The best pop-ups and performances to experience over F1 weekend
Even if you’re not attending the races, you can still get your Formula 1 fix with these super-charged dining and nightlife experiences.
As we prepare for the most thrilling weekend of the year, set to unfold from 23 to 26 November, Yas Island emerges as the ultimate hub for a captivating fusion of trackside entertainment. Featuring globally celebrated international DJs, electrifying live performances, and an abundance of culinary treasures, visitors to Yas Island can expect one unforgettable F1 weekend.
Dining
AIOKA at Palm Garden
Renowned for its exceptional views and the presence of A-list celebrity guests, AIOKA at Palm Garden has been a focal point of the race weekend in recent years. Flanked by the Yas Marina Circuit on one side and lush palm trees on the other, guests can immerse themselves in an F1 weekend filled with entertainment within a luxury setting.
GO: Visit www.aioka.com for reservations and more information.
Amerigos
Prepare for an incredible Mexican celebration at Amerigos inside Park Inn by Radisson Blu Yas Island. Enjoy your favourite Mexican culinary delights, tequila-inspired beverages and a limited-time Jose Cuervo activation. Tuck into chef Mario’s signature creations, including Arroz a la Tumbada Rombo, Barbecued Lamb Chops with Chimichurri, and Yellow Tail Hamachi Ceviches. There will also be daily live performances from a Latin Duo and DJ. Join the Mercadito Evening Brunch on Friday, 24 November, from 7pm to 11 pm, priced at AED 325 (house beverages) or the Acapulco Day Brunch on Saturday, 25 November, from 12:30pm to 4:30 pm, priced at AED 325 (house beverages).
GO: Call 02 656 2000 for reservations and more information.
Bagatelle
Prepare for a taste of the French Riviera at the FACT Award-winning WET Deck during the F1 Weekend because Bagatelle is bringing its French finesse to the capital. Curated specifically for the event, Bagatelle’s new menu celebrates the rich and diverse flavours of Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on communal dining.
GO: Visit www.bagatelle.com for reservations and more information.
Belgian Beer Cafe
The exclusive Dutch fan zone, known as The Orange Zone, is located at the Belgian Beer Café inside Radisson Blu Yas Island. Enjoy a limited-time menu featuring the finest European-inspired cuisine. Chef Christoff will entice diners with gourmet dishes, including Wagyu burgers topped with fresh truffles, foie gras, and a touch of gold. Additionally, there’s a premium selection of meat aged for 265 days and a diverse array of Mons cheeses for an authentically European dining experience. Zoom in for an epicurean adventure, complete with a Leffe pop-up, daily live DJ performances, and comprehensive race coverage. Available from 23 to 26 November.
GO: Call 02 656 2000 for reservations and more information.
Blue Grill
The Smokehouse at Blue Grill is set to elevate your F1 dining experience with an à la carte menu showcasing classic gourmet meat cuts, poultry, and seafood. As the action unfolds at the Yas Marina Circuit, the venue will rev up the excitement with a Ferrari Trento pop-up activation on its terrace, complete with live entertainment and a dinner feast, ensuring uninterrupted enjoyment for diners throughout the race weekend. Available from 23 to 26 November.
GO: Call 02 656 4000 for reservations and more information.
Carna by Dario Cecchini
Building on last year’s success, the race weekend will see the return of Carna by Dario Cecchini, SLS Dubai’s contemporary steakhouse, offering race enthusiasts an elevated culinary journey. The Carna pop-up will feature Burrata with almond and honey vinaigrette, Gourmet Burgers, Oxtail Croquettes and Steak Frites.
GO: Visit www.sbe.com for more information.
CÉ LA VI
Buckle up for an electrifying Grand Prix Season because the FACT Award-winning CÉ LA VI will dazzle with fine dining delights, a live performance by CLAPTONE and top-tier entertainment at one of the hottest spots within the Yas Marina Circuit. Gain access to a chic and comfortable rooftop terrace boasting breathtaking panoramic vistas of the track and marina, and take in bird’s eye views of F1 cars conquering challenging corners, including Turns 14, 15, and 16 – the final three corners before the thrilling finish line. Sunday 26 November, from 9pm.
GO: Email f1ad@celavi.com for reservations and more information.
Easy Tiger
Roaring above the track at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island for F1 weekend, Easy Tiger will take over Rush nightclub. Amidst the glitz and fervour of the race, this exclusive venue offers an awe-inspiring vantage point with unparalleled views of the racing action. Expect luxury thrills, pure entertainment and plenty of fun. Friday 24 November, from 3pm to 8pm (AED 599). Saturday 25 November, from 2pm to 7pm (AED 799), and Sunday 26 November, from 1pm to 5pm (AED 1,499)
GO: Visit easytiger.ae for reservations and more information.
Éla Éla
Crafted with the essence of Mediterranean hospitality and the warmth of family gatherings, Éla Éla presents a tasting menu during the Formula 1 weekend. Guests can savour a four-course menu featuring reinterpretations of beloved Greek classics, including crispy calamari, Greek salad, grilled octopus, mezze and zucchini fritte. Main courses feature grilled prawns and grilled seabream, while desserts feature classic Greek treats such as chocolate mousse and loukoumades. Available from 24 to 26 November, from 12pm to 2am. AED 650 per person.
GO: Email reservations@mrmoto.ae for reservations and more information.
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr
The Grand Pit Lane Brunch at Fairmont Bab Al Bahr has been designed to delight your taste buds and celebrate the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2023. Savour an array of dishes inspired by the thrilling world of motorsports while enjoying complimentary access to the picturesque pool and private beach facilities. Dive into a selection of more than 145 race-themed dishes or sip on race-themed cocktail concoctions. Saturday 25 November, from 1pm to 4pm. AED 295 (soft beverages), AED 490 (house beverages) and 595 (French bubbles).
GO: Email dining.bab@fairmont.com or call 02 654 3333 for reservations and more information.
Filini Garden
Filini Garden is turning up the heat this F1 season under the culinary expertise of Italian chef Nicola Fossaceca. Must-try dishes include Cicoria e Cicale di Mare, Ravioli di Ricotta in Brodetto di Crostacei, and Triglia in Skapece Espresso. To add to the experience, daily live entertainment featuring saxophone, DJ sets, and dancers will keep the atmosphere lively. Guests can also enjoy a Peroni Nastro Azzurro activation throughout the race weekend. The Sunset Breeze Bash is available from 23 to 26 November, from 5pm to 7pm. AED 200 (house beverages).
GO: Call 02 656 2000 for reservations and more information.
Mr Moto
Experience all the excitement of the F1 at Mr Moto. Immerse yourself in a space where Japanese precision meets American boldness at Yas Marina’s latest restaurant, promising exceptional food, delightful beverages, enthralling music, and a hint of mystery. A specially crafted F1 Tasting Menu will offer a four-course tasting experience featuring hamachi carpaccio, hickory beef tataki, Nashville karaage, oysters with truffle mignonette, spicy udon carbonara, sweet miso black cod and wagyu ribeye. Available from 24 to 26 November, from 12pm to 2am. AED 450 per person.
GO: Email reservations@mrmoto.ae for reservations and more information.
Penelope’s Brasserie & Jazz Bar Américain
In anticipation of the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2023, Penelope’s Brasserie & Jazz Bar Américain have prepared two gourmet offerings to celebrate the event. A brunch service will be available from Friday, 24 November to Sunday, 26 November, from 12pm to 3pm. AED 699 (house beverages) or AED 899 (premium beverages) and AED 1,299 (Champagne package). As evening approaches, guests can delight in the F1 Tasting Menu at the FACT Award-winning venue, a two-hour gastronomic experience featuring the restaurant’s signature dishes such as Burrata Salad, Canadian Lobster Linguini, Crispy Calamari and Tuna Tartare. The F1 tasting menu is priced at AED 850 per person. Available from Friday 24 November to Sunday 26 November.
GO: Visit www.penelopes.ae for reservations and more information.
Rangoli
The recently reopened Indian restaurant inside Yas Island Rotana invites diners to embark on an Indian culinary odyssey featuring curries, street food, and a selection of side dishes originating from different regions of India. Chef Qureshi has put together a family-style sharing menu that promises a gastronomic journey. As an added treat, guests can also partake in an exclusive Laurent Perrier Bar pop-up and enjoy a variety of shisha offerings. Available from 23 to 26 November, from 5:30pm to 1 am.
GO: Call 02 656 4000 for reservations and more information.
ROKA
ROKA Dubai is bringing its culinary delights to the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2023. The Japanese restaurant will commandeer the Club 58 hospitality suite, treating guests to its exquisite menu of signature dishes while providing coveted views from the West Grandstand. Tuck into Gyozas, Lamb Cutlets with Korean spices, Rice Hot Pot with Japanese Mushrooms and Truffle, Roasted Chilli and Lemon Baby Chicken, Salads and Sushi. Adding to the ambience, a live DJ will spin upbeat tunes while ROKA’s mixologists will craft unique concoctions. Available from 24 to 26 November
GO: Visit https://rokarestaurant.com for reservations and more information.
SLS Lounge
SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences’ SLS Lounge will offer a chic experience amidst the thrill of the racetrack. Here, revellers will enjoy a thoughtfully curated selection of bites and drinks, fostering a welcoming atmosphere for those seeking relaxation and indulgence.
GO: Visit www.sbe.com for more information.
Stills
Located at Crowne Plaza Yas Island, Stills is all set to bring the thrilling lF1 action to diners with its al fresco deck, real-time F1 coverage, live entertainment, and a dedicated Stella Artois pop-up. With offerings including brunch options, BBQ pits, and grills, this bar is poised to become the ultimate hub during the most significant sports and entertainment weekend of the year. Available from 23 to 26 November.
GO: Call 02 656 2000 for reservations and more information.
The Irish Vickers
Rev up the excitement at The Irish Vicker’s pop-up at Yas Central Plaza. This classic Irish pub is set to enhance your Abu Dhabi Grand Prix experience with its spacious seating, a colossal screen for live race coverage, and classic pub grub. To elevate the guest experience, DJs Saif & Sound, Nuff Said and Rob Forest will add extra thrills to the event.
GO: Follow @myyasplaza on Instagram for more information.
W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island
Driven by an unyielding passion for taste, the FACT Award-winning brunch at Garage presents an array of irresistible delights. With four brunch sessions thoughtfully synchronised with each race, guests will be pampered with magnum bottles of sparkling wine, meticulously crafted cocktails, a mobile oyster cart, plenty of caviar, lavish desserts, a carving station, and a sushi bar adorned with a cornucopia of seafood on a bed of ice. Friday 24 November, from 1pm to 4pm. AED 700 (house beverages with indoor seating), AED 980 (bubbly with indoor seating) and AED 1,400 (bubbly with terrace seating). Saturday 25 November, from 12:30pm to 3:30pm. AED 700 (house beverages with indoor seating), AED 980 (bubbly with indoor seating) and AED 1,400 (bubbly with terrace seating). Saturday 25 November, from 4:30pm to 7:30pm. AED 700 (house beverages with indoor seating), AED 980 (bubbly with indoor seating) and AED 3,000 (bubbly with terrace seating). Sunday 26 November, from 4pm to 7:00pm. AED 1,500 (house beverages with indoor seating), AED 2,400 (bubbly with indoor seating) and AED 6,000 (bubbly with terrace seating).
GO: Visit wrevup.com for reservations and more information.
Y Bar
Y Bar at Yas Island Rotana introduces a fusion of South American and Asian culinary creations crafted especially for the F1. What’s more, the eatery is set to host a temporary Hoegaarden experience on its outdoor terrace, providing diners with an al fresco setting that perfectly complements the lively atmosphere of Yas Island’s F1 race weekend. To keep the excitement going, there will be DJs and live performances.
GO: Call 02 656 4000 for reservations and more information.
Yoko Luna
Abu Dhabi’s F1 weekend scene will reach new heights with the arrival of Yoko Luna, the internationally celebrated club and music sensation, gracing the prestigious W Lounge. As the city gears up for the thrilling races, W Lounge will metamorphose into a dynamic entertainment hub. Yoko Luna’s diverse beats and enchanting melodies will infuse an extra surge of energy into the already high-octane ambience of the Abu Dhabi race.
GO: Visit wrevup.com for reservations and more information.
Concerts
Ava Max: 24 November 2023
To ignite the race weekend in true style, Ava Max will grace the stage at Etihad Park. Hailing from Wisconsin, Ava Max burst onto the music scene in 2018 with her sensational debut single, Sweet But Psycho. Her talent continued to shine through with infectious tracks like Kings & Queens and So Am I, capturing the attention of listeners worldwide.
GO: Visit www.yasmarinacircuit.com for tickets and more information.
Chris Brown: 24 November 2023
Abu Dhabi, start your engines. Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2023 will be racing into town, and with it comes a performance from Chris Brown. Chris Brown hails from Virginia, United States. He was discovered at 13 years old by Hitmission Records. He later signed with Jive Records and released his debut album in 2005. The self-titled album Chris Brown entered at number two on the Billboard 200, and sold more than three million copies in the United States. Over Chris’ career, he has sold more than 217 million records across the world. His hit songs include Beautiful People, Kiss Kiss, Look At Me Now, Loyal and Under the Influence. He has collaborated with artists including Busta Ryhmes, Kanye West, Lil’ Wayne and T-Pain.
GO: Visit www.yasmarinacircuit.com for tickets and more information.
Ja Rule: 24 November 2023
Abu Dhabi is going full speed ahead with its concert announcements. As the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2023 races into town, the capital brings with it amazing artists. Now, American rapper Ja Rule has joined WHITE Abu Dhabi’s line-up across the race weekend. Ja Rule is set to perform on 24 November. The artist hails from New York, United States. He is best known for his R&B and rap songs, and collaborations with famous faces. His collaborations include Always on Time with Ashanti, Between Me and You with Christina Milian, and Ain’t it Funny as well as I’m Real with Jennifer Lopez.
GO: Follow @whiteabudhabi on Instagram for more information.
Tiësto: 24 November 2023
Adding to the exhilarating line-up of the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2023 festivities is dance music visionary, Tiësto. Hailing from the Netherlands, this DJ and producer has etched his name deep into the annals of electronic dance music. With a remarkable career spanning over two decades, Tiësto is widely revered as The Godfather of EDM, recognised for his chart-topping hits like Don’t Be Shy, The Business, and The Motto. Get ready to be swept away by the electrifying energy of Tiësto’s set as he takes the stage, bringing an unforgettable experience to the Formula 1 festivities.
GO: Visit www.yasmarinacircuit.com for tickets and more information.
Black Coffee: 25 November 2023
DJ Black Coffee is set to perform at WHITE Abu Dhabi on 25 November. The artist hails from eThekwini, South Africa. He started his career in 1994 and is best known for being a DJ, record producer and songwriter. His sets combine classical, house and jazz. Over his career, he has won one Grammy Award, eight SAMA Awards and four DJ Awards.
GO: Follow @whiteabudhabi on Instagram for more information.
Shania Twain: 25 November 2023
Here’s some news that will impress you. The country superstar Shania Twain is set to perform at the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2023’s Yasalam After-Race Concerts. Shania hails from Ontario, Canada, and is best known for her hit songs including ” Man! I Feel Like A Woman!, That Don’t Impress Me Much and You’re Still the One. Over Shania’s career, she has sold more than 100 million albums, and scored three consecutive diamond albums. So, fans can expect her to play old hits, and new songs from her latest album, Queen of Me.
GO: Visit www.abudhabigp.com for tickets and more information.
Foo Fighters: 26 November 2023
Prepare for an extraordinary musical spectacle as the legendary rock group Foo Fighters takes centre stage as the headliner for the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2023. Founded by Dave Grohl in 1994, these American rock sensations are renowned for their electrifying stage presence and stadium anthems. With a vast collection of chart-topping hits such as Best of You, Everlong, Learn To Fly, and Monkey Wrench, Foo Fighters have solidified their status as a powerhouse in the music industry. Although their highly anticipated performance as part of the Yasalam After-Race Concert Series in 2021 was cancelled due to unforeseen medical circumstances, their debut in the UAE is set to be extraordinary.
GO: Visit www.yasmarinacircuit.com for tickets and more information.
Meek Mill: 26 November 2023
American rapper Meek Mill has joined WHITE Abu Dhabi’s line-up across the race weekend. Meek will perform at the mega nightclub on Sunday, 26 November. Meek Mill hails from Philadelphia, United States, and started his career as a battle rapper in the group The Bloodhoundz. He was signed by the rapper T.I, and released his debut album Dreams and Nightmares in 2012. His hit singles include Going Bad, Ima Boss and Tupac Back. He recently dropped a collaborative album with Rick Ross, Too Good To Be True.
GO: Follow @whiteabudhabi on Instagram for more information.
