Regional Cuisine Overview: In UAE, traditional dishes often include a mix of flavors from Middle Eastern, Persian, and Indian cuisines. Some popular dishes include Shawarma (thinly sliced meat with spices and vegetables), Hummus (a dip made from mashed chickpeas), Falafel (deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas or fava beans), and Biryani (a flavorful rice dish with meat or vegetables). Traditional drinks include Arabic coffee (strong, spiced coffee) and Ayran (a refreshing yogurt-based drink).
Top-10 Restaurants:
1. Zuma 🍣💰💰💰: Known for its contemporary Japanese cuisine and stylish ambiance, Zuma offers a wide range of sushi, sashimi, and robata-grilled dishes. It’s a high-end restaurant with a modern twist on traditional Japanese flavors.
2. Hakkasan 🥢💰💰💰: This Michelin-starred restaurant offers modern Cantonese cuisine in a sophisticated setting. With its dim sum platters and flavorful wok dishes, Hakkasan is a favorite among food enthusiasts.
3. Li Jiang 🍛💰💰: Li Jiang is a fusion restaurant that combines the flavors of Southeast Asia with Chinese cuisine. The menu offers a variety of dishes, from aromatic curries to dumplings, all served in a sleek and modern environment.
4. Byblos Sur Mer 🍢💰💰: This Lebanese restaurant offers a vibrant and lively atmosphere with a menu that showcases the best of Lebanese cuisine. From shawarma to mezze platters, Byblos Sur Mer is a must-visit for those looking to experience the flavors of the region.
5. Sambusek 🥩💰💰: Sambusek specializes in Levantine cuisine, serving a variety of grilled meats, kebabs, and mezzes. The restaurant’s elegant decor and cozy atmosphere make it a great place for a relaxed dinner.
6. Punjab Grill 🍛💰💰: Punjab Grill is a fine dining restaurant that offers a contemporary twist on traditional Punjabi cuisine. With its rich flavors and innovative presentation, it has become a popular choice for Indian food lovers.
7. Barfly by Buddha-Bar 🍹💰💰: This trendy bar and restaurant offers a fusion of Asian and Mediterranean flavors, accompanied by a wide selection of cocktails. With its stylish interior and vibrant atmosphere, Barfly by Buddha-Bar is a top spot for a night out.
8. Coya 🥘💰💰💰: Coya is a Peruvian restaurant that combines traditional Peruvian ingredients with modern cooking techniques. The menu features ceviches, grilled meats, and flavorful cocktails, making it a unique dining experience.
9. Al Fanar 🥘💰: Al Fanar is a traditional Emirati restaurant that offers a taste of local cuisine. With its rustic decor and authentic dishes like Majboos (spiced rice with meat) and Luqaimat (sweet dumplings), it provides a glimpse into the rich culinary heritage of the UAE.
10. Mazi 🍛💰💰: Mazi is a Greek restaurant that offers a modern twist on traditional Greek dishes. From fresh seafood to souvlaki, the menu is filled with delicious and vibrant flavors that transport diners to the Mediterranean.
Budget Places:
1. Operation: Falafel 🥙💰: This casual eatery offers affordable and flavorful falafel sandwiches, shawarmas, and wraps. It’s a great place to grab a quick bite without breaking the bank.
2. Al Mallah 🥙💰: Known for its shawarmas, Al Mallah is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous, making it a great option for a budget-friendly meal.
3. Shawarma Street 🥙💰: As the name suggests, Shawarma Street is dedicated to serving delicious and affordable shawarmas. With a variety of fillings and toppings to choose from, it’s a go-to spot for shawarma lovers on a budget.
4. Filli Cafe ☕️💰: Filli Cafe is a popular chain that offers a range of affordable tea and coffee options. Whether you prefer Karak chai or a creamy cappuccino, Filli Cafe is a great place to satisfy your caffeine cravings without spending a fortune.
5. Al Reef Bakery 🥖💰: Al Reef Bakery is a local favorite for freshly baked bread, pastries, and snacks. The prices are wallet-friendly, and the quality is top-notch, making it a great place to grab a quick bite.
Vegetarian and Vegan Establishments:
1. The Raw Place 🥗💰💰: The Raw Place offers a wide range of raw, vegan, and gluten-free dishes. From cold-pressed juices to plant-based burgers, it’s a go-to spot for health-conscious individuals.
2. Veganity 🌱💰: Veganity is a vegan restaurant that serves a variety of plant-based dishes inspired by global cuisines. With its flavorful options and innovative menu, it’s a paradise for vegans and vegetarians.
3. Urth by Nabz&G 🍲💰: Urth by Nabz&G is a vegetarian restaurant that focuses on serving wholesome and nutritious meals. From Buddha bowls to hearty soups, it offers a diverse range of vegetarian options.
Cafes with National Desserts:
1. Bateel Cafe 🍰💰: Bateel Cafe is known for its exquisite date-based desserts. From date cakes to date truffles, it offers a range of sweet treats that highlight the natural sweetness of dates.
2. Al Samadi Sweets 🍮💰: Al Samadi Sweets is a traditional Arabic sweets shop that offers a variety of delectable desserts, including baklava, kunafa, and halawet el jibn. It’s a must-visit for those with a sweet tooth.
Bars and Pubs:
1. Iris Yas Island 🍹💰💰: Iris Yas Island is a trendy rooftop bar with stunning views of the city skyline. It offers a wide selection of cocktails, along with a lively atmosphere and occasional live music.
2. McGettigan’s 🍻💰: McGettigan’s is an Irish pub that serves a variety of pub food and drinks. With its friendly atmosphere and live sports screenings, it’s a popular spot for locals and expats.
Live Music Venues:
1. Jazz Bar & Dining 🎺💰💰: Jazz Bar & Dining is a sophisticated venue that offers live jazz performances and a menu inspired by New Orleans cuisine. With its intimate setting and talented musicians, it’s a haven for jazz lovers.
2. The Foundry 🎤💰💰: The Foundry is a lively venue that hosts live music performances by local and international bands. With its energetic atmosphere and diverse lineup, it’s a favorite among music enthusiasts.
Themed Restaurants:
1. La Cantine du Faubourg 🍽💰💰💰: La Cantine du Faubourg is a French-inspired restaurant that combines art, fashion, and gastronomy. With its chic decor and innovative menu, it offers a unique dining experience.
2. Mr. Miyagi’s 🥢🍱💰💰: Mr. Miyagi’s is a quirky Asian street food restaurant with a vibrant atmosphere. From sushi to Thai curries, it serves a variety of Asian dishes with a modern twist.
Local Markets:
1. Abu Dhabi Central Market 🍎🍇🥖: Abu Dhabi Central Market is a bustling market where you can buy fresh produce, spices, and traditional Emirati products. It’s also a great place to try local street food like Shawarma and Manakish.
2. Souk Qaryat Al Beri 🍉🍯🧆: Souk Qaryat Al Beri is a traditional Arabian market where you can find a variety of local products, including spices, dates, and Arabic sweets. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and sample authentic flavors.
Culinary Workshops:
1. Top Chef Cooking Studio 🍳🧑🍳: Top Chef Cooking Studio offers hands-on cooking classes where tourists can learn to prepare traditional Emirati dishes and other international cuisines. It’s a fun and educational experience for food enthusiasts.
Seasonal Food Festivals:
1. Taste of Abu Dhabi 🍽🎉: Taste of Abu Dhabi is an annual food festival that brings together local and international chefs, restaurants, and food vendors. With its live cooking demonstrations and food tastings, it’s a paradise for food lovers.
Ethical and Eco-friendly Establishments:
1. Jones the Grocer 🥗🌱💰: Jones the Grocer is a gourmet food store and cafe that focuses on sustainable and organic ingredients. From farm-to-table dishes to ethically sourced products, it’s a great choice for conscious diners.
Cafes with a View:
1. Observation Deck at 300 ☕️🌆: Located on the 74th floor of the Etihad Towers, the Observation Deck at 300 offers breathtaking views of Abu Dhabi’s skyline. Enjoy a cup of coffee or afternoon tea while taking in the panoramic views of the city.
Family Restaurants:
1. The Cheesecake Factory 🍰🍝💰: The Cheesecake Factory is a family-friendly restaurant that offers a diverse menu, including pasta, burgers, and, of course, a wide selection of cheesecakes. With its generous portions and kid-friendly options, it’s a great choice for a family meal.
Visiting Tips:
– It’s advisable to make table reservations, especially for popular restaurants, to ensure a smooth dining experience.
– Most establishments accept credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller cafes and street food vendors.
– Lunchtime (around 1 pm to 2 pm) and dinner time (around 8 pm to 9 pm) tend to be busy, so arriving early or making reservations can help avoid long waits.
– During the holy month of Ramadan, many restaurants may have altered opening hours and limited menus. It’s best to check in advance.
