15 perfect restaurants in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Welcome to the vibrant culinary scene of Abu Dhabi, where taste buds travel on magic carpets and flavors take you on an extraordinary journey! Hold on tight as we uncover the city's 15 best restaurants that will make your taste buds jump for joy. From the comical dosa rolls at "Curry Me Crazy" to the whimsical camel meat surprises at "Hump Day Delights," this gastronomic adventure will have you eating, laughing, and craving more!
Save destination1. Cipriani
Building 1 Yas Marina, Yas Island - Yas Island - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Welcome to Cipriani, the ultimate Italian oasis nestled in the heart of Abu Dhabi! This magnificent culinary haven manages to transport you from the desert heat to the cool Venetian canals, all in a matter of seconds. Prepare to be enchanted by its sumptuous ambiance, mouthwatering delicacies, and a clientele that effortlessly combines wealth, glamour, and a dash of eccentricity. Let your taste buds embark on a tantalizing journey through Cipriani's menu, where classic Italian dishes are elevated to dizzying heights of deliciousness. From the delectable homemade pasta that melts in your mouth to the heavenly tiramisu that will make you swoon with every bite, this place is a veritable symphony of flavors. Just be warned, if you can't decide what to order, the charmingly persuasive staff might end up convincing you to try everything on the menu! While Cipriani Abu Dhabi may be a haven for food enthusiasts, it also serves as a fabulous stage for some serious people-watching. Immerse yourself in a sea of effortlessly chic patrons, sipping on their Bellinis as they discuss the latest polo match or debate the merits of truffle oil. With an air of exclusivity, this eclectic crowd forms the perfect backdrop for an evening at Cipriani, where fashion faux pas are forbidden, and raising an eyebrow is considered a sport. So pack your sense of adventure and an appetite for decadence, as Cipriani awaits to transport you to an Italian culinary paradise, sprinkled with a generous pinch of Abu Dhabi's vibrancy and extravagance.
Learn more2. Koi Abu Dhabi
Saadiyat Island The Collection with St. Regis - GCQF+8MX - Al Saadiyat Island - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Welcome to Koi Abu Dhabi, where you'll find yourself swimming in a sea of exquisite flavors! Prepare yourself for a dining experience that will have your taste buds doing synchronized somersaults. With a menu that rivals the Great Wall of China (almost), this modern Asian fusion restaurant will leave you saying, "Sushi, you had me at 'Hello'!" Nestled in the heart of Abu Dhabi, Koi is a culinary oasis where Asian flavors collide with Middle Eastern flair. Step inside, and you'll be greeted by a decor that's so sleek, even James Bond would feel underdressed. As your chopsticks meet their match with plates of crispy calamari and melt-in-your-mouth miso black cod, you'll discover why Koi Abu Dhabi is not just a restaurant, but a gateway to foodie Nirvana. But beware, dear traveler, for this culinary journey comes with its own set of hazards. As you sink into the plush cushions of Koi's elegant lounge, be prepared to resist the temptation of endless orders from their tantalizing menu. Your belly might be shouting, "More, more!" but your wallet will whisper, "Okay, that's enough, mate." Remember, moderation is key unless winning the "Gourmet Gladiator" competition is on your bucket list. So, pack your appetite, and let Koi Abu Dhabi take you on a voyage through the flavors of Asia, all while basking in the glamorous Arabian vibe of the capital city. Don't forget to snap a photo of your food for social media because, in the culinary kingdom of Koi, every dish is worthy of a Michelin star... or at least a thousand likes. Bon appétit in Abu Dhabi's Oriental oasis!
Learn more3. Li Beirut
W Corniche Rd - Al Bateen - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Welcome to Li Beirut, a taste of Lebanon right in the heart of Abu Dhabi! This vibrant restaurant will transport you straight to the streets of Beirut, minus the traffic jams and missed parking spots. From the moment you step in, the lively atmosphere and aromatic scents will make you wonder if you accidentally landed in a Lebanese grandma's kitchen, stirring up culinary magic. Prepare yourself for an explosion of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing the dabke! Li Beirut's menu features a mouthwatering selection of traditional Lebanese dishes, carefully crafted to make even your belly feel like it's vacationing on the shores of the Mediterranean. Juicy grilled meats, velvety hummus, and freshly baked flatbreads will make you want to shamelessly lick your plate and ask for seconds. But remember, in this Lebanese sanctuary, sharing is caring, so invite your friends and unleash your inner Lebanese superhero, fighting the evil hunger pangs with the power of delicious food!
Learn more4. Villa Toscana
The St. Regis Abu Dhabi - Nation Towers - W Corniche Rd - Al Bateen - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Welcome to Villa Toscana, where Abu Dhabi charms meet Italian flair, creating a cultural mashup that’ll make you go, "Ciao, Abu Dhabi!" Nestled in the heart of the city, this charming villa is a whimsical escape from the desert heat. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by the aroma of freshly-baked cannoli and Arabian spices, teasing your taste buds for the culinary journey that awaits. With Tuscan-inspired architecture and sand dunes just a stone's throw away, Villa Toscana is Abu Dhabi's own little slice of Italy… with a twist!
Learn more5. Asia de Cuba
Casa de Cuba - Yas Island - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Welcome to the exotic realms of Asia de Cuba in Abu Dhabi, where East meets Caribbean, and the result is a dining experience that will have your taste buds doing the Macarena. Prepare for a fusion fiesta that will spice up your evening with dishes that bring together the best of both worlds, leaving you wondering if you'll ever look at black beans the same way again. With its vibrant décor and lively atmosphere, Asia de Cuba is here to remind you that sometimes, even in the desert, you can find a slice of Havana party magic.
Learn more6. Café Milano
The Galleria Level 1, Four seasons hotel ABU DHABI GLOBAL MARKET ST. – SECOND AL MARYAH ISLAND - Al Maryah Island - Abu Dhabi Global Market Square - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Nestled in the vibrant city of Abu Dhabi, Café Milano stands as a delicious oasis for both locals and weary travelers. With its elegant yet approachable ambiance, let this charming café transport you to the heart and soul of Italy, without the need for a passport (or questionable karaoke skills). The tantalizing aroma of freshly brewed espresso greets you at the door, teasing your senses and luring dessert enthusiasts with promises of tiramisu dreams that are practically calorie-free (we wish!).
Learn more7. Glo UAE
Musaffah - M-11 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Welcome to Glo UAE in the fabulous city of Abu Dhabi, where the sun shines brighter than your future and the sand is as golden as your dreams. This electrifying waterpark is the perfect antidote to the scorching desert heat, offering you an oasis of laughter, adventure, and more splashes than a synchronized swimming competition with dolphins armed with water guns. Get ready to slide, scream, and soak yourself silly in a watery wonderland where fun knows no bounds.
Learn more8. BU! Trinity
1 شارع الرِّوَيْكَة - Al Danah - E18-02 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Welcome to BU! Trinity in Abu Dhabi, a university campus that promises to challenge both your academic abilities and your ability to navigate its labyrinthine corridors. Marvel at its striking architecture, which seems to be a combination of Hogwarts and a futuristic spaceship, leaving you half-expecting to bump into Dumbledore in a professorial cloak at any moment. Don't forget to bring your walking shoes, as getting from one end of the campus to the other may require both a map and a GPS navigator - or a well-trained homing pigeon.
Learn more9. Peyote
Nestled amidst the glimmering cityscape of Abu Dhabi, Peyote is not your typical desert oasis. This quirky venue seamlessly blends Mexican culture with a splash of Middle Eastern charm, leaving visitors wondering if they accidentally stumbled upon a taco truck parked in the Arabian Gulf. From the moment you step foot inside, prepare to be taken on a culinary adventure that will have you questioning whether you're savoring the succulent flavors of the Gulf or riding a tequila rainbow through the mystical deserts of Mexico.
10. Rosemary
F85C+724 - Al Bateen - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
In this lively city known for its opulence and modernity, Rosemary in Abu Dhabi stands like a graceful oasis, offering guests a break from the bustling streets. With its lush greenery, tranquil setting, and aromatic fragrance, this herb garden is like a breath of fresh air amidst the desert heat. Be sure to embark on a leisurely stroll through its enchanting paths, and who knows, you might even catch the delightfully mischievous aroma tickling your nose, luring you into a memorable herbal adventure!
Learn more11. Mazi
The St. Regis - Resort - جزيرة السعديات - أبو ظبي - United Arab Emirates
Welcome to Abu Dhabi, where you'll find Mazi, a vibrant eatery that will charm your taste buds and your funny bone. With its eclectic and cheerful atmosphere, Mazi is the perfect place to indulge in delicious Greek cuisine while tapping into your inner Zorba. Prepare yourself for a mouthwatering experience where the flavors of the Mediterranean playfully dance around your plate, leaving you no choice but to savor each bite with Greek enthusiasm.
Learn more12. Sontaya
The St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort - Al Saadiyat Island - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Welcome to Sontaya, the Abu Dhabi gem that will whisk you away to a Thai paradise without the expensive airfare or the fear of encountering creepy crawlies! Nestled within the luxurious St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Sontaya is the Thai lover's dream. Immerse yourself in this exotic oasis where you can dine under twinkling lanterns, surrounded by lush greenery, and reminisce about that one time you almost got lost in Bangkok but ended up with the best pad thai of your life.
Learn more13. Sho Cho
Souk Qaryat Al Beri - ربدان - أبو ظبي - United Arab Emirates
Ah, Sho Cho in Abu Dhabi! This quirky gem nestled by the beach offers a delightful blend of Japanese cuisine and laid-back vibes. Picture this: a place where sushi rolls meet party goals, making it the perfect spot for foodies who refuse to let the dancefloor outshimmer their palates. With its trendy interiors and views that could make a sunset jealous, Sho Cho guarantees an evening full of mouthwatering nibbles and debatably coordinated dance moves.
Learn more14. Hakkasan
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental - W Corniche Rd - Al Ras Al Akhdar - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Abu Dhabi, Hakkasan shines like a culinary oasis, tempting senses and taste buds alike. Step into this sleek, contemporary restaurant and prepare to be swept away on a flavor-filled adventure. With its seductive ambiance, mouthwatering dishes, and friendly staff, Hakkasan promises to transport you to a world where Michelin-star cuisine meets high-class entertainment.
Learn more15. Coya
Four Seasons Hotel, The Galleria - Al Maryah Island - Abu Dhabi Global Market Square - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Welcome to Coya in Abu Dhabi, where vibrant Peruvian flavors dance a samba on your taste buds! Indulge in a culinary adventure where traditional Peruvian dishes get a modern twist, creating a harmonious culinary fiesta. Nestled in Abu Dhabi's culinary landscape, Coya invites you to shimmy and shake your way through a mouthwatering menu that will have you saying "hasta la vista" to bland food forever.
Learn moreHow to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Abu Dhabi by plane is to fly to Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) from major airports around the world. A number of airlines operate regular flights to Abu Dhabi, including Etihad Airways, Emirates, and Qatar Airways. Make sure to check for the best deals on flights before booking your trip.
Car
If you are driving from Dubai, take Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) south towards Abu Dhabi. The journey should take approximately one hour and a half or longer depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can take the E311 road, which is slightly longer but less congested.
Train
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to Abu Dhabi. The nearest train stations are in Dubai and Al Ain, which are both about an hour and a half away from Abu Dhabi by bus or car.
Boat
There are no regular boat services to Abu Dhabi, but you can charter a private boat from Dubai or other places along the coast of the Persian Gulf. This can be a great way to enjoy the picturesque coastal views and arrive in style. Make sure to check the prices and availability of boat charters before booking your trip.
Bus
The easiest way to get to Abu Dhabi by bus is to take the E100 bus from Dubai. The bus departs from the Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Dubai and goes directly to Abu Dhabi. The journey takes about two hours, depending on traffic.