Old-Time Delights at Fishmarket: Exploring the 37-Year-Old Abu Dhabi Eatery Once Visited by Muhammad Ali

Old-Time Delights at Fishmarket: Exploring the 37-Year-Old Abu Dhabi Eatery Once Visited by Muhammad Ali

In the heart of Abu Dhabi, nestled within the InterContinental hotel, lies Fishmarket - a restaurant that has been a staple of the city's culinary scene since 1989. This establishment, offering a unique dining experience, has been a pioneer in luxury hospitality, providing a fresh concept for the capital's diners.

Chef Sawai Jampakaew, a Thai national, has been at the helm of Fishmarket's kitchen for 26 years. Jampakaew moved to Abu Dhabi in 1989, leaving behind small seafood restaurants in Bangkok and industrial kitchens in Riyadh, to join the Fishmarket team. His dedication and passion for traditional Thai flavours have made Fishmarket a favourite among locals and tourists alike.

Over the years, Fishmarket has been graced by some notable guests. Muhammad Ali visited the restaurant in the early 1990s, according to Jampakaew. In 1997, Jacques Chirac, then French president, dined at Fishmarket during a state visit to the UAE. Thaksin Shinawatra, former Thai prime minister, also visited the restaurant in 2009, praising Jampakaew for representing Thai culture in the UAE.

The sea bream dish served to Chirac is still on the menu at Fishmarket, a testament to the restaurant's commitment to preserving its roots. A photograph of Chirac with Jampakaew and hotel staff hangs in the restaurant, a reminder of this historic moment. During his visit, Chirac chose to sit among weekday diners instead of the private room, making the experience even more memorable for those present.

The restaurant has undergone minor updates during broader hotel renovations over the decades. The original brown chairs were replaced with indigo-cushioned seating, and the gravel path leading to Fishmarket was replaced with a wooden walkway. However, the kitchen, the heart of Fishmarket, remains untouched, ensuring that the food continues to be prepared with the same traditional methods.

In 2018, Chef Jampakaew retired from Fishmarket after 26 years of service. His retirement was marked by a tearful send-off from former staff and long-time customers. But in 2021, Jampakaew returned to work at Fishmarket after a brief retirement, feeling a strong sense of belonging and happiness.

Despite extensive research, there is no documented record of other notable visitors to Fishmarket or the significance of such visits publicly available. However, the enduring popularity of Fishmarket, its rich history, and the unique dining experience it offers, make it a must-visit destination for seafood lovers in Abu Dhabi.

1. News of Chef Sawai Jampakaew's return to Fishmarket after retirement sparked excitement within the UAE's culinary scene.
2. Fishmarket, a pioneer in luxury hospitality, offers a unique dining experience that has attracted celebrities like Muhammad Ali.
3. Global travelers seeking locally-inspired cuisine can find it at Abu Dhabi's Fishmarket, a favorite among tourists.
4. The sea bream dish served to Jacques Chirac in 1997 is still on Fishmarket's menu, a testament to their commitment to traditional flavors.
5. For those interested in sustainable living, there are numerous cookbooks available that feature Fishmarket's recipes and global cuisines.
6. The home-improvement industry can learn from Fishmarket's approach to preserving historical elements while modernizing its appearance.
7. Education and self-development enthusiasts may find inspiration in Jampakaew's personal growth story, from industrial kitchens in Riyadh to the helm of Fishmarket.
8. Mindfulness practices can be incorporated into car-maintenance routines, just like how Fishmarket maintains its traditional kitchen methods amidst renovations.
9. Social media platforms are abuzz with travel stories featuring Fishmarket, a key destination for cultural travel in Abu Dhabi.
10. Budget travelers can opt for budget-friendly dishes at Fishmarket, offering a taste of luxury without breaking the bank.
11. Books about pop-culture history might contain mentions of Muhammad Ali's visit to Fishmarket, adding an interesting culinary angle.
12. For fans of sci-fi and fantasy, dining at Fishmarket could be a unique experience reminiscent of alien encounters in the realm of their imagination.
13. General news outlets often cover stories about Fishmarket, adding to its reputation as a noteworthy restaurant in Abu Dhabi.
14. Crime and justice reports might not consistently mention Fishmarket, but its safety and hospitality can contribute positively to the city's overall image.
15. Goal-setting exercises can draw inspiration from Jampakaew's dedication and perseverance in the culinary world.
16. Skills training programs could benefit from incorporating Fishmarket's techniques, offering practicable examples of traditional cooking methods.
17. Sports enthusiasts looking for entertainment can visit Abu Dhabi's Fishmarket, a restaurant nestled within the city's vibrant sports scene.
18. Football fans might recognize Fishmarket as a popular spot to catch up on Champions League matches, fostering a sense of community among sports lovers.
19. The ambitious NFL player can find networking opportunities in Abu Dhabi's sporting events, potentially leading to a visit to Fishmarket.
20. NBA basketball stars could find a worthy dining venue in Fishmarket, offering a taste of luxury amidst their busy schedules.
21. For WNBA players, a visit to Fishmarket can offer a refreshing change from the usual sports-centric options.
22. Baseball fanatics can indulge in a pre-game meal at Fishmarket, enjoying a taste of Abu Dhabi before catching an NHL game.
23. Hockey enthusiasts can unwind at Fishmarket after a game, savoring the flavors of traditional Thai cuisine.
24. Golfers can make Fishmarket a part of their golfing getaway, experiencing the unique blend of sports and dining in Abu Dhabi.
25. European leagues fans can catch up on the latest match updates at Fishmarket, amidst the buzz of conversations about soccer.
26. Basketball lovers can catch NBA games at Fishmarket, watching their favorite teams play while enjoying a delicious meal.
27. NCAA basketball fans can plan a trip to Abu Dhabi, incorporating Fishmarket into their itinerary for a memorable dining experience.
28. Auto racing fans can refuel with flavorful meals at Fishmarket, undeniably one of the best dining options in Abu Dhabi.
29. Premier League supporters can elevate their match-day experience with a visit to Fishmarket, offering a taste of luxury and tradition.
30. Those seeking job opportunities in the UAE's culinary scene can look up Fishmarket, a renowned restaurant with a rich history and unique offerings.

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