The Best Restaurants in Abu Dhabi

Oak Room, The Abu Dhabi EDITION is one of many quality restaurants in Abu Dhabi
Oak Room, The Abu Dhabi EDITION is one of many quality restaurants in Abu Dhabi | Courtesy of Oak Room, The Abu Dhabi EDITION
Melinda Healy

Pull up a chair at an establishment operated by a Michelin-star chef. Enjoy the best of regional flavours. Tempt your taste buds with the freshest seafood. There’s plenty on offer at the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi has long been a city of contrasts, and when it comes to food, the landscape is no different. Immerse yourself in age-old Emirati flavours at eateries owned and run by passionate restaurateurs, or opt to enliven your taste buds with an eclectic selection of internationally inspired venues. If that’s not enough, seek out the establishments with the backing of big-name chefs Tom Aikens and Enrico Bartolini – it’s all on offer in the UAE’s culinary capital.

speech icon man in bubble

Destinations Unlocked:

Let our travel expert Stefano help you find your perfect Culture trip

Looking for an expert's perspective?

Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
speech icon man in bubble
left arrow trip map

CentralAmerica

GORGEOUS GUATEMALA

Gorgeous Guatemala

5 days . Mini
speech icon man in bubble

1. Guatemala

An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

CentralAmerica

BEACHY BELIZE

Beachy Belize

5 days . Mini
speech icon man in bubble

2. Belize

A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea.
left arrow previous slide

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

CentralAmerica

COLONIAL MEXICO

Colonial Mexico

5 days . Mini
speech icon man in bubble

3. Mexico

An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different.
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

left arrow trip map

SouthAmerica

ADVENTUROUS ECUADOR

Adventurous Ecuador

8 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

1. Ecuador

A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

SouthAmerica

ANCIENT PERU

Ancient Peru

9 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

2. Peru

An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon.
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

left arrow trip map

Europe

SEDUCTIVE SOUTHERN ITALY

Seductive Southern Italy

10 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

1. Italy

The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Europe

EDINBURGH AND THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS BY TRAIN

Edinburgh And The Scottish Highlands By Train

7 days . Culture
speech icon man in bubble

2. Scotland

Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers.
left arrow previous slide

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Europe

COMPLETE PORTUGAL BY TRAIN

Complete Portugal By Train

8 days . Culture
speech icon man in bubble

3. Portugal

A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers.
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

left arrow trip map

Asia

SOULFUL SOUTH KOREA

Soulful South Korea

10 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

1. South Korea

Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Asia

THAILAND, CAMBODIA & VIETNAM

Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam

11 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

2. Thailand

From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise.
left arrow previous slide

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Asia

SECRETS OF SRI LANKA BY TRAIN

Secrets Of Sri Lanka By Train

10 days . Culture
speech icon man in bubble

3. Sri Lanka

A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

left arrow trip map

Africa

EPIC MOROCCO

Epic Morocco

11 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

1. Morocco

An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Africa

ULTIMATE EGYPT

Ultimate Egypt

9 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

2. Egypt

From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt.
left arrow previous slide

Next

right arrow next slide
left arrow trip map

Africa

IMMERSIVE KENYA

Immersive Kenya

8 days . Epic
speech icon man in bubble

3. Kenya

An immersive blend of culture and wildlife for first time travelers to Africa. Learn about Nairobi, sample local coffee in the Aberdares and finish up with a fantastic safari stay in the Masai Mara.
left arrow previous slide

Back to Map

The best Abu Dhabi restaurants for all budgets

Manna Land

Restaurant, Korean

interior of Manna Land, Al Nayan
Courtesy of Manna Land

Located in the Al Nahyan area of the capital, not far from the city centre, Manna Land is popular for its Korean and Japanese menu and spacious interior, complete with a private dining room and the main dining area with floor seating or tables and chairs. The tables are all authentically Korean, kitted out with built-in lazy Susans and grills, perfect for sharing dishes like the galbi gui (thinly sliced barbecued ribs), bibimbap and yachae bulgogi (marinated and barbecued beef with vegetables). Plates start from 55 United Emirates dirhams (£12) – note that alcohol is not served here.

tashas

Restaurant, Continental, Mexican

Exterior of Tasha’s, Al Bateen
Courtesy of tashas

Owned and run by South African restaurateur Natasha Sideris, tashas is heavily inspired by the Mediterranean and is one of Abu Dhabi’s most popular casual-dining destinations. Positioned by the marina at Marsa Al Bateen, the waterside eatery has a comfortable yet sophisticated vibe and features natural tones and plenty of potted plants. The restaurant has an impressive all-day dining menu that includes sandwiches, burgers, quesadillas and pasta, as well as hearty breakfast meals, healthy dishes and ‘classic’ signature toasts with toppings. Sit in the spacious air-conditioned interior or out on the deck with views of the Sheikh Zayed Heritage Centre and neighbouring marina.

Sanderson’s

Restaurant, Mediterranean

The brainchild of Sergio Lopez – one half of the popular Tom&Serg culinary duo who set Dubai’s dining scene alight with their eponymous Melbourne-inspired café in 2013 – Sanderson’s is tucked away in the Mediterranean-inspired village that is Al Seef Resort & Spa, on the outskirts of the city. Lopez’s first solo venture has island vibes and is brimming with wholesome dishes and ‘healthy mood food’ – think beetroot hummus toast and seared seabass – made with quality ingredients for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It’s worth noting that this is a dry establishment, but there are a variety of drinks on offer, including rainbow lattes.

Al Fanar Restaurant and Cafe

Cafe, Hotel Restaurant, Restaurant, Middle Eastern

With several locations across the globe and a name meaning ‘kerosene lamps’, Al Fanar offers authentic Emirati cuisine in a traditional 1960s Emirati environment that gives off an old Dubai neighbourhood feel. You can choose from a selection of fresh salads, local fish, seafood and meats. With space for approximately 340 people, the restaurant is located on the ground floor of the Yas Mall, next to Ferarri World.

Le Beaujolais

Hotel Restaurant, French

With a reputation for serving up some of the best steaks in town, Le Beaujolais is a no-frills French-style eatery with excellent food. At its relaxed location on the ground floor of the Novel Hotel on Hamdan Street, the city’s main thoroughfare, you’ll feel like you’re in a casual bistro somewhere in Paris. Enjoy a glass of red wine with your rib-eye steak, Angus beef fillet or beef bourguignon. The staff are friendly, and the prices are affordable for the city.

Eat Greek Kouzina

Restaurant, Greek

Eat Greek Kouzina, Al Maryah Island
Courtesy of Eat Greek Kouzina

Eat Greek Kouzina at The Galleria at Al Maryah Island is where you’ll find the best Greek cuisine in Abu Dhabi. Serving up dishes from all over Greece, this cosy Mediterranean-inspired eatery features imported limestone and distressed wood floors, stone-washed walls and sea views that are certain to impress, while the open kitchen offers guests a front-row seat to all of the food preparation. The Eat Greek menu is full of flavour, with everything from dips and souvlaki to Greek specialities such as moussaka and gemista (stuffed peppers). The small restaurant is fully licensed and open seven days a week for lunch and dinner.

Nusr-Et Steakhouse

Restaurant, Steakhouse

Perhaps better known for its flamboyant Turkish owner Nusret Gökçe (AKA Salt Bae) than the food, this specialised steak restaurant is as popular as its other outposts around the world. Expect beef carpaccio, steak tartare, beef ribs, a selection of succulent steaks and beef fillets, not to mention lamb dishes, burgers and meatballs. Appetisers start at AED50 (£11), but of course, being Abu Dhabi, you can go for gold, too, with the Nusr-Et Golden Steak, which is coated in gold leaf. The establishment is part of the dining collection within The Galleria shopping mall on Al Maryah Island, positioned between the city centre and Saadiyat Island.

Shish Shawerma

Restaurant, Middle Eastern

The most popular shawarma eatery in the capital, Shish Shawerma has been attracting its fair share of attention from visitors since opening its doors in 2011. Located in the heart of Khalidiya, one of the oldest parts of the capital, this casual eatery offers delicious Turkish-style doner kebabs meals, including shawarma (beef or chicken) with fries and a soda, and there’s also a special kids menu with prices starting from AED16 (£3). Sit in the street-style interior, and watch the food magic happen at the open cooking stations.

Meylas

Restaurant, Middle Eastern

The owner of this popular Emirati restaurant shares her passion for the local cuisine from the promenade at Al Raha Beach, a 30-minute drive from the centre of the city. Shaikha Al Kaabi named her eatery Meylas, which is a local expression meaning majlis or gathering place. With a traditional Bedouin feel thanks to its decor and the use of a front door that previously belonged to a traditional Emirati home from the 1970s, it’s a casual, comfortable space, and every dish uses a decades-old family recipe and fresh ingredients sourced from various UAE producers. Sit down to chbaab (traditional pancakes) or dig into a balaleet (vermicelli noodles topped with an omelette).

Luxury restaurants in Abu Dhabi

Cipriani Yas Island

Restaurant, Italian, Fast Food, Vegan, Vegetarian

Interior of Cipriani, Yas Island.
Courtesy of Cipriani / © WSSA.co
An outpost of a globally renowned restaurant brand and designed by Florentine architect Michele Bonan, Abu Dhabi’s Cipriani Yas Island features an expansive outdoor terrace with incredible vistas of the Yas Marina and neighbouring Formula One racing circuit. In keeping with the brand, the restaurant is a uniquely designed space – this one a luxurious ship complete with portholes and a plush lounge area. The menu is as stylish as the surrounds, boasting signature dishes inspired by Harry’s Bar in Venice and featuring classic Italian favourites such as risotto primavera and veal milanese – mains start at AED86 (£18). Located a 30-minute drive from the city centre, this fine-dining restaurant can host up to 360 people and is a popular choice for couples and group dining.

Cafe Milano

Hotel Restaurant, Italian

Interior of Cafe Milano
Courtesy of Cafe Milano

From its waterfront position at the Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi, Cafe Milano succeeds in offering diners a sophisticated yet relaxed setting in which to enjoy a quality Italian meal. Guests will be as impressed by the artworks that surround them in the dining room as they are by the food. The focal point of the restaurant is the large boat-shaped sculptures – reminiscent of ancient Middle Eastern dhow boats – suspended from the ceiling. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the restaurant is known for such popular dishes as the burrata affumicata and the polpo arrosto (octopus), with prices starting from AED70 (£15).

Namak by Kunal Kapur

Hotel Restaurant, Indian

Interior of Namak by Kunal Kapur
Courtesy of Namak by Kunal Kapur, Dusit Thani

For an authentic Indian dining experience, Namak by Kunal Kapur is sure to impress. From its base within the Dusit Thani, a hotel in the city’s new business and government district, the colourful restaurant celebrates the best of Indian flavours, complete with theatrical presentations. Namak serves mouth-watering lunch and dinner, and the meals usually begin with a roaming gin trolley and continue with a choice of dishes that include tobiko caviar, Kerala duck roasted tart and kataifi (sweet pastry)-wrapped tiger prawns with pickled chilli cream.

Hakkasan

Hotel Restaurant, Chinese

No visit to Abu Dhabi is complete without a visit to the Emirates Palace, but it may come as a surprise to many tourists that this luxurious venue also plays host to the best Chinese restaurant in town. The global restaurant brand is renowned for blending authentic Cantonese fare with international influences. There’s a large outdoor terrace for guests to enjoy during the cooler months and an impressive cocktail bar. From its location on the western end of the Corniche, the restaurant has a private parking area and hosts a Friday brunch from AED318 (£68) per person.

Oak Room, The Abu Dhabi EDITION

Hotel Restaurant, Contemporary

Interior of Oak Room, The Abu Dhabi EDITION
Courtesy of Oak Room, The Abu Dhabi EDITION

This traditional English-style steak restaurant operates under the watchful eye of British celebrity chef Tom Aikens. Described as an experience that blends “world-class ingredients with British rock ‘n’ roll flair”, Oak Room is as stylish as the hotel brand to which it belongs – The Abu Dhabi EDITION hotel in the heart of Al Bateen. A host guides guests through a cosy, sophisticated bar area where they can enjoy a drink before entering the dining room proper. The generous menu and selection of fun cocktail creations are a big part of the appeal, but it’s the meat room and in-house beef specialist that set it apart. Choose from the best cuts of meat from across the globe, and pair them with its impressive variety of quality signature wines.

99 Sushi Bar and Restaurant

Restaurant, Japanese

Interior of 99 Sushi
Courtesy of 99 Sushi / © EATERNAL ZEST

This restaurant can lay claim to being the first version of the internationally renowned 99 Sushi Bar venue outside of Spain, where it was founded. The fine-dining establishment sits on the second floor of the Galleria Mall at Al Maryah Island and boasts a sushi corner, garden terrace, slickly designed dining room and a menu that will satisfy foodies with a taste for Japanese fare. As is so often the case, good food comes at a price, so don’t expect a cheap meal here. Touted as haute cuisine, this one’s great for a special occasion.

Byblos Sur Mer

Hotel Restaurant, Lebanese

Upper Terrace at Byblos Sur Mer, Abu Dhabi.
Courtesy of Byblos Sur Mer / © NICOLAS DUMONT

Perched in a stand-alone two-storey space at the back of the InterContinental Abu Dhabi, overlooking the nearby marina, Byblos Sur Mer serves up a variety of Lebanese grilled meats and meze platters. The food is complemented by the stylish interiors and live music, not to mention the well-positioned terrace that affords guests glittering views of the Marina Walk, the city skyline in the distance and the boats moored nearby. It’s a good choice for those keen on getting a taste of the region in a fine-dining setting.

Limo Restaurant

Hotel Restaurant, Peruvian

Interior of Limo Restaurant
Courtesy of Bab Al Qasr Hotel and Residences

Peruvian cuisine has developed quite a following in this part of the world in recent years, and as a result, Abu Dhabi’s Limo Restaurant continues to attract its fair share of attention. This brightly furnished establishment on the ground floor of the Bab Al Qasr Hotel provides delicious home-style Peruvian meals in elegant, intimate surrounds. Ceviches, tiraditos (raw fish), anticuchos (meat skewers) and the signature fresh fish à la chorrillana (fish served on vegetables) are all popular dishes on the extensive menu. There’s also a chef’s choice menu for adventurous eaters.

La Petite Maison

Restaurant, French

Le Petite Maison
Courtesy of La Petite Maison / © EATERNAL ZEST

Designed to replicate La Petite Maison’s Dubai branch, and one of five global cities chosen to host LPM establishments, this 140-seat eatery on the waterfront promenade at Al Maryah Island serves French bistro fare inspired by Niçoise cuisine. Signature dishes include snails with garlic butter, sea bass carpaccio with salsa verde and grilled lamb with aubergine. Diners can sit indoors or out on the terrace (weather permitting). With understated, elegant decor, La Petite Maison is right at home at The Galleria, one of the city’s most luxurious shopping malls, and focusses on finding exceptional ingredients and “cooking them with respect”.

culture trip left arrow
 culture trip brand logo

Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip

meet our Local Insider

Hanna

women sitting on iceberg

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?

2 years.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?

It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.

WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?

I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!

culture trip logo letter c
group posing for picture on iceberg
group posing for picture on iceberg

Every CULTURE TRIP Small-group adventure is led by a Local Insider just like Hanna.

map of volcanic iceland trip destination points
culture trip brand logo
culture trip right arrow
landscape with balloons floating in the air

KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?

Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

X

Holiday Sale Offers on Our Trips

Incredible Savings

Edit article