Berenjak has come a long way from its first home on Romilly Street in Soho, where it opened back in 2018 and introduced its take on Iranian cuisine to one of London’s most characterful areas.
Now, that journey has brought Berenjak to Abu Dhabi, where it has quietly found a home in Al Bateen, tucked away in the heart of the city.
As soon as guests walk through the doors, they are greeted by soft-paced Persian music, whilst the warm, thoughtfully designed interior sets the scene for a lunch that feels wonderfully removed from the usual midday rush.
A Persian Introduction
Before the food arrives, the seasonal iced tea is a refreshing way to kick things off. Peach cordial, Earl Grey and strawberry come together in a drink that is bright, fragrant, and just sweet enough to wake up the palate.
Then come the breads. The taftoon, a seeded sourdough flatbread baked in a clay tanoor, and the sangak, made with whole wheat and sesame and cooked on pebbles, are both beautifully prepared. Once you tear off a piece, you’ll soon understand why bread plays such an important role in the menu.
The set lunch offers plenty of choice, with the recommended plates of hummus, made with black chickpeas, tahini and walnuts, and the panir sabzi, Persian lighvan cheese served with radish, nuts and fresh herbs. The hummus is silky and deeply moreish and works perfectly with the warm sangak and taftoon.
Kebabs Take Centre Stage
For the main event, the jujeh kabab and barreh kabab tond are difficult to overlook. The chicken is succulent and delicately seasoned, while the lamb brings a richer, smoky depth, both served with fluffy House Rice, which plays the assisting role perfectly.
And the experience extends beyond the plate. With the open kitchen in full view and the occasional “Yes Chef!” ringing out, you feel part of the action as the team brings everything together.
Save Room for Ice Cream
Although it sits outside the set lunch, the Persian tea ice cream is worth making room for. Exclusive to Berenjak Abu Dhabi only, it’s an intriguing finale to an already excellent meal.
With attentive service, a lively kitchen and a menu that celebrates Persian flavours without overcomplicating them, Berenjak is a delicious reminder that sometimes the best lunches are the ones that are slightly hidden and you can take your time over.
For further information and reservations, visit Berenjak.
Follow Secret Abu Dhabi for more news, events, and updates in the capital and beyond.
