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Abu Dhabi’s Culinary Scene: A Global Gastronomic Destination

Abu Dhabi’s culinary scene is a vibrant reflection of the city’s multicultural fabric, offering a mosaic of global cuisines that cater to every palate.

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Abu Dhabi’s Food and Restaurants

Street Foods in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi’s vibrant street food culture is a must for visitors who want a taste of authenticity without stretching their budget. Popular dishes include shawarma wraps (AED 8–15), falafel sandwiches (AED 5–10), and luqaimat dumplings (AED 10–20), often enjoyed with Arabic coffee. Head to areas like Al Mina or the Corniche for bustling food stalls where you can sample Emirati classics such as harees and machboos for around AED 30–50 per plate.

For budget-friendly bites and authentic flavors, Abu Dhabi’s food streets are unbeatable.

  • Shawarma Time (Hamdan Street): Famous for juicy shawarma wraps (AED 8–15).

  • Al Ibrahimi Restaurant (Madinat Zayed): Popular for Pakistani curries and biryani plates around AED 25–40.

  • Al Fanar Restaurant & Café (Venetian Village): Serves traditional Emirati dishes like harees and machboos (AED 40–70).

  • Don’t miss luqaimat (sweet dumplings) at local cafés on the Corniche, especially during cooler evenings.

 

Mid-Range Dining in Abu Dhabi

For those seeking variety and comfort, Abu Dhabi is filled with casual restaurants and family-friendly eateries offering international cuisines. From Lebanese grills and Indian thalis to Italian trattorias, meals typically cost AED 60–150 per person. Popular spots include modern Emirati cafés blending tradition with innovation, where you can enjoy fusion dishes such as saffron-infused desserts or Emirati-style burgers.

For those looking for comfort and variety, Abu Dhabi has plenty of casual yet stylish dining options.

  • Automatic Restaurant (multiple locations): Great for Lebanese grills and mezze (AED 60–120 per person).

  • Punjabi Zaika (Tourist Club Area): Authentic North Indian thalis and curries (AED 50–100).

  • Jones the Grocer (Mamsha Al Saadiyat): A trendy café with gourmet burgers, salads, and Australian-inspired dishes (AED 80–150).

  • Meylas Café (Al Muneera): Modern Emirati food with a twist, perfect for trying local flavors in a contemporary setting (AED 100–150).

 

Luxury & Fine Dining Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is also home to some of the region’s most exclusive dining experiences. Michelin-starred chefs and gourmet restaurants inside luxury hotels such as Emirates Palace, The Galleria, or Saadiyat Island elevate dining into a memorable event. Multi-course tasting menus range between AED 400–1,000 per person, while à la carte options in upscale venues often start at AED 150 per dish. Here, guests can savor world-class French, Japanese, or Mediterranean cuisine in elegant surroundings overlooking the city skyline or the Arabian Gulf.

Abu Dhabi’s fine dining scene is world-class, often set in glamorous hotels and overlooking breathtaking views.

  • Li Beirut (Jumeirah at Etihad Towers): Elegant Lebanese fine dining, tasting menus start around AED 400.

  • Zuma Abu Dhabi (The Galleria): Famous Japanese restaurant offering sushi, robata grill, and a stylish atmosphere (AED 300–800).

  • Hakkasan (Emirates Palace): Michelin-starred Cantonese dining, with signature dishes like Peking duck (AED 500–1,000 for a full experience).

  • Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi (Emirates Palace): Upscale Indian dining with creative twists on classic curries (AED 300–700).

 

Food Festivals & Culinary Events Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi celebrates food all year round:

  • Abu Dhabi Culinary Season: A city-wide event featuring celebrity chef dinners, pop-ups, and discounts across restaurants.

  • Street Food Festival (various venues): Showcases international flavors at affordable prices.

  • Taste of Abu Dhabi: A lively event with cooking workshops, tastings, and live music.

 

Must-Try Dishes in Abu Dhabi

Exploring Abu Dhabi’s dining scene isn’t complete without sampling some signature flavors:

  • Machboos: A spiced rice dish with lamb, chicken, or seafood, considered the UAE’s national dish.

  • Harees: Slow-cooked wheat and meat porridge, usually enjoyed during Ramadan.

  • Regag Bread: Thin, crispy Emirati flatbread often topped with cheese, eggs, or fish sauce.

  • Luqaimat: Sweet fried dumplings drizzled with date syrup or honey.

  • Camel Burger: A modern twist on a classic, available in specialty cafés.

  • Fresh Seafood: From grilled hammour to shrimp curries, reflecting the emirate’s Gulf heritage.

  • Arabic Coffee & Dates: A cultural staple, often served as a gesture of hospitality.

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