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With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, we wanted to write something for those last-minute couples who haven’t decided how to spend the day yet! We checked out the Crystal Lounge at the St Regis, Abu Dhabi this week and couldn’t help but think that its romantic setting would be the perfect Valentine’s Day treat!
Stepping into the St Regis, you can’t help but be amazed by the beauty of the main lobby. Luxurious décor and traditional Arabian charm fill the space; think lantern-style chandeliers and exquisite gold carpets. Head up the grand staircase to the lavish Crystal Lounge and choose one of the tables over-looking the lobby below for the ultimate treat. A talented pianist plays both classics and modern-twists on the piano below, creating the ultimate atmosphere to rewind and relax in.
After a day of exploring Abu Dhabi’s sights (including the newest addition to the UAE’s art and culture scene, the Louvre Abu Dhabi – separate blog post to follow!) we were absolutely in need of a coffee! There were some amazing afternoon tea packages on offer but we decided just to go for two coffees and some scones. Mostafa ordered a Caffe Brulatte described as a ‘vanilla latte with an unavoidable brown sugar crust top’ (Shown below) which was a sweet and creamy twist on the traditional café latte.
I decided to go for the Caffe Miel – a single shot of espresso with honey, cinnamon and foamed milk. I was expecting a ‘chai latte’ kind of drink but the honey gave the beverage a very unique distinguishing flavour and it turned out to be like nothing I’d ever tasted before – in a good way!
We did wait quite some time for our scones to arrive, however they were undoubtedly worth the wait! Being British, I like to think of myself as a bit of a scone expert (not really, but I do love scones!) so Mostafa always waits in anticipation for me to pass my judgement. Success! The scones were light and fluffy, easy to cut in half and tasted delicious with the cream and jam combination included. Just look at them!
Whilst everything we ordered was outstanding, one thing I must comment on is the service. The beauty of St Regis properties is always the unobtrusive yet attentive nature of service and this property is no different. If you’re in Abu Dhabi and looking for a quick coffee, cocktail or an afternoon spent sampling the menu, we’re sure you’ll love the Crystal Lounge at the St Regis.
Have you checked out Crystal Lounge? Maybe you have an alternative go-to spot for coffee in the capital? Perhaps you have some interesting plans for Valentine’s Day? Let us know in the comments!
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