Adelaide’s west is welcoming an exciting new venue, with RUH by the Lake bringing Mediterranean flavours and waterfront views to West Lakes’ dining scene.
The new venue is the vision of local entrepreneur and founder Asad Abbasi, who set out to create the kind of restaurant he felt was missing from Adelaide’s dining scene. For Asad, the concept began with a desire to find somewhere he could confidently take his family to enjoy exceptional food, relax together and feel completely at home.
Drawing on his Afghan heritage, family values and lifelong appreciation for hospitality, he envisioned a restaurant that combined quality dining, a welcoming atmosphere and a halal-friendly experience that families could genuinely embrace.
“RUH has never been about opening another restaurant,” shared Asad. “It’s about creating a place where people can slow down, share a meal, celebrate life’s moments, and leave feeling better than when they arrived. That’s what ‘Made for the Soul’ means to us.” So, when a waterfront site overlooking West Lakes became available, the pieces quickly fell into place. The lakefront setting was the perfect backdrop for a venue centred around connection, conversation and memorable dining experiences.
The name RUH translates to ‘soul’ or ‘spirit’, and that philosophy runs throughout every aspect of the venue. From the menu and interior design to the service style and atmosphere, the experience has been carefully curated to feed the soul as much as the appetite.
“The word RUH means soul, and from the very beginning we wanted every detail to reflect that,” said Asad. “From the food and service to the music, design and atmosphere, everything has been created to make people feel welcome, comfortable and connected.”
The venue has been designed by Adelaide creatives and features soft cream tones, natural greenery, warm lighting, elegant gold accents and curated artwork. The space is centred around an open kitchen which allows guests to watch the action unfold.
Leading the kitchen is Executive Chef Khalil, who brings more than 15 years of culinary experience to the project. “When Chef Khalil joined the project, we knew the vision had become something special. His experience, creativity and passion elevated everything we wanted RUH to become.”
The menu takes inspiration from both Mediterranean and Afghan traditions, creating a balance between classic flavours and contemporary presentation. Diners can expect everything from bruschetta and marinated olives to handmade Afghan mantu dumplings, fresh seafood dishes, house-made pasta and premium charcoal-grilled meats, including lamb kebabs, chicken skewers and lamb chops.
One of the most personal inclusions is the mantu dumplings, which are inspired by recipes passed down through generations and included as a tribute to Asad’s mother.
Currently operating in a soft-opening phase, RUH by the Lake will officially celebrate its grand opening on June 18th, before commencing full public trade on June 19th. The team hopes the venue becomes more than just another restaurant, instead establishing itself as a destination where people come together and connect.
If you’d like to be one of the first to try, bookings are available via Instagram direct message or by calling 7088 7780!
RUH by the Lake
When: Grand Opening on June 18th
Where: Unit 69/155 Brebner Dr, West Lakes, Adelaide, South Australia 5021
For more information, click here.
