Julia Child once famously said, “People who love to eat are always the best people,” and this sentiment truly resonated during our recent Zomato experience at the newly opened Cho Gao Marina Walk in Abu Dhabi.
Bringing along my not-so-keen-on-food sister as my plus one, I had no idea that this culinary adventure would completely change her perspective.
Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted by the courteous Zomato executives and the attentive restaurant staff, setting the tone for what would be an unforgettable evening.
Cho Gao Marina Walk boasts a fantastic ambience. The dark and inviting interiors exude a sense of luxury, while the well-designed outdoor patio area provides the perfect setting for casual drinks with friends.
We were seated at a long table, surrounded by fellow guests and bloggers, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere. The soft glow of dimmed lights, the buzz of conversations, and the delightful sound of glasses and cutlery clinking together added to the overall comfort and enjoyment of the experience.
To kick off our culinary journey, we were served an array of tantalising starters, including assorted spring rolls, sesame-crusted tuna, and wasabi prawns. The zesty wasabi prawns, accompanied by mango salsa, stood out as a true highlight, offering a perfect balance of flavours without being overly spicy.
Despite not being hungry, I found myself indulging in several pieces of the Cho Gao special roll, which proved to be a delightful surprise.
For those who appreciate the flavours of tom yum kung soup, Cho Gao’s version is sure to captivate your taste buds. Fresh and perfectly spiced, the soup was a standout dish.
Moving on to the mains, we were treated to an exquisite selection that included bakmi goreng, black pepper beef, roasted duck red curry, and chilli prawns. The roasted duck in red curry, infused with pineapple, grape, and Thai basil, took centre stage with its vibrant and delectable flavours. Another standout was the tender and succulent black pepper beef in teriyaki sauce, which left a lasting impression.
Accompanying the mains were delicious sides such as crab fried rice, egg fried rice, and wok-tossed bok choy. Notably, the wok-tossed bok choy could have easily stood alone as a main dish due to its flavourful taste.
Glad we saved some room for desserts as we were treated to a delightful selection. The matcha cheesecake offered a unique and refreshing flavour, while the mango sticky rice proved to be a satisfying treat. However, the true showstopper was the bitter chocolate cake, featuring layers of heavenly chocolate mousse and a luscious strawberry sauce. It was a truly indulgent and unforgettable experience.
Thanks to Zomato Gold, we had the opportunity to enjoy additional drinks alongside our meal. The apple mocktail with a hint of ginger was a standout choice, leaving us eager to return for more.
Among the various drinks offered, the blue dream cocktail caused quite a stir at our table, captivating everyone with its vibrant colours and flavours.
It’s worth noting that while Zomato Gold currently focuses on drinks, the service will soon be extended to include buy-one-get-one-free meals. Be sure to keep an eye out for this exciting update.
Overall, our tasting experience at Cho Gao was nothing short of delightful. It not only allowed us to savour incredible Pan-Asian cuisine but also brought us together with fascinating individuals from diverse backgrounds. Without a doubt, it ranks among the best tastings I have ever attended.
If you find yourself craving Pan Asian delicacies, look no further than Cho Gao Marina Walk. It promises a relaxing and enjoyable night out with friends, where every bite is a delight.
