With a name that means ‘fishermen’ in Arabic, it’s not difficult to guess that seafood plays a huge role in Sayed’s entirely memorable dining experience. The subterranean interior alone is a vision to behold. Created by Wimberley Allison & Tang & Goo, the selected colours are reflective of the light, rich blues of the Arabian Gulf. Harmonies of aqua greens and blues are threaded through the drapery, chairs and hand-made pieces of Venetian Murano glass that fill the dining space with a calm and tranquil ambiance. The cuisine, which is all from the Pacific Rim, is inspired by the techniques and flavours of Asia and the Pacific Ocean. Sayad’s white-glove service dishes up delights such as meltingly good pan-fried scallops, oyster tempura, crab legs and the thoroughly generous seafood platter. The portions are as large as they are divine, and for diners who have difficulties in choosing from the extensive menu, there is also an excellent sampler option. And, having satisfied the palates of HH Jaun Carlos King of Spain, Meg Ryan, Catherine Deneuve, Jacques Chiraq and Mr and Mrs Ferrari, visitors to Sayad are guaranteed a service second to none.

Dress code: Smart casual
Location: Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi
For reservations call: 02 690 7999 or 690 8893 or 690 7169