Fairmont Bab Al Bahr's Ramadan tent

At the end of a long summer day, iftar is always best in a soothing environment — and the splashing waters at Fairmont Bab Al Bahr's Ramadan tent add just the right touch. Since my partner and I were looking for a smoke-free zone, we chose to be seated within the adjoining CuiScene restaurant. This, too, had its own advantages, as the expansive spread was arranged in stations all around us. We were especially enamoured with the extensive salad bar. Stocked with salads like bamya belzait (okra garnished with tomato sauce) and tabouleh, and seafood choices like steamed prawns and smoked salmon, it kept us occupied for quite a while. In addition, the sushi choices were light and delicious. The range of the main course meant I only had enough room to try a spoon or two of most of the dishes, but the creamy potato gratin in mornay sauce still tingles my tastebuds. The Arabian fare, especially the lamb-based dishes like bameuh bil lahem (chunks of lamb with okra, also dipped in red sauce), ouzi and the grilled chicken were also outstanding. The mee goreng, a noodle-based dish with veggies and chicken, was surprisingly not greasy, and the chicken Manchurian was perfect. Being a little wary of the excessive spices and oil in choices like the prawn biryani, I was not too impressed with the Indian dishes however. But the saj station provided grills and light saj choices for those looking for a lighter meal. Despite the choice of international recipes like gulab jamun and umm ali, dessert however left quite a bit to be desired in terms of taste. But one can always settle for a delicious crepe, or treats from the mouth-watering chocolate fountain.     Location: Ramadan tent by CuiScene, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Abu Dhabi     Price: Dh195, exclusive of taxes     Call: 02-654 3238