Ocean Basket has opened its first restaurant in Abu Dhabi, bringing its Mediterranean seafood concept to the capital after operating in Dubai for more than a decade.
The South African chain, which has more than 200 restaurants across 18 countries including the UK, Cyprus, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait, has launched at Reem Mall with a menu designed for sharing.
The restaurant serves seafood including calamari, prawns, steamed mussels, and grilled fish, prepared with lemon, garlic, olive oil, and the brand’s lemon butter and garlic sauces.
South African seafood restaurant Ocean Basket debuts in Abu Dhabi’s Reem Mall
The Abu Dhabi location features an interior concept by UK-based Harrison design studio. The design includes wood textures, curved ceiling lines, lighting, and hand-drawn fish details. An open kitchen allows guests to view the cooking process.
“We’re thrilled to open our first branch in Abu Dhabi, bringing the spirit of Mediterranean generosity that defines our brand to the capital. Ocean Basket has always been about honest seafood, bold flavour and a warm welcome, and we’re excited to share that experience with a whole new community at Reem Mall,” Grace Harding, CEO of Ocean Basket said in a statement.
The opening represents a milestone in the brand’s UAE expansion strategy, with plans to scale its presence across the country.
Ocean Basket brings sharing-style seafood dining to Abu Dhabi
“Abu Dhabi has long been part of our growth ambition, and opening our first restaurant here is a significant milestone. Reem Mall is the perfect setting to introduce Ocean Basket’s sharing-style dining, with a refreshed space, an open kitchen and the lively atmosphere our guests love. We look forward to welcoming families, friends and seafood lovers from across the city,” Yuriy Khussainov, Managing Director UAE & CIS added.
The restaurant focuses on sourcing fish and shellfish responsibly. The menu is structured around dishes placed at the centre of the table for guests to share.
Ocean Basket’s Dubai operations have been running for more than 10 years. The Abu Dhabi opening marks the next phase of growth for the brand in the UAE.
