If you’re a food-driven person, then it’s always fun to plan your holidays based on unique dining opportunities. A Starbucks will always be a Starbucks, be it in London or Timbuktu. You don’t travel the world just to experience the familiar but in a different time zone. Be adventurous, be bold, especially when it comes to cuisine. There’s really no excuse not to try some of the most delicious fare on offer at Abu Dhabi restaurants. If you’re new to Middle Eastern cuisine, we’ve compiled some mouth-watering suggestions for you.
While full of amazing traditions, the UAE is not known for its subtlety, especially when it comes to food. Abu Dhabi is a city for extravagance and ostentatiousness – in the most delicious sense of the words. The UAE capital has some truly amazing restaurants as good as the Best restaurants Soho. If you’re only going to splurge on a magnificent feast the once, you simply must try one of these incredible culinary destinations:
Fine Dining
Abu Dhabi has brought together offerings from cuisines all around the world. Whatever your taste buds might be in the mood for, they’ve got you covered. And it would be an absolute travesty to come all the way to Abu Dhabi and not visit Villa Toscana. Easily one of the top restaurants in the city, this Italian establishment is ideal for a date or special occasion. Particularly if you’re not quite ready to try more adventurous dishes! The beauty of Italian is that it never fails to disappoint with its refined simplicity.
If you’re after something a bit more full-bodied, Adu Dhabi is renowned for its amazing offering of steakhouses. The Grill is a must-try. With its stunning geometric interior decor, every dish is a feast for all the senses. Not to worry if meat isn’t your thing, their friendly staff are happy to accommodate any dietary requirements. You simply must treat yourself to a stunning view of the cityscape. Byblos Sur Mer is as serene as it is refined, offering exquisite Lebanese dishes in a comfortable, elegant setting, overlooking the marina. The perfect relaxing spot to unwind in style.
Traditional
It’s perhaps a bit odd that among the most popular restaurants in Abu Dhabi, very few offer traditional menus. You can’t visit a brand new part of the world and not sample the local delicacies that make it unique. These restaurants, while more demure than those previously mentioned, have their own signature charm and local dishes that are phenomenally delicious! Mezlai at the Emirates Palace Hotel will transport you to another world! With its beautiful, traditionally inspired decor and absolutely top-notch Emirati dishes. Enjoy the views, tapestries and local favourites like the Camel Tanour.
Move over Starbucks, Adu Dhabi has its own dominant franchise – but one that goes beyond mere coffee. The UAE is the ultimate place to experience what real shawarma should taste like, so if you spot a Zahrat Lebnan, be sure to pop in and treat yourself to the ultimate middle eastern wrap, and supplement with their amazing fattoush or mixed grills.
And for the sweet tooths out there, one of Abu Dhabi’s worst kept secrets is the phenomenal Meylas, located on Al Muneera island. A visit to the Middle East would not be complete with trying balaleet – a centuries-old local favourite that’s the UAE’s answer to the doughnut.
Whatever location you decide to try out, a visit to any Abu Dhabi restaurant will be sure to give you an air of the gourmet and a taste of the extraordinary, so you can dazzle your friends and family back home with what’s sure to be an unforgettable dining experience.
Last Updated on June 25, 2023 by Lucy Clarke
