Abu Dhabi Restaurants

While one may think that dining in Abu Dhabi would be limited to local cuisine and not much else, this surprising city actually has a wide range of delicious restaurants to choose from with food from all over the world. Arabic is the easiest dining choice to find, but there is top flight Western cooking available here, as well as many Asian restaurants, too. Many of the best spots are located inside hotels and are difficult to see from the street, so don’t be afraid to go in and see what’s on the menu.

1. Shamyat - Salam Street, Abu Dhabi - website

While the food here might be only slightly above average, the friendly service and wonderful dining atmosphere make Shamyat a great place to get your feet wet if you aren’t use to Arabic dining choices.

2. Zaitoon - Danat Resort Jebel Dhanna - website

This jewel of a restaurant may take some getting to, but it is a trip worth the trouble. With an inventive menu and excellent service, Zaitoon is a consistent winner.

3. Ocean Grillhouse - Al Jazira Resort, near Ghantoot -website

With spectacular views and excellent service, the Ocean Grillhouse is a great spot for tourists and locals. Seafood and Arabic dishes dominate the menu here.

4. Min Zaman - Al Ain Rotana Hotel Al Ain - website

An Abu Dhabi restaurant that has truly adopted the Western portion size, this Arabic and Lebanese feast house is sure to satisfy any hunger you might have, no matter how large!

5. Marakesh – Inside the Millennium Hotel, Abu Dhabi - website

A little of North Africa in the middle of Abu Dhabi? You’ll get an authentic Moroccan meal here and more as Marakesh has rocketed to the top of the list of best Abu Dhabi restaurants.

6. Al Ariyaf Restaurant – located inside the Abu Dhabi Mall - website

If you’ve had enough typical Arabic food and you are looking for something a big different, check out the Al Ariyaf Restaurant, as they spin the traditional Arabic cuisine in fun and original ways.

7. 49ers – Inside the  Al Diar Dana Hotel - website

To prove how diverse and interesting dining in Abu Dhabi is, the 49ers steakhouse looks to be right out of downtown Houston, with fantastic steaks and a sterling menu.

8. Abu Taf - website

From the outside, Abu Taf doesn’t look like a restaurant; it hardly looks safe, but inside, you’ll find fantastic Chinese food and excellent service.

9. Al Fanar – Inside the Le Meridian Hotel - website

For a massive menu done right, check out the Al Fanar. They offer “international” cuisine, which means a little bit of everything, and they do it well.

10. Biella – Inside the Marina Mall - website

With excellent Italian food, Biella sets itself apart in a city that isn’t known for spectacular Italian cooking. Check out the fresh seafood dishes which change daily.