Strawfire by Ross Shonhan

Strawfire by Ross Shonhan brings a dramatic live-fire Japanese dining experience to the heart of Abu Dhabi. Set within the majestic Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental on West Corniche Road, this restaurant has quickly become one of the city's most talked-about culinary destinations. The concept revolves around Warayaki, a traditional cooking technique from Japan's Kochi prefecture, where straw-fed flames kiss ingredients, imparting a signature smokiness and depth of flavor. Under the direction of acclaimed Chef Ross Shonhan, whose resume includes executive roles at Nobu Dallas and Zuma London, the kitchen transforms the freshest meats, seafood, and vegetables into edible masterpieces, many prepared right before guests' eyes on the feature grill that takes center stage in the dining room.

According to Google Maps reviews, Strawfire holds a strong 4.7-star rating from 332 reviews, with diners consistently praising the quality of the Wagyu, the engaging atmosphere, and attentive service. One reviewer described a Valentine's Day visit as a 'once-in-a-lifetime experience' with a menu so thoughtfully crafted they tried dishes they would never have ordered otherwise. Another guest noted that the beef was 'by far the best we have ever eaten,' while many mention the knowledgeable, multilingual staff who elevate the meal with top-tier hospitality. These personal accounts, shared by locals and international visitors alike, highlight the restaurant's ability to deliver both a sensory feast and genuine warmth.

Menu Highlights at Strawfire by Ross Shonhan

The menu at Strawfire is a curated journey through Chef Ross Shonhan's extensive travels across Japan. It celebrates ingredients treated with respect and fire, resulting in plates that balance rusticity with refinement. While the kitchen is best known for its Warayaki grill, the offering spans much more than charred proteins.

Yakitori and Warayaki Grill

Skewered meats and vegetables are grilled over binchotan charcoal or straw flames. Google Maps reviews and photos frequently highlight the Wagyu, which guests describe as buttery, intensely marbled, and melt-in-the-mouth tender. The Warayaki method is also applied to fish and seasonal vegetables, locking in moisture while adding a whisper of smoke that never overpowers the ingredient.

Sushi and Sashimi

Freshness is non-negotiable. The sushi selection features pristine cuts of fish, often flown in from Japan, presented simply to let the quality speak. Reviewers mention the sushi as a must-order complement to the heartier grilled dishes, offering a cool, clean counterpoint to the warmth of the Warayaki.

Signature Desserts

Two items consistently surface in guest photos: the Strawberry Kakigori and the Nutella Taiyaki. The Kakigori is a towering Japanese shaved ice dessert, layered with strawberry syrup and sometimes condensed milk, while the Taiyaki is a fish-shaped pastry filled with warm, molten Nutella. These playful, beautifully presented sweets provide a nostalgic finish to a sophisticated meal.

Golden Hour Bar Bites

The restaurant hosts a daily Golden Hour from 6pm to 7pm, offering two beverages and a selection of bar bites for AED 80 per person. This pre-dinner window is designed for relaxed unwinding, with curated drinks and light snacks that showcase the Warayaki concept in a more casual format.

The Dining Experience at Strawfire

A meal at Strawfire is as much about ambiance as it is about food. Entry is through the Tsukimi Lounge, an immersive space inspired by harvest time under a full moon, setting a contemplative mood before the main dining room unfolds. The design deliberately departs from the stark minimalism of some Japanese concepts, instead embracing soft golden drapes that ripple across the ceiling like dancing flames. Artisan Kumiko wood panels and carefully sourced furnishings reinforce the sense of place without feeling like a theater set.

Atmosphere and Design

The centerpiece is the open grill, where chefs work with focused precision, flames leaping as straw hits the heat source. The room is warm, vibrant, and slightly theatrical—yet never intimidating. The private dining room, Toyama, takes the artistry further: it accommodates up to 18 guests beneath an 830-kilogram sacred Shimenawa rope, the largest ever produced, handcrafted in Toyama, Japan. Hand-painted silk wall coverings depict scenes from Kyoto's eras and rural Edo-period life, creating a space that encourages conversation and contemplation between courses.

Service and Hospitality

Google Maps reviews repeatedly single out the service as a defining strength. Guests describe staff as exceptionally attentive, genuinely warm, and in several cases, multilingual—one reviewer specifically praised a German-speaking server who made the evening seamless. The team demonstrates deep menu knowledge, comfortably guiding diners through the Warayaki concept and making personalized recommendations without being overbearing.

Reservations and Seating

Tables can be booked via phone, email, or the online reservation platform linked from the Mandarin Oriental website. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Sunday from 6pm to 11:30pm, with the kitchen closed on Mondays. Seating is a mix of standard tables and counter-style spots near the grill for those who want to watch the action up close.

Customer Reviews & Ratings: What Diners Say

With a 4.7-star average from 332 Google Maps reviews, Strawfire has earned consistent acclaim since its opening. The feedback points to several recurring themes that define the Strawfire experience.

Exceptional Food Quality

The most common praise centers on ingredient quality and cooking technique. Guests use words like 'perfect,' 'unforgettable,' and 'exceptional' to describe dishes, with the Wagyu and Warayaki grill items drawing the most enthusiastic reactions. One reviewer wrote, 'rarely have we eaten so deliciously,' noting that even unfamiliar dishes became highlights of the evening.

Outstanding Service

Service appears in nearly every positive review. Guests highlight the staff's professionalism, warmth, and language skills. A reviewer celebrating a child's birthday noted that the team made the evening feel truly special for the entire family, a sentiment echoed across reviews mentioning anniversaries and celebrations.

Atmosphere and Visual Appeal

The design and energy of the space consistently impress diners. Descriptions include 'warm,' 'graceful,' and 'one-of-a-kind.' The interplay of the open flames, the soft drapery, and the artisanal details creates a backdrop that feels celebratory yet comfortable.

Value Perspectives

While most reviews focus on the premium nature of the experience, guests generally frame the pricing as commensurate with the quality and setting. The Golden Hour offering is highlighted as an accessible way to explore the menu without committing to the full dinner experience.

Location and Accessibility in Abu Dhabi

Strawfire by Ross Shonhan operates inside Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, an architectural landmark on West Corniche Road in the Al Ras Al Akhdar area. The hotel sits at the western end of Abu Dhabi's Corniche, a sweeping waterfront boulevard that stretches along the city's northern shore. The location puts it within walking distance of Marina Mall and offers easy road access to key cultural destinations including Qasr Al Hosn and the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi International Airport is approximately 40 minutes away by car. Valet parking and hotel parking facilities are available for guests.

Hours, Reservations & Contact

Strawfire is open from 6pm to 11:30pm, Tuesday through Sunday. The restaurant is closed on Mondays. To book a table, diners can call +971 2 690 7999, email moauh-restaurants@mohg.com, or use the online reservation link on the Mandarin Oriental website. The Golden Hour promotion runs daily from 6pm to 7pm when the restaurant is open, offering two beverages and bar bites for AED 80 per person—no separate reservation is required beyond a standard table booking.

Common Questions About Strawfire by Ross Shonhan

What is Warayaki cooking?

Warayaki is a Japanese grilling technique from Kochi Prefecture that involves cooking ingredients over flames produced by burning rice straw. The high heat sears the exterior quickly, sealing in juices, while the straw smoke imparts a delicate, earthy aroma. At Strawfire, the technique is used on meats, seafood, and vegetables, with diners able to watch the process live at the central grill.

Does Strawfire offer vegetarian or vegan options?

The kitchen highlights vibrant vegetables cooked Warayaki-style, and the menu includes seasonal plant-based dishes. However, guests with specific dietary requirements should communicate them when booking, as the core of the menu is built around proteins and seafood. Contact the restaurant directly for the most current vegetarian and vegan offerings.

Is there a dress code?

While no formal dress code is published, the setting within Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental and the upscale nature of the dining room suggest smart casual attire is appropriate. Most guests dress elegantly, reflecting the refined atmosphere of the restaurant and hotel.

Can I book the private dining room?

The Toyama private dining room accommodates up to 18 guests and features a dramatic handcrafted Shimenawa rope centerpiece, hand-painted silk walls, and a bespoke live-edge table. For availability and booking terms, contact the restaurant directly via phone or email—advance reservations are recommended given its exclusivity.

Is Strawfire family-friendly?

Yes. The restaurant offers a kids' menu, and Google Maps reviews include families who have dined with children, noting that the staff made the experience enjoyable for younger guests. The lively open grill and dramatic visuals can also engage curious young diners.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellation policies may vary by booking method and date. For reservations made directly through the restaurant or the website, the team can clarify any cancellation or modification terms when confirming the booking. Contact Strawfire at +971 2 690 7999 for details.

Does Strawfire offer takeout or delivery?

The restaurant is designed primarily as an immersive dine-in experience, and Google Maps attributes confirm onsite dining is the focus. For any takeout inquiries, it is best to call the restaurant directly. Currently, there is no indication of third-party delivery services being used.