HOTEL REVIEW DINE The rustic-style Villa Toscana charms with an outstanding Italian menu that even the fussiest of diners would be stunned by – a great option if dining with children. The meal commenced with the chef’s recommendation, a warm and comforting Tuscan country bean soup, followed by tender grilled octopus dressed in lemon and herbs. All dishes are age-old recipes the chefs learnt from their nonnas. Mains were a succulent lamb in an unexpected chocolate ragu, topped with truffle oil, that beautifully came together with each morsel. Stuffed ravioli was highly suggested as a side, offering a soft, pillow-textured bite with creaminess from the herb ricotta. The little ones savoured a crisp Bufalina pizza topped with wild mushrooms, pancetta and herbs, and a plate of seafood spaghetti – which we helped ourselves too – that made us feel like we were transported to a trattoria in Tuscany. You can’t leave an Italian restaurant without trying a traditional decadent tiramisu, and so we did in true Italian fashion, finishing our meal with an espresso. Whether you’re staying at the hotel, or just visiting for a business meeting or family dinner, this Italian eatery is one you can’t miss for a memorable experience. The hotel has nine dining options to choose from, and if you can make it to another, opt for tea at the Crystal Lounge. The hotel’s lobby café is a great place to catch up on emails, meet up with friends and relax back with tea or coffee from the extensive selection. Breakfast is best enjoyed at The Terrace on the Corniche, with a buffet featuring everything from eggs cooked to your liking, to hot dishes including curry, Arabic specialties, waffles and smoothies. GET ACTIVE The mixed and female-only gym is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, located near the outdoor temperature controlled pool at the Beach Club. The hotel also features a small surrounding relaxation pool and an oversized pool with a swim-up bar and large jacuzzi. While The St. Regis is set along the corniche road, a lavish underpass – with Need to know: The Grand Deluxe Suites are available from Dhs1,000 per night, with the Abu Dhabi Suite being the highest in the range at Dhs25,000 per night (spanning over two floors). Visit stregisabudhabi.com décor that flows through seamlessly from the hotel lobby and interiors – offers direct access to the Beach Club and private beach across the road from the hotel, where you can soak up the rays in peace. While adults get a bit of me-time, little ones (between the age range of four-12) can head to the kid’s club for fun games and activities. 68 EQUITY
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