Having recently moved out of the city to Al Muneera we’ve discovered a whole new world of swimming pools, beaches, cafés and restaurants at Al Bandar Marina and Etihad Plaza. But where to go for a quick and tasty lunchtime sandwich? We check out Hippy Chic and Hippy Deli.

Navy, green, peach and blue; every wall is painted a different colour. Retro stripy chairs, sixties-style lamp shades and lava lamps are dotted around the dining area – not really what we were expecting from a deli in Abu Dhabi, but (as we discovered) Hippy Chic and Hippy Deli is not your average deli.

We read the blue board-menu decorated with daisies, hearts and butterflies before having a peek at the sandwich and salad display. We’re impressed by the variety of menu items; soup, burgers, lasagne, lamb shank, grilled chicken and a breakfast section including a full fried breakfast, avocado omelette, pancakes and a whole lot more besides.

The freshly made sandwiches catch our eye and we order the grilled pesto and halloumi sandwich on granary seed bread. We’re told that the twisted herb bread is a bestseller – we’ll try that next time. The sandwiches come with a choice of sides; cool coleslaw, hippy fries, magical rice or salad. The Tuscan salad looks particularly appetising so we go for that.Our meal is served within five minutes and we’re pleased with our choice.

 

Normally we’re not huge salad fans, however after this one – we’ve been converted! The mix of lettuce, tomato, basil leaves, baby corn, sundried tomatoes, peppers and olives drenched in a secret sauce is flawless. Due to the variety of ingredients every mouthful is a different taste – that coupled with the rich, mystery dressing makes this meal a hit with us.

 

After all of that green goodness we fancy a sweet treat and order the appropriately named tiramisu heavenly cheesecake. It’s light and creamy with a sweet, crumbly biscuit base – yum!

 

Hippy Chic and Hippy Deli deliver to Khalifa City A, Al Bandar, Al Reef, Al Zeina, Golf Gardens and Al Raha Gardens. Delivery is free if you spend over AED 50.

Catriona Doherty

What? Hippy Chic and Hippy Deli

Where? Etihad Plaza

Cost: Breakfast from AED 22, sandwiches from AED 20

We say: Definitely worth checking out

Contact: 02 556 8264