Best restaurants in Abu Dhabi – The ultimate list!
Foodies in the capital assemble! We bring you the ultimate list of the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi. This will put an end to all those times you can’t figure out where to head for your next gastronomical adventure. To make it easier, we have split the list into budget-friendly and fine dining restaurants. Let’s dig in and find out the best spots for the ultimate culinary experience in the city.
TOP BUDGET-FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS IN ABU DHABI
Looking for tasty eats without blowing a hole in your bank account? Here’s our guide to the best affordable restaurants in Abu Dhabi. These ‘easy in the wallet’ eateries offer seriously good food at under AED 200 for two!
HOT PALAYOK
If you’re looking for the finest Filipino restaurants in Abu Dhabi with Pan Asian cuisine, Hot Payalok is a winner with its authentic flavours and generous servings. This place also offers one of the best buffets in Abu Dhabi.
- Location: Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre, Madinat Zayed
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
- Average Price for Two: AED 115
- Contact: +971-2-622-3338 | +971-56-998-5288
BAIT EL KHETYAR
One of the best shawarma places in Abu Dhabi, Bait El Khetyar offers traditional Arabian fare at affordable rates. The food is delicious and they arguably have the cheapest shawarma in the capital.
- Location: Al Najda Street, Najda
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 07:30 am – 12:00 am
- Average Price for Two: AED 125
- Contact: +971-2-633-3200
INDIAN BY NATURE
Looking for some great Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi? Try Indian by Nature on Al Najda Street. The place is known for its lip-smacking Indian flavours and generous Punjabi thalis. Don’t forget to enjoy the kulfi after you’ve feasted on the food.
- Location: Najda
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 08:00 am – 11:00 pm
- Average Price for Two: AED 125
- Contact: +971-2-667-7898 | +971-56-551-1066
NIHAL RESTAURANT
Serving the best biryani in Abu Dhabi, another cheap Indian restaurant in the capital that offers delicious food is the Nihal Restaurant. Try their butter chicken and malai kofta or opt for dal makhni and palak paneer for a vegetarian treat.
- Location: Al Markaziya
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 11:00 am – 12:00 am
- Average Price for Two: AED 100
- Contact: +971-2-631-8088 | +971-56-311-8898
VIA DELHI
Via Delhi is a great option to consider if you’re looking for an affordable Indian and Chinese menu. The restaurant is known to serve some of the best momos you’ll find in Abu Dhabi.
- Location: Najda
- Timing: Sunday, Friday and Saturday: 08: am – 11:30 pm
- Average Price for Two: AED 110
- Contact: +971-2-671-0522 | +971-55-965-6168
MAN’OUSHE STREET
Looking for some quick and easy-to-eat Lebanese food? Head over to Man’oushe Street. This restaurant in Abu Dhabi is great for some delicious halloumi, manakeesh and falafel.
- Location: Najda
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday open 24 hours a day
- Average Price for Two: AED 105
- Contact: +971-2-673-3360
MORA
One of the most popular eateries in Abu Dhabi for cheap and tasty Middle Eastern quick bites, Mora is where you can enjoy some old-fashioned zaatar, falafel, shawarma and more.
- Location: Tourist Club Area (Al Zahiyah)
- Timing: Saturday to Sunday 08:00 am – 11:00 pm
- Average Price for Two: AED 75
- Contact: +971-2-645-5532 | +971-56-975-9044
MAGNOLIA BAKERY
Popular for its wide selection of desserts, cupcakes and cakes, Magnolia Bakery is amongst the best bakeries in ABu Dhabi. It has been winning regular patrons with its perfectly balanced sweet treats.
- Location: The Galleria, Al Maryah Island
- Timing: Sunday to Wednesday and Saturday 08:00 am – 10:00 pm | Thursday and Friday 08:00 am – 12:00 am
- Average Price for Two: AED 150
- Contact: +971-2-674-9380
MAX’S RESTAURANT
For foodies in Abu Dhabi who love Filipino food, Max’s restaurant is an absolute haven. Try their signature fried chicken, chicken sisig or kare kare for some real flavours from the Philippines.
- Location: Khalifa Street, Al Markaziya
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
- Average Price for Two: AED 155
- Contact: +971-2-627-8352 | +971-56-990-7485
OLA BRASIL
Ola Brasil can be easily counted among the best Brazilian restaurants in Abu Dhabi for its chic ambience and unparalleled Brazilian food with authentic flavours. This pet-friendly restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat meat buffet and a salad bar.
- Location: Al Ghazal Golf Club, Masdar City
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 12:00 pm – 04:00 pm | 06:00 pm – 10:30pm
- Average Price for Two: AED 190
- Contact: +971-55-519-0066 | +971-2-505-3323
ZAHRAT LEBNAN
Zahrat Lebnan serves the best Lebanese restaurants in Abu Dhabi. The place is particularly famous for its Kebab Khashkash and Shish Taouk.
- Location: Muroor Road, Muroor
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 08:00 am – 02:00 am
- Average Price for Two: AED 165
- Contact: +971-2-448-8130 | +971-2-448-8131
PIZZA DI ROCCO
This traditional Italian pizzeria guarantees artisanal, fresh-out-of-the-oven pizzas with crispy crusts and unique flavours. Termed as one of the top pizza places in Abu Dhabi, the pizzeria also offers vegan-friendly food options and some seriously good pasta.
- Location: Al Dhafrah | Etihad Plaza
- Timing: Sunday to Thursday 11:00 am – 12:00 am | Friday and Saturday 11:00 am – 02:00 am
- Average Price for Two: AED 180
- Contact: +971-8-007-6226
PANCAKE HOUSE
Don’t be fooled by the name, apart from serving the best pancakes in the capital, this place is a known spot for Filipino cuisine. You can enjoy wholesome hearty food here including sandwiches, pasta, soups and some delicious Filipino favourites.
- Location: World Trade Center Mall, Al Markaziya
- Timing: Sunday to Thursday 08:00 am – 10:00 pm | Friday and Saturday 08:00 am – 11:00 pm
- Average Price for Two: AED 135
- Contact: +971-2-622-0036
MING’S CHAMBER
Next on our list of best Abu Dhabi restaurants is Ming’s Chamber, known for its Pan Asian cuisine and excellent service. Get your hands on some of the best dim sums or try their dumplings and Hakka noodles if you’re unsure of what to order.
- Location: Al Wahda Mall | Dalma Mall
- Timing: Saturday and Sunday 11:00 am – 11:15 pm | Monday to Friday 11:00 am – 10:45 pm
- Average Price for Two: AED 185
- Contact: +971-2-546-6522 | +971-2-491-1992
SAUDI KITCHEN
Ideally located for the residents of rental apartments in Al Mushrif, Saudi Kitchen has both normal and majlis-style seating. The food servings are generous and you get to enjoy authentic Saudi food.
- Location: Multiple Locations
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 12:00 pm – 12:00 am (Al Dhafra Street, Al Mushrif)
- Average Price for Two: AED 190
- Contact: +971-2-665-5355 (Al Dhafra Street, Al Mushrif)
ART HOUSE CAFÉ
This hidden gem offers a mix of American, European and Continental food, including burgers and pasta. They are known for being one of the best coffee shops in Abu Dhabi and also offer healthy food options.
- Location: Multiple Locations
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 09:00 am – 11:30 pm
- Average Price for Two: AED 160
- Contact: +971-2-666-0175 (Al Bateen)
BARBEQUE NATION
An all-you-can-eat barbeque grill buffet — who wants to say no to that? Barbeque Nation brings you huge servings and an extensive variety of grilled food spiced up with Indian flavours.
- Location: Dalma Mall | Al Wahda Mall
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 12:00 pm – 03:30 pm | 06:30 pm – 11:00 pm
- Average Price for Two: AED 120
- Contact: +971-56-534-7111 (Dalma Mall) | +971-54-581-6327 (Al Wahda Mall)
MOSAIC
Another top Lebanese restaurant in the capital, Mosaic boasts an array of grilled fare and a full range of Lebanese food including hot and cold mezze.
- Location: Multiple Locations
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 09:00 am – 11:30 pm (Embassies District)
- Average Price for Two: AED 185
- Contact: +971-04-204-9361 (Embassies District)
TOP UP-SCALE RESTAURANTS IN ABU DHABI
Let’s up the bar and look at some of the upscale restaurants in Abu Dhabi. These are good if you want to make an impression, enjoy a romantic dinner or simply splurge on some great food with an ambience to match.
PUNJAB GRILL
Experience gourmet Indian food from Northern India and Punjab in a chic setting. Punjab Grill is one of the best Indian restaurants in the city and has both indoor and outdoor seating options available.
- Location: Venetian Village, Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, Al Maqtaa
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 12:30 pm – 12:00 am
- Average Price for Two: AED 310
- Contact: +971-24-499-839 | +971-50-668-3054
CAFÉ MANDARINA
Foodies in Abu Dhabi, living in the Al Bahia area shouldn’t miss out on Café Mandarina. The place takes pride in serving homely food sourced from the freshest ingredients in the city. This is also popular amongst families for being the best kid-friendly restaurant in Abu Dhabi as well.
- Location: Mandara Equestrian Club, 991, Rahba Farm, Al Shahama
- Timing: Saturday and Sunday 01:00 pm – 11:00 pm | Monday to Friday 03:00 pm – 11:00 pm
- Average Price for Two: AED 215
- Contact: +971-56-890-5776 | +971-50-476-1079
TEXAS ROADHOUSE
Next one on our list is one of the popular steakhouses in Abu Dhabi. Texas Roadhouse invites you to a Texas-themed rustic setting. The steakhouse serves a fervently American fare brought alive with a Southwestern twist. The food is delicious, which makes Texas Roadhouse one of the top Abu Dhabi restaurants.
- Location: Al Maryah Island
- Timing: Sunday to thursday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm | Friday and Saturday 11:00 am – 12:00 am
- Average Price for Two: AED 190
- Contact: +971-2-492-6838
JAZZ@PIZZA EXPRESS
Care for some Italian food in Abu Dhabi? Jazz@Pizza Express has everything from wood oven pizzas to creamy risottos, a variety of pasta and some great appetisers!
- Location: Multiple Locations
- Timing: Sunday to Wednesday 11:30 am – 11:30 pm | Thursday to Saturday 11:30 am – 12:30 am | Happy Hour (every day) 04:00 pm – 08:00 pm (World Trade Centre, Al Markaziya)
- Average Price for Two: AED 240
- Contact: +971-2-444-7752 (World Trade Centre, Al Markaziya)
MADANG KOREAN
Also ranking among our top restaurants in Abu Dhabi is Madang Korean restaurant. The best things to try there include ramen and bulgogi. Do try bingsu – a special Korean ice cream. This place is amongst the popular Korean restaurants in the emirate. The best part? It is a pet-friendly restaurant so your furry friend can tag along with you.
- Location: Masdar City
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 12:00 pm -12:00 am
- Average Price for Two: AED 300
- Contact: +971-2-575-8185 | +971-56-327-5999
DENNY’S
Denny’s is a local favourite when it comes to fast food and comfort food. Whether you opt for the meaty burgers or the delicious nachos, you won’t be disappointed. You can also enjoy a delicious breakfast here at just AED 49.
- Location: Abu Dhabi Mall
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday open 24 hours
- Average Price for Two: AED 230
- Contact: +971-04-204-9340
BRICK – ROOFTOP KITCHEN & BAR
Just as the name suggests, this upscale restaurant in Abu Dhabi serves soulful oven baked specialities. Their menu features artisanal breads, seafood, steaks and pizza.
Or if you want to grab a few drinks whilst overlooking the glistening views of the capital, this rooftop restaurant is one of the best options.
- Location: Aloft Hotel, Embassies District
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 05:00 pm – 12:00 am
- Average Price for Two: AED 185
- Contact: +971-4-204-9305
FAMOUS DAVE’S BARBECUE
This western American barbeque chain is known for its spicy hot wood-smoked meats served with delicious sides. Dig into some sumptuous beef brisket and juicy burgers with spicy wings or crispy fries.
- Location: Multiple Locations
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 11:00 am – 11:00 pm (Abu Dhabi Mall)
- Average Price for Two: AED 285
- Contact: +971-2-658-7863 (Abu Dhabi Mall)
THE CHEESECAKE FACTORY
This entry on our list of best restaurants in Abu Dhabi is no surprise. The Cheesecake Factory is a favourite mainly because of the extensive variety of delicious food it serves. Their cheese pasta, burgers and cheesecakes are the most popular on the menu.
- Location: Multiple Locations
- Timing: Sunday to Thursday 10:00 am – 11:00 pm | Friday and Saturday 10:00 am – 12:00 am (The Galleria Mall Extension, Al Maryah Island)
- Average Price for Two: AED 290
- Contact: +971-2-492-6822 (The Galleria Mall Extension, Al Maryah Island)
TOP FINE-DINING RESTAURANTS IN ABU DHABI
THE TERRACE ON THE CORNICHE
Choose between buffet-style or à la carte dining, to enjoy the restaurant’s modern take on international cuisine. Pick a seat outdoors for a romantic setting and spectacular views.
- Location: Corniche, Al Khubeirah
- Timing: Sunday 07:00 am – 03:00 pm | 07:00 pm – 11:00 pm | Monday to Saturday 07:00 am – 11:00 am | 12:30 pm – 03:00 pm | 07:00 pm – 11:00 pm
- Average Price for Two: AED 480
- Contact: +971-2-694-4553
LE CAFÉ
With glamour centre stage, Le Café presents the perfect location for a lavish afternoon tea or a stylish dinner. If the indoor seating isn’t what you’re looking for, you can enjoy a dining experience by the fountain.
- Location: Emirates Palace, Al Ras Al Akhdar
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 08:00 am – 11:00 pm
- Average Price for Two: AED 400
- Contact: +971-04-204-9379
TEXAS DE BRAZIL
This upscale Brazilian restaurant in Abu Dhabi serves all-you-can-eat meat — carved and grilled to perfection — on your table.
- Location: Yas Mall
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
- Average Price for Two: AED 460
- Contact: +971-2-563-1424
CHO GAO
Enjoy the festive ambience and flavourful Pan Asian food with some creative signature dishes at Cho Gao.
- Location: Crowne Plaza, Al Markaziya
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 12:00 pm – 10:30 pm | Happy Hours 04:00 pm – 07:00 PM (daily)
- Average Price for Two: AED 310
- Contact: +971-2-616-6149
99 SUSHI BAR
If you’re looking for a nice restaurant in Abu Dhabi that serves some great sushi and Japanese food, 99 Sushi Bar has you covered. It is also known to be one of the best sushi restaurants in Abu Dhabi.
- Location: Multiple Locations
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 12:00 pm – 03:30 pm | 07:00 pm – 11:30 pm
- Average Price for Two: AED 550
- Contact: +971-2-672-3333 (The Four Seasons Al Maryah)
URBAN KITCHEN
This contemporary dining venue in Abu Dhabi offers a sophisticated global buffet with tons of food served from live cooking stations.
- Location: Dustin Thani, Al Nahyan
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 06:30 am – 10:30 am | 12:30 pm – 03:30 pm | 07:00 pm – 10:30 pm
- Average Price for Two: AED 290
- Contact: +971-04-204-9372
BLUE GRILL
Next on our list of restaurants in Abu Dhabi is Blue Grill, which is also among the popular Yas Island restaurants. If you’re looking for fine dining steakhouses in Abu Dhabi, its a perfect option. The place is trendy and knows just how to cook those premium cuts to perfection.
- Location: Yas Island Rotana, Yas Marina
- Timing: Sunday to Thursday 06:00 pm – 12:00 am | Friday 12:30 pm – 04:00 pm | 06:00 pm – 12:00 am
- Average Price for Two: AED 470
- Contact: +971-2-656-4000
ZUMA
One of the most luxurious restaurants in Abu Dhabi, Zuma features traditional Japanese cuisine with a modern twist.
- Location: Al Maryah Island
- Timing: Sunday to Wednesday and Saturday 12:00 pm – 03:30 pm | 07:00 pm – 01:00 am | Thursday and Friday 12:00 pm – 03:30 pm | 07:00 pm -02:00 am
- Average Price for Two: AED 600
- Contact: +971-2-401-5900
TURTLE BAY BAR & GRILL
If you’re looking for surf and turf, Turtle Bay Grill & Bar is offering grilled delicacies with a breathtaking ambience.
Expect luxurious dining experience here. Some of their best sellers are Tuna Tartare, Angus Beef Rib Eye and Jumbo Grilled Prawns. The bar is well-stocked here with a variety of alcoholic drinks.
- Location: Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, Saadiyat Island
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 12:00 pm – 12:00 am
- Average Price for Two: AED 490
- Contact: +971-2-697-0000
HAKKASAN
No introductions needed — Hakkasan is the best you’ve got when it comes to Cantonese food. The opulent setting and views from the terrace add volume to your overall dining experience.
- Location: Emirates Palace
- Timing: Sunday to Thursday 06:00 pm – 01:00 am | Friday 06:00 pm – 12:00 am | Saturday 12:00 pm – 03:00 pm | 06:00 pm – 10:00 am
- Average Price for Two: AED 550
- Contact: +971-2-690-7739
CATCH
Love seafood? This is your place to be. Dine on the freshest catch either indoor or outdoors. Pair that with the in-house craft cocktails and you have a winner.
- Location: Nation Riviera Beach Club, Corniche Road, Al Khubeirah
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 12:00 pm – 12:00 am
- Average Price for Two: AED 595
- Contact: +971-2-694-4553
BENTLEY KITCHEN
Another top-notch restaurant with a view in Abu Dhabi, Bentley Kitchen features a fusion cuisine that combines classic French recipes with influences from contemporary European gastronomy. After a visit, you will know why its among the best restaurants at the Galleria Al Maryah Island.
- Location: The Galleria, Al Maryah Island
- Timing: Sunday to Wednesday and Saturday 12:00 pm – 10:30 pm | Thursday and Friday 12:00 pm – 12:30 am
- Average Price for Two: AED 500
- Contact: +971-2-626-2131
ROSEWATER
This modern restaurant has a buffet-style dining paired with a terrace setting. You can enjoy views of the Corniche and the delicious flavours from all around the world.
- Location: Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, West Corniche, Al Khubeirah
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 06:30 am – 11:00 am | 07:00 pm – 11:00 pm
- Average Price for Two: AED 380
- Contact: +971-2-811-5666
CHAMAS CHURRASCARIA & BAR
If you’re in search for the best high-end restaurants in Abu Dhabi that serve Brazilian food, head over to Chamas Churrascaria. The restaurant hosts different theme nights all week long to add to your dining experience.
- Location: Inter Continental Hotel
- Timing: Monday to Friday 06:00 pm – 11:00 pm | Saturday 12:30 pm – 04:00 pm | 06:30 pm – 11:00 pm
- Average Price for Two: AED 800
- Contact: +971-56-680-2161
FINZ
Savour the perfectly cooked Mediterranean fare, made from freshly-caught seafood at Finz. This Abu Dhabi restaurant with a view is set on water, giving you gorgeous views of the seafront.
- Location: Beach Rotana, Tourist Club Area (Al Zahiyah)
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 12:00 am – 03:30 pm – 06:30 pm | 06:30 pm – 11:00 pm | Ladies Night every Wednesday 07:00 pm – 11:00 pm
- Average Price for Two: AED 540
- Contact: +971-2-697-9013 | +971-2-697-9350
THE FOUNDRY
This steakhouse in Abu Dhabi brings you the finest steak cuts and the freshest seafood for an unforgettable luxury dining experience in the capital. You can also enjoy steak and Jazz brunch here every Friday.
- Location: Al Zahiyah
- Timing: Sunday to Saturday 06:00 am – 10:30 am | 12:00 pm – 03:00 pm | 07:00 pm – 10:00 pm
- Average Price for Two: AED 500
- Contact: +971-2-818-4888
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT ARE SOME GOOD RESTAURANTS IN DUBAI?
The Burj Club, Al Dawar and Atelier M are some seriously good restaurants in the city. For restaurants with stunning views in Dubai, check out our guide.
ARE THERE ANY VEGAN RESTAURANTS IN ABU DHABI?
Yes! There are quite a few vegan restaurants in Abu Dhabi including Jones the Grocer, Aryaas Express and Cafe 302.
WHERE CAN I HAVE HEALTHY FOOD IN ABU DHABI?
KCal, Easy Bites and Healthy Way are some of the popular healthy restaurants in Abu Dhabi.
This brings us to the end of our ultimate list of the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi. With varying budgets – all you foodies in Abu Dhabi can go have a ball with all those options. If however, you’re looking for specific food options, try the best crepes in Abu Dhabi or explore places serving scrumptious waffles in the capital.
My favourite casual dining go to place in Auh and Dubai is Via Delhi Restaurant. They have the best Indian and Chinese options on their menu. Categorically their momos are unbeatable..and they are definitely not at all heavy on the pocket.I was surprised to see that they are not on the list.
Hi Shreya,
Thank you for your suggestion! We have included Via Delhi on our list of Top Restaurants in Abu Dhabi.
Have a great day!