Middle Eastern food spread

Abu Dhabi's dining scene has matured into something remarkable. What was once overshadowed by Dubai's flashier restaurant openings has become a culinary destination in its own right — with Michelin-starred kitchens, world-class hotel restaurants, and waterfront dining that takes full advantage of the Gulf coastline.

Here are the restaurants worth your time.

Fine Dining

Fine dining plated dish

Hakkasan — Inside Emirates Palace, Hakkasan delivers exceptional modern Chinese cuisine. The Peking duck is carved tableside with precision, and the dim sum selection is among the best in the Gulf. Michelin-starred and deservedly so.

Zuma — Japanese izakaya-style dining on Al Maryah Island. The robata-grilled dishes, fresh sushi, and their signature miso-marinated black cod have made this a regional favorite since opening. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between lively and refined.

Bord Eau by Nicolas Isnard — At the Shangri-La, this intimate French restaurant focuses on seasonal, technique-driven cuisine. The degustation menu is outstanding, and the wine list is one of the deepest in the city.

99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant — Omakase-style Japanese dining with impeccable ingredients. The toro tartare and wagyu nigiri are standouts. Located on Al Maryah Island with striking interiors.

Atmosphere and Views

NIRI — Contemporary Japanese on Mamsha Al Saadiyat, directly facing the beach. Winner of Restaurant of the Year three consecutive times. The sunset views from the terrace are spectacular, and the food — particularly the robata dishes — matches the setting.

Villa Toscana — At the St. Regis Saadiyat Island, this Italian restaurant serves classic Tuscan cuisine with Gulf views. Handmade pastas and wood-fired dishes in an elegant but relaxed setting.

Fouquet's Abu Dhabi — Inside the Louvre Abu Dhabi complex, combining a museum visit with excellent Parisian brasserie cuisine. The steak tartare and seafood plateau are both excellent choices.

Casual and Mid-Range

Restaurant terrace dining

COYA — Peruvian cuisine meets Abu Dhabi energy. The ceviches are exceptional, the pisco sours are strong, and the atmosphere on weekend evenings is electric. Great for groups.

La Petite Maison (LPM) — Just as beloved here as the Dubai outpost. The burrata with black truffle, beef tartare, and Burgundy snails are all superb. Consistently excellent.

Almayass — Armenian-Lebanese cuisine in a beautiful setting. The manti dumplings, mixed grills, and warm bread straight from the oven make this a standout for Middle Eastern food.

Li Beirut — At the Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, offering refined Lebanese cuisine with panoramic views. The mezze spread alone is worth the visit.

Practical Tips

Reservations are essential for fine dining, especially on weekends (Thursday-Friday). Book several days ahead for popular spots.

Alcohol is served at licensed restaurants, primarily within hotels.

Budget: From around 150 AED per person for casual dining to 1,200+ AED for fine dining tasting menus.

Brunch: Friday brunch is a social institution. Emirates Palace and the St. Regis both offer memorable spreads.

Final Thoughts

Abu Dhabi's restaurant scene rewards those who look beyond the hotel lobbies. Whether it is world-class Japanese at Zuma, creative Peruvian at COYA, or a quiet French dinner at Bord Eau, this city offers more culinary depth than most visitors expect.

What is your favorite restaurant in Abu Dhabi? Share your recommendations below.

— Remi André Lurud

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