Leo & Loona Kids Park, the renowned family entertainment and dining destination, is excited to announce the upcoming launch of its groundbreaking dining experience at its new flagship venue in Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi. This exceptional culinary venture, led by Michelin-starred chef Kasper Kurdahl in collaboration with renowned culinary maestro Zsolt Pleszinger, will offer a menu that masterfully blends the sophistication of fine dining with the comforting charm of home-cooked meals. Together, they aim to create a dining experience where every bite will be as unforgettable as the experiences families share within the park.
Michelin-starred chef Kasper Kurdahl brings over 20 years of unparalleled experience in culinary innovation, having worked with legendary names such as Alain Ducasse, El Bulli, and Jean-Georges Vongerichten. Moreover, his impressive background includes the creation of over 15 restaurant openings and contribution to culinary projects recognized with a staggering 22 Michelin stars, Chef Kurdahl is known for his creative vision, technical expertise, and passion for sustainability. At Leo & Loona, he infuses the menu with bold, imaginative flavours and world-class craftsmanship, redefining family dining with a touch of sophistication.
Chef Zsolt Pleszinger, the brand chef of Leo & Loona and a vital part of the project since its inception, has been instrumental in shaping the restaurant’s culinary identity. With over 25 years of international experience across leading hospitality brands such as Marriott and Hilton, Chef Pleszinger brings a wealth of knowledge in menu development and operational excellence. His focus on locally sourced, high-quality ingredients and his philosophy of “home-made as much as possible” have laid the foundation for a menu that is both wholesome and innovative, perfectly catering to families and young guests.
The collaboration between these two culinary powerhouses is set to elevate Leo & Loona’s dining experience to new heights. By blending Chef Kurdahl’s Michelin-starred expertise with Chef Pleszinger’s deep understanding of family-centric dining, they have created a menu that is not only playful and approachable but also sustainable and future-focused. This unique partnership ensures that every dish tells a story, offering families a dining experience that is as unforgettable as the moments they share at Leo & Loona.
Located within Yas Mall’s vibrant atmosphere, the new Leo & Loona venue is a visual masterpiece. The restaurant’s interiors are a whimsical blend of bold colors, soft curves, and imaginative elements that echo the adventurous spirit of Leo, the brave lion, and Loona, the curious desert fox. Spanning nearly 600 square meters, the restaurant is an attraction in itself, seating up to 150 guests, along with dedicated party rooms that provide the perfect setting for lively birthday celebrations. It perfectly compliments the 1,300 square meter play area ensuring that children have endless opportunities for fun and exploration as parents relax, dine, and enjoy a genuinely exceptional experience.
Leo & Loona’s new culinary philosophy is rooted in three core pillars: Approachable, Playful and Sustainable Future, making the menu a true standout. Every dish will be thoughtfully designed to balance familiarity with excitement, offering comforting flavours infused with creative twists. Signature dishes like the “Fight of the Century” Poultry Dish, a bold fusion of Tikka Masala and Butter chicken, that features tender meat in an aromatic sauce that’s rich with spices, will deliver the perfect harmony of flavor. The Muffin Pizza, a playful reinvention of a breakfast muffin, will be served with a golden, crisp exterior topped with creamy burrata, crushed tomatoes, and a drizzle of basil oil making it feel like a bite of Italy in every mouthful. The menu will reimagine beloved classics into creative culinary delights, combining vibrant presentations with innovative ingredients, seamlessly embodying their philosophy while delivering joy in every bite.
“This is more than just food; it’s a celebration of family dining. We’ve created a menu that appeals to both the adventurous and the traditional palate,” said Kasper Kurdahl, Michelin-starred chef and culinary visionary. “Our goal is to provide a world-class dining experience that aligns perfectly with the joy and imagination of Leo & Loona.”
Leo & Loona’s commitment to sustainability will shine through in every aspect of their new menu, championing local produce and celebrating no-meat proteins to promote a healthier planet and healthier families. Signature dishes like the Parmigiana di Melanzane, a plant-based delight featuring tender layers of aubergine, rich tomato sauce, and golden, bubbling cheese, will strike a perfect balance between indulgence and comfort. The no-meat Lasagna and the bold, locally sourced Kushari with a Twist, topped with crispy toasted rice dust, will further highlight the team’s dedication to sustainability and quality. Every meal will be thoughtfully crafted, responsibly sourced, and deliciously wholesome, giving parents confidence and peace of mind with every bite.
“This expansion marks a significant milestone for Leo & Loona,” said Pavel Kovsharov, Owner of Leo & Loona Kids Park. “The addition of a Michelin-star dining experience reflects our dedication to offering families something truly extraordinary. We want our guests to not only create memories but also share meals that spark joy and connection.”
For more information, please visit https://leoloona.ae
