top of page

Strawfire by Ross Shonhan Ignites Abu Dhabi’s Dining Scene

by Rave Staff

23 Nov 2024

23 November 2024

The wait is over! Abu Dhabi's culinary scene has been set ablaze with the grand opening of Strawfire, the latest dining sensation by acclaimed restaurateur and chef Ross Shonhan. Now open at the prestigious Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Strawfire has already begun captivating diners with its immersive experience that brings the ancient Japanese art of Warayaki cooking to the heart of the UAE’s capital.


Strawfire celebrates the rich culinary traditions of Japan, specifically the Kochi prefecture, where the ancient Warayaki cooking technique originated. This method, which involves preparing food over straw-fired flames, infuses dishes with a unique smoky flavor that elevates the dining experience to a new level. Under Chef Shonhan’s expert guidance, the Strawfire menu offers a carefully curated selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients cooked over an open flame, delivering a distinct and unforgettable taste with every bite.


Strawfire’s experience goes beyond its culinary offerings, paying homage to Japan's cultural heritage through its exquisite design. The restaurant boasts five distinct dining spaces, each reflecting different elements of Japanese tradition. One standout is the Toyama Private Dining Room, named after Japan's picturesque Toyama region. This room features a dramatic centerpiece—an enormous synthetic Shimenawa rope handcrafted in Toyama and suspended above the dining table. Weighing 830 kilograms and stretching 7.3 meters in length, this rope is a symbol of sanctity and protection in Japanese culture, providing a striking focal point for diners.




The room’s walls and ceiling are adorned with hand-painted silk, inspired by Japan's greatest artworks, including 17th-century masterpieces like In and Around the Capital and the evocative rural scenes captured by Utagawa Hiroshige and Katsushika Hokusai. This fusion of culinary artistry and cultural heritage invites guests to engage in meaningful conversations as they savor the rich history and elegance of Japan.


From the moment guests enter Tsukimi Lounge, where the peaceful ambiance reflects a full moon harvest scene, they are welcomed into a serene yet sophisticated environment. The main dining room, with its open grill center stage and golden drapery symbolizing dancing flames, creates a warm, intimate atmosphere perfect for the culinary journey that awaits.


Strawfire’s menu is as diverse as it is refined. Guests can indulge in an à la carte selection, explore the signature tasting menu, or experience the highly recommended Chef’s Omakase, all while enjoying live entertainment. The ambiance is elevated with a DJ spinning Jazzy House and NU Disco tunes throughout the week, and on Fridays and Saturdays, a live jazz band adds to the musical allure, ensuring that the evening is as dynamic as the flavors on the plate.



Renowned for his innovative take on Japanese cuisine, Chef Ross Shonhan brings his culinary expertise and vision to Strawfire, following his successful ventures at Netsu Dubai, Nobu Dallas, and Zuma London. Shonhan, also the founder of Bone Daddies, Flesh & Buns, and Shack-Fuyu in London, has earned a reputation as a trailblazer in the culinary world. At Strawfire, he continues to push the boundaries, delivering a dining experience that merges ancient cooking techniques with modern flair.


Now open and already drawing attention, Strawfire is quickly becoming Abu Dhabi’s premier destination for those seeking a distinctive culinary experience. Situated in the iconic Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, the restaurant combines fire, flavor, and culture in a way that is both elevated and authentic. Whether you're a local food lover or a visiting culinary enthusiast, Strawfire promises a dining adventure where each dish tells a story, and every moment is crafted to be unforgettable.

bottom of page