Abu Dhabi in 2026 is now firmly a restaurant city. The capital’s dining scene stretches from MICHELIN‑star temples and luxury dining Abu Dhabi hotel icons to neighbourhood shawarma joints, cafés and Bib Gourmand “good food at good value” picks. If you are wondering where to eat in Abu Dhabi, the choice is wide with waterfront restaurants in Abu Dhabi along Yas Marina and Saadiyat, business‑friendly venues on Al Maryah Island, and hidden gems in older districts serving Emirati, Indian and Asian comfort food.
The list below is built around the restaurant experiences in Abu Dhabi one can enjoy, so every restaurant mentioned is a vetted, real‑world place. Use this as your Abu Dhabi dining guide for 2026, then cross‑check menus and reservations on official restaurant, hotel or Visit Abu Dhabi pages before you book.
Fine Dining Restaurants in Abu Dhabi
Fine dining in Abu Dhabi lives mostly inside landmark hotels and on the city’s premium islands like 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant, Hakkasan, Talea by Antonio Guida and Erth plus dozens of “selected” restaurants. That means you can plan a full week of serious dining across Japanese omakase counters, Cantonese lounges, refined Italian trattorias and Emirati tasting menus.
These addresses are where you go for tasting menus, chef’s counters, big anniversaries and founder‑level business dinners. They lean heavily on halal fine dining in kitchens that respect local sourcing rules, with alcohol service available only in licensed hotel venues.
Reservations are indispensable on weekends, during Formula 1, major conferences and festive seasons.
Michelin‑Star Restaurants in Abu Dhabi
These four are the current one‑star MICHELIN restaurants in Abu Dhabi. Each recognised for top‑quality ingredients, mastery of cooking and consistent excellence.
99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant – The Galleria, Al Maryah Island
99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant is a sleek Japanese dining room overlooking the Al Maryah Island waterfront. Inside, precise nigiri, gunkan and sashimi sit alongside modern Japanese dishes, with a focus on texture and balance rather than gimmicks. It is ideal for omakase experiences, tasting menus and high‑end business dinners that want serious food in a polished, subdued atmosphere.
Erth – Qasr Al Hosn Compound
Erth is Abu Dhabi’s modern Emirati restaurant, sitting in the historic Qasr Al Hosn compound. The kitchen reworks dishes like harees, machboos and regional seafood plates with contemporary plating, bringing Emirati home cooking into a fine‑dining setting without losing its roots. For visitors looking to understand local flavours at a world‑class level, this is the table to book.
Hakkasan – Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Hakkasan Abu Dhabi occupies a dramatic, low‑lit space inside Emirates Palace, wrapped in carved wooden screens, blue accents and a stylish outdoor terrace. The menu is classic Hakkasan with refined dim sum, Peking duck variations, charcoal‑grilled meats and showpiece desserts, tuned to a luxury dining Abu Dhabi audience that expects both theatre and technical perfection.
Talea by Antonio Guida – Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Talea by Antonio Guida, also at Emirates Palace, is all about “cucina di famiglia”, elevated family recipes from Italy. Handmade pastas, beautifully sauced meats and seasonal Italian ingredients arrive in a bright, elegant room and terrace, making it one of the most coveted Italian reservations in the city for both romantic dinners and long Sunday lunches.
Romantic Fine Dining Spots
These spots combine beautiful rooms, attentive service and a sense of occasion, perfect for proposals, anniversaries and “we flew to Abu Dhabi for this” nights.
Catch at St. Regis Corniche / Nation Riviera Beach Club
Catch at St. Regis sits by the water at Nation Riviera Beach Club on the Corniche, a MICHELIN‑selected restaurant that leans into seafood and Japanese‑inspired plates. Expect caviar, oysters, artful sushi rolls and grilled fish, all served against a backdrop of lantern‑lit terraces, lounge beats and the sound of waves.
LPM Abu Dhabi – The Galleria, Al Maryah Island
LPM Abu Dhabi brings Côte d’Azur charm to The Galleria with its white tablecloths, pale woods and walls adorned with art. French‑Mediterranean dishes such as burrata, grilled prawns and lemony roast chicken are built for sharing, and the room’s cosmopolitan energy makes it equally suited to date nights and high‑end client dinners.
Oak Room – The Abu Dhabi EDITION, Al Bateen
Oak Room, at The Abu Dhabi EDITION, is a modern British steakhouse with an emphasis on dry‑aged cuts and a moody, clubby atmosphere. Leather, dark wood and candlelight set the tone, while the menu focuses on prime beef, inventive sides and strong wine pairings. Ideal for couples and small groups looking to linger over a long meal.
Luxury Hotel Restaurants
Abu Dhabi’s top hotels read like a global restaurant directory. Many of these MICHELIN‑selected spots sit within walking distance of rooms, spas and private beaches, giving you the full “stay and dine” experience.
Coya Abu Dhabi – Four Seasons / The Galleria, Al Maryah Island
Coya Abu Dhabi is a high‑energy Peruvian restaurant that blends ceviche, tiraditos and anticuchos with Latin beats and bold interiors at Four Seasons and The Galleria. It’s one of the city’s most atmospheric luxury dining Abu Dhabi options, ideal for groups, celebrations and brunch‑style experiences where the mood matters as much as the menu.
Cafe Milano – Four Seasons, Al Maryah Island
Cafe Milano, also at Four Seasons, faces the water and focuses on refined Italian and Mediterranean cooking. It is a favourite for business lunches and understated dinners, serving seafood, pastas and grilled dishes in a space that feels simultaneously polished and relaxed.
Butcher & Still – Four Seasons, Al Maryah Island
Butcher & Still is a Chicago‑style steakhouse with speakeasy references, classic cocktails and a menu deep in prime cuts and comfort sides. It’s the place to go for tomahawks, wedge salads and whisky‑leaning drinks in a masculine, clubby setting that resonates with both corporate and leisure guests.
Market Kitchen – Le Royal Méridien, Al Markaziya
Market Kitchen at Le Royal Méridien offers a contemporary bistro‑style menu that runs from small plates to hearty mains, with a focus on seasonal ingredients. The space serves hotel guests and city residents alike, and its approachable price point and variety make it a flexible choice for mixed groups and casual fine dining.
Villa Toscana – The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, Corniche
Villa Toscana channels Italian villa warmth within The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, serving rustic‑meets‑refined regional dishes. Handmade pastas, roasts and regional specialities make it a favourite for guests who want classic Italian comfort in a room that still feels dressed up.
Best Waterfront Restaurants in Abu Dhabi
Waterfront restaurants Abu Dhabi‑wide stretch from Yas Marina and Yas Bay to Mamsha Al Saadiyat, the Corniche and Al Maryah Island promenades. These venues trade in sea‑view dining, open‑air terraces and sunset dinner spots where the line between restaurant, bar and lounge often blurs. They are natural picks for romantic nights, special occasions and business entertaining.
Many of the city’s MICHELIN‑recognised addresses also happen to be on the water, which means you can pair high culinary standards with memorable views. Book outdoor tables when the weather is cool (roughly October to April), and look for terrace or promenade seating notes when reserving online.
Yas Marina & Yas Bay
Mika – Yas Bay
Mika, a Bib Gourmand restaurant on Yas Bay, is recognised for its excellent cooking at fair prices and its relaxed waterfront vibe. Seasonal menus mix modern European ideas with global influences, and the terrace puts you right at the edge of Yas Bay’s boardwalk energy. Ideal before or after a concert at Etihad Arena.
Paradiso – Yas Bay
Paradiso at Yas Bay is a Mediterranean‑leaning restaurant that channels Italian Riviera energy with an extended brunch and dinner offering. Expect waves of antipasti, fish, meats and indulgent desserts in a sun‑washed room and terrace that feel built for long, social meals rather than rushed bites.
Cipriani – Yas Island
Cipriani brings the famous Venetian‑rooted brand to Yas Island, combining white‑jacket service with classic Italian recipes. Overlooking the marina and F1 circuit, it’s the definition of waterfront glamour with carpaccio, baked tagliolini and bellinis shared over the lights of Yas Marina’s yachts.
Saadiyat Island & Mamsha
Beirut Sur Mer – Mamsha Al Saadiyat
Beirut Sur Mer sits directly on Soul Beach at Mamsha Al Saadiyat, offering Lebanese and Levantine dishes in a bright space with a huge beachfront terrace. Mezze spreads, grilled meats and Lebanese seafood make it a flexible choice for brunch, family dinners and romantic sunset meals.
Niri Restaurant & Bar – Mamsha Al Saadiyat
Niri Restaurant & Bar is a contemporary Japanese izakaya at Mamsha Al Saadiyat, blending yakitori, sushi and shared plates with a modern bar program. Floor‑to‑ceiling glass and an outdoor terrace keep the focus on the sea and sky, making it one of the most atmospheric waterfront restaurants Abu Dhabi has for Japanese food lovers.
Les Dangereux – Mamsha Al Saadiyat
Les Dangereux, another Mamsha address, offers creative, chef‑driven cuisine in a setting that feels more like a contemporary gallery than a traditional restaurant. The proximity to the beach and the Saadiyat cultural district makes it a perfect pairing with a Louvre Abu Dhabi visit and an afternoon on the sand.
Al Maryah Island & Corniche
Cafe Milano – Four Seasons, Al Maryah Island
Facing the water, Cafe Milano gives you marina‑style views of Al Maryah’s promenade and the city skyline. Long lunches roll easily into sunset aperitivi here, and the terrace is a favourite for people‑watching while enjoying refined Italian dishes.
LPM Abu Dhabi – The Galleria, Al Maryah Island
LPM’s terrace looks across the water and onto the wider cityscape, bringing Côte d’Azur energy to Al Maryah’s financial district. Combined with its food and wine program, it’s one of the strongest sea‑view dining options for guests staying in Four Seasons, Rosewood or nearby business hotels.
Finz – Beach Rotana, Al Zahiyah
Finz extends over the water on a dedicated deck at Beach Rotana, with near‑360‑degree views of the marina and Al Reem skyline. The focus is fresh seafood Abu Dhabi‑style with grilled fish, ceviches, shellfish platters, earning it a MICHELIN‑selected badge and a reputation as a go‑to date spot for seafood lovers.
Fishmarket – InterContinental Abu Dhabi
Fishmarket at InterContinental Abu Dhabi lets you choose your catch from a display, then have it cooked to order while you sit by the marina. It’s a classic of the city’s waterfront scene which is unfussy, generous and all about the fish, perfect for relaxed, shared meals that still feel special.
Best Indian & South Asian Restaurants in Abu Dhabi
Indian restaurants Abu Dhabi‑wide stretch from mall food courts to MICHELIN‑selected dining rooms. North Indian, Mughlai, regional and coastal menus are strongly represented, with Pakistani grills and South Indian cafés adding depth. For many residents and visitors from the subcontinent, these are the places that feel like home.
In 2026, three key Indian restaurants, Punjab Grill, Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi and Namak anchor the fine‑dining side, while numerous casual spots handle biryani cravings and quick lunches. All are halal by default, with varying levels of formality and alcohol service limited to licensed hotel venues.
Indian Fine‑Dining & Hotel Restaurants
Punjab Grill – The Ritz‑Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal
Punjab Grill sits within The Ritz‑Carlton Grand Canal and is a MICHELIN‑selected restaurant specialising in refined North Indian cuisine. From slow‑cooked curries to tandoori platters and creative chaat, dishes are deeply flavoured but elegantly plated, making this one of the best Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi for celebrations and client dinners.
Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi Emirates Palace
Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi at Emirates Palace offers contemporary Indian cooking under the hand of a celebrated chef, in a room that feels every bit as regal as the hotel itself. Classic recipes are re-imagined with modern twists, and the experience is as much about storytelling and presentation as it is about spice and heat.
Namak – Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi
Namak at Dusit Thani is another MICHELIN‑selected Indian restaurant, noted for its creative approach to regional specialities. Expect playful presentations and inventive combinations, but with recognisable Indian flavours underneath, ideal for diners who enjoy a bit of theatre with their thali.
Biryani, Casual Indian & Veg‑Friendly
Beyond these hotel kitchens, Abu Dhabi is packed with biryani houses and casual Indian spots in areas like Al Zahiyah, Hamdan Street and Electra Street. While they are too numerous to list individually, they share some common traits.
- Many specialise in Hyderabadi or Lucknowi biryani, served in handi pots or family‑sized trays at very accessible prices.
- South Indian vegetarian cafés dish out dosa, idli, vada and thali meals that are ideal for breakfast or budget‑friendly lunches.
- Most are fully halal, family‑friendly restaurants with quick service and no dress codes, making them low‑effort, high‑comfort options when you are tired of planning.
Pakistani & Regional South Asian
Pakistani restaurants in Abu Dhabi tend to cluster around central districts, serving grilled kebabs, karahi, haleem and naan in down‑to‑earth dining rooms. Prices are modest, portions are generous and late‑night hours make them popular with shift workers and night‑owls.
Regional South Asian restaurants focused on Kerala, Tamil Nadu, or multi‑cuisine Indian menus round out this category, ensuring that whether you want biryani, thali or tandoor, there is always an option within a short taxi ride.
Best Seafood Restaurants in Abu Dhabi
Seafood restaurants in Abu Dhabi build on the city’s deep connection to the Arabian Gulf. Many of the best spots sit right on the water, serving everything from charcoal‑grilled local catch to sophisticated ceviche and Japanese‑inspired raw dishes. With names like Finz, Fishmarket, Beirut Sur Mer and Niri Restaurant & Bar, you can safely build entire itineraries around fish and shellfish.
Seafood in Abu Dhabi ranges from market‑style counters where you pick your fish to multi‑course tasting menus with elaborate plating. Regardless of price point, freshness and simple, confident cooking are the common threads.
Fine‑Dining & MICHELIN‑Selected Seafood
Finz – Beach Rotana
Finz operates from a dedicated over‑water deck at Beach Rotana, making you feel suspended above the sea. Its MICHELIN‑selected menu focuses on grilled fish, seafood platters and Mediterranean‑leaning sides, delivering fresh seafood Abu Dhabi‑style in a modern, romantic setting that is equally suited to date nights and celebratory group dinners.
Fishmarket – InterContinental Abu Dhabi
Fishmarket has a long history in the capital as a choose‑your‑catch restaurant where you pick from iced displays and have everything cooked to order. The breezy, marina‑side atmosphere and straightforward approach to seafood make it a timeless favourite, especially for families and groups who like to share large platters.
Beirut Sur Mer – Mamsha Al Saadiyat
Beirut Sur Mer may be best known for its Lebanese mezze, but its location on the beach and menu of Lebanese‑style seafood (crab, shrimp, octopus and more) make it a standout for pescatarians too. Its Bib Gourmand status confirms that you get strong value as well as a gorgeous setting.
Japanese & Contemporary Seafood
Niri Restaurant & Bar – Mamsha Al Saadiyat
Niri Restaurant & Bar at Mamsha balances sushi, sashimi and grilled dishes with the informality of a Japanese izakaya. The proximity to the sea, minimalist interior and refined yet relaxed menu make it one of the top seafood‑forward Japanese restaurants in Abu Dhabi for both date nights and group outings.
Zuma Abu Dhabi – The Galleria, Al Maryah Island
Zuma Abu Dhabi, in The Galleria, brings the global Zuma brand’s robata and sushi‑driven concept to a waterfront, design‑led space. While not exclusively a seafood restaurant, its sashimi, maki, black cod and grilled prawns are central to its appeal, highlighting it as one of the capital’s most consistently high‑performing contemporary Japanese venues.
Family‑Friendly Restaurants in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is an easy city for families. Restaurants are used to kids, menus are flexible and spaces are generally larger and less crowded than in denser cities. Family‑friendly restaurants span hotel buffets, casual mall chains, Yas Island eateries and Saadiyat beach spots, many of which have kids’ menus, high chairs and staff who are used to multi‑generational groups.
There are several places that work well for families like Beirut Sur Mer, Grand Beirut, Al Mrzab and Almayass, while hotel all‑day dining venues and mall food courts round out the most practical options.
Yas Island Dining for Families
On Yas Island, the focus is on convenience and variety for visitors bouncing between theme parks and resorts.
- Mika at Yas Bay, while refined enough for adults, also has a relaxed vibe and menu structure that can work for families, especially at earlier dinner slots.
- Paradiso and other Yas Bay restaurants like The Lighthouse or Asia Asia serve Mediterranean or Asian dishes in social, sharing‑friendly formats that kids and teens can pick from easily.
- In Yas Mall, international chains, burger joints, pizza outlets and dessert bars give parents simple, predictable options when energy is low and hunger is high.
Hotel Buffets & Casual Concepts
Hotel all‑day dining venues across the Corniche, Saadiyat, the Grand Canal and downtown districts are well‑known family‑friendly restaurants in Abu Dhabi.
- They usually offer live cooking stations, salad bars, kids’ sections and dessert counters that naturally appeal to children.
- Many also run family‑focused brunch places Abu Dhabi is known for on weekends, with kids’ entertainment, face‑painting or dedicated play areas.
Local Favourites & Neighbourhood Spots
Outside the hotels and malls, casual Lebanese, Indian, Pakistani and Arab restaurants in central districts and suburbs like Khalifa City serve as everyday family spots for residents.
Portions are generous, prices are moderate, and menus are familiar to many expat communities, making them low‑stress choices when you want to eat well without dressing up or planning ahead.
Budget & Affordable Restaurants in Abu Dhabi
Affordable restaurants Abu Dhabi‑wide are easy to find if you know where to look. Cafeterias, shawarma joints, neighbourhood Arab and South Asian restaurants all serve good food at far below fine‑dining prices. In Hamdan Street, Electra Street, Al Zahiyah, Mina and Khalifa City, you can comfortably eat for under AED 50-60 per person.
Seven Abu Dhabi restaurants like Al Mrzab, Almayass, Beirut Sur Mer, Mika, Ryba, Otoro and Tazal, currently hold this rating, awarded for “good quality, good value cooking.” Several other selected restaurants, like Kopitiam by Chandy’s, also sit firmly in the mid‑range rather than the luxury bracket.
Bib Gourmand & Great‑Value Gems
Al Mrzab – Al Mushrif
Al Mrzab specialises in Emirati and Gulf comfort food in a relaxed, family‑style setting with rice dishes, slow‑cooked meats and stews served in generous portions, exactly the kind of place you go when you want to eat like a local without overspending.
Almayass – The Galleria, Al Maryah Island
Almayass, in The Galleria, serves Armenian‑Lebanese cuisine and has earned a Bib Gourmand tag for its balance of quality and price. Mezze spreads, grills and family‑style plates make it versatile for groups, and the Al Maryah Island location means easy access for office workers and nearby hotel guests.
Tazal – Al Qana
Tazal in Al Qana offers contemporary cuisine that blends Middle Eastern and international influences, earning Bib Gourmand recognition. The canal‑side setting is stylish but relaxed, and the menu is priced to encourage repeat visits rather than just special occasions.
Otoro – Al Qana
Otoro is a modern Japanese restaurant in Al Qana, also listed as Bib Gourmand. It focuses on sushi, sashimi and small plates, delivering high‑quality Japanese cooking at a more accessible price point than many hotel‑based peers.
Kopitiam & Everyday Cafés
Kopitiam by Chandy’s – Al Falah Road
Kopitiam by Chandy’s is a MICHELIN‑selected Southeast Asian café that feels like a neighbourhood gem. Expect laksa, nasi lemak and other Malaysian/Singaporean favourites in a casual, cosy space, with pricing that makes it easy to drop in regularly.
Beyond this, countless cafeterias and karak tea spots serve shawarma, falafel, samosas and sweet milk tea to go. They may not appear in guides, but they underpin daily life and are excellent for quick, flavourful, low‑cost meals.
Food Courts & Neighbourhood Joints
Mall food courts of Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi Mall, Marina Mall, Al Wahda offer fast‑casual options spanning Indian, Arab, Filipino and international chains. They are rarely memorable, but they are practical when you want something fast and predictable near shops or cinemas.
Neighbourhood joints in older districts and suburbs often specialise in one thing, grills, mandi, manakish, or biryani and deliver it with satisfying consistency. For travellers on a budget, these spots can be the difference between spending heavily on every meal and balancing splurges with simple, everyday dining.
Best Cafés & Brunch Spots in Abu Dhabi
Café culture and brunch places Abu Dhabi‑wide have matured quickly. There are now specialty coffee shops, beach cafés, laptop‑friendly lounges and classic hotel brunches that range from family‑friendly spreads to more sophisticated, adults-only affairs.
The best cafes in Abu Dhabi are spread across Al Maryah Island, Saadiyat’s Mamsha, Reem Island and community centres in Khalifa City and Al Bateen. Many lean heavily into Instagrammable interiors with pastels, plants, ceramics, without neglecting coffee quality or food.
Island Cafés: Saadiyat & Yas
On Saadiyat, cafés such as Society and beach‑adjacent hotel outlets double as brunch and work spots, often with views of the water and cultural landmarks. On Yas, independent coffee shops and hotel cafés near Yas Bay and Yas Marina provide easy pre‑ or post‑park caffeine and breakfast.
City Cafés & MICHELIN‑Selected Spots
Kopitiam by Chandy’s and Cafe James stand out as casual café‑style places that serve well‑executed food alongside coffee. Add in local favourites highlighted by travel and food media, and you have no shortage of places for laptop sessions, meetings or lazy mid‑morning breaks.
Hotel Brunches
Hotel brunch remains an Abu Dhabi staple. Properties on Saadiyat, the Corniche, Al Maryah and Yas Island regularly host Friday or Saturday brunches that mix buffet and à‑la‑carte elements, often with live stations and kids’ corners.
Restaurants like Tean, Mazi and Mate on Saadiyat, as well as waterfront venues on Yas Bay and Al Maryah Island, are frequently featured for their brunch offerings that showcase Mediterranean, Levantine or Latin American flavours in leisurely, social formats.
Best Areas for Dining in Abu Dhabi
Some neighbourhoods naturally emerge as dining hubs. Understanding these makes it much easier to decide where to eat in Abu Dhabi when you only have a few nights.
Yas Island Restaurants
Yas Island is all about energy and variety with pre‑concert dinners, post‑theme‑park bites and waterfront date nights.
- Mika and Paradiso at Yas Bay are two of the island’s most talked-about restaurants right now, combining strong food with lively waterfront settings.
- Cipriani at Yas Marina brings fine Italian glamour with direct views of the yachts and F1 circuit.
- Casual options in Yas Mall and around Yas Bay keep families and budget travellers well covered between park visits.
Saadiyat Island Restaurants
Saadiyat Island balances cultural landmarks with some of the most desirable dining addresses in the city.
- Beirut Sur Mer, Niri Restaurant & Bar and Les Dangereux cluster along Mamsha Al Saadiyat, giving you Lebanese, Japanese and creative modern cuisine right on the beach.
- Hotel restaurants Tean, Mazi and Mate reside in Saadiyat’s luxury resorts, offering elevated Mediterranean and Levantine menus in beachfront settings.
Al Maryah Island Dining
Al Maryah Island is Abu Dhabi’s financial hub and one of its densest dining clusters.
- Venues like 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant, Coya Abu Dhabi, LPM Abu Dhabi, Cafe Milano, Almayass, Grand Beirut and Zuma Abu Dhabi sit within or near The Galleria.
- This area is perfect for business travellers staying in Four Seasons or Rosewood, as well as locals looking for upscale nights out with easy parking and waterfront promenades.
Corniche Restaurants
The Corniche combines public beaches with palace‑level hotels and long promenades.
- Hakkasan, Talea by Antonio Guida, Villa Toscana and Broadway at Emirates Palace anchor the luxury end.
- Catch at St. Regis provides one of the city’s most photogenic beachfront restaurant experiences.
- Casual cafés and beach‑club outlets dot the promenade, offering more laid‑back alternatives with direct access to Corniche Beach.
Khalifa City & Suburban Dining
Khalifa City and similar residential areas hide countless everyday favourites like the shawarma stands, Afghan and Pakistani grills, Indian cafeterias and rising specialty cafés.
If you are staying in a villa or long‑stay apartment, this is where you will likely find your “local” coffee shop, karak spot or affordable family restaurant that becomes a go‑over for a longer stay.
Hidden Gem Restaurants in Abu Dhabi
Not every great meal in Abu Dhabi happens under a chandelier. Several local favourites function as hidden restaurants Abu Dhabi foodies whisper about, sometimes tucked into quieter corners of the city.
- Kopitiam by Chandy’s is a perfect example, a Southeast Asian café on Al Falah Road whose laksa and nasi lemak earned it a MICHELIN recommendation despite its casual setting.
- Terra, Oii and Tazal in Al Qana, by the canal, are contemporary concepts that pair thoughtful menus with design‑forward interiors, often at mid‑range prices rather than fine‑dining levels.
- Grand Beirut and Almayass at The Galleria bring under‑the‑radar depth to the Lebanese and Armenian‑Lebanese scenes.
- Meylas, Mijana, Li Beirut, Yadoo’s House and VaKaVa typify the kind of distinctive, personality‑driven restaurants that residents champion for their storytelling, design and flavour.
MICHELIN Guide’s 40 Best Restaurants in Abu Dhabi 2026
Below is a clear list of 40 specific restaurants, drawn from the MICHELIN Guide Abu Dhabi:
- 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant – The Galleria, Al Maryah Island
- Erth – Qasr Al Hosn compound
- Hakkasan – Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Corniche
- Talea by Antonio Guida – Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Corniche
- Catch at St. Regis – The St. Regis Abu Dhabi / Nation Riviera Beach Club, Corniche
- Finz – Beach Rotana, Al Zahiyah
- Fishmarket – InterContinental Abu Dhabi, marina area
- Beirut Sur Mer – Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island
- Niri Restaurant & Bar – Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island
- Les Dangereux – Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island
- Coya Abu Dhabi – Four Seasons / The Galleria, Al Maryah Island
- LPM Abu Dhabi – The Galleria, Al Maryah Island
- Cafe Milano – Four Seasons, Al Maryah Island
- Butcher & Still – Four Seasons, Al Maryah Island
- Oak Room – The Abu Dhabi EDITION, Al Bateen
- Terra – Al Qana
- Oii – Al Qana
- Tazal – Al Qana
- Otoro – Al Qana
- Mika – Yas Bay, Yas Island
- Paradiso – Yas Bay, Yas Island
- Cipriani – Yas Marina, Yas Island
- Em Sherif Sea Cafe – Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island
- Punjab Grill – The Ritz‑Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal
- Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi – Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
- Namak – Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi
- Li Beirut – Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers
- Market Kitchen – Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi
- Tean – Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort
- Mazi – The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort
- Mate – Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas, Saadiyat Island
- Jose by Pizarro – Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers
- Hoi An – Shangri‑La Qaryat Al Beri
- Shang Palace – Shangri‑La Qaryat Al Beri
- Silk & Spice – Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche
- Grand Beirut – The Galleria, Al Maryah Island
- Kopitiam by Chandy’s – Al Falah Road
- Al Mrzab – Al Mushrif
- Almayass – The Galleria, Al Maryah Island
- Zuma Abu Dhabi – The Galleria, Al Maryah Island
Quick Comparison Table
| Restaurant | Location | Cuisine | Price | Good For |
| Hakkasan | Emirates Palace, Corniche | Modern Cantonese, fine dining | $$$$ | Romantic, special occasions, business |
| Talea by Antonio Guida | Emirates Palace, Corniche | Italian fine dining | $$$$ | Romantic, celebrations |
| 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant | The Galleria, Al Maryah | Japanese omakase & sushi | $$$$ | Business, date nights |
| Erth | Qasr Al Hosn | Modern Emirati | $$$ | Cultural dining, food travellers |
| Catch at St. Regis | Corniche beachfront | Seafood & Japanese | $$$ | Romantic waterfront dinners |
| Finz | Beach Rotana, over water | Mediterranean seafood | $$$ | Date nights, seafood lovers |
| Beirut Sur Mer | Mamsha Al Saadiyat | Lebanese / Levantine | $$-$$$ | Families, beachside meals, Bib Gourmand |
| Mika | Yas Bay | Contemporary European/global | $$-$$$ | Groups, pre‑concert dining, Bib Gourmand |
| Punjab Grill | Ritz‑Carlton Grand Canal | North Indian fine dining | $$$ | Family celebrations, business dinners |
| Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi | Emirates Palace | Contemporary Indian | $$$$ | Luxe Indian dining |
| Coya Abu Dhabi | Four Seasons / Galleria | Peruvian fusion | $$$ | Groups, energetic nights out |
| LPM Abu Dhabi | The Galleria, Al Maryah | French‑Mediterranean | $$$ | Romantic, client lunches, dinners |
| Niri Restaurant & Bar | Mamsha Al Saadiyat | Japanese izakaya & sushi | $$-$$$ | Date nights, friends’ nights |
| Kopitiam by Chandy’s | Al Falah Road | Southeast Asian café | $–$$ | Budget eats, hidden gem |
| Al Mrzab | Al Mushrif | Emirati / Gulf comfort food | $–$$ | Families, local flavours |
FAQs
What are the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi?
ANS: For fine dining, the current standouts are 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant, Erth, Hakkasan and Talea, plus selected venues like Coya Abu Dhabi, LPM Abu Dhabi, Zuma Abu Dhabi, Catch at St. Regis and Finz. For more casual but still excellent food, Bib Gourmand spots such as Al Mrzab, Almayass, Beirut Sur Mer, Mika, Otoro and Tazal are especially reliable.
Are there Michelin star restaurants in Abu Dhabi?
ANS: Yes, Abu Dhabi has four one‑star restaurants: 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant, Erth, Hakkasan and Talea by Antonio Guida. The city also has multiple Bib Gourmand and MICHELIN‑selected restaurants that offer strong food at varying price points.
Where can I find affordable restaurants in Abu Dhabi?
ANS: Look at Bib Gourmand venues (Al Mrzab, Almayass, Beirut Sur Mer, Mika, Otoro, Tazal) and mid‑range places like Kopitiam by Chandy’s and Grand Beirut. Outside the guide, cafeterias, shawarma joints and Indian / Pakistani eateries in areas like Hamdan Street, Electra, Mina and Khalifa City offer plentiful cheap restaurants in Abu Dhabi.
What are the best waterfront restaurants in Abu Dhabi?
ANS: Top picks include Catch at St. Regis and Finz on the Corniche and Al Zahiyah, Beirut Sur Mer, Niri and Les Dangereux on Mamsha Al Saadiyat, plus Coya, LPM, Cafe Milano and Zuma on Al Maryah Island. On Yas Island, Mika, Paradiso and Cipriani deliver strong waterfront dining at Yas Bay and Yas Marina.
Which area in Abu Dhabi has the most restaurants?
ANS: Al Maryah Island (especially The Galleria) and Yas Island are the densest clusters of restaurants, spanning everything from fine dining to cafés and casual chains. Saadiyat’s Mamsha strip and the Corniche hotel strip also offer concentrated dining options in walkable settings.
Are restaurants in Abu Dhabi halal?
ANS: Most restaurants in Abu Dhabi serve halal meat by default, particularly those serving local, Arab and South Asian cuisine. Alcohol is only served in licensed venues, usually inside hotels or specific complexes, and halal fine dining is widely available across the city.
What is the average cost of dining in Abu Dhabi?
ANS: Casual cafeterias and small ethnic restaurants typically cost around AED 30-60 per person, mid‑range venues and hotel outlets fall in the AED 100-250 range, and high‑end restaurants can easily exceed AED 300-500 per person depending on courses and drinks.
Are there good Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi?
ANS: Yes. Punjab Grill, Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi and Namak anchor the high‑end Indian scene, while countless biryani houses and vegetarian cafés provide excellent, inexpensive everyday Indian food across the city.
Do restaurants in Abu Dhabi serve alcohol?
ANS: Licensed restaurants inside hotels and certain complexes do serve alcohol. Many of the fine‑dining and waterfront restaurants listed here fall into that category. Standalone cafés, casual eateries and many family‑oriented restaurants are dry but offer a wide range of juices, mocktails and karak tea.
Is Abu Dhabi good for fine dining?
ANS: Absolutely. With four one‑star MICHELIN restaurants and an impressive roster of hotel restaurants, Abu Dhabi has become a serious fine‑dining destination within the UAE. When combined with its luxury hotels and waterfront settings, it rivals many longer‑established culinary capitals.
1 AED