If you love Asian cuisine, you’ve certainly heard of Bo.Sabi at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence and Spa. Nestled in the heart of Manama, Bo.Sabi provides a spacious setting with minimalistic bamboo-inspired decor that would resemble a simple courtyard.
The restaurant has a welcoming vibe, with trendy wall art and subtle lighting, making it perfect for an intimate dinner for 2 or a large group. After sunset, we were serenaded by the beats and tunes of an entertaining duo band.
While Bo.Sabi is well-known for its exquisite sushi, during our recent visit, we got to explore some hidden gems from their Southeast Asian menu. A surprising medley of flavours was arranged for us, thanks to Arci and her team.
The Chicken Thai Green Curry was an aromatic delight, with tender chicken pieces bathed in rich coconut cream. The medley of eggplant, peas, and bamboo shoots added a wonderful texture, while the sweet basil infused a fresh, herbal note that elevated the dish. The balance of heat and sweetness was impeccable, making every bite a comforting experience.
Served with steamed rice or egg rice.
Bo.Sabi’s Ribeye was a revelation. The succulent ribeye steak was perfectly cooked, with a melt-in-your-mouth quality that was enhanced by the umami-rich miso soy sauce. The fusion of flavours was both bold and harmonious, making it a standout dish for meat lovers.
Served with steamed rice or egg rice.
The Korean-style Spicy Beef was an explosion of flavours and a dish we would certainly recommend trying on your visit to Bo.Sabi. The beef spare ribs were tender and juicy, coated in a tantalizing mix of ginger, soy, and BBQ sauce. The sweet-smoky flavour lingers long after you’ve tasted this truly surprising dish. This dish was both fiery and satisfying.
Served with steamed rice or egg rice.
Perhaps one of the best versions of the traditional Indonesian dish, the Nasi Goreng was a classic done right. This wok-fried rice dish was packed with succulent shrimp, a side of tender chicken on skewers, and an array of vibrant flavours from sweet soy and tamarind. The green onion added a fresh crunch, making this dish a delightful mix of textures and tastes. The fried egg topping the rice added an ‘eggcellent’ flavour to the rice.
The Char Kway Teow Beef comes from the bustling streets of Malaysia. The stir-fried flat rice noodles were probably the softest we’ve ever tasted, coated generously with all the flavours of this street favourite. The beef was tender and blended well with the noodles, and the sambal added a spicy kick that was irresistible. This dish was a perfect representation of authentic Malaysian street food.
Of course, no visit to Bo.Sabi would be complete without sampling their renowned sushi. The Sushi Platter was an artistic delight, featuring a selection of Salmon Nigiri, Volcano Maki, Osaka Salmon Roll, and Dragon Roll. Each piece was meticulously crafted, showcasing the freshest ingredients and the chef’s exceptional skill. The flavours were delicate yet profound, making this a great highlight of the meal.
On a rather warm Wednesday evening, the Virgin Passion Mojito added a refreshing interlude to our meal without taking us away from the flavours of our dinner. The drink was a perfect blend of sweet and tangy, with the passion fruit providing a tropical twist.
The next time you’re at Bo.Sabi, make sure you go beyond its famed sushi. The Southeast Asian dishes take you on a journey through the rich culinary traditions of the region, promising a dining experience that is both memorable and satisfying. A special note to the staff who are in tune with the dishes they serve. You can easily rely on their recommendations, for they will not disappoint!
To book your dining experience at Bo.Sabi, contact (+973) 38111474