Top 20 Best Restaurants in Abu Dhabi – Fine Dining & Local Dining

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is not only a hub of culture, luxury, and modern architecture but also a burgeoning destination for food enthusiasts. From world-class fine dining establishments to authentic local eateries, the city offers a culinary spectrum that satisfies every palate and occasion. Whether you are planning a romantic dinner, a family-friendly outing, or a luxury dining experience, Abu Dhabi has it all.

Visitors seeking the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi will find a dynamic mix of flavors, from traditional Emirati cuisine to international gourmet delights. The city’s skyline, waterfronts, and iconic landmarks make dining here not just a meal but an experience. With options like Abu Dhabi restaurants with a view, you can enjoy breathtaking scenery alongside innovative dishes. As Abu Dhabi continues to grow as a global food destination, both locals and travelers are spoiled for choice when it comes to exceptional dining.

In this guide, we explore the top restaurants in Abu Dhabi, categorized by fine dining, romantic settings, casual favorites, unique concepts, and local gems, ensuring your culinary journey in the capital is unforgettable.

Fine Dining in Abu Dhabi

Fine Dining in Abu Dhabi

For food enthusiasts seeking luxury, fine dining in Abu Dhabi offers an unparalleled experience. These restaurants are perfect for special occasions, business dinners, or those simply wanting to indulge in sophisticated cuisine. The ambiance, attentive service, and creative culinary offerings make fine dining an art in the capital.

Fine Dining Restaurants in Abu Dhabi

Talea by Antonio Guida, Emirates Palace

Talea offers a refined Italian dining experience in the luxurious Emirates Palace. Guests enjoy fresh pasta, seafood, and Mediterranean dishes in a sophisticated ambiance with attentive service. Perfect for special occasions and gastronomic indulgence.

• Cuisine: Italian / Mediterranean
• Location: Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 300–600 per person
• Why it’s special: Celebrity chef Antonio Guida, luxurious palace setting, fine dining experience
• Signature Dishes: Lobster Ravioli, Risotto al Nero
• Best Time to Visit: Evening for a romantic, candlelit dinner

Zuma Abu Dhabi

Zuma combines contemporary Japanese cuisine with a stylish, modern setting. Known for expertly crafted sushi and robata-grilled dishes, the restaurant offers a lively yet upscale atmosphere.

• Cuisine: Japanese
• Location: Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 250–500 per person
• Why it’s special: Trendy design, sophisticated Japanese menu, popular nightlife vibe
• Signature Dishes: Black Cod Miso, Wagyu Beef Tataki
• Best Time to Visit: Dinner for an energetic, lively atmosphere

COYA at Four Seasons Abu Dhabi

COYA brings the flavors and energy of Latin America to Abu Dhabi. Guests enjoy ceviche, anticuchos, and unique cocktails in vibrant surroundings inspired by Peruvian culture.

• Cuisine: Peruvian / Latin American
• Location: Four Seasons Hotel, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 300–600 per person
• Why it’s special: Cultural experience, artistic decor, Latin fusion dishes
• Signature Dishes: Ceviche Nikkei, Anticuchos Skewers
• Best Time to Visit: Evening for vibrant and artistic ambiance

Hakkasan Abu Dhabi

Hakkasan presents modern Chinese cuisine in a sleek, dimly lit setting. Signature dishes include Peking duck, dim sum, and black cod with miso.

• Cuisine: Chinese
• Location: Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 350–650 per person
• Why it’s special: Elegant ambiance, globally acclaimed menu, fine dining Chinese experience
• Signature Dishes: Peking Duck, Black Cod with Miso
• Best Time to Visit: Dinner for a quiet, upscale experience

STAY by Yannick Alléno

Located at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island, STAY offers French haute cuisine with meticulously crafted tasting menus and panoramic views.

• Cuisine: French
• Location: St. Regis Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 400–700 per person
• Why it’s special: Celebrity chef Yannick Alléno, luxurious ambiance, tasting menu experience
• Signature Dishes: Truffle Risotto, Pan-Seared Foie Gras
• Best Time to Visit: Evening for full tasting menu experience

Ray’s Grill

Ray’s Grill specializes in premium steaks and seafood served in a modern yet intimate setting with panoramic city views.

• Cuisine: Steakhouse / International
• Location: Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 350–600 per person
• Why it’s special: Panoramic city views, prime cuts of meat, sunset dining experience
• Signature Dishes: Ribeye Steak, Grilled Lobster Tail
• Best Time to Visit: Sunset for city skyline views

La Petite Maison (LPM)

LPM offers French Mediterranean cuisine focusing on light, fresh, and flavorful dishes in an airy, elegant setting.

• Cuisine: French Mediterranean
• Location: Nation Towers, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 300–500 per person
• Why it’s special: Sophisticated yet approachable, fresh ingredients, celebrated French cuisine
• Signature Dishes: Seared Foie Gras, Mediterranean Lamb Chops
• Best Time to Visit: Lunch or early dinner for a lively but intimate atmosphere

Butcher & Still

Known for high-quality meat cuts and curated wine lists, Butcher & Still provides a stylish industrial-chic environment for relaxed fine dining.

• Cuisine: Steakhouse / International
• Location: The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 250–500 per person
• Why it’s special: Premium steaks, stylish interiors, relaxed fine dining
• Signature Dishes: Tomahawk Steak, Wagyu Burger
• Best Time to Visit: Evening for a relaxed but upscale dining experience

Romantic Restaurants in Abu Dhabi

Sontaya at St Regis Saadiyat

Overlooking the Arabian Gulf, Sontaya serves Southeast Asian cuisine in a tranquil setting, perfect for sunset dinners with couples.

• Cuisine: Southeast Asian
• Location: St. Regis Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 300–550 per person
• Why it’s special: Waterfront views, romantic sunset dining, serene environment
• Signature Dishes: Soft-Shell Crab Curry, Grilled Prawns
• Best Time to Visit: Sunset for panoramic Gulf views

Hunter & Barrel

• Cuisine: Steakhouse / Grill
• Location: Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 200–400 per person
• Why it’s special: Cozy interiors, rustic charm, romantic casual dining
• Signature Dishes: Wagyu Tomahawk, Smoked Beef Ribs
• Best Time to Visit: Evening for a lively, rustic vibe

Buddha-Bar Beach Abu Dhabi

• Cuisine: Asian Fusion
• Location: Saadiyat Beach, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 250–500 per person
• Why it’s special: Beachfront romantic setting, zen-inspired design, sunset cocktails
• Signature Dishes: Grilled Tuna Tataki, Buddha-Bar Chicken Salad
• Best Time to Visit: Evening for sunset and nightlife energy

Cipriani Abu Dhabi

• Cuisine: Italian
• Location: Nation Towers, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 350–600 per person
• Why it’s special: Romantic interiors, classic Italian flavors, celebrity chef heritage
• Signature Dishes: Risotto Primavera, Tagliolini Lobster
• Best Time to Visit: Dinner for a sophisticated ambiance

Café Del Mar

• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 200–400 per person
• Why it’s special: Beachfront views, sunset dining, relaxed romantic vibe
• Signature Dishes: Tiger Prawns, Avocado & Mango Salad
• Best Time to Visit: Sunset for scenic beach views

NIRI Restaurant & Bar

• Cuisine: Japanese / Asian Fusion
• Location: Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 300–550 per person
• Why it’s special: City skyline views, romantic ambiance, modern Japanese menu
• Signature Dishes: Grilled Octopus, Wagyu Beef Sushi
• Best Time to Visit: Evening for skyline views

Casual & Popular Dining Spots

Amoritalia

• Cuisine: Italian / Sicilian
• Location: Al Raha Beach, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 100–250 per person
• Why it’s special: Family-friendly, casual yet refined, authentic Sicilian cuisine
• Signature Dishes: Seafood Linguine, Cannoli Dessert
• Best Time to Visit: Lunch for a relaxed family meal

Antonia

• Cuisine: Italian / Pizza
• Location: Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 80–200 per person
• Why it’s special: Casual setting, authentic pizza, vibrant atmosphere
• Signature Dishes: Margherita Pizza, Truffle Mushroom Risotto
• Best Time to Visit: Dinner for a lively casual vibe

Shake Shack Abu Dhabi

• Cuisine: American / Fast Food
• Location: Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 50–150 per person
• Why it’s special: Quick service, family-friendly, iconic burgers
• Signature Dishes: ShackBurger, Cheese Fries
• Best Time to Visit: Lunch for quick bites

P.F. Chang’s

• Cuisine: Asian Fusion / Chinese
• Location: Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 100–250 per person
• Why it’s special: Casual dining, approachable flavors, family-friendly
• Signature Dishes: Chang’s Lettuce Wraps, Mongolian Beef
• Best Time to Visit: Lunch or early dinner

Famous Dave’s

• Cuisine: American / BBQ
• Location: Abu Dhabi Mall, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 150–300 per person
• Why it’s special: Hearty BBQ meals, casual dining, family-friendly
• Signature Dishes: Baby Back Ribs, Smoked Brisket
• Best Time to Visit: Dinner for a hearty family meal

Unique & Themed Restaurants in Abu Dhabi

Barbossa

• Cuisine: Latin American / Street Food
• Location: Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 150–300 per person
• Why it’s special: Fun, colorful ambiance, creative dishes, perfect for social media photos
• Signature Dishes: Tacos al Pastor, Ceviche Bowl
• Best Time to Visit: Evening for a fun, vibrant atmosphere

The Artisan by Enoteca Pinchiorri

• Cuisine: Italian / Fine Dining
• Location: Four Seasons Hotel, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 400–700 per person
• Why it’s special: Innovative menu, upscale interiors, chef-led experience
• Signature Dishes: Handmade Pasta, Braised Lamb Shank
• Best Time to Visit: Evening for tasting menu experience

Trader Vic’s

• Cuisine: Polynesian / International
• Location: St. Regis Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 250–500 per person
• Why it’s special: Tiki-inspired decor, exotic cocktails, lively ambiance
• Signature Dishes: Polynesian BBQ Chicken, Tropical Prawn Skewers
• Best Time to Visit: Evening for themed dining and cocktails

Bar Du Port

• Cuisine: Seafood / Mediterranean
• Location: Abu Dhabi Corniche, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 200–450 per person
• Why it’s special: Waterfront views, themed decor, fresh seafood specialties
• Signature Dishes: Grilled Hammour, Seafood Platter
• Best Time to Visit: Sunset for waterfront dining

Café Milano

• Cuisine: Italian / Mediterranean
• Location: Nation Towers, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 200–400 per person
• Why it’s special: Trendy interiors, social ambiance, popular for gatherings
• Signature Dishes: Margherita Pizza, Burrata Salad
• Best Time to Visit: Evening for a lively social experience

Local Gems & Emirati Cuisine

Erth by Chef Anis Al Najjar

• Cuisine: Emirati / Modern Arabic
• Location: Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 250–500 per person
• Why it’s special: Chef-led innovation, authentic Emirati flavors, cultural experience
• Signature Dishes: Machboos Chicken, Emirati Lamb Kebab
• Best Time to Visit: Evening for immersive Emirati dining

Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe

• Cuisine: Emirati
• Location: Various locations, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 100–250 per person
• Why it’s special: Traditional decor, cultural authenticity, family-friendly
• Signature Dishes: Luqaimat, Grilled Hammour
• Best Time to Visit: Lunch for traditional casual dining

Mezlai at Emirates Palace

• Cuisine: Emirati / Fine Dining
• Location: Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 300–600 per person
• Why it’s special: Luxury setting, authentic Emirati menu, cultural significance
• Signature Dishes: Camel Mandi, Fish Sayadiya
• Best Time to Visit: Evening for full cultural experience

Al Ibrahimi

• Cuisine: Pakistani / Indian
• Location: Tourist Club Area, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 80–200 per person
• Why it’s special: Local favorite, hearty portions, casual dining
• Signature Dishes: Chicken Biryani, Lamb Karahi
• Best Time to Visit: Lunch or dinner for a casual local meal

Restaurants Near Abu Dhabi Mall

La Brioche

• Cuisine: French / Bakery
• Location: Abu Dhabi Mall, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 50–150 per person
• Why it’s special: Quick service, family-friendly, casual bites
• Signature Dishes: Croissants, Quiche Lorraine
• Best Time to Visit: Breakfast or post-shopping lunch

Famous Dave’s

• Cuisine: American / BBQ
• Location: Abu Dhabi Mall, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 150–300 per person
• Why it’s special: Casual dining, hearty BBQ, family-friendly
• Signature Dishes: Baby Back Ribs, Smoked Brisket
• Best Time to Visit: Dinner for families

P.F. Chang’s

• Cuisine: Asian Fusion / Chinese
• Location: Abu Dhabi Mall, Abu Dhabi
• Price Range: AED 100–250 per person
• Why it’s special: Convenient location, familiar flavors, casual dining
• Signature Dishes: Chang’s Lettuce Wraps, Mongolian Beef
• Best Time to Visit: Lunch or early dinner

Practical Dining Tips for Visitors

• Make reservations in advance for fine dining Abu Dhabi and popular restaurants.
• Avoid peak hours to enjoy a quieter dining experience.
• Dress codes often range from smart casual to formal in upscale restaurants.
• Explore seasonal food festivals and events for unique culinary experiences.

Conclusion

Abu Dhabi is a paradise for food lovers, balancing luxurious fine dining with authentic local gems. From romantic waterfront restaurants to casual family-friendly spots, the city offers diverse flavors and unforgettable experiences. Visiting the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi ensures a journey through culture, innovation, and taste, making it a must-visit culinary destination.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Best Restaurants in Abu Dhabi

1. What are the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi for fine dining?

Abu Dhabi offers a wide range of fine dining options including Talea by Antonio Guida, Zuma Abu Dhabi, Hakkasan, STAY by Yannick Alléno, and Ray’s Grill. These restaurants are known for luxurious ambiance, world-class chefs, and exceptional culinary experiences.

2. Which restaurants in Abu Dhabi are ideal for a romantic dinner?

For couples, Sontaya at St Regis Saadiyat, Hunter & Barrel, Buddha-Bar Beach, Cipriani Abu Dhabi, Café Del Mar, and NIRI Restaurant & Bar offer intimate settings, scenic views, and romantic ambiance perfect for special occasions or sunset dinners.

3. Where can I find casual dining and family-friendly restaurants in Abu Dhabi?

Popular casual spots include Amoritalia, Antonia, Shake Shack Abu Dhabi, P.F. Chang’s, and Famous Dave’s. These restaurants offer approachable menus, quick service, and value for money, making them ideal for families or relaxed gatherings

4. Are there any unique or themed restaurants in Abu Dhabi worth visiting?

Yes! Abu Dhabi has creative themed restaurants such as Barbossa (Latin American street food), The Artisan by Enoteca Pinchiorri (Italian fine dining), Trader Vic’s (Polynesian-themed), Bar Du Port (nautical seafood), and Café Milano (chic Italian classics). These spots are perfect for Instagram-worthy experiences.

5. Which restaurants offer authentic Emirati cuisine?

To experience local flavors, visit Erth by Chef Anis Al Najjar, Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe, Mezlai at Emirates Palace, or Al Ibrahimi. These restaurants preserve Emirati culinary traditions with dishes like machboos, luqaimat, grilled hammour, and regional specialties

6. What are some convenient restaurants near Abu Dhabi Mall?

For easy access and post-shopping dining, try La Brioche, Famous Dave’s, or P.F. Chang’s. These restaurants are family-friendly and offer quick service while being close to shopping hubs.

7. Do I need to make reservations at Abu Dhabi’s top restaurants?

Yes, it’s recommended to reserve in advance, especially for fine dining, romantic, or popular themed restaurants, as weekends and evenings can get busy. Many upscale restaurants also have dress codes, so checking ahead ensures a smooth experience.

8. Are Abu Dhabi restaurants suitable for tourists?

Absolutely. Abu Dhabi’s restaurants cater to international visitors with diverse cuisines, English menus, and staff trained to provide a welcoming experience. From luxury fine dining to local Emirati cuisine, every type of traveler can find something to enjoy.