At the heart of Abu Dhabi’s St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort lies Sontaya, a restaurant that brings the magic of Southeast Asia to the shores of the Arabian Gulf. Its name, meaning sunset in Thai, perfectly captures the essence of this immersive dining destination, where golden light reflects across floating pavilions, and every detail is designed to transport guests to another world.

Reimagined with a refined, contemporary aesthetic, Sontaya balances modern sophistication with authentic Southeast Asian influences. The design, led by Jesé Medina-Suárez, harmonizes sleek architectural lines with tactile richness – mosaics, baked tiles, breeze blocks, and wood – while custom furniture and vibrant fabrics in teal, green, and tan add a fresh, playful character. The result is a space that feels both luxurious and inviting, infused with a sense of place without ever falling into cliché.

Each pavilion tells its own story, connected by shimmering pools and surrounded by lush landscaping that echoes the natural palette of Saadiyat Island’s beaches. Inside, ceiling wallcoverings depict rice fields in soft green and yellow tones, creating visual depth and continuity. Ambient lighting and carefully curated décor complete the atmosphere, blending authenticity with contemporary elegance. The space is not only visually captivating but also deeply sensorial, designed to immerse guests in a journey that engages every sense.

The culinary offering mirrors this approach, celebrating pan-Southeast Asian flavors from Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Like the interiors, the menu strikes a balance between tradition and innovation, honoring heritage while embracing creativity. Each dish becomes part of the experience, complementing the setting with flavors as layered and vibrant as the design itself.

Sontaya is a destination where architecture, design, and cuisine meet to create moments as unforgettable as the sunsets it is named after. Thoughtfully conceived by MEDINA-SUÁREZ, and beautifully captured through the lens of Anique Ahmed, Sontaya stands as one of Abu Dhabi’s most enchanting culinary experiences.