There’s something undeniably electric about race weekend at Yas Marina – and Ishtar has just the right menu to capture it.
From 5-7 December, the waterfront restaurant transforms into a premium trackside retreat, where the hum of Formula 1 engines blends seamlessly with lively entertainment, all-inclusive dining, and some of the best views in the marina.
It’s the kind of space where you can feel the adrenaline without sacrificing the comfort of a beautifully curated evening.
This year, Ishtar’s offering is simple yet luxurious: an all-inclusive food and beverage experience each day, designed to keep you fuelled and festive from start to finish.
The two terraces are the heartbeat of the venue, sun-drenched by day, warmly lit by night, and always plugged into the energy of the circuit. Whether you’re here for the racing or simply for the vibe, the setting alone is enough to make you linger.
Menu highlights at Ishtar this race weekend
The menu leans into hearty, Levantine flavours, with a few standouts worth planning your evening around. We began with the Lebanese Mix Mezza, a generous spread of traditional hummus, Ishtar’s silky labneh, vine leaves, tabbouleh, and a beautifully presented open-face kibbeh.
That kibbeh, in particular, deserves its own mention: savoury, tender, and lifted by a gentle hit of pomegranate molasses that gives it a sweet-tart edge. If you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar, the Crispy Calamari is exactly what you’d hope for; lightly fried, golden, and topped with crunchy vegetables.
But the dish that truly lingers, long after the last lap and well into the next day, will definitely be the Golden Moroccan Lamb Tajin. Slow-cooked lamb shoulder softened to perfection, folded into prunes, apricots, and warm Moroccan spices. It’s rich, aromatic, and melt-in-your-mouth tender, the kind of main that stops conversation for a moment because everyone needs to savour it fully.
Even though we thought we couldn’t manage dessert, the tiramisu and kunafa proved too tempting to pass up, and both delivered exactly what you’d hope for: creamy, crunchy, and satisfying without being overly heavy.
Drinks, too, deserve a mention. The mixed drinks menu is interesting without trying too hard, and paired with coveted views of both the track and the water, it’s the kind of setup that feels like the real reward of the weekend. Please note, however, that while Ishtar offers some vegetarian options, vegans and strict vegetarians may find the choices somewhat limited, which is something to consider when planning your visit.
But ultimately, Ishtar shines because it leans into what race weekend is all about: atmosphere. Energy. A sense of occasion.
With generous plates, vibrant entertainment, and a location that puts you right in the centre of the action, it’s easily one of the most memorable places to spend the weekend, whether you’re here for the speed, the food, or simply the spectacle of it all.
For more information, visit Ishtar at Yas Marina
Follow Secret Abu Dhabi for more news, events and all the hottest updates in the capital and beyond
