Episodes at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

Episodes at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental is a signature lobby lounge and tea house located within the opulent West Corniche Road premises of the iconic palace hotel in Abu Dhabi. The venue redefines the traditional café experience by presenting a curated journey through four distinct culinary chapters: a refined Tea Apothecary, an artisanal Gourmet Deli, an exquisite Mandarin Cake Shop, and a decadent Gelateria. At the heart of the Emirate's most prestigious address, Episodes invites guests to indulge in exceptional afternoon tea, rare tea blends from across the globe, and beautifully crafted pastry creations.

Stepping into Episodes, visitors are enveloped in a vibrant yet inviting atmosphere. The lobby lounge’s grand setting provides the perfect backdrop for both relaxed gatherings and celebratory moments. According to customer feedback on Google Maps, the café holds an impressive 4.6-star rating based on over 300 reviews. One reviewer noted that "the highlight in this delightfully kitschy and cozy café is less the gilded cappuccino and more the warm and helpful staff, who always gave me a very friendly welcome and even once charged my phone." Owner responses on the platform reinforce the venue’s commitment to exceptional hospitality and guest satisfaction.

Episodes is not merely a place for a quick coffee; it’s a destination designed for those who appreciate the art of fine tea and gourmet delicacies. The establishment's menu is thoughtfully designed to cater to a variety of tastes throughout the day, ranging from morning viennoiseries to evening gelato. With its prime position in the palace's grand lobby, every visit becomes a memorable episode in a day of luxury and leisure.

Distinct Culinary Experiences at Episodes

Episodes distinguishes itself by offering four unique concepts under one roof. Instead of a single static menu, the team has created a multi-faceted space where guests can explore different flavors and textures. This approach allows Episodes to function as a morning coffee spot, a lunchtime deli, an afternoon tea salon, and a dessert parlor all at once.

Tea Apothecary

A true haven for tea connoisseurs, the Tea Apothecary at Episodes presents an extensive selection of the world’s finest teas. The experience is designed to elevate the senses with rare blends featuring rich, aromatic flavors. These teas are paired with a mix of sweet and savory creations, making it an ideal choice for the traditional afternoon tea service that the venue is well-known for.

Gourmet Deli

The Gourmet Deli section of Episodes serves artisanal sandwiches and the finest viennoiseries. Focusing on quality, the deli highlights locally farmed delicacies and signature dishes. For guests looking for a quick yet premium bite, this section offers on-the-go highlights that do not compromise on taste or presentation. The Deli Anytime Menu and Deli Breakfast Menu ensure that guests have access to fresh, high-quality options from morning through evening.

The Mandarin Cake Shop

Pastry lovers will find themselves captivated by The Mandarin Cake Shop. This segment of Episodes harmonizes classical techniques with contemporary design to create enchanting pastries and desserts. Each item is crafted to leave a lasting impression, with the delicate balance of flavors and textures designed to captivate taste buds. It pairs perfectly with the premium coffee offerings frequently praised in customer reviews.

Gelateria

The Episodes Gelateria offers a delightful escape into a world of decadent gelato choices. Whether one is a passionate flâneur or simply a sweet lover, the magical essence of the gelato selections provides a refreshing conclusion to a meal or a standalone treat. The variety is designed to captivate and cool guests in the Abu Dhabi heat.

Menu Highlights and Local Favorites

While the venue offers a comprehensive array of menus, including a dedicated Kids' Menu, certain items have become synonymous with the Episodes brand. The local popularity of these items is evident in guest feedback and curated menu highlights.

• Episodes Gold Cappuccino: A signature beverage that has become a must-try for visitors. Topped with real gold, it embodies the luxury of the Emirates Palace and is a favorite for those seeking a truly indulgent coffee experience.
• Pistachio Croissant: Frequently highlighted in menus and a popular pastry choice that strikes a balance between flaky viennoiserie skill and rich nutty flavor.
• Afternoon Tea Set: A classic offering that includes a selection of finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries served alongside the Tea Apothecary's finest blends. It represents the core of the Episodes social experience.
• Artisanal Sandwiches: Available through the Gourmet Deli, these sandwiches use premium ingredients and freshly baked bread.
• Gelato Selection: A rotating or set plethora of gelato choices designed to satisfy sweet cravings any time of the day.

What Guests Are Saying About Episodes

The reputation of Episodes at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental is reflected in its customer feedback. Ranking at a high 4.6 stars on Google Maps from 305 reviews, the venue is celebrated as much for its ambiance as for its culinary offerings. The recurring themes from customer feedback paint a picture of a business that values both product quality and human connection.

According to Google Maps reviews, patrons consistently mention the warm hospitality of the service team. Several reviews specifically name team members and comment on their helpfulness and friendliness. One reviewer mentioned a staff member going above and beyond to charge a guest's mobile phone, highlighting the personalized care provided. The gilded cappuccino and the afternoon tea experience are frequently described as unforgettable and photo-worthy, with many guests suggesting they are essential to the Abu Dhabi luxury experience.

Owner responses to reviews demonstrate an active engagement in guest relations. The management team regularly thanks guests for their detailed feedback and underscores their commitment to the highest standards. This level of interaction contributes to the warm, welcoming environment that visitors describe in their comments. Customers also view the location as a pleasant, quiet retreat within the prestigious hotel, perfect for relaxing and enjoying high-quality beverages and sweets.

Location and Ambiance at Emirates Palace

Episodes is situated in the grand lobby of the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental on West Corniche Road in the Al Ras Al Akhdar area of Abu Dhabi. Centrally located in the heart of the city, the venue is only a 40-minute drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport and a 90-minute drive from Dubai Airport. The hotel itself is within walking distance of Marina Mall and other major shopping attractions, and just a 20-minute drive from the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

The lobby lounge setting offers a unique blend of palatial grandeur and cozy intimacy. Guests have described the ambiance as "delightfully kitschy and cozy," making it a comfortable yet upscale destination. The availability of dine-in service reinforces its status as a place to pause and relax. The stylish café atmosphere makes it a prime spot for hotel guests and local residents looking for a refined social gathering place.

Hours, Reservations, and Contact Information

Episodes operates daily, welcoming guests from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM, according to Google Maps data. However, the official website suggests a service window from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM for specific needs. For the most accurate daily scheduling, guests are encouraged to contact the venue directly.

Reservations are accepted, with a seamless booking system available online through the brand's partner platform. To secure a table or inquire about specific menu items, guests can call Episodes directly at +971 2 690 7999 or email the reservations team at moauh-restaurants@mohg.com. The establishment is reported to have a mid-range price point, estimated at 50–300 AED per person based on aggregated user reports.

Common Questions About Episodes

Does Episodes serve afternoon tea?

Yes. Episodes is well-known for its afternoon tea service. The venue offers a dedicated Afternoon Tea Menu featuring a selection of fine teas from the Tea Apothecary paired with sweet and savory creations.

What is the Episodes Gold Cappuccino?

The Episodes Gold Cappuccino is a signature drink sprinkled with real gold. It has become an iconic item for visitors seeking a luxurious coffee experience and is frequently mentioned in guest reviews and photography.

Is Episodes only for hotel guests?

No. While located within the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Episodes is a public dining venue. Visitors to Abu Dhabi and local residents are welcome to dine at the lobby lounge without being hotel guests.

What are the operating hours?

According to Google Maps, Episodes is open daily from 8 AM to 11 PM. The official website also notes specific service hours from 9 AM to 9 PM. Contact the restaurant directly for the most up-to-date information.

Does Episodes offer options for children?

Yes. Episodes provides a dedicated Kids' Menu, making the lobby lounge a family-friendly option within the luxurious setting of the Emirates Palace.

How can I book a table?

Table bookings can be made by calling +971 2 690 7999, sending an email to moauh-restaurants@mohg.com, or via the official booking link available on the Mandarin Oriental website.

What dining concepts are available inside Episodes?

Episodes is divided into four distinct experiences: the Tea Apothecary, the Gourmet Deli, The Mandarin Cake Shop, and the Gelateria. Each offers a specific menu ranging from teas and viennoiseries to pastries and artisanal ice cream.