Last Updated: March 2026 | Reading Time: 18 minutes | Verified Information: Official restaurant websites, Time Out Abu Dhabi, What’s On Abu Dhabi
In 2026, the UAE capital boasts an impressive array of Michelin-starred establishments, award-winning chefs, and innovative concepts that celebrate both local heritage and international excellence.
Whether you’re a resident looking to explore new flavors or a visitor seeking memorable dining experiences, Abu Dhabi’s restaurant scene offers something for every palate and occasion. From the world’s first Michelin-starred Emirati restaurant to beachfront Japanese masterpieces, from vibrant Latin American feasts to intimate fine dining experiences, the capital’s culinary offerings are as diverse as they are exceptional.
This comprehensive guide features the top 15 restaurants you must visit in Abu Dhabi in 2026. We’ve curated this list based on critical acclaim, awards, customer reviews, and the unique dining experiences each establishment offers. Each restaurant has been verified for current operations, menu offerings, and location details to ensure you have the most accurate information for planning your next culinary adventure.
1. Erth Restaurant ⭐ Michelin Star
Al Hosn District | Qasr Al Hosn
Cuisine: Modern Emirati | Price Range: AED 600-1000 per person | Dining Style: Fine Dining
Erth Restaurant has etched its name in culinary history as the world’s first and only Emirati restaurant to receive a Michelin star, a groundbreaking achievement that puts Emirati cuisine on the global fine dining map. Located within the historic Qasr Al Hosn fort, the restaurant offers more than just a meal—it provides a cultural journey through the UAE’s rich heritage reimagined through contemporary culinary techniques.
Under the expert guidance of the culinary team, Erth transforms traditional Emirati dishes into artistic presentations without compromising their authentic flavors. The menu showcases locally sourced ingredients from farms across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Hatta, supporting local agriculture while ensuring the freshest produce. Signature dishes include the modern interpretation of lamb machboos with teriyaki sauce, Emirati spiced hasselback potatoes, and the must-try torched salmon crudo that has become the restaurant’s signature starter.
The restaurant’s elegant interior design seamlessly blends traditional Emirati aesthetics with modern luxury, featuring subtle nods to the fort’s heritage. The dining experience is complemented by an extensive wine list and non-alcoholic pairing options that enhance the complex spice profiles of Emirati cuisine.
Must-Try Dishes: Torched salmon crudo, Emirati spiced hasselback potatoes, braised lamb machboos with teriyaki, traditional luqaimat reimagined
Best For: A once-in-a-lifetime taste of elevated Emirati heritage cuisine, special celebrations, cultural food enthusiasts
Official Website: www.erthrestaurant.ae
Location: Qasr Al Hosn, Al Hosn District, Abu Dhabi
2. NIRI Restaurant & Bar
Saadiyat Island | Mamsha Al Saadiyat
Cuisine: Contemporary Japanese | Price Range: AED 500-900 per person | Dining Style: Fine Dining
NIRI Restaurant & Bar has established itself as the crown jewel of Mamsha Al Saadiyat’s dining scene, earning the prestigious Time Out Abu Dhabi Restaurant of the Year award for three consecutive years (2023, 2024, and 2025). This remarkable achievement speaks volumes about the restaurant’s consistent excellence and unwavering commitment to culinary perfection.
Led by sushi master Chef Yasuyuki Takemoto, whose expertise has been honed over decades in Tokyo’s most prestigious establishments, NIRI offers an authentic Japanese dining experience that rivals the best restaurants in Japan itself. The restaurant’s pristine nigiri and sashimi are prepared using the finest fish flown in daily from Tokyo’s Toyosu Market, ensuring unparalleled freshness and quality.
The beachfront location at Mamsha Al Saadiyat provides breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf, creating a serene and sophisticated ambiance. The minimalist interior design, inspired by traditional Japanese aesthetics, features natural wood, clean lines, and subtle lighting that allows the food to take center stage. The charcoal-kissed robata skewers, prepared over traditional binchotan charcoal, add a smoky depth that perfectly complements the delicate flavors of the seafood.
Must-Try Dishes: Wagyu tataki with truffle ponzu, Hokkaido scallops, assorted kushi skewers, omakase tasting menu, signature NIRI roll
Best For: Premium Japanese fine dining with beachfront views, romantic dinners, business entertaining
Official Website: https://www.nirirestaurant.com/
Location: Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
3. Zuma Abu Dhabi
Al Maryah Island | The Galleria
Cuisine: Contemporary Japanese | Price Range: AED 450-850 per person | Dining Style: Fine Dining
Zuma Abu Dhabi has been a cornerstone of the capital’s fine dining scene since its opening in 2014, maintaining its position as one of the most sought-after dining destinations in the UAE. This globally renowned brand brings the vibrant energy of Tokyo’s izakaya dining culture to the heart of Abu Dhabi’s financial district.
The restaurant’s signature robata grill serves as the theatrical centerpiece of the open kitchen, where chefs skillfully prepare an array of dishes using traditional Japanese techniques. The miso-marinated black cod, Zuma’s most iconic dish, melts in your mouth with its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The spicy beef tenderloin with sesame, red chili, and sweet soy has become a cult favorite among regular diners.
Located in The Galleria on Al Maryah Island, Zuma offers stunning waterfront views that create a sophisticated backdrop for both business lunches and celebratory dinners. The chic interiors feature dark wood, stone accents, and dramatic lighting that evoke the ambiance of a contemporary Tokyo restaurant. The extensive sake list, curated by expert sommeliers, offers rare selections that perfectly complement the menu.
Must-Try Dishes: Miso black cod, spicy beef tenderloin, jumbo tiger prawns with wasabi, rock shrimp tempura, weekend brunch
Best For: Sophisticated Japanese dining, weekend brunch experiences, waterfront dining with views
Official Website: www.zumarestaurant.com
Location: The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
4. Hakkasan Abu Dhabi ⭐ Michelin Star
Al Ras Al Akhdar | Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Cuisine: Contemporary Cantonese | Price Range: AED 550-950 per person | Dining Style: Fine Dining
Hakkasan Abu Dhabi stands as a Michelin-starred powerhouse that has been captivating diners for over a decade with its sophisticated interpretation of Cantonese cuisine. Located within the opulent Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, the restaurant combines world-class culinary excellence with an atmosphere of glamorous mystery.
The moody, atmospheric interior features the brand’s signature blue-lit lattice screens, creating intimate dining spaces that feel both exclusive and inviting. The menu showcases modern techniques applied to traditional Cantonese recipes, resulting in dishes that honor heritage while pushing culinary boundaries. The Peking duck with caviar, a Hakkasan signature, represents the perfect marriage of classic preparation and luxurious innovation.
The restaurant’s dim sum selection is legendary, featuring delicate parcels that arrive at your table steaming hot and bursting with flavor. From the crispy duck salad to the black pepper beef, each dish is meticulously prepared using premium ingredients and time-honored techniques. The chic outdoor terrace offers a more relaxed setting while maintaining the same exceptional quality of food and service.
Must-Try Dishes: Peking duck with caviar, crispy spicy prawn cheung fun, dim sum basket, black pepper beef, stir-fried black pepper rib eye
Best For: Special occasions, luxury Chinese dining, romantic dinners in an atmospheric setting
Official Website: hakkasan.com/abu-dhabi
Location: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi
5. Antonia
Saadiyat Island | Mamsha Al Saadiyat
Cuisine: Italian | Price Range: AED 200-450 per person | Dining Style: Casual Dining
Antonia brings authentic Italian soul to Abu Dhabi’s dining scene with a heartwarming story and exceptional food that transports diners straight to the streets of Italy. The restaurant’s foundation is built on a 50-year-old sourdough recipe from Grandma Antonia, a family treasure that has been carefully preserved and now forms the basis of some of the capital’s best pizza.
The dough undergoes a 72-hour fermentation process using rustic Italian flour and premium olive oil, resulting in a crust that is perfectly crisp on the outside while remaining light and airy within. Each pizza is a masterpiece, topped with high-quality ingredients sourced from Italy and prepared with the care and attention that only comes from generations of culinary tradition.
Located at the beachfront Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Antonia offers a casual yet refined dining experience where families and friends can gather to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. The handmade pasta, prepared fresh daily, rivals anything you would find in Rome or Naples, while the signature tiramisu provides the perfect sweet ending to your meal.
Must-Try Dishes: Pizza al taglio (by the slice), margherita pizza, handmade pasta dishes, signature tiramisu, burrata salad
Best For: Casual Italian dining with beach views, family meals, authentic pizza lovers
Official Website: https://www.antoniarestaurant.com/
Location: Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
6. Butcher & Still
Al Maryah Island | Four Seasons Hotel
Cuisine: American Steakhouse | Price Range: AED 500-900 per person | Dining Style: Fine Dining
Step into a glamorous 1920s Chicago speakeasy at Butcher & Still, an award-winning steakhouse that won FACT’s Restaurant of the Year in 2022. This exceptional venue transports diners back to the Prohibition era with its soft leather seats, dark wooden floors, and an ambiance that perfectly captures the spirit of old Chicago.
The restaurant specializes in prime cuts of American beef, sourced from the finest ranches and aged to perfection. The menu features an impressive selection of steaks, from tender filet mignon to robust ribeye, each prepared with precision and served with classic accompaniments. The Prohibition-era cocktail menu is a work of art in itself, featuring creative interpretations of classic drinks that complement the rich flavors of the meat.
Butcher & Still’s legendary 34-layer Tribune Tower Chocolate Cake has achieved near-mythical status among Abu Dhabi’s food enthusiasts. This decadent dessert, with its intricate layers of chocolate and cream, is the perfect finale to an exceptional dining experience. The restaurant’s commitment to excellence extends to every aspect of the meal, from the carefully curated wine list to the impeccable service.
Must-Try Dishes: Prime ribeye steak, filet mignon, Prohibition cocktails, 34-layer Tribune Tower Chocolate Cake, lobster mac and cheese
Best For: Steak lovers, vintage glamour enthusiasts, special celebrations, business dinners
Location: Four Seasons Hotel, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
7. COYA Abu Dhabi
Al Maryah Island | Four Seasons Hotel, The Galleria
Cuisine: Peruvian | Price Range: AED 400-750 per person | Dining Style: Fine Dining
COYA Abu Dhabi brings the vibrant, exotic flavors of Peru to the heart of the capital, creating a dining experience that is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the exceptional food. This lively restaurant has become synonymous with celebration, offering a fun, party atmosphere that is particularly evident during their legendary weekend brunches.
The menu features an extensive array of Peruvian specialties, from fresh ceviches marinated in citrus and ají to sashimi influenced by the Japanese-Peruvian Nikkei tradition. The anticuchos, traditional Peruvian skewers marinated in ají panca and grilled to perfection, showcase the bold, smoky flavors that define Peruvian cuisine. The restaurant’s commitment to authenticity is evident in every dish, prepared using traditional techniques and the finest ingredients.
The chic interiors, inspired by the art deco style of 1920s Lima, create a sophisticated yet welcoming environment. The extensive à la carte menu covers everything from seafood and steak to vegetarian options, ensuring there is something for every palate. The pisco cocktail menu is a journey through Peru’s national spirit, with creative variations that highlight the complexity and versatility of this grape-based brandy.
Must-Try Dishes: Ceviche mixto, anticuchos de corazón, Peruvian corn (cancha), pisco sour, lomo saltado, tiradito
Best For: Lively Latin American dining, weekend brunch experiences, celebrations with friends
Official Website: www.coyarestaurant.com
Location: Four Seasons Hotel, The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
8. La Petite Maison (LPM)
Al Maryah Island | The Galleria
Cuisine: French-Mediterranean | Price Range: AED 500-900 per person | Dining Style: Fine Dining
La Petite Maison, affectionately known as LPM, has established itself as a world-famous name in Abu Dhabi’s dining scene, bringing the refined flavors of the French Mediterranean to the capital’s most prestigious address. This beloved restaurant has become a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors, consistently ranking among the city’s top dining experiences.
The menu showcases the simplicity and elegance of Mediterranean cuisine, with dishes that highlight the natural flavors of premium ingredients. The seabream fillet with capers and almonds is a signature dish that perfectly exemplifies LPM’s philosophy—fresh, high-quality fish prepared with minimal intervention to allow its natural flavors to shine. The artichoke salad, dressed with a light lemon vinaigrette, is another favorite that demonstrates the restaurant’s mastery of vegetable preparation.
Located on The Galleria’s chic promenade, LPM offers tranquil sea views that create a serene backdrop for your dining experience. The elegant yet unpretentious interior reflects the restaurant’s Nice origins, with a warm, welcoming atmosphere that encourages lingering over multiple courses. The extensive wine list features exceptional selections from France and beyond, carefully chosen to complement the menu’s Mediterranean flavors.
Must-Try Dishes: Seabream fillet with capers and almonds, artichoke salad, Niçoise salad, fresh seafood platter, roasted lamb
Best For: Romantic dinners, sophisticated French dining, business lunches, seafood lovers
Official Website: https://lpmrestaurants.com/abu-dhabi/
Location: The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Note: Reservations essential—book 2-3 weeks in advance
9. Beirut Sur Mer
Saadiyat Island | Mamsha Al Saadiyat
Cuisine: Lebanese | Price Range: AED 300-600 per person | Dining Style: Casual to Fine Dining
Beirut Sur Mer has established itself as a buzzing gem on Saadiyat Island, perfectly suited for any occasion from casual breakfast gatherings to chic evening celebrations. This vibrant restaurant captures the essence of Lebanese hospitality, combining authentic flavors with a contemporary setting that appeals to both traditionalists and modern diners.
The menu spans an impressive seven pages of Lebanese delicacies, from classic mezze to fresh seafood, crisp salads, and mind-blowing mixed grills. The tlameh trio, featuring three variations of this traditional Lebanese flatbread, has become a signature starter that sets the tone for the meal. Each piece of bread is freshly baked and served with an array of dips and spreads that showcase the diversity of Lebanese cuisine.
The mixed grill platter is a carnivore’s dream, featuring perfectly seasoned lamb, chicken, and beef cooked over charcoal to achieve that distinctive smoky flavor. For seafood lovers, the fresh catch of the day is prepared simply to highlight its natural sweetness. The restaurant’s nine decadent desserts, particularly the kunafa with its crispy pastry and sweet cheese filling, provide an irresistible finale to your dining experience.
Must-Try Dishes: Tlameh trio, mixed grill platter, fresh seafood, kunafa, fattoush salad, hummus bi tahina
Best For: Authentic Lebanese feasts, beachfront dining, family gatherings, group celebrations
Location: Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
10. NURI Grill & Bar
Yas Island | Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island
Cuisine: Korean Steakhouse | Price Range: AED 450-850 per person | Dining Style: Fine Dining
NURI Grill & Bar stands as perhaps the finest Korean restaurant in Abu Dhabi, offering an exceptional dining experience that combines the best of Korean barbecue traditions with premium steakhouse quality. Located at the Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, this sophisticated venue has quickly become a favorite among discerning diners seeking authentic Korean flavors in an upscale setting.
The restaurant specializes in prime cuts of ethically-raised, wet-aged meat, prepared using traditional Korean techniques and modern grilling methods. The omakase menu, where chefs select the best cuts of the day, offers a curated journey through the finest Korean beef and seafood. For those who prefer to choose their own adventure, the à la carte menu features innovative dishes like beef tartare tacos and tenderloin katsu sandwiches that blend Korean flavors with international influences.
The chic setting features a stylish bar where expert mixologists craft creative cocktails that complement the bold flavors of Korean cuisine. For a truly unique experience, the private karaoke rooms offer a fun, interactive element that is integral to Korean dining culture. The restaurant’s commitment to quality extends to every aspect of the meal, from the carefully selected banchan (side dishes) to the premium soju and sake selections.
Must-Try Dishes: Wet-aged Korean beef, omakase tasting menu, beef tartare tacos, Korean BBQ platter, bibimbap
Best For: Premium Korean steakhouse experience, group dining, karaoke enthusiasts, meat lovers
Official Website: https://nurigrillbar.com/
Location: Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
11. Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi
Al Ras Al Akhdar | Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Cuisine: Indian | Price Range: AED 500-900 per person | Dining Style: Fine Dining
Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi represents the pinnacle of Indian fine dining in Abu Dhabi, showcasing the legendary chef’s mastery of regional Indian cuisines in an opulent setting befitting the Emirates Palace. Chef Hemant Oberoi, one of India’s most celebrated chefs, brings decades of expertise and a deep understanding of India’s diverse culinary traditions to this exceptional restaurant.
The extensive à la carte menu features dishes from across the Indian subcontinent, from the tandoori specialties of the north to the seafood curries of the coast. The set menus offer a curated journey through India’s rich culinary heritage, with each course carefully designed to showcase different regional flavors and cooking techniques. The varqui crab, a signature starter featuring delicate crab meat prepared with Goan spices, has become one of the restaurant’s most beloved dishes.
The swish décor, featuring rich fabrics, intricate carvings, and warm lighting, creates an atmosphere of luxury and sophistication. The restaurant’s commitment to excellence is evident in every detail, from the premium ingredients sourced from across India to the impeccable service that anticipates every need. The extensive wine list and selection of Indian-inspired cocktails provide perfect pairings for the complex spice profiles of the cuisine.
Must-Try Dishes: Varqui crab, butter chicken, lamb rogan josh, seafood specialties, tandoori platter, gulab jamun
Best For: Luxury Indian dining, special occasions, regional Indian cuisine enthusiasts
Official Website: https://www.mandarinoriental.com/en/abu-dhabi/emirates-palace/dine/martabaan-by-hemant-oberoi
Location: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi
12. Mika
Yas Island | Yas Marina
Cuisine: Mediterranean with Middle Eastern Flair | Price Range: AED 350-650 per person | Dining Style: Casual to Fine Dining
Mika has earned its reputation as Time Out Abu Dhabi’s Restaurant of the Year, serving Mediterranean cuisine with bold flavors and a strong commitment to sustainability. Chef Mario Loi’s zero-waste ethos is evident throughout the dining experience, with creative dishes that minimize food waste while maximizing flavor and presentation.
The restaurant features its own garden where Chef Loi grows herbs and vegetables, ensuring the freshest possible ingredients for his innovative menu. The golden cod croquettes, crispy on the outside and tender within, showcase the chef’s ability to elevate simple ingredients into extraordinary dishes. The pan-fried prawns, prepared with Mediterranean herbs and a hint of citrus, demonstrate the perfect balance of flavors that defines Mika’s cuisine.
The perfectly grilled octopus, tender and smoky, has become one of the restaurant’s signature dishes, while the lamb preparations showcase the influence of Middle Eastern spices on Mediterranean cooking. The terrace at Yas Marina offers one of the dreamiest dining spots on Yas Island, with waterfront views that create a romantic ambiance for evening meals.
Must-Try Dishes: Golden cod croquettes, grilled octopus, lamb dishes, pan-fried prawns, seasonal vegetable plates
Best For: Sustainable Mediterranean dining, waterfront views, romantic dinners, conscious foodies
Official Website: https://mika.ae/
Location: Yas Marina, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
13. Strawfire by Ross Shonhan
Al Ras Al Akhdar | Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Cuisine: Japanese (Warayaki) | Price Range: AED 500-900 per person | Dining Style: Fine Dining
Strawfire by Ross Shonhan introduces Abu Dhabi to the ancient Japanese Warayaki cooking technique, where dishes are grilled over burning straw to impart a unique smoky flavor that cannot be replicated by any other method. This dynamic restaurant, created by renowned chef Ross Shonhan, combines theatrical presentation with exceptional culinary skill.
The open kitchen serves as the stage for fire-led theatrics, where chefs skillfully manipulate flames to achieve the perfect char on each dish. The prawn toast has achieved legendary status among Abu Dhabi’s food enthusiasts, with its crispy exterior and delicate interior enhanced by the distinctive smoky aroma of the straw fire. The wagyu beef sashimi, seared tableside over the burning straw, offers a sensory experience that engages all the senses.
Requesting a seat by the kitchen provides the full theatrical experience, allowing you to watch as the chefs transform premium ingredients into culinary masterpieces. The smoky Australian wagyu striploin, prepared using the Warayaki technique, showcases how this ancient method can elevate even the finest cuts of meat. The restaurant’s commitment to authenticity extends to every aspect of the dining experience, from the carefully selected sake list to the Japanese-inspired interior design.
Must-Try Dishes: Legendary prawn toast, wagyu beef sashimi, smoky Australian wagyu striploin, grilled seafood, Warayaki vegetables
Best For: Theatrical Japanese dining, fire cooking enthusiasts, unique culinary experiences
Official Website: https://www.mandarinoriental.com/en/abu-dhabi/emirates-palace/dine/strawfire-by-ross-shonhan
Location: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi
14. Bua Thai Café
Yas Island | Yas Bay Waterfront
Cuisine: Thai | Price Range: AED 200-450 per person | Dining Style: Casual Dining
Bua Thai Café stands as a “small but mighty” spot that has become a breath of fresh air for lovers of authentic Thai cuisine in Abu Dhabi. Founded by Chef Bua, whose culinary journey began with preparing food for earthquake victims in Nepal, the restaurant combines heartfelt hospitality with exceptional Thai flavors that transport diners straight to the streets of Bangkok.
The menu features tangy Thai tapas that allow you to sample a variety of flavors, alongside classic dishes prepared with traditional techniques and authentic ingredients. The fresh pad Thai, made to order with tamarind paste, fish sauce, and palm sugar, achieves the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and salty that defines great Thai cuisine. The sea cakes, crispy fritters filled with fish and aromatic herbs, are a must-try starter that showcases the restaurant’s attention to detail.
The secret garden-inspired interior creates a visual delight, with lush greenery and Thai decorative elements that provide a tranquil escape from the bustling waterfront. The mango sticky rice, prepared with sweet coconut milk and perfectly ripe mango, provides the ideal sweet ending to your meal. The tom yum soup, with its complex layers of lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime, demonstrates the restaurant’s commitment to authentic Thai flavors.
Must-Try Dishes: Fresh pad Thai, sea cakes (tod mun pla), mango sticky rice, tom yum soup, Thai tapas selection, green curry
Best For: Authentic Thai food at reasonable prices, casual dining, Thai cuisine enthusiasts
Location: Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
15. BB Social Dining
Al Maryah Island | Rosewood Abu Dhabi
Cuisine: Pan-Asian | Price Range: AED 350-700 per person | Dining Style: Casual to Fine Dining
BB Social Dining arrived in Abu Dhabi from Dubai in 2023 and quickly became an obsession for foodies across the capital. This achingly cool venue brings a fresh, contemporary approach to Pan-Asian cuisine, combining creative dishes with a vibrant atmosphere that appeals to both young professionals and seasoned diners.
The menu features exceptional dim sum that rivals anything found in Hong Kong, with delicate parcels filled with premium ingredients and steamed to perfection. The nigiri and maki rolls showcase the restaurant’s mastery of Japanese techniques, using the freshest fish and innovative flavor combinations. The famous habibti bao, a creative fusion of Middle Eastern and Asian flavors, has become the restaurant’s signature dish and a must-try for first-time visitors.
The creative Asian fusion menu extends beyond traditional boundaries, incorporating influences from across the continent to create dishes that are both familiar and exciting. The restaurant’s cool, contemporary interior features bold design elements and comfortable seating that encourages lingering over multiple courses and creative cocktails. The extensive sake and Asian-inspired cocktail list provides perfect pairings for the diverse menu.
Must-Try Dishes: Dim sum basket, habibti bao, nigiri selection, creative maki rolls, Asian fusion mains, signature cocktails
Best For: Trendy Pan-Asian dining, creative Asian fusion, social dining with friends
Official Website: https://www.thisisbb.me/
Location: Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Honorable Mentions: More Exceptional Dining Experiences
While our top 15 represents the very best of Abu Dhabi’s dining scene, the city offers many more exceptional restaurants worth exploring:
- 3Fils Abu Dhabi (Al Bateen Marina) – Japanese-inspired cuisine with stunning sunset views over the marina
- Talea by Antonio Guida (Emirates Palace) – Michelin-selected Italian fine dining by renowned chef Antonio Guida
- Al Fanar Restaurant & Café (Yas Mall) – Traditional Emirati cuisine in an authentic 1960s setting
- Pincode by Kunal Kapur (The Galleria) – Regional Indian cuisine showcasing India’s diverse culinary traditions
- Maté (Park Hyatt) – Innovative Argentinian-Lebanese fusion steakhouse
Dining Tips for Abu Dhabi in 2026
📝 Essential Information for Diners
- Book in advance: Popular restaurants like LPM, Beirut Sur Mer, and Erth require reservations 2-4 weeks ahead, especially for weekend dining
- Dress codes: Fine dining venues typically enforce smart casual or formal attire; check specific requirements when booking
- Price ranges: Expect to pay AED 300-800+ per person at fine dining establishments, excluding beverages
- Brunch culture: Many restaurants offer weekend brunches with unlimited food and beverages—great value for trying multiple dishes
- Michelin Guide: Abu Dhabi’s 2026 Michelin Guide features over 50 selected restaurants, with several new additions this year
- Ramadan considerations: Dining hours and availability change during Ramadan; check restaurant websites for special iftar and suhoor offerings
- Service charges: Most restaurants add a 10% service charge; additional tipping is appreciated but not mandatory
Final Thoughts
Abu Dhabi’s dining scene in 2026 is more vibrant, diverse, and sophisticated than ever before. From Erth’s groundbreaking Michelin-starred Emirati cuisine to NIRI’s third consecutive Restaurant of the Year award, the capital has firmly established itself as a world-class dining destination that deserves recognition on the global culinary stage.
Whether you’re seeking authentic local flavors that tell the story of the UAE’s heritage, international fine dining that rivals the world’s best restaurants, or casual beachfront spots perfect for relaxed gatherings, Abu Dhabi offers an exceptional range of dining experiences. The city’s commitment to culinary excellence, combined with its diverse population and cosmopolitan atmosphere, has created a food scene that celebrates both tradition and innovation.
As you explore these top 15 restaurants and the many other exceptional dining venues Abu Dhabi has to offer, you’ll discover that each meal is not just about sustenance—it’s about experiencing the culture, creativity, and hospitality that make this city truly special. From the theatrical flame of Strawfire’s Warayaki grill to the intimate ambiance of Hakkasan’s blue-lit dining rooms, from the beachfront breezes of NIRI to the historic walls of Qasr Al Hosn surrounding Erth, every restaurant offers a unique journey for your senses.
So make your reservations, gather your friends and family, and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure through Abu Dhabi’s finest restaurants. Your taste buds will thank you.
Looking for the Perfect Home Near Abu Dhabi’s Best Restaurants?
Whether you want to live steps away from Yas Island’s dining scene, enjoy waterfront living on Saadiyat Island, or be in the heart of Al Maryah Island’s culinary district, Address Point Properties can help you find your ideal home.
Contact us today to explore properties in Abu Dhabi’s most desirable dining neighborhoods.
References & Data Sources
- Time Out Abu Dhabi Restaurant Awards 2025-2026: Annual awards recognizing the city’s best dining establishments
- What’s On Abu Dhabi: Comprehensive dining guides and reviews
- Michelin Guide Abu Dhabi 2026: Official Michelin star ratings and selections
- Official Restaurant Websites: Verified menus, locations, and operating hours
- Hotels of UAE Dining Guide 2026: Hotel restaurant information and reservations
Editorial Note: All restaurant information, including operating hours, menu offerings, and pricing, was verified through official restaurant websites and direct contact as of March 2026. Prices are indicative and subject to change. Reservations are highly recommended for all featured restaurants, particularly for weekend dining and special occasions. Some restaurants may have dress codes; please check individual restaurant websites for specific requirements.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a guarantee of service quality or dining experience. Restaurant operations, menus, and pricing are subject to change without notice. Address Point Properties is not responsible for the accuracy of third-party information or the quality of services provided by featured restaurants. Please verify all details directly with the restaurants before making reservations.
