Best Restaurants in Abu Dhabi: Where to Eat in 2024
Abu Dhabi’s food scene has evolved past hotel dining rooms. While luxury remains a pillar, the city now balances high-end Michelin-starred concepts with a gritty, authentic cafeteria culture. You can spend $300 on a gold-leafed dinner at the Emirates Palace or $3 on a spicy cafeteria sandwich in Al Khalidiyah. The city attracts top-tier global talent, meaning you’ll find some of the world’s best French, Peruvian, and Japanese cuisine alongside traditional Emirati flavors. Whether you're looking for high-concept gastronomy or a quick pit stop between museums, the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi deliver consistency and variety.
Must-try dishes in Abu Dhabi
Before deciding where to eat in Abu Dhabi, familiarize yourself with the regional staples. These dishes define the local palate.
- Machboos: A fragrant rice dish cooked with meat (usually lamb or chicken), dried lime (loomi), and a blend of spices similar to garam masala.
- Harees: A slow-cooked mixture of cracked wheat and meat, beaten into a smooth, porridge-like consistency; it’s a staple during Ramadan.
- Luqaimat: Deep-fried dough balls drizzled with date syrup and sprinkled with sesame seeds, serving as the quintessential Emirati dessert.
- Camel Burgers: A modern local twist on fast food; the meat is lean, protein-heavy, and typically served with local spices.
- Margoogat: A hearty, tomato-based stew filled with vegetables and dough pieces that cook directly in the broth.
- Shish Tawook: Marinated chicken skewers grilled over charcoal, usually served with a potent garlic paste (toum) and pickles.
Best restaurants for a splurge
When you want to see the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi with no budget constraints, head to the northwest corner of the city. Most fine dining is concentrated in Al Maryah Island or within the city's luxury hotels.
Hakkasan Abu Dhabi (Al Ras Al Akhdar)
Located inside the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Hakkasan offers world-class Cantonese cuisine. The dim sum platter and Peking duck with caviar are the standard orders here. The outdoor terrace provides a moody, sophisticated atmosphere with views of the Etihad Towers. It is consistent, prestigious, and holds a Michelin star.
Zuma (Al Maryah Island)
Zuma remains the benchmark for Japanese izakaya-style dining in the UAE. The black cod and wagyu beef gyoza are non-negotiable orders. It’s located in the Global Market district, making it a hub for the business crowd. The service is fast, the ingredients are impeccable, and the bar program is among the city’s best.
Talea by Antonio Guida (Al Ras Al Akhdar)
This Michelin-starred spot specializes in "Cucina di Famiglia" or family-style Italian cooking elevated to a fine-dining level. Located in Emirates Palace, the menu focuses on seasonal ingredients and refined techniques. Try the handmade pastas and the osso buco. The interior is bright, airy, and far less stuffy than traditional French fine dining.
Best casual restaurants and local favorites
These are the spots where residents go for a reliable Friday lunch or a mid-week dinner. They offer high-quality food without the formal dress codes.
Meylas (Al Muneera)
Meylas is one of the few places dedicated specifically to Emirati home cooking. Located by the water at Al Muneera, it uses nostalgic recipes and traditional decor. Order the breakfast tray or the shrimp machboos. It’s a great introduction to the local culture in a relaxed, modern setting.
Nolu’s (Al Bandar / Al Maryah Island)
Nolu’s blends Afghan flavors with a California-inspired healthy eating philosophy. The menu features everything from kabobs and mantu (dumplings) to massive salads and smoothie bowls. The Al Bandar location is perfect for a weekend lunch by the marina. Their "build your own" bowl options are a local favorite for a quick, nutritious meal.
Dai Pai Dong (Al Maryah Island)
Located inside the Rosewood Hotel, this spot mimics the feel of a Hong Kong street market. It’s upscale-casual with a focused menu of dim sum, roasted meats, and wok dishes. Their "All You Can Eat" dim sum lunch is one of the best value-for-money deals in the city for the quality provided.
Butcher & Still (Al Maryah Island)
A 1920s Chicago-style steakhouse that avoids the usual tropes. The leather booths and charcoal grills create a masculine, energetic vibe. While the steaks are the main draw, don’t skip the Maryland crab cakes or the massive chocolate cake. It’s the best place in the city for a high-quality, high-protein casual dinner.
Best cheap eats and street food
If you want to know where to eat in Abu Dhabi for under $10, look for the "cafeterias" and small Lebanese bakeries tucked away in the older neighborhoods.
Al Ibrahimi Restaurant (Electra Street)
A legend in the city for Pakistani and Indian food. While they have a buffet, the à la carte grills and curries are where the value lies. The mutton chops and seekh kebabs are charred perfectly. It’s busy, loud, and offers some of the most authentic flavors in the city center.
Lebanese Flower (Multiple Locations)
This is an Abu Dhabi institution. It’s a no-frills Lebanese spot famous for its massive portions and fresh-out-of-the-oven bread. Order the mixed grill, a side of hummus, and the iconic garlic sauce. It’s affordable, fast, and frequently crowded with locals and expats alike.
Sea Shell Cafeteria (Various Locations)
You don’t come here for a sit-down meal; you come for the "Hassan Mathar." This is a toasted wrap filled with spicy chicken, fries, and cheese. It’s the ultimate Abu Dhabi street food. Pair it with an "Abood" juice (a thick fruit cocktail) for the full experience.
Zahrat Lebnan (Multiple Locations)
Commonly known as "Lebanese Flower’s" main rival, Zahrat Lebnan has been serving the city since the 1970s. Their shawarma is arguably the best in town. Whether you prefer the beef or chicken, make sure to get it with extra pickles. It’s the most reliable quick lunch in the capital.
Best breakfast and brunch
In Abu Dhabi, breakfast is a leisurely affair, while "Brunch" usually refers to the massive Friday or Saturday afternoon feasts hosted by hotels.
Tashas (Al Bateen)
This South African brand dominates the upscale breakfast scene. The Al Bateen location overlooks the marina and serves excellent coffee and massive breakfast plates. The "Hummus Toastie" and the "Mariachi" eggs are standouts. Expect a wait on weekend mornings; it doesn't take reservations for breakfast.
Art House Café (Al Bateen)
Attached to the Etihad Modern Art Gallery, this cafe is built using recycled materials and features local artwork. It’s a quiet, creative space for a late breakfast. The menu is international, with great shakshuka and avocado toast. You can even buy a plain plate to paint while you wait for your food.
Bubbalicious at The Westin (Sas Al Nakhl)
When people search for the "best restaurants in Abu Dhabi" for brunch, this is often the top result. It is a massive, multi-cuisine buffet ranging from fresh seafood and sushi to roasts and a dedicated cheese room. It’s lively, high-energy, and the gold standard for the UAE luxury brunch experience.
Best rooftop or view dining
Abu Dhabi’s skyline is best enjoyed from a height or from across the water.
Ray’s Grill (Etihad Towers)
Located on the 63rd floor of Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, this is one of the highest dining points in the city. The windows offer 360-degree views of the Corniche and the Arabian Gulf. The menu is focused on premium cuts of meat and classic sides. It’s the premier spot for a sunset dinner.
Azura Panoramic Lounge (St. Regis Abu Dhabi)
This lounge overlooks the Corniche and the breakwater. It’s an outdoor, multi-level space that serves Mediterranean-inspired small plates and cocktails. It is less formal than a traditional restaurant, making it ideal for a long evening of drinks and appetizers with a view.
Best food neighborhoods to wander
If you want to explore without a specific reservation, head to these three hubs.
- Al Maryah Island: The destination for luxury. The Galleria Mall and its surrounding promenade contain a high density of Michelin-recognized restaurants.
- Al Khalidiyah: This is the heart of "old" Abu Dhabi. Walk the side streets to find hidden cafeterias, traditional bakeries, and small Indian eateries.
- Yas Bay Waterfront: The newest dining district on Yas Island. It features a long boardwalk lined with international brands like Asia Asia, Akiba Dori, and many others, offering a mix of party vibes and family dining.
Operating hours and reservation requirements can change; always check the restaurant’s official site before visiting.