A vibrant new culinary destination has arrived in Abu Dhabi! AVLU Greek & Turkish Cuisine has officially opened at Yas Mall, inviting diners to experience the rich flavors and warm hospitality of the Aegean region. Offering an unforgettable dining experience, AVLU blends Greek and Turkish traditions with a contemporary twist, making it the ideal destination for intimate dinners and lively gatherings alike.
At AVLU, the menu is a vibrant celebration of the Aegean’s finest ingredients and culinary traditions, designed to transport guests to sun-drenched shores. Every dish is a signature creation that tells a story, crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and recipes passed down through generations. Highlights from the sea include Grilled Greek Octopus paired with a delicate green bean stew and extra virgin olive oil, and Salt-Cooked Wild Seabass enhanced with fennel, green olives, and basil oil. For meat lovers, the Slow-Cooked Turkish Lamb Shoulder, featuring tender lamb with cumin salt and baby spinach, and the rich Iskender Kebab, where long-marinated Turkish beef meets caramelized butter and smoked yogurt, stand out. Comforting options like the Aubergine Milfeuille with Greek Manouri Cheese and an array of mezze reflect the bounty of the region, all thoughtfully paired with signature olive oil from the Aegean coastline. Balancing the authenticity of age-old traditions with an innovative, modern twist, every plate captures the warmth and generosity of Aegean hospitality.
The name “AVLU,” meaning “courtyard” in Turkish, embodies the restaurant’s mission to create a welcoming space where connections thrive over shared meals. Hospitality lies at the heart of the AVLU experience, turning every visit into a celebration of togetherness and culinary delight. Reflecting the essence of the Aegean, AVLU’s design seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern elegance. Soft whites, terracotta tones, and pastel hues evoke a sense of coastal serenity, while stunning murals adorn the walls, narrating stories of Aegean life—from tranquil breakfasts under lemon trees to vibrant scenes of bustling marketplaces.
A standout feature is the courtyard-inspired dining area, which combines outdoor vibes with indoor comfort. Covered with glass, this space brings nature indoors, creating a breezy, sunlit atmosphere reminiscent of an Aegean village. At the center, a vibrant lemon tree adds a touch of tranquility, enhancing the serene dining experience. Whether for breakfast, dinner, or an intimate gathering, the indoor courtyard offers a perfect escape into the Aegean charm.
Guiding AVLU’s culinary excellence is Executive Chef Olcay Hanci, whose deep-rooted love for Aegean cuisine shines through in every dish. “The beauty of Aegean cuisine lies in its simplicity, its reverence for fresh, local ingredients, and the joy of sharing meals,” says Chef Olcay Hanci. “At AVLU, we’ve carefully preserved these cherished traditions while introducing a modern twist that enhances the flavors and elevates the dining experience. Our goal is to transport guests to the heart of the Aegean with every bite, inviting them to savor not just the food, but the stories and emotions behind it. We can’t wait to welcome everyone to our Aegean family and share this journey of flavors and hospitality.”
AVLU Greek & Turkish Cuisine is now open at Yas Mall, ready to transport guests to the sun-drenched shores of the Aegean with its exquisite flavors and welcoming atmosphere. For reservations or more information, visit www.avlurestaurant.com or call +971 58 552 8582
