Every December, Yas Marina transforms into a spectacle of speed, sound, and excitement as the Formula 1 race takes over the city. But beyond the roar of engines and glittering afterparties, the F1 weekend in Abu Dhabi also brings another kind of thrill, one for the palate. Nestled right at Yas Marina, Mika captures this energy perfectly, offering diners a culinary experience where speed meets flavour.
As the city welcomes racing fans from around the world, Mika’s menu takes the spotlight with dishes that mirror the precision and passion of Formula 1 itself. From the vibrant Mediterranean flavours to the artful plating that defines fine dining in Abu Dhabi, every bite at Mika is designed to leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re here for the adrenaline of the race or the ambience of Yas Island, you’ll want to enjoy F1 Weekend at Mika, Abu Dhabi, for a dining experience that celebrates both style and substance.
Here are the top ten dishes from starters to dessert handpicked by Chef Mario Loi, each one crafted to capture the excitement of the race while offering comfort, elegance, and a burst of flavour.
Starters:
Start your culinary journey on the grid with bold flavours and creative flair. A perfect warm-up lap that teases the senses before the main race begins:
Prawn Cocktail | Marie Rose Sauce, Iceberg Lettuce
A nod to timeless sophistication, Mika’s prawn cocktail takes a classic and gives it a refreshing twist. Juicy prawns are paired with a light Marie Rose sauce and crisp iceberg lettuce, creating a perfect balance between tangy, creamy, and fresh. Much like the opening lap of an F1 race, it’s an introduction that builds anticipation for what’s to come.
Burrata | Cucumber + Coriander Gazpacho
This dish captures the Mediterranean sunshine on a plate. The creamy burrata rests over a chilled cucumber and coriander gazpacho, bringing together freshness and comfort in one bite. The smooth texture of the cheese combined with the zesty green gazpacho makes it ideal for warm Yas Marina evenings—simple, vibrant, and utterly refreshing.
Golden Calamari | Lemon Aioli, Curry Leaf, Togarashi
If there’s one dish that matches the race’s intensity, it’s this. Lightly fried golden calamari meets the boldness of lemon aioli, aromatic curry leaf, and a dusting of Japanese togarashi. Each mouthful has a kick, crisp, spicy, and perfectly balanced. It’s a dish that mirrors the adrenaline of F1 weekend in Abu Dhabi with flavour and flair.
Chilli Crab Flatbread | King Crab, Roasted Chilli Butter
A true crowd favourite, the chilli crab flatbread delivers comfort and luxury in every slice. Generous portions of king crab sit atop warm flatbread, brushed with roasted chilli butter for just the right amount of heat. It’s indulgent yet approachable—a dish that bridges fine dining elegance with the excitement of casual dining at the Marina.
Raw Starters:
Precision, freshness, and speed – the essence of our raw creations. A clean, elevated take on seafood and meats that sets the pace for what’s ahead.
Fruits de Mer Carpaccio | Yellowfin Tuna, Scallops, Cured Salmon
For those who appreciate finesse, this raw seafood trio is a showstopper. Thin slices of yellowfin tuna, scallops, and cured salmon are arranged delicately and seasoned to highlight their natural sweetness. The combination of textures and freshness offers a clean, elegant start to any meal, reminding diners that fine dining in Abu Dhabi can be both simple and sublime.
Steak Tartare on Beef Fat Toast | Gochujang, Egg Yolk
This dish takes boldness to the next level. The rich, hand-chopped steak tartare sits on crisp beef fat toast, elevated by the subtle heat of gochujang and a silky egg yolk on top. It’s a daring and unforgettable creation—just like a perfectly executed overtake on the final turn.
Main Course:
In the rhythm of the race, this is where momentum builds. Our rich, dynamic main course dishes are designed to carry you through with intensity and grace.
Dry-Aged Wagyu Ribeye | PX Peppercorn Jus, House-Made Chips
When it comes to mains, this dish is pure performance. The dry-aged Wagyu ribeye is cooked to perfection, served with house-made chips and a PX peppercorn jus that adds depth and richness. Each bite is tender, juicy, and layered with flavour, a perfect representation of Mika’s commitment to precision, much like the pit crews perfecting every detail on race day.
Butterflied Sea Bass on the Wood Grill | Spinach, Lemon
This dish celebrates simplicity done right. The butterflied sea bass, grilled over wood, brings a subtle smokiness that enhances its natural flavour. Paired with wilted spinach and a hint of lemon, it offers a clean, balanced taste that feels effortlessly refined—a moment of calm amid the excitement of the Yas Marina Circuit.
Lemon Ricotta Tortellini | Brown Butter, Sage, Toasted Walnuts
A vegetarian favourite that still holds its own among the bold mains, the lemon ricotta tortellini is light, aromatic, and full of personality. Each handmade pasta parcel is filled with creamy ricotta, then finished with brown butter, crispy sage, and toasted walnuts. It’s comfort food reimagined with elegance—a warm, inviting dish that perfectly represents the soul of Mediterranean cooking.
Dessert:
Nonna’s Tiramisu | Coffee, Mascarpone
The F1 menu ends on a nostalgic note with Chef Mario Loi’s famous Nonna’s tiramisu. This beloved dessert layers soft sponge, espresso, and mascarpone cream into a comforting finish that feels both familiar and special. It’s not just dessert—it’s a memory, a story, and a tribute to family traditions that continue to shape Mika’s kitchen.
The Perfect Setting for a Culinary Pit Stop
What makes Mika truly special is its atmosphere. Located right by the Yas Marina Circuit, it offers diners front-row access to the buzz and excitement of the race while maintaining an intimate, relaxing charm. Whether you’re here for a pre-race lunch, a post-race dinner, or simply a glass of wine overlooking the marina, every detail—from the service to the plating—reflects the essence of hospitality.
Chef Mario Loi, recently recognised with the MICHELIN Service Award, brings his passion and precision to every dish. His focus on seasonal ingredients, elegant presentation, and warm service makes Mika more than just a restaurant—it’s a celebration of culinary artistry.
If you’re looking to escape the crowds and enjoy fine dining at Yas Island, book now to experience the perfect blend of speed, flavour, and elegance. Mika isn’t just about food; it’s about creating moments that stay with you long after the race ends.
A Taste of Speed, A Touch of Soul
As the engines quiet down and the night lights shimmer over Yas Marina, Mika continues to deliver an unforgettable dining experience that captures the soul of F1 weekend Abu Dhabi. Every dish tells a story of passion, precision, and the joy of sharing good food with good company.
Whether you’re a race enthusiast, a food lover, or simply someone looking to experience the heart of fine dining in Abu Dhabi, Mika welcomes you to savour the best of both worlds. Fast, flavourful, and full of heart—that’s what F1 week tastes like at Mika.
