From La Dolce Vita on Yas Island to an immersive rose-tinted African concept on Al Maryah – these are the best places to eat by cuisine
Home of MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants and fostering a dining scene of world-renowned names and internationally acclaimed venues, the UAE capital of Abu Dhabi is home to some of the best restaurants in the UAE. While international powerhouses continue to draw crowds, a wave of exciting homegrown concepts are adding a unique dimension to the city’s gastronomic landscape – which spread across the emirate, from the city centre to its dozens of islands. Here are the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi to visit this year.
Best European restaurants in Abu Dhabi
Paradiso
Located in the trendy new Yas Bay Waterfront Development – home to some of the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi – trendy Mediterranean Paradiso is all about capturing the fun and lively spirit of Italian get-togethers. A partnership between celebrated French Chef Pierre Gagnaire and Nicole Rubi, the founder of Nice’s iconic Le Petite Maison restaurant, this is the spot for stylish get-togethers and long lunches, embodying La Dolce Vita. The restaurant itself feels like a chic Italian villa, designed by these famous Milanese architects (Vudafieri-Saverino Partners), with lots of sunlight and a mix of different textures and colours. The menu uses fresh, seasonal ingredients to create Italian dishes with a modern twist. They’re famous for their big portions of pasta (perfect for sharing!) and delicious grilled seafood, washed down with a hearty glass of Italian red while overlooking the Yas Waterfront.
Yas Bay Waterfront, @paradisoabudhabi, paradisoabudhabi.com
LPM Restaurant & Bar
In Abu Dhabi, the iconic LPM Restaurant & Bar sits on the elegant Al Maryah island – a bustling new international financial centre home to luxury residences, retail and dining. Here, the world-famous restaurant group (born in London without spots in Dubai, Miami, Hong Kong and Riyadh, to name a few) channels the effortless elegance of the French Riviera. Dining happens on the charming waterfront terrace or in the bright and design-locked dining room – home to a chic interplay of natural textures, gleaming accents, and vibrant pops of colour inspired by the region’s artistic heritage. The menu showcases Mediterranean flavours with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Signature dishes include warm bread served with olive oil, perfectly grilled prawns, and a classic roast baby chicken with lemon. For a sweet finish, the warm chocolate mousse with malt ice cream is an absolute must, along with LPM’s famous vanilla cheesecake or creme brulee.
Al Maryah Island, @lpmabudhabi, lpmrestaurants.com/abu-dhabi
Oak Room
Oak Room sits within the luxurious Abu Dhabi EDITION – bringing the timeless style of a classic British steakhouse to the UAE capital. Its interior features rich wood panelling, comfortable leather seating, and a sophisticated ambience. The menu focuses on premium cuts of meat, offering a selection of expertly prepared steaks, including wagyu options. Signature dishes like the beef Wellington and lobster thermidor deliver classic flavours, complemented by carefully chosen sides and a well-stocked wine list. Oak Room provides a refined dining experience perfect for steak enthusiasts.
The Abu Dhabi EDITION, @oakroomabudhabi, oakroomabudhabi.com
Fouquet’s
Located inside the striking Louvre Abu Dhabi, Jean Nouvel’s waterside masterpiece, Fouquet’s Abu Dhabi brings Parisian glamour and hedonism to the UAE capital. Blending art, culture, and delicious food, the elegant interior reflects a classic Parisian style, with plush seating, mood lighting, and walls adorned with art. Michelin-starred chef Pierre Gagnaire’s carefully designed menu offers a range of flavours, and diners can expect classic French dishes like glazed duck breast and chicken supreme alongside more contemporary creations. Don’t miss their signature Crêpes Suzette for a sweet ending. Fouquet’s provides a refined dining experience that transports you to the heart of Paris – an experience for those familiar with the Group Barriere brand and its trendy global outposts (in France, Morocco and Switzerland).
Louvre Abu Dhabi, @fouquets.abudhabi, fouquetsabudhabi.com
Alba Terrace
Situated on the grounds of the sought-after Abu Dhabi EDITION hotel – located in the trendy Al Bateen marina, Alba Terrace is the perfect spot for an upscale yet laid-back sun-dapped lunch. Located within the hotel’s lush gardens, Alba Terrace offers a relaxed Mediterranean escape with a beautiful poolside setting, and comfortable seating. The menu features fresh, continental cuisine, including delicious wood-fired pizzas, flavorful small plates, and expertly prepared seafood dishes. Their signature spritz cocktails add a refreshing touch to the sophisticated yet laid-back atmosphere.
Abu Dhabi EDITION, Al Bateen Marina; albaterrace.com
Best Middle Eastern restaurants in Abi Dhabi
Beirut Sur Mer
Take a trip to the Lebanese capital with a visit to Beirut Sur Mer – a rustic, low-key seafood eatery featured in both the Michelin Guide and 50 Best Discovery lists. Located on the white sand shores of Saadiyat Island with beautiful Arabian Gulf views, this visually striking restaurant boasts stylish interiors with bright pops of colour, oceanic touches and brilliant ocean views – creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. This is all about wholesome, simple, fresh cuisine, and the menu showcases an array of authentic Lebanese specialities. Indulge in mezze, a selection of small plates perfect for sharing, or savour signature dishes like succulent grilled meats, fresh seafood stews, and aromatic vegetarian options. Beirut Sur Mer promises a delightful journey through the diverse flavours of Lebanon, offering a sophisticated yet welcoming dining experience.
Saadiyat Island, @beirutsurmer
Almayass
Popular with locals thanks to its understated, elegant vibe and unique culinary offering, Almayass offers a vibrant culinary journey through Lebanon and Armenia. Nestled in the glossy Galleria Mall on Al Maryah Island, the restaurant has warm, earthy tones and intricate patterns create an inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a bustling marketplace. The menu is a tapestry of flavours, featuring classic mezze like hummus and baba ghanoush alongside comforting stews and flavorful grilled meats. Signature dishes include the kibbeh karaz, a delicious blend of lamb and cherries, and the mouthwatering mante, traditional Armenian dumplings. Almayass provides a taste of the Middle East’s rich culinary heritage in a refined, welcoming setting.
Galleria Mall, Al Maryah Island, @almayass_abudhabi
Li Beirut
Located within the Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers hotel, Li Beirut presents a contemporary take on Lebanese cuisine. The restaurant features a sleek, modern design with harbour views and its menu offers refined versions of traditional dishes, including flavorful mezze, perfectly grilled meats, and creative seafood options. Signature dishes like the Lobster Kibbeh and Hummus with Wagyu Beef highlight their elevated approach to Lebanese flavours.
Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, @libeirut.conradetihadtowers,
Best Asian restaurants in Abu Dhabi
Otoro
For the best Japanese cuisine in Abu Dhabi, head to Otoro – a restaurant for ‘in the know’ residents and locals. As Singapore-raised star Chef Akmal Anuar’s Abu Dhabi debut, the man credited for 3Fils global acclaim and concepts like Dubai’s 11 Woodfire and Goldfish Sushi and Yakitori, Otoro delivers the fresh produce and dishes from the various prefectures of Japan such as Wagyu from Kagoshima, Otoro from Tokyo, Uni from Hokkaido in. Located in Al Qana, on a tow of waterfront restaurants, Otoro offers a slick, minimalistic, and quintessentially Japan-chic setting: an open kitchen, neutrals, stripped-back walls and a scattering of greenery. Signature dishes include delicate Otoro nigiri, showcasing the prized cut of tuna, expertly composed sushi platters and flavorful robata grills. Artisanal cocktails complement the cuisine, making Otoro a destination for discerning palates seeking an elegant taste of Japan.
Al Maqta’ St, Rabdan, @otoro.ad, otoroabudhabi.com
Hakkasan
Abu Dhabi outpost of the world-famous Hakkasan restaurant sits within the majestic Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental Hotel, a mainstay of the city’s Michelin and 50 Best Discovery guides and one of the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi. A hallmark of the luxury Chinese restaurant brand, born in London with restaurants across the world, Hakkasan Abi Dhabi exudes an aura of modern Chinese elegance. Carved wooden screens, dim lighting, and a striking blue glass bar create a sense of sophisticated allure. The menu offers a culinary journey through Cantonese cuisine, showcasing signature dishes like the Peking Duck with Caviar and the Crispy Duck Salad. Delectable dim sum selections and innovative seafood preparations further enhance the dining experience. Hakkasan provides a refined and luxurious setting for exploring the celebrated flavours of China.
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, @hakkasanabudhabi, hakkasan.com/abu-dhabi
Dai Pai Dong
Located in the elegant Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Dai Pai Dong reimagines the vibrant energy of Hong Kong street food within a contemporary setting. The warm, inviting space features comfortable seating and ambient lighting, fostering a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying classic Cantonese dishes with a modern twist. Chef Dong, with over 16 years of experience, curates a menu showcasing his culinary passion. Signature offerings like the all-you-can-eat dim sum lunch and the Friday night hot pot brunch offer a delightful exploration of Cantonese cuisine, while a la carte options cater to individual preferences. Whether seeking a quick bite or a leisurely shared meal, Dai Pai Dong provides a sophisticated yet approachable dining experience.
Rosewood Abu Dhabi, @daipaidongad, rosewoodhotels.com
The best African restaurants in Abu Dhabi
Flamingo Room by tashas
Dubai diners will be familiar with Flamingo Room – the iconic pink outpost at Jumeirah Al Naseem‘s trendy Turtle Lagoon opened by the South African, UAE-based tashas Group. On a mission to expand across the region, the group opened Flamingo Collection Riyadh in later 2023 – three luxurious African-inspired concepts under one roof – and has now brought this fabulous experience to the UAE capital. Offering African glamour and delightful interior design, Flamingo Room by tashas sits in the soon-to-be-completed Flamingo Collection on Al Maryah island, and those familiar with the brand will love the signature pink interiors, sleek marble, gold accents and animal-print furnishings. Channelling the group’s African heritage and showcasing the continent’s rich flavours, the menu features favourites like the mouth-watering Calamari Mozambique, generous portions of pasta and a dedicated menu of mains for sharing alongside one of the best dessert menus in the city.
Galleria Mall, Al Maryah Island, @flamingoroomae, sevenrooms.com
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