The thriving city of Abu Dhabi has an abundant food scene, luxury hotels, cars, parks and many more! Abu Dhabi’s food world is always changing. And if you enjoy eating out but find it hard to stay updated, don’t worry – we’re here to help.
Introducing our complete guide to the finest dining spots in Abu Dhabi! Whether you’re into any type of cuisine or budget-conscious doesn’t matter. We’ve tested them all and have the long receipts to back it up. We aim to share our discoveries with all the food enthusiasts in the capital, including you!
List of Best Restaurants in Abu Dhabi
Taon
Imagine a special place called TAON at the Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche. They proudly say they’re the first fancy Korean restaurant in the UAE. If you’re a fan of Korean food, you should check it out. In Korean, TAON means ‘all luck comes here.’ They serve real Korean dishes like barbecues, stews, spicy chicken, and bulgogi.
For people who love meat, something amazing is called the ‘whole cow set.’ It comes with rib-eye, rib meat, striploin, brisket, and galbi. Yum! But that’s not all. TAON also has Japanese food like sushi and robata. So, no matter what you’re craving, they have something right for you.
And if you’re on the hunt for one of the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi, TAON is the place to be. They want to make sure you have a great time enjoying tasty food. So, next time you’re hungry for Korean or Japanese food, remember TAON!
Li Jiang
Li Jiang at The Ritz-Carlton Grand Canal in Abu Dhabi promises the amazing flavors, scents, and excitement of an Asian food market. This is a spot you can’t afford to miss. Inside, the restaurant looks cool with sleek designs and deep red colors. But that’s not all – outside. You get an amazing view of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
But wait, there’s even more! The food here is like a dream. They’re experts at making dishes from all around the region. You can enjoy delicious soups that smell amazing, noodles they pull by hand, tasty curries, sushi, stir-fries, seafood, and much more.
If you’re looking for something special, Li Jiang is the place. It’s one of the fanciest Asian restaurants in the city, and many people think it’s one of the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi, period. So, if you want to make a special day even better, try Li Jiang!
LPM Restaurant & Bar
LPM Restaurant & Bar is a well-known name in the Emirates and beyond. It has a great reputation as one of the finest European restaurants in the capital, and it even won the title in 2023. Their menu mixes French and Mediterranean flavors, so prepare for a treat. You’ll find dishes like prawns with olive oil, snails, lamb chops that are just the right pink, sea bass baked with salt, fragrant baby chicken, and the most heavenly gratin dauphinoise that’s rich and creamy.
The place has a fancy vibe, and they use really good ingredients (which can be expensive). It’s the perfect choice for special occasions. But don’t worry. They also have a reasonably priced business lunch that’s worth trying. It would help if you went there at least once to experience the deliciousness. If you travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, LPM is a special spot you’ll remember!
Shang Palace
Looking for amazing Chinese food? You got it. Want the fantastic scenery of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque? It’s right there. Looking for one of the greatest restaurants in Abu Dhabi? You’ve found it. Shang Palace might not be the cheapest, but it’s worth it. This well-known place always delivers.
When you step in, you’ll see big tables with spinning trays in the middle so you can share food with your family or friends. The place feels nice, with white tablecloths and pretty red lanterns hanging low. The food is something you’ll love to enjoy together or even keep all to yourself (no worries, no one’s judging). Try their famous dim sum, like the chicken and shrimp siew mai, the spicy Schezuan eggplant, and the crispy tiger prawns. And don’t forget to leave some space for their chilled mango soup – it’s a treat you won’t want to miss.
Penelope’s
Yas Marina has a French restaurant and jazz bar that many people love. It was created by Hamdan Al Khafaji, who also brought us the Mexican restaurant La Carnita in the UAE and the talented singer Layla Kardan. When you visit, you’ll find a menu of French foods people enjoy. They have things like beef tartare, snails, foie gras, wagyu tenderloin, and pear tarte tatin, among other tasty options.
What’s cool about this place is that there’s live music to enjoy while you eat, and you also get to see the beautiful view of the marina. The atmosphere is nice and relaxed. Penelope’s is one of the top places to eat in Abu Dhabi. So, if you’re looking for delicious French food, a bit of jazz, and a great time, this is the place for you.
Moksh
Located at the bottom of Etihad Towers, this place might give you a lower view, but it serves top-notch food. It’s modern, stylish, and has a touch of elegance – and the food is good. The inside is so cool that you’d want to take pictures for your Instagram. You might even see some dry ice and fun ways the food is presented.
Their style is a mix of different things (ever tried burrata? You’ll find it here!), but they also do the classic dishes well. If you love exciting and tasty meals, Moksh is a restaurant you should consider. It might not have the tallest view, but it raises the bar regarding delicious dining experiences.
Antonia
Calling all pizza enthusiasts and anyone on the hunt for the finest dining spots in Abu Dhabi – this one’s tailor-made for you. Situated in the trendy Mamsha Al Saadiyat, a stone’s throw away from Soul Beach, this restaurant is all the rage. It’s the perfect spot to dig into a slice of pizza and enjoy a leisurely afternoon.
Promising a true taste of Rome right in the heart of the UAE capital and sprinkled with a touch of “grandma’s love,” the menu offers classic Italian dishes with a modern twist. It brings a dash of retro glamour to the neighborhood. Their pizza al taglio is a highlight – baked in rectangular pans with various toppings, sold by the square, half tray, or full tray. They use pizza dough that’s been fermenting for a full 72 hours. And that’s not all – you’ll also find antipasti, salads, suppli, and a delightful sweet pizza for dessert.
If you’re seeking something lighter, their freshly made gelato every two hours is a must-try. No need to ask us twice – this is undeniably one of the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi. Don’t miss the chance to savor a slice or two at this fantastic spot.
99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant
Nestled within The Galleria Al Maryah Island, the splendid 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant is a top-tier Japanese dining spot from Madrid. Renowned for its exceptional maki, nigiri, sashimi, and beyond, this establishment has earned its place among the crème de la crème of Abu Dhabi’s restaurants.
A standout favorite is the Capumiso soup, renowned for its delightful taste (you’ve got to give it a try!). With impeccably fresh sushi, delightful gyoza, and an impressive signature katsu sando, the menu boasts a plethora of delectable options that are all of the highest quality.
An excellent entry point is their reasonably priced business lunch, offering a fantastic opportunity to explore an array of exquisite dishes without straining your wallet. 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant has truly mastered the art of Japanese cuisine. It has established itself as a prime dining destination in Abu Dhabi. Indulge in their offerings and experience culinary excellence like never before.
Conclusion
Abu Dhabi’s culinary scene is a testament to the city’s rich tapestry of culture and innovation. From Arabian spices to international flair, the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi offer diverse flavors that cater to all palates.
So, whether you’re a devoted foodie or just someone looking to experience the finest gastronomy the UAE offers, these culinary gems are ready to delight your senses.
Take the chance to explore these culinary wonders during your stay in Abu Dhabi. Your taste buds will thank you, and your memories will be garnished with the finest flavors of this remarkable city.
