A foodies guide to Abu Dhabi: Best restaurants and local eats.

If you love to eat, Abu Dhabi is the perfect destination. Indeed, you can experience and find a wealth of interesting spots, from traditional eateries to world-class restaurants. The city’s dining scene is incredibly diverse.

The arrival of foreigners from different nationalities in Abu Dhabi has led to a vibrant culinary scene featuring various international cuisines, such as Lebanese, Egyptian, Indian, Chinese, Korean, and Filipino food. Therefore, no matter where you come from, you can taste flavors from all over the world if you dare to explore in Abu Dhabi. This global variety guarantees something for every palate.

Featured Restaurants and Lounges

Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe – DFC (Authentic Emirati)

Established in 2011 as the first and only Emirati restaurant, Al Fanar proudly showcases Abu Dhabi’s cultural heritage and exquisite gastronomy. Specifically, the restaurant offers diners a unique, immersive experience into the city’s roots; every corner tells a story about Abu Dhabi’s history, complemented by architecture influenced by Eastern traditions. The design transports guests back in time.

In the 1960s, the sea was a lifeline for Dubai, serving as a central trading hub for goods like spices, pearls, and minerals. Consequently, the population relied on the Arabian Gulf, which provided delicious, fresh seafood such as orange-spotted grouper, shrimp, and squid. This historical focus on the sea shaped the early diet.

Traditional homes were built with mud bricks, coral, and wood, and featured the distinctive kerosene lamp—which is precisely what the Arabic name Al Fanar means. Ultimately, this symbol reflects the restaurant’s rustic and authentic theme. It sets a wonderfully nostalgic tone.

Al Fanar is recognized for offering the most authentic Emirati dining experience. In fact, its ambiance recalls the Abu Dhabi of the 1960s, and its Machboos is an unmissable delight. This signature dish is highly recommended.

Mezlai (Arabian Fine Dining)

The restaurant is designed to recall an airy Bedouin tent, offering a delectable array of Middle Eastern favourites and stunning views of the Palace grounds. The setting is luxurious and spacious.

Mezlai creates dishes with ingredients derived from the sea, mountains, oases, and desert that evoke the region. In addition, the menu features decadent updates on staples of the Arabian diet, accenting expected ingredients such as za’atar, camel, and dates, and introducing the unexpected flavors of saffron, rosewater, and hand-picked wild oregano. The chef beautifully blends the traditional and the innovative.

A meal at Mezlai provides a window into Arabic culture, a warm welcome to the long history of Arabian hospitality, and a journey into flavors as old as the sands of time, which taste as fresh and inspired as this city of tomorrow. Thus, no stopover in Abu Dhabi is complete without sampling the local flavors and dining as the locals do. This experience is truly essential for visitors.

Al Meylas (Lobby Lounge & Social Hub)

Al Meylas is the bright, sophisticated lobby lounge at the Four Seasons Abu Dhabi on Al Maryah Island, and it features an outdoor terrace facing the waterfront. The location offers a magnificent view.

Al Meylas translates to “gathering place” and is so popular it has been dubbed “Abu Dhabi’s living room.” Furthermore, comfortable sofas and armchairs make everyone feel at home, like a family gathering. The atmosphere is warm and inviting.

The menu focuses on modern Middle Eastern cuisine with small, sharing plates. Moreover, the lounge offers afternoon tea and creative sweets, along with hand-selected teas, artfully prepared coffees, and non-alcoholic cocktails. Open from early morning until the late hours, Al Meylas honors the capital’s Arabic culture with a warm welcome and generous hospitality, which makes it an ideal venue for business and social engagements. It perfectly balances tradition with contemporary elegance.

Catch (Seafood Dining)

Discover Catch Abu Dhabi at the heart of the Nation Riviera Beach Club. Here, you can enjoy a special dining experience with spectacular views of the Abu Dhabi skyline and the tranquil Arabian Gulf while savoring seafood dishes. The setting is spectacular, especially at sunset.

Catch Abu Dhabi is more than just a meal; it is an unforgettable experience. For example, the venue is modern and welcoming, with live music creating the perfect atmosphere for any occasion. Whether you are there for a romantic date, a fun outing with friends, or a special celebration, Catch brings exciting local and international flavors to your table, thereby making every visit memorable. The combination of view, music, and cuisine is exceptional.

COYA (Peruvian Fine Dining)

COYA Abu Dhabi is an exclusive Peruvian restaurant located inside the Four Seasons Hotel in The Galleria. Above all, it stands out for its elegant atmosphere and delicious food. The presentation of the dishes is an art form.

COYA is more than just a place to eat; rather, it is like stepping into a lively Peruvian world, right in Abu Dhabi. Its modern decor and fun atmosphere make every visit memorable. Moreover, Latin American rhythms add to the festive mood, welcoming everyone: locals, tourists, and others. Dining here becomes an adventure. Therefore, COYA Abu Dhabi is the top choice for those seeking a fun, flavorful, and glamorous night out.

Azura Panoramic Lounge (Rooftop Views)

The Azura Panoramic Lounge sits high atop The St. Regis Nation Tower in Abu Dhabi. Clearly, it is not just a place—it is a stunning viewpoint above the city. Under the stars, it makes nights special with its incredible city views. The sweeping panorama is simply breathtaking.

Azura is where style meets comfort. Specifically, it is modern and cozy at the same time. The lighting is soft, which makes this the perfect place to relax or dance. The music is always spot-on, lifting your spirits. Consequently, it is a favorite spot for people who love fashion and fun. The Azura Panoramic Lounge is Abu Dhabi’s best place for elegant and exciting experiences.

Oak Room (Steakhouse & Global Flavors)

Oak Room in Abu Dhabi is a special place known for its delicious food and beautiful atmosphere. As you walk in, you feel welcomed by the cozy lights and comfortable seating. In short, it is a place you won’t forget. The ambiance sets a perfect mood.

Oak Room offers more than just tasty food from around the world; it makes every meal an adventure. Whether you are there for a romantic date, a fun get-together, or an important celebration, Oak Room enhances the experience. Finally, live music in the evening adds excitement, making it a favorite spot for locals and visitors looking for quality, flavor, and memorable moments in Abu Dhabi. It truly delivers a refined dining experience.

Talea (Italian Fine Dining)

Talea in Abu Dhabi is not just a restaurant; instead, it is a journey into delicious food. As soon as you step inside, you feel the modern vibe, ready for memorable meals. The elegant decor hints at the quality of the cuisine.

Talea makes dining special with its lively atmosphere and top-notch service. Therefore, it is perfect for a romantic dinner or a fun night out with friends. The place buzzes with energy, and the smells from the kitchen are irresistible. Open from 6:30 AM to 11:00 PM, consequently, Talea offers amazing flavors for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Ultimately, every visit to Talea is an experience to remember. It is a must-visit for lovers of authentic Italian fare.

Abu Dhabi’s restaurants perfectly reflect the essence of a city that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. Moreover, from the authentic flavors of Emirati cuisine to the most exclusive international offerings, each gastronomic space delights all the senses and provides a unique experience. This diversity truly sets the city apart.

Eating in Abu Dhabi is not just satisfying your appetite; rather, it is a cultural and culinary journey that lets you discover Arabian hospitality, local ingredients, and a passion for excellence. Whether you dine in a luxury beachfront restaurant or a small traditional eatery, consequently, Abu Dhabi’s gastronomy invites you to enjoy every dish as a celebration of its history, diversity, and vibrant identity. Finally, you can also visit our blog for the top 10 places you must visit in Abu Dhabi.