Try authentic Emirati delicacies at these eateries in Abu Dhabi
From island attractions to amusement parks, there is much to see and do in Abu Dhabi. But visitors who want to learn even more about the UAE should definitely taste the local food. There are numerous flavorful and aromatic traditional dishes to try, including authentic classics of the cuisine like harees and machboos. Interested in sampling the capital’s finest local culinary delights? Our guide to best Emirati restaurants in Abu Dhabi has you covered. These popular eateries offer a true taste of the region’s rich culture.
BEST EMIRATI RESTAURANTS IN ABU DHABI
MEZLAI
Experience the authentic flavours of Emirati cuisine at Mezlai – one of the top fine dining places in Abu Dhabi. This upscale restaurant is located at the elegant Emirates Palace. It is built to look like an open-air Bedouin tent. Popular dishes include bona fide Middle Eastern classics such as fatoush, mouhamara and slow-cooked camel chops. Eating on the restaurant’s beautiful terrace not only ensures a taste sensation but also provides spectacular views of the hotel grounds.
- Location: Emirates Palace, Corniche Road
- Contact: +971-2-690-7999
- Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday 01:00 pm – 11:00 pm
- Average cost for two: AED 525
AL FANAR RESTAURANT
Immerse yourself in the local culture at Al Fanar Restaurant, located right in the heart of Abu Dhabi! The establishment takes diners back to 1960s UAE, with the focus being Emirati cuisine.
Al Fanar Abu Dhabi provides a memorable dining experience with its lovely ambience and excellent service. Additionally, with quirky combos like the ”Good Old Days Breakfast Tray”, visitors can enjoy a taste of what morning meals were like in the capital back in the day.
- Location: Yas Mall, Yas Island
- Contact: +971-2-877-2272
- Opening hours: Saturday to Wednesday 09:00 am – 10:00 pm | Thursday and Friday 09:00 am – 11:00 pm
- Average cost for two: AED 225
AL DHAFRA RESTAURANT
You can find everything from seafood to Mediterranean and Oriental specialities at Al Dhafra Restaurant, one of the best Emirati restaurants in Abu Dhabi. The eatery serves both Emirati and international cuisines.
Al Dhafra has moved to a new location in Heritage Park on Corniche Road. But rest assured, they have managed to keep the same unique character, style and outstanding service.
- Location: Heritage Park, Corniche Abu Dhabi
- Contact: +971-2-673-2266 | +971-2-673-2288
- Opening hours: 12:30 pm – 11:30 pm
- Average cost for two: AED 295
AL MRZAB POPULAR RESTAURANT
Located at Al Mushrif, this Middle Eastern restaurant is famous for its Emirati menu. The must-have dishes include a variety of majboos, biryani and curry with rice. Feerni and Aseedah are the highly recommended desserts on the list.
- Location: Al Mushrif
- Contact: +971-2-666-2333 | +971-2-666-7730
- Opening hours: 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm | 01:30 pm to 11:00 pm (Friday)
- Average cost for two: AED 185
FREEJ SWAILEH
Freej Swaileh is a favourite hangout for locals and Arab expats alike. The portions here are large and plentiful. The ragag with milk and honey is delectable and you’ll want to have it every time you visit. Their special karak, with its accompanying beautiful aroma, is also a popular favourite with regulars.
- Location: Khalifa City
- Contact: +971-2-555-8837
- Opening hours: 07:00 am – 11:00 pm
- Average cost for two: AED 170
NAJD PALACE
Experience traditional Emirati hospitality at Najd Palace! The restaurant serves Emirati, Arabic and other Middle Eastern cuisines prepared by highly skilled chefs, as well as banquets for special occasions and weddings.
Try their grilled fish shaari, madghoot hashi and mixed appetiser platter. Don’t forget a delicious dessert to end it your delicious meal the right way. There is a variety of Fattah on the menu for those who like to have something sweet as a finale.
- Location: Al Falah Street | Khalifa Park – Ministries Complex
- Contact: +971-600-544-546
- Opening hours: 12:00 pm to 12:00 am
- Average cost for two: AED 135
MEYLAS
Meylas has come a long way after its beginnings as a food truck. Today, the founder Shaikha Al Kaabi’s passion for local food has found a magnificent home in Al Muneera. From the best Emirati breakfast in Abu Dhabi to delectable salads and soups, this popular eatery serves up a range of specialities from across the region.
- Location: Al Muneera, Al Raha Beach
- Contact: +971-2-444-8884
- Opening hours: 09:00 am to 11:00 pm
- Average cost for two: AED 120
YADOO’S HOUSE
Yadoo’s House is known for its comfortable furnishings and homey vibes. Try anything from grilled local fish to machboos and harees in an intimate setting. This much-loved dining establishment is also a great option for a sumptuous Emirati breakfast. Examples include the Yadoo House Platter — a choice of two dishes with items such as balaleet and chebab.
- Location: Shakespeare and Co – Al Nasr Tower 2, Al Murror Street
- Contact: +971-2-4411-311
- Opening hours: 08:00 am – 11:00 pm
- Average cost for two: AED 175
THE ROYAL BUKHARI
Considering eating at Bukhari’s Royal Palace in the Old Airport? We don’t blame you! Royal Bukhari, as the name suggests, specialises in feasts suitable for royals.
Here is a tip for new diners; if you come alone, the lamb or goat banquet may be a touch extravagant. The shish taouk, fried fish or chicken madfon might be better options. But whatever you choose, deliciousness is guaranteed!
- Location: Airport Road, Al Mushrif
- Contact: +971-2-665-6114
- Opening hours: 10:00 am to 12:00 am
- Average cost for two: AED 75
SHISH SHAWERMA
Established in 2011, Shish Shawerma offers patrons a unique taste and a glimpse of the country’s unparalleled culture. One of the best Emirati restaurants in Abu Dhabi, Shish Shawerma has both dine-in and take-out options. Alternatively, you can try out their innovative food truck service, the timings of which are 04:00 pm to 11:00 pm.
This amazing shawarma place in Abu Dhabi also offers delivery services to homes and offices, as well as a mobile shawarma kitchen kiosk for large-scale events:
- Locations and Contact: Corniche (+971-2-650-5576) | Khalifa City (+971-2-556-5000) | Muroor Road (+971-2-666-6588) | Yas Mall (+971 2 551 7060)| Bani Yas (+971-2-546-2500)
- Opening hours: Vary
- Average cost for two: AED 140 (Khalifa City) | AED 80 (Muroor Road) | AED 50 (Yas Mall) | AED 75 (Khalidya and Al Baniyas)
OTHER OPTIONS
AL DERWAZA RESTAURANT
- Location: Dalma Mall, Mussafah Sanaiya
- Contact: +971-2-551-5552 | +971-5-044-67441
- Opening hours: 10:00 am to 11:30 pm
- Average cost for two: AED 195
NOURMANDY
- Location: Shabiya ME 9, Mussafah Shabiya
- Contact: +971-2-553-1400 | +971-5-272-55512
- Opening hours: 10:00 am to 11:30 pm | 10:00 am to 11:15 pm (Sunday)
- Average cost for two: AED 155
FAQS
What are some of the must-see attractions in Abu Dhabi?
There are numerous places worth visiting in Abu Dhabi. Amongst the most breathtaking is the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
However, if you are into rollercoaster rides and simulators, Ferrari Theme Park Abu Dhabi is the great option. For foodies who love seafood, there is Al Mina Fish Market in Abu Dhabi, which is always serving up the freshest catch.
What are the best affordable restaurants in Abu Dhabi?
There are many pocket-friendly eateries in Abu Dhabi where a 2-person feast can be enjoyed for as little as AED 50. The list includes Everygreen, Puranmal, Sangeetha Vegetarian Restaurant and many more.
And that’s a wrap! We hope our list helps you to seek out some seriously tasty Emirate eats.
Aside from the best Emirati restaurants in Abu Dhabi, you can also consider these top Arabic restaurants in Abu Dhabi for authentic Middle Eastern fare.
Do you have your own personal favourites in the city? Feel free to share in the comment section below!
