment following aquatic pursuits, or a meal timed to coincide with the resplendent sunset hours, rather than serving as a venue for late evening indulgence. Within one of Abu Dhabi’s most commanding architectural statements, ALMA introduces a welcome counterpoint of informality: Mexican cuisine of genuine refinement, vivifying beverages, and the unhurried cadence of a coastal resort. The establishment thus brings an unusually relaxed sensibility to such a monumental address, offering respite and gastronomic pleasure in equal measure.

Practical details

Location: Oriental Wing pool, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, West Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Cuisine: Mexican
Telephone: +971 2 690 7999
Restaurant email: moauh-restaurants@mohg.com
Hotel email: moauh-reservations@mohg.com
Hours: Daily 9 am-7 pm