Abu Dhabi is the capital emirate of the United Arab Emirates, blending ultramodern architecture with rich Bedouin heritage. Home to iconic landmarks like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi, it offers world-class culture, luxury hospitality, and thrilling desert adventures.
Summary Abu Dhabi's food scene is extraordinarily diverse, reflecting its cosmopolitan population of 200+ nationalities. Emirati cuisine forms the cultural backbone, but Indian, Pakistani, Filipino, Lebanese, and international restaurants are everywhere. Alcohol is only available in licensed hotel restaurants and bars., Local cuisine Emirati cuisine is built around rice, meat (lamb, camel, chicken), and spices including saffron, turmeric, cardamom, and loomi (dried lime). Seafood from the Gulf is essential, especially hammour (grouper), kingfish, and sea bream., International scene Abu Dhabi's international restaurant scene spans world-class fine dining at hotel restaurants to authentic budget cafeterias representing South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Levant., Halal note All food in Abu Dhabi is halal by law. Pork is available only in licensed hotel establishments in designated sections. Alcohol is only served in licensed hotel restaurants and some private clubs.
Must-try dishes
Iconic dishes that define Abu Dhabi.
Harees
A slow-cooked dish of wheat and meat (usually lamb or chicken), similar to porridge. One of the oldest Emirati dishes and traditionally eaten at Ramadan and celebrations.
Machboos
The national dish of the UAE, a spiced rice dish similar to biryani with meat or fish, cooked with dried lemon (loomi), saffron, rose water, and Gulf spices.
Luqaimat
Sweet golden fried dough balls drizzled with date syrup and sesame seeds, a beloved Emirati street snack sold at festivals and heritage sites.
Gahwa (Arabic Coffee)
Bitter, cardamom-spiced coffee served in small handleless cups (finjan) alongside dates. An essential Emirati hospitality ritual offered on arrival at homes and traditional establishments.
Camel Milk
Slightly saltier and lower in fat than cow milk, camel milk is a nutritious UAE tradition available fresh, flavoured, or as the unique camel milk cappuccino ('Camelccino') at Emirates Palace.
Balaleet
A unique sweet and savoury Emirati breakfast dish of vermicelli noodles sweetened with saffron and sugar, served with a fried egg on top. One of UAE's most distinctive traditional breakfasts.
Hammour
The quintessential Gulf fish (orange-spotted grouper), grilled, fried, or used in rice dishes. Fresh hammour is the fish of choice throughout the UAE.
Dates
Grown locally in the UAE's many oasis gardens, Emirati dates are considered some of the world's finest. Varieties include Khalas, Medjool, and Barhi. Always served with Arabic coffee.
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
Mezlai
The most acclaimed Emirati fine dining restaurant in Abu Dhabi, set in a traditionally decorated majlis within Emirates Palace. Chef Hamda Al Menhali serves elevated versions of classic Emirati dishes including machboos, harees, and camel meat prepared with premium ingredients. An essential experience for understanding UAE food culture at its finest.
Known for: Emirati fine dining in Emirates Palace majlis setting
Emirates Palace Hotel, Corniche Road West, Abu Dhabi
Hakkasan Abu Dhabi
The Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant in Emirates Palace brings London glamour to Abu Dhabi. Dark, moody interiors with lacquered screens and blue lighting frame an exceptional menu of Cantonese dim sum, Peking duck, and innovative wok dishes. One of Abu Dhabi's most prestigious dining experiences.
Known for: Michelin-star Cantonese cuisine with renowned cocktail program
Emirates Palace Hotel, Corniche Road West, Abu Dhabi
Li Beirut
An upscale Lebanese restaurant in the Shangri-La Hotel with spectacular panoramic views over the Corniche and Arabian Gulf. The open kitchen produces beautifully executed Lebanese mezze, charcoal grills, and fresh seafood. One of Abu Dhabi's most romantic dining settings, particularly at sunset.
Known for: Lebanese fine dining with stunning Corniche and gulf panoramic views
Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Khor Al Maqta, Abu Dhabi
Tanjore
Abu Dhabi's most celebrated Indian fine dining restaurant, serving refined South and North Indian cuisine in an opulent setting inspired by the Tanjore palace. The menu features tandoor classics, biryani, Chettinad specialties, and elaborate Indian desserts. A favourite of the city's large Indian expat community and food lovers alike.
Known for: Pan-Indian fine dining spanning South and North Indian culinary traditions
Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi, Hamdan Street, Abu Dhabi
Azur
The signature restaurant at Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Azur offers refined Mediterranean cuisine in a dramatically designed space with sweeping views of the Corniche and Arabian Gulf from the 12th floor. Fresh seafood, wood-fired dishes, and seasonal produce form the backbone of an excellent menu.
Known for: Mediterranean fine dining with panoramic Corniche views from 12th floor
Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi
Sole
An elegant Italian restaurant in the Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri featuring beautiful waterfront terrace dining over Khor Al Maqta with Grand Mosque views. The menu focuses on quality seasonal Italian produce, house-made pastas, premium seafood, and an extensive Italian wine list. One of the most romantic dinner settings in Abu Dhabi.
Known for: Waterfront Italian dining with views of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi
Roberto's Abu Dhabi
A chic, upscale Italian restaurant on Al Maryah Island's Galleria waterfront that has become a go-to for Abu Dhabi's business elite and food scene regulars. Beautiful terrace seating over the water, an exceptional cocktail bar, and a menu spanning Italian regions with premium ingredients imported from Italy.
Known for: Upscale Italian with excellent cocktail program and waterfront terrace
Galleria Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe
The most accessible and popular Emirati dining experience in Abu Dhabi, with branches at the Marina Mall and Yas Mall. Retro-styled interiors recreate a 1960s Abu Dhabi neighbourhood, with pearl fishing paraphernalia and black-and-white photos. Warm Emirati hospitality and hearty traditional dishes make this the ideal introduction to local food.
Known for: Traditional Emirati home-style cooking in nostalgic retro setting
Yas Mall, Yas Island (and Marina Mall, Breakwater), Abu Dhabi
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
Lebanese
Mijana
An open-air, tented Lebanese restaurant on the terrace of the Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, offering outstanding views of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque across the water. Freshly prepared Lebanese mezze, shisha, and whole fresh seafood cooked on the live grill. One of Abu Dhabi's most atmospheric outdoor dining experiences.
Known for: Outdoor Lebanese seafood with iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque views
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Khor Al Maqta, Abu Dhabi
Zahr El Laymoun
A casual Lebanese restaurant chain with several locations across Abu Dhabi, serving fresh, well-priced Lebanese food in a friendly atmosphere. Known for generous portions, fresh-squeezed lemon juice (the name means 'lemon blossom'), good mixed grills, and tasty wraps. Popular with families and lunch crowds.
Known for: Casual Lebanese dining with generous portions at budget-friendly prices
Multiple locations, Abu Dhabi
Lebanese Flower
A beloved Abu Dhabi institution open since 1989, Lebanese Flower is the go-to for cheap, hearty Lebanese street food including shawarma, falafel, and mezze. The crowds, fast service, and generous portions speak for themselves. The chicken shawarma wrap is one of the best in the city.
Known for: Abu Dhabi's most popular shawarma and falafel institution since 1989
Hamdan Street, Abu Dhabi
Al Mallah
One of Abu Dhabi's most famous budget eateries, Al Mallah serves Lebanese street food from its takeaway counter to a loyal following of residents and budget travelers. The manakish, kaak bread, and freshly squeezed juices are outstanding value.
Known for: Street-side Lebanese baked goods and fresh juice at the lowest prices
Hamdan Street area, Abu Dhabi
French
Paul Cafe
The celebrated French boulangerie chain with multiple Abu Dhabi locations offering authentic French pastries, fresh bread, and simple brasserie food. The croissants, pain au chocolat, and almond tarts are among the best in the city. Excellent for breakfast, a light lunch, or afternoon pastry and coffee.
Known for: Authentic French bakery with Viennoiserie and simple bistro food
Multiple locations including Abu Dhabi Mall, Marina Mall, and Yas Mall
Crepaway
A Lebanese-founded French creperie chain with multiple Abu Dhabi branches, offering sweet and savoury crepes, waffles, smoothies, and breakfast bowls. Light, fresh, and reasonably priced, it's a popular choice for families and those wanting something lighter than a full meal.
Known for: Fresh crepes and light breakfast options at affordable prices
Multiple locations, Abu Dhabi
Brasserie Bord'Eau
A French brasserie at the Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri with a lovely waterfront terrace. The relaxed menu features French classics executed well: steak frites, French onion soup, bouillabaisse, and excellent crème brûlée. One of Abu Dhabi's best casual-fine-dining options for French food lovers.
Known for: Authentic French brasserie classics on a waterfront terrace
Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi
International Buffet
Emirates Palace Brunch
The most lavish Friday brunch in Abu Dhabi, held weekly at the Emirates Palace's La Salle ballroom. Featuring over 200 dishes across live cooking stations, a champagne and cocktail bar, dessert souk, and sea views. The gold-dusted 'Camelccino' (camel milk cappuccino with 24-carat gold) is iconic. Dress smartly and book weeks in advance.
Known for: Abu Dhabi's most iconic Friday brunch experience in the gold palace
Emirates Palace Hotel, Corniche Road West, Abu Dhabi
Yas Island Hilton Brunch
The Friday brunch at the Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island (Yas Hotel) is one of the most popular on the island, featuring a great spread of international cuisine, a well-stocked bar package, and a lively social atmosphere with DJ entertainment. Popular with the Yas Island crowd and expat families.
Known for: Lively Yas Island Friday brunch with DJ and full beverage package
Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Radisson Blu Yas Island Brunch
A popular Friday brunch on Yas Island featuring an excellent spread of international food, a well-priced beverage package, and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Good value compared to the more premium hotel brunches while maintaining high food quality.
Known for: Good-value Yas Island Friday brunch with family-friendly atmosphere
Radisson Blu Hotel, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Seafood
Bu Qtair
An Abu Dhabi institution and one of the most celebrated no-frills seafood spots in the UAE. Choose your fresh fish from the display, pick a marinade (original spiced or garlic), and it is deep-fried and served with rice and curry sauce on metal trays. Beloved by everyone from blue-collar workers to Emiratis and expat foodies.
Known for: Legendary no-frills fried fish institution loved by all Abu Dhabi
Umm Al Emarat Park area, Mushrif, Abu Dhabi
Al Arish Restaurant
Set within the Abu Dhabi Heritage Village on the Corniche breakwater, Al Arish is a beloved outdoor restaurant serving traditional Emirati-style grilled and fried fish with rice and salads. The breezy, casual setting under palm-thatched shelters, views of the gulf and Heritage Village atmosphere make it memorable.
Known for: Casual Emirati seafood in Heritage Village waterfront setting
Heritage Village, Corniche Breakwater, Abu Dhabi
Aquarium Restaurant
A dramatic seafood restaurant inside one of Abu Dhabi's largest aquarium tanks, offering floor-to-ceiling views of sharks, rays, and tropical fish while dining. The menu focuses on fresh UAE seafood and international fish dishes. A unique, memorable dining experience particularly popular with children and first-time visitors.
Known for: Dining surrounded by an enormous aquarium with sharks and rays
Yas Mall, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
American
Craft Diner
A popular American-style diner on Saadiyat Island serving hearty breakfasts, burgers, pancakes, and comfort food classics in a retro setting. Particularly popular on weekend mornings with beach-going families. The pancakes and eggs Benedict are outstanding.
Known for: Classic American diner on Saadiyat Island beach strip
Saadiyat Beach Club area, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Nolu's Cafe
A cosy, popular cafe in Al Bateen area known for its excellent brunches, healthy salads, power bowls, and fresh-baked goods. The American-inspired breakfasts and strong specialty coffee draw a loyal weekend crowd from Abu Dhabi's expat community. The outdoor terrace is perfect in cooler months.
Known for: Wholesome, Instagram-worthy breakfasts with excellent specialty coffee
Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi
Indian
Biryani Pot
One of Abu Dhabi's most beloved casual Indian restaurants, famed for its aromatic dum biryanis cooked in sealed clay pots. Packed daily with Indian expats, this is where authentic South Asian comfort food is served at extremely reasonable prices. The prawn biryani and mutton biryani are standouts.
Known for: Authentic dum biryani cooked in sealed pots, Abu Dhabi institution
Muroor Road, Abu Dhabi
India Palace
A popular and reliable mid-range Indian restaurant with a long-standing reputation in Abu Dhabi. Serving classic North Indian dishes with well-spiced curries, fresh naan from the tandoor, and generous thali sets. Extremely popular with the city's large South Asian expat community for a proper sit-down Indian meal.
Known for: Reliable North Indian classics with generous portions at budget prices
Electra Street, Abu Dhabi
International
Shakespeare and Co.
A whimsical European-inspired cafe-restaurant chain with several Abu Dhabi locations, known for its Alice-in-Wonderland-meets-Victorian-parlour decor, extensive all-day breakfast menu, fresh pastries, and international comfort food. Popular for leisurely weekend brunches and afternoon tea.
Known for: Charming Victorian-themed cafe with all-day breakfast and afternoon tea
Multiple locations including Al Wahda Mall and Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi
Mosaic
The all-day dining restaurant at Emirates Palace, Mosaic serves an extensive buffet spanning international and Emirati cuisine with stunning views of the palace gardens and beach. The breakfast buffet is one of Abu Dhabi's most opulent, and the Friday lunch features Emirati specialties. A grand experience at a relatively accessible price point for an Emirates Palace venue.
Known for: Grand palace all-day dining with Emirati specialties and gold service
Emirates Palace Hotel, Corniche Road West, Abu Dhabi
Italian
Prego's
A long-established Italian favourite at the Rotana Beach Rotana Hotel, known for its relaxed, friendly atmosphere, wood-fired pizzas, and reliable pasta dishes. Very popular with expat families and those wanting a casual Italian meal near the Corniche. The terrace seating and consistent quality have made it an Abu Dhabi staple.
Known for: Consistently good Italian with wood-fired pizzas in a casual beachside hotel setting
Beach Rotana Hotel, Tourist Club Area, Abu Dhabi
Emporio Armani Caffe
The Emporio Armani cafe at Galleria Al Maryah Island serves excellent Italian coffee, pastries, and a light all-day menu in sleek Armani-designed interiors. A favourite for a leisurely late-morning breakfast or an afternoon espresso during a shopping trip. The panini and tiramisu are highlights.
Known for: Italian cafe in designer Armani interiors at the premium Galleria mall
The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Australian
Jones the Grocer
An upscale Australian deli-cafe offering outstanding breakfasts, specialty coffee, fresh salads, gourmet sandwiches, and a well-stocked artisan grocery. The granola bowls, smashed avocado on sourdough, and strong flat whites are highlights. Located in several Abu Dhabi locations including Al Maryah Island.
Known for: Gourmet Australian cafe-deli with specialty coffee and artisan groceries
Al Maryah Island (and other locations), Abu Dhabi
Chinese
Shang Palace
The Chinese fine dining restaurant at the Shangri-La Hotel, offering authentic Cantonese cuisine in elegant surroundings. Renowned for its dim sum weekend lunches, fresh seafood preparations, and Peking duck. A classic and refined option for Chinese food enthusiasts.
Known for: Authentic Cantonese fine dining with renowned weekend dim sum
Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi
Emirati
Zahrat Al Khaleej
A family-favourite Emirati restaurant serving traditional Emirati home cooking in a welcoming, unfussy atmosphere. The restaurant is particularly known for its breakfast spreads of balaleet, chebab pancakes, and karak tea, as well as hearty lunch dishes of machboos and harees. Very popular with Emirati families.
Known for: Authentic Emirati breakfast and family meals at local prices
Tourist Club Area, Al Zahiyah, Abu Dhabi
Filipino Fast Food
Jollibee
The beloved Filipino fast food chain with several Abu Dhabi branches, serving as a home-away-from-home comfort food for Abu Dhabi's large Filipino community. The Chickenjoy fried chicken, spaghetti, and peach-mango pie are favourites. Always busy, always cheerful.
Known for: Beloved Filipino fast food chain, comfort food for expat Filipino community
Multiple locations, Abu Dhabi
Fusion
Asia de Cuba
A lively and eclectic Asian-Latin fusion restaurant at the W Abu Dhabi Yas Island, serving creative dishes that blend Cuban and Asian flavours in an energetic social dining atmosphere. The tamarind-glazed spare ribs, ceviche, and rum cocktails are signatures of this vibrant concept.
Known for: Vibrant Cuban-Asian fusion dining in the W Abu Dhabi's social setting
W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island, Yas Island
Japanese
Kushi
A popular Japanese restaurant near the Corniche serving fresh sushi, sashimi, ramen, and Japanese grilled yakitori skewers at reasonable prices. The quality of fish and attention to Japanese food traditions make it a standout for Japanese cuisine lovers in Abu Dhabi.
Known for: Fresh Japanese sushi, sashimi, and yakitori at mid-range prices
Hamdan Street, Abu Dhabi
Middle Eastern
Cafe Arabia
A charming cafe in Al Bateen neighbourhood known for its relaxed atmosphere, eclectic decor, Middle Eastern-inspired menu, and excellent coffee. Popular with Abu Dhabi's creative community and expats for a long, leisurely meal. The lunchboxes and sharing platters are particular highlights.
Known for: Eclectic cafe with Middle Eastern flavours in charming Al Bateen setting
Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi
Pan
Cho Gao
A popular Pan-Asian restaurant in the Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi, one of the city's longest-running Asian dining favorites. The menu spans Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese dishes in a vibrant, buzzy atmosphere. The Thai curry, sushi rolls, and dim sum are all reliable.
Known for: Pan-Asian menu spanning Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese
Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi, Hamdan Street, Abu Dhabi
Polynesian
Trader Vic's
The original tiki bar and Polynesian restaurant chain with a long-standing Abu Dhabi presence at the Beach Rotana. Known for its rum-based Mai Tais and fruity tropical cocktails (non-alcoholic versions available), Chinese-style ribs, and lively atmosphere. A popular Abu Dhabi social institution.
Known for: Iconic Polynesian tiki bar and restaurant, Abu Dhabi social institution
Beach Rotana Hotel, Tourist Club Area, Abu Dhabi
South Asian
Asian Cafeteria
Typical of the South Asian worker cafeterias found throughout the Muroor Road area, these no-frills eateries serve extremely cheap and filling Pakistani, Indian, and Sri Lankan rice and curry dishes. A complete rice and curry meal with bread costs under AED 15. An authentic window into Abu Dhabi's diverse migrant community.
Known for: Dirt-cheap South Asian cafeteria meals in Abu Dhabi's worker districts
Muroor Road area, Abu Dhabi
Food tours & tastings in Abu Dhabi
Eat your way through Abu Dhabi with a guide.
Browse food experiences in Abu DhabiWe may earn a commission from bookings made through these links.
Street food
Local flavours at affordable prices.
Food markets
Where locals shop and graze.
Al Mina Fish Market
Abu Dhabi's main covered fish market with the morning's fresh catch from local fishing boats
Hours: Daily 6AM-10AM, 4PM-10PM
Al Mina Fruit and Vegetable Market
Adjacent to the fish market, a colourful covered market selling fresh produce and spices
Hours: Daily 6AM-10PM
Iranian Souq (Madinat Zayed)
Traditional covered market near Al Mina with Iranian traders selling spices, textiles, dried fruits, and household goods
Hours: Daily 8AM-10PM, closed Friday afternoon
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
All restaurants in Abu Dhabi serve halal food; pork only available in licensed hotel sections
Alcohol is only served at licensed hotel restaurants, bars, and clubs
Dress modestly in local restaurants - shoulders and knees covered in traditional establishments
During Ramadan, eating and drinking in public is prohibited from sunrise to sunset
Friday and Saturday (UAE weekend) are the busiest dining days - book popular restaurants in advance
Service charge (10-15%) is often added at hotel restaurants; tipping additional 10% is appreciated
Many restaurants open late and have a second sitting from 9-10PM onward
Credit cards accepted almost everywhere; cash preferred at souqs and cafeterias
- Halal
- All food served in Abu Dhabi is halal by law. No concerns for Muslim travelers.
- Vegetarian
- Good options at Indian, Lebanese, and international restaurants. Less variety in traditional Emirati restaurants.
- Vegan
- Growing vegan scene particularly at upscale cafes and international restaurants. Always check as dairy may be used.
- Gluten free
- Available at larger hotel restaurants; less common in local establishments.
- Allergens
- Nut allergies should be flagged - many Middle Eastern and South Asian dishes contain nuts.
- Pork
- Available only in designated licensed hotel restaurant sections, not in local or general restaurants.
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $5-15/meal | Street food, local eateries, and simple restaurants. |
| Mid-range | $15-40/meal | Sit-down restaurants with good service and varied menus. |
| Upscale | $40+/meal | Fine dining, international cuisine, and premium experiences. |