Hanar Restaurant - Mezze Bar Grill

Tucked within the vibrant Yas Bay waterfront on Yas Island, Hanar Restaurant - Mezze Bar Grill brings the authentic flavors of Turkish cuisine to Abu Dhabi. The name "Mezze Bar Grill" captures the essence of the experience: a celebration of shared plates, sizzling grilled meats, and the warm hospitality that defines Turkish dining culture. Located along Yas Street, Hanar is both a destination for a leisurely meal and a convenient stop for those enjoying the surrounding entertainment district. With a Google Maps rating of 4.6 stars from 244 reviews, the restaurant has quickly earned a reputation for its zesty kebabs, generous portions, and attentive service.

Hanar's culinary focus is firmly rooted in Turkish gastronomy, emphasizing expertly grilled meats, traditional mezze platters, and house-made breads. The open kitchen and modern interior create an inviting atmosphere where the aroma of charcoal-grilled Adana kebab and marinated chicken wings fills the air. Whether visiting before a concert at the nearby Etihad Arena or gathering with friends for a relaxed dinner, Hanar positions itself as a versatile venue that balances casual comfort with a refined touch. The restaurant's price point, reported as 100–300 AED per person, reflects its commitment to quality ingredients and a satisfying dining experience without pretense.

Menu Highlights at Hanar Restaurant - Mezze Bar Grill

The menu at Hanar is a carefully curated journey through Turkish culinary traditions. The stars of the show are undeniably the grilled items, with the Adana Kebab highlighted as a popular choice among diners. This hand-minced lamb kebab, seasoned with red pepper and tail fat, is grilled over charcoal and served with traditional accompaniments. The Chicken Wings and Chicken Kebab also receive consistent praise in customer reviews on Google Maps, with one reviewer describing them as "very delicious." Beyond the grill, the mezze selection offers a variety of cold and hot small plates perfect for sharing—think creamy hummus, smoky baba ghanoush, and crispy sigara böreği (phyllo rolls stuffed with cheese). The restaurant's official menu PDF, available on the website, details the full range of offerings, and the "Menu" tab on Google Maps provides a visual overview of the dishes that keep patrons returning.

Signature Grilled Specialties

Turkish cuisine is synonymous with mastery of the grill, and Hanar delivers on this front with a focused selection of kebabs and grilled meats. The Adana Kebab is a must-try for those seeking a classic, spicy flavor profile, while the Chicken Kebab offers a lighter but equally flavorful alternative. For a more indulgent option, google maps reviewers mention Wagyu beef dishes, indicating a premium tier for special occasions. The grill section is complemented by freshly baked Turkish breads like lavash and pide, ideal for scooping up the rich, spiced juices and accompanying dips.

Mezze and Shared Plates

At the heart of the "Mezze Bar" concept is the sharing of small plates, a social ritual that defines the dining experience. Hanar's mezze menu likely includes a range of cold and hot options, from classic ezme (spicy tomato and pepper salsa) to fried calamari with tarator sauce. While the full list is available on the official menu, the emphasis on mezze creates an ideal start to any meal, encouraging groups to sample a variety of flavors before moving to main courses. The combination of mezze and grilled dishes makes Hanar equally suitable for a quick, casual bite or an extended multi-course dinner.

The Dining Experience at Hanar Restaurant - Mezze Bar Grill

A meal at Hanar is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the cuisine. Google Maps reviews frequently highlight the welcoming and professional service, with one customer noting the team was "very kind and accommodating." Another patron extended praise "to the entire team – from the security staff." The restaurant's modern setting within the Etihad Arena complex contributes to a vibrant, energetic ambiance, especially during event nights. However, multiple reviewers also mention being "surprised by how affordable the food is," indicating that the experience feels premium without an excessive price tag. The restaurant offers dine-in service, as well as takeaway and delivery options via online ordering, catering to both on-site guests and those who prefer to enjoy Turkish flavors at home.

Service and Hospitality

The hospitality at Hanar stands out as a recurring theme in customer feedback. Reviews universally commend the staff's attentiveness and friendliness. One particularly glowing account mentions the staff serving Turkish black tea "on the house," a gesture that reflects the genuine Turkish tradition of offering tea as a sign of welcome. This level of care appears to be a core part of the restaurant's identity, ensuring that each visit feels personal and valued. The ability to book a table online via the website's booking system adds a layer of convenience for those planning ahead, especially on weekends or during events.

Customer Reviews and Ratings for Hanar Restaurant

Hanar Restaurant - Mezze Bar Grill holds a strong 4.6-star rating on Google Maps based on 244 reviews, signaling broad customer satisfaction. The volume and consistency of positive feedback point to a reliable experience that diners are eager to share. The review summaries translate to recurring themes that define the restaurant's reputation: excellent food quality, particularly the grilled meats and wings, generous portion sizes, and welcoming service.

Recurring Praise from Google Maps Reviews

Analyzing the customer reviews available on Google Maps reveals several consistent patterns. First, the tenderness and seasoning of the meat are frequently highlighted. "Tender meat and superbly seasoned," one reviewer wrote, while another emphasized the "very tasty" food. Second, the price-to-portion ratio is a distinct positive. A reviewer mentioned being "surprised how affordable the food is" and noting "the portions are large." Third, the service is described with terms like "very nice," "attentive," and "highly recommended." The sole criticism found in the panel text comes from a recent review advising against the lamb burger due to a sauce the reviewer found overpowering. This single, specific note suggests a minor menu item quirk rather than a systemic issue, and the vast majority of feedback remains overwhelmingly positive.

Hanar Restaurant - Mezze Bar Grill on Yas Island

Situated at Yas Street on Yas Island, Hanar enjoys a prime location within one of Abu Dhabi's most dynamic leisure and entertainment hubs. The restaurant is housed within the Etihad Arena complex, placing it steps away from major concerts, sporting events, and family attractions. This positioning makes it a natural pre-show or post-event dining choice, though its standalone quality ensures it's a destination in its own right. Yas Island is known for its blend of waterfront relaxation and high-energy activities, and Hanar's Turkish menu fits seamlessly into this setting, offering both celebration-worthy meals and laid-back dinners with a view. The FJ53+WW location code confirms its precise location for those navigating by GPS.

Hours, Reservations, and Contact Information

According to Google Maps data, Hanar operates from 09:00 to 00:00, with a brief service pause noted by the search listing stating "opens shortly at 17:00," suggesting that the full dinner and grill menu may commence in the afternoon. The restaurant can be reached by phone at +971 2 639 0017 for inquiries or reservations. For those who prefer digital convenience, an online booking system is available via the restaurant's website at hanar.ae, and online ordering for delivery is supported through integrated platforms. Contact via email is also possible at info@hanar.ae, as listed on the website.

Common Questions About Hanar Restaurant - Mezze Bar Grill

What type of cuisine does Hanar Restaurant specialize in?

Hanar Restaurant - Mezze Bar Grill specializes in Turkish cuisine, with a focus on grilled meats, kebabs, and traditional mezze (shared small plates). The menu features popular items like Adana Kebab and Chicken Wings, reflecting the authentic flavors of Turkey.

Where is Hanar Restaurant located?

Hanar is located on Yas Street, within the Etihad Arena complex on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The exact address is Yas St - Yas Island - YS2 - Abu Dhabi.

Does Hanar offer delivery or takeaway?

Yes. Google Maps and the restaurant's website indicate that Hanar provides dine-in, takeaway, and delivery services. Online ordering for delivery is available through links on their Google Maps profile.

What are Hanar Restaurant's opening hours?

According to Google Maps, Hanar is open from 09:00 to 00:00. The search listing indicates a dinner service period, suggesting the main kitchen may open after 17:00. Contacting the restaurant directly at +971 2 639 0017 is recommended to confirm specific meal service times.

How can I make a reservation at Hanar?

Reservations can be made by calling the restaurant at +971 2 639 0017 or by using the online booking form found on the official website at hanar.ae.