Central

If you’re searching for a dining experience that goes beyond great food, Central at Yas Bay Waterfront delivers an electrifying blend of New York City-inspired energy and family-friendly fun. Positioned on the vibrant Yas Island, Central is not just a restaurant — it’s a dynamic destination where mouthwatering American and international cuisine meets a state-of-the-art arcade, bowling alleys, live music, and a calendar packed with exciting events. From the moment you step inside, the urban underground vibe, buzzing atmosphere, and genuine hospitality set the stage for an unforgettable outing that caters to guests of all ages.

Whether you’re planning a relaxed dinner, a lively Saturday brunch, a kids’ birthday party, or a corporate gathering, the venue is thoughtfully designed to keep everyone entertained. Parents can unwind over happy hour drinks while kids explore the arcade, and groups of friends can engage in a little healthy competition on the bowling lanes. The menu is a celebration of bold flavors and crowd-pleasing favorites, featuring everything from big burgers and Cajun prawns to massive milkshakes and sharing platters. Central has rightfully earned its reputation as the ultimate food-meets-fun destination in Abu Dhabi.

A Menu Inspired by the Big Apple

The culinary team at Central takes cues from the diverse food scene of Downtown New York, crafting a menu that’s both comforting and adventurous. The kitchen focuses on high-quality ingredients and generous portions, ensuring that every dish is as satisfying as the last. You’ll find classic American comfort food alongside international influences, all served in a lively, casual setting that encourages sharing and sampling across the table.

The menu is deep and varied, offering something for even the pickiest eaters. Signature burgers are a house specialty, with juicy patties stacked high and paired with perfectly crispy fries. Chicken wings, a perennial favorite, come in a range of sauces that balance heat and flavor. For those who love seafood, the Cajun prawns deliver a spicy kick, while loaded nachos make for an excellent starter to share. The monster shakes are a destination in themselves — decadent, oversized, and perfect for a sweet treat or an Instagram-worthy moment. Daily specials and the Neighbourhood Menu highlight crowd-favourite dishes at great value, making every visit a new discovery.

Central also understands the importance of catering to younger guests. A dedicated kids’ menu features smaller portions of beloved classics, ensuring that even the littlest diners leave happy and full. Family dining here is a stress-free affair, with high chairs, welcoming staff, and a relaxed pace that allows everyone to enjoy their meal at their own tempo.

Entertainment & Activities for All Ages

What truly sets Central apart from a traditional restaurant is its integrated entertainment offering. The venue houses a modern, state-of-the-art arcade filled with a mix of classic and cutting-edge games. From racing simulators and claw machines to ticket redemption games, the arcade is a hit with kids, teens, and adults alike. The Players Lounge offers gaming credit bundles that double up your arcade credits, rewarding those who come ready to play.

Bowling at Central is a social event in itself. Yas Bay’s favorite lanes accommodate groups of one to six players, and at just AED 50 per person per game, it’s an accessible activity for families, dates, or corporate outings. The lanes are well-maintained, the lighting is atmospheric, and the surrounding energy keeps the excitement levels high. For those who prefer to spectate or simply soak up the atmosphere, live music performances add another layer of entertainment, with talented bands and artists playing throughout the week.

The venue’s calendar is consistently packed with themed events and weekly specials. Friday Fun Zone encourages families to end the week on a high note, while the Saturday Brunch It On event has become a legend on Yas Bay — a full afternoon of arcades, live entertainment, and side quests for kids like pancake art and dance battles. Sundays are reserved for the Roast n’ Roll feast, a beloved tradition featuring Abu Dhabi’s favorite roast dinner. Seasonal celebrations, including festive brunches and New Year’s Eve parties, transform the space into a vibrant party hub.

Deals, Offers & Special Packages

Central is committed to making premium entertainment accessible with a range of compelling deals. The Happy Hour offers selected beverages starting from just AED 25, making it an ideal spot for an after-work unwind or a pre-dinner gathering. The innovative Play What You Pay deal is a guest favorite: spend AED 50 or more on food and drinks, and you’ll receive 100% of your bill back in arcade credit to use on your next visit — effectively dining for free on future fun.

For families, the Central Bundle delivers exceptional value, combining an hour of bowling with AED 200 worth of arcade credits. Corporate Thursdays offer a 25% discount on the total à la carte bill for groups of up to 12 guests who book with a corporate email address. The MEGA Prize of the Month encourages friendly competition on the arcade floor, with high scores translating into entries for a major monthly giveaway. Birthday party packages start at AED 150 per child, with customizable options that make hosting a celebration effortless and memorable.

Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor exploring Yas Island, the loyalty rewards app from Solutions Group unlocks even more value, including 2-for-1 dining offers and exclusive perks across a portfolio of premier venues. Central is seamlessly integrated into this ecosystem, giving regulars plenty of reasons to return.

Location & Atmosphere on Yas Bay Waterfront

Central occupies a prime spot on the Yas Bay Waterfront, one of Abu Dhabi’s most exciting destinations. The waterfront promenade is lined with restaurants, entertainment venues, and the iconic Etihad Arena, which hosts major concerts, sports events, and live performances year-round. Central is just a short walk from the arena, making it the perfect pre- or post-event hangout. Guests heading to a show can enjoy a meal and a round of bowling before the doors open, or unwind with drinks and arcade games after the final encore.

The atmosphere inside Central is lively, welcoming, and unapologetically fun. The design draws from the urban underground of New York, with graffiti-style art, industrial accents, and neon lighting that creates an edgy yet comfortable space. Multiple zones cater to different moods: the dining area is ideal for social meals, the bar area hums with conversation, and the game floors buzz with laughter and friendly rivalry. During cooler months, outdoor seating along the waterfront is particularly popular, offering stunning views of the bay and a refreshing breeze.

Accessibility is straightforward, with ample parking available on Yas Island and clear signage directing visitors to the waterfront. The venue’s operating hours are tailored to accommodate both early family dinners and late-night entertainment, with midday openings on weekends and extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays. A smart-casual dress code keeps the environment stylish yet relaxed, and the team is always on hand to assist with reservations and custom bookings.

Part of the Solutions Leisure Family

Central is operated by Solutions Group, one of the UAE’s leading hospitality and entertainment companies. This connection ensures a high standard of service, creative event programming, and access to a wider community of venues that includes well-known names like Lock, Stock & Barrel, Asia Asia, Ula, and The 305. The Solutions Group ethos — "we create the moments people live for" — is evident in every detail at Central, from the thoughtful menu design to the attentive staff and the ever-evolving entertainment lineup.

Being part of a larger group also means that Central benefits from shared expertise and resources. The venue’s blog and press features regularly highlight seasonal guides, dining trends, and tips for enjoying Yas Island, such as where to eat near Etihad Arena or how to plan the ultimate birthday celebration. This depth of local knowledge and commitment to guest satisfaction positions Central not simply as a restaurant, but as a trusted curator of leisure experiences in Abu Dhabi.