From celebrated bars to destination restaurants, these are the winners of the FACT Dining Awards Abu Dhabi 2026.
If you’re looking for the best restaurants in the capital, we’re here to help. The twelfth FACT Dining Awards Abu Dhabi have taken place, and the city’s dining scene continues to evolve at remarkable speed. Established institutions sit alongside ambitious homegrown concepts, international arrivals and restaurants that champion the culinary heritage of the UAE. The FACT Dining Awards Abu Dhabi 2026 celebrate the venues shaping the capital’s food and beverage landscape, covering everything from afternoon tea and steakhouses to bars, breakfasts and brunches. Across 24 categories, the awards recognise both BEST and FAVOURITE restaurants, before crowning one exceptional venue as Restaurant of the Year. Here are this year’s best restaurants in Abu Dhabi.
Restaurant of the Year 2026
NIRI Restaurant & Bar
For the fourth consecutive year, NIRI Restaurant & Bar is our Restaurant of the Year, thanks to its distinctive approach to Japanese dining and the consistency that keeps us returning. At Mamsha Al Saadiyat, this homegrown favourite pairs beachfront appeal with a kitchen that rewards curiosity. Dishes such as Toro Sakusaku Nori and Softshell Crab reveal an appetite for doing things differently, balancing confident flavours with careful technique. Warm service makes every visit feel personal, while the relaxed beachfront setting is as picturesque as it is vibey. In a city filled with ambitious openings, NIRI continues to earn its place through the details that matter: memorable food, genuine hospitality and a clear identity. Four years on, it remains our benchmark.
Where: NIRI Restaurant & Bar, Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Al Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.nirirestaurant.com
Newcomer
Best: blue
Mamsha Al Saadiyat gained one of its most interesting new restaurants with blue. The independently minded venue works closely with an Abu Dhabi farm, favouring seasonal produce, preservation techniques and cooking over fire. Head Chef Noah Muscat approaches the menu through a Nordic-influenced lens while keeping local and regional ingredients at its core. Dishes evolve regularly, which means returning diners may find something entirely different on each visit. One memorable creation has paired fried olives with zaatar and a labneh filling, illustrating the kitchen’s ability to make familiar Middle Eastern flavours feel new. Sharing plates, natural wines, cocktails and house-made non-alcoholic infusions reinforce the restaurant’s contemporary character. Thoughtful, ingredient-led and refreshingly individual.
Where: blue, Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Al Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: https://restaurantblue.ae
Favourite: Berenjak Abu Dhabi
London-born Persian restaurant Berenjak finally reached Abu Dhabi in 2026, settling into The House, a standalone villa in Al Bateen. Founded by Kian Samyani and inspired by the family meals of his Persian upbringing, the restaurant revolves around the sofreh and the act of gathering around food. Fresh breads and mazeh lead into charcoal cooking from the mangal. Hummus is made with black chickpeas and sunflower seed tahini, while Kashk-e Bademjoon combines coal-cooked aubergine, whey, walnuts and mint. Koobideh and Jujeh kababs are essential orders, alongside the herb-rich Ghormeh Sabzi. Abu Dhabi also has an exclusive Persian Tea Ice Cream. Atmospheric and comforting in equal measure, Berenjak has wasted little time becoming a local favourite.
Where: Berenjak, The House, Zayed The First Street, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi
Contact: @berenjak.uae
Emirati Restaurant
Best: Erth Restaurant
Few restaurants are as closely connected to Abu Dhabi’s identity as Erth. Located beside Qasr Al Hosn and the Cultural Foundation, the Michelin-starred restaurant takes Emirati recipes, local ingredients and regional flavours and presents them through a contemporary lens. Ingredients are sourced from farms and suppliers across the Emirates, giving the menu a strong sense of provenance. Braised Lamb Machboos is a signature, pairing tender lamb with fragrant Emirati-spiced rice, while other dishes have included Farid-inspired ravioli and locally sourced seafood. The Liwa dates batheeta provides a fitting final taste of the UAE. Head Chef Debi Prasad Rath has helped translate familiar flavours into modern restaurant cooking without stripping away their cultural identity.
Where: Erth Restaurant, Qasr Al Hosn, Hamdan Bin Mohammed Street, Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi
Contact: https://erthrestaurant.ae
Favourite: Al Fanar Restaurant & Café
For diners seeking a broad introduction to traditional Emirati food, Al Fanar remains one of the UAE’s most recognisable names. The Yas Mall restaurant recreates elements of the country’s past through nostalgic décor inspired by the 1960s, while the menu focuses firmly on recipes associated with Emirati homes. Machboos is an essential order, alongside jesheed, seafood platters, thareed and grilled fish. Those with room for dessert should finish with luqaimat drizzled with date syrup and a glass of karak tea. Sharing portions and an informal atmosphere make the restaurant especially popular with families and visitors keen to explore local cuisine.
Where: Al Fanar Restaurant & Café, The Fountains, Yas Mall, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.alfanarrestaurant.com
Homegrown
Best: Marmellata
Marmellata represents Abu Dhabi’s homegrown dining scene at its most personal. Founded by father-and-son team Raj and Sebastian Dagstani, the Al Mina pizzeria started small and developed a cult following through word of mouth, limited quantities and excellent dough. The queue-worthy pizzas have been the talk of the town, so if you want a slice of the action, its pizzas take inspiration from New York while maintaining a character entirely their own. Pepperoni with spicy honey remains one of the most popular combinations, while fig, Gorgonzola, pistachio and lemon offers a sweet-savoury alternative. Focaccia is another essential order, and house-made basil lemonade cuts nicely through the richness of the pizza. There is an unmistakable community spirit to Marmellata, from its intimate setting to its local sourcing, which is why it has won the award of ‘best homegrown restaurant in Abu Dhabi’ for the third year in a row.
Where: Marmellata, Mina Zayed, Abu Dhabi
Contact: https://marmellatalove.com
Favourite: Pitfire Pizza
Pitfire Pizza may have started in Dubai, but Abu Dhabi diners have firmly embraced the brand since its arrival in Al Zahiyah. Its appeal begins with the crust, blistered and charred around the edges while remaining satisfyingly chewy inside. The menu offers plenty of personality, from the Pepperoni Primo to Truff Daddy and the fiery Hell’s Kitchen. The Palm provides a distinctly regional combination of air-dried beef, dates, Gorgonzola and balsamic, demonstrating the kitchen’s willingness to move beyond standard pizza toppings. Sauces, meatballs and sausages are made in-house, reinforcing an approach based on flavour rather than shortcuts. Casual, consistent and built around pizza people genuinely want to order again, Pitfire has secured another FACT award, but its first in the capital.
Where: Pitfire Pizza, Al Zahiyah Street, Al Zahiyah, Abu Dhabi
Contact: https://pitfirepizzabakers.com
Saturday Brunch
Best: Zuma
Saturday brunch at Zuma is less a buffet and more a greatest-hits tour of one of Abu Dhabi’s favourite Japanese restaurants. The Baikingu Brunch combines an extensive selection of sushi, sashimi and salads with dishes from the robata grill before diners choose a main course. Signatures available within the experience include miso-marinated black cod, spicy beef tenderloin with sesame and red chilli, tiger prawns with yuzu pepper and Wagyu sirloin with truffle mayonnaise. More indulgent choices include roasted lobster and lamb chops. The format allows guests to sample extensively without losing the quality associated with Zuma’s à la carte experience. Factor in a lively crowd, sleek surroundings and consistently strong service, and this remains one of the capital’s benchmark weekend dining experiences.
Where: Zuma, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.zumarestaurant.com
Favourite: Garage
Garage at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island brings high-energy dining to the heart of Yas Island. The racetrack-themed restaurant is home to five distinct kitchens, each serving freshly prepared dishes inspired by flavours from around the world. Guests can move between Asian, Arabic and Nikkei favourites, making it a sociable spot for groups with different tastes. The vibrant setting reflects the hotel’s location beside Yas Marina Circuit, with bold interiors, a buzzing atmosphere and plenty of culinary theatre. Drinks are also a key part of the experience, with a tiled beverage wall featuring 11 taps serving creative concoctions for every mood and occasion. Fun, flavour-packed and full of personality, Garage offers a lively brunch experience in true W style.
Where: Garage, W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.marriott.com
Japanese
Best: NIRI Restaurant & Bar
NIRI Restaurant & Bar is led by a trifecta of talent: Managing Director Imad Obeid, Head Chef and sushi master Yasuyuki Takemoto, and Chef Omaka Orubu. The contemporary izakaya takes Japanese ingredients and techniques seriously without turning dinner into a rigid ceremony. Chef Yasuyuki Takemoto leads the kitchen, working with seasonal produce and seafood flown from Japan. Sushi is naturally a highlight, with ingredients such as young yellowtail, ikura, uni, alfonsino and scallops appearing according to availability. Wagyu beef, yakitori and tempura round out the menu, providing plenty for diners who prefer cooked dishes. The bar adds another reason to linger, giving NIRI a lively neighbourhood energy that suits its beachfront surroundings.
Where: NIRI Restaurant & Bar, Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Al Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.nirirestaurant.com
Favourite: Strawfire by Ross Shonhan
Chef Ross Shonhan has built his career around Japanese cuisine, with previous roles at Nobu Dallas and Zuma London as well as founding Bone Daddies, Flesh & Buns and the FACT award-winning Lilibet’s in London. At Strawfire, he focuses on warayaki, the Japanese technique of cooking over intensely hot straw flames. The method creates drama in the dining room while adding smoke and char to the food. Japanese Wagyu sashimi, tuna tartare in a monaka shell and Wagyu gyoza are among the highlights, while Strawfire favourites also include Wagyu striploin, crab don and tuna tataki promise to ignite all of your senses. The theatrical open kitchen and harvest-inspired décor inside a lavish Emirates Palace setting make the restaurant feel suitably special.
Where: Strawfire, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, West Corniche Road, Al Ras Al Akhdar, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.mandarinoriental.com
Italian
Best: Antonia
When it comes to restaurants, queuing is one of the ultimate acts of devotion. Is the food so good, you’re prepared to wait? In an age where we can get (almost) anything at the touch of a button, few venues create FOMO. However, Antonia in Abu Dhabi is well worth the wait. What started as an Abu Dhabi pizzeria has developed into one of the capital’s strongest homegrown restaurant success stories. Antonia specialises in Roman pizza al taglio, characterised by a light, airy base cut into rectangular slices. Its pizza selection ranges from the spicy Diavola to the truffle-laced Tartufata and Polpette topped with meatballs. Supplì provide the essential Roman snack, while pasta dishes such as cacio e pepe and carbonara prove the kitchen has ambitions beyond pizza. Despite expanding across several locations, Antonia has retained the casual character that made the original so appealing.
Where: Antonia, Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Al Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.antoniarestaurant.com
Favourite: Villa Toscana
Villa Toscana recreates the warmth of a Tuscan townhouse inside The St. Regis Abu Dhabi. The rustic Italian restaurant focuses on the food of Tuscany and wider Italy, favouring familiar recipes, generous portions and traditional ingredients. The menu includes burrata, vitello tonnato and a reworked Parmigiana 2.0 before moving into handmade pastas such as pici with Chianti-style ragu and spaghetti with three tomatoes. Risotto uses seven-year-aged Acquerello rice, while seafood lovers can choose linguine with lobster. For groups, the 1.6kg Fiorentina-style Wagyu T-bone makes an impressive centrepiece. Finish with feather-light tiramisu or a slice of torta della nonna.
Where: Villa Toscana, The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, Nation Towers, West Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.villatoscana-abudhabi.com
Indian
Best: Punjab Grill
Punjab Grill has long demonstrated that Indian fine dining can be both rooted in tradition and willing to evolve. Set within The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, the restaurant takes inspiration from the royal kitchens and culinary traditions of the subcontinent, with Executive Chef Sandeep Ail guiding the current menu. Familiar favourites are handled with flair, from Palak Patta Chaat to Gunpowder Shrimp and Naga Chilli Glazed Chicken. The Kashmiri Lamb Chop offers a richer choice, while Zaffrani Jhinga celebrates seafood with aromatic spice. The dining room suits celebrations and business dinners alike, yet the accomplished cooking, attractive presentation and a strong sense of Indian culinary heritage, remain the principal reasons to return, hence the restaurant being crowned Best Indian Restaurant in Abu Dhabi for the second year in a row.
Where: Punjab Grill, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, Al Maqta, Abu Dhabi
Contact: https://punjabgrill.me
Favourite: Pincode by Kunal Kapur
Celebrity chef and former MasterChef India judge Kunal Kapur turns India’s many culinary destinations into a menu at Pincode. Located on Al Maryah Island, the restaurant takes its inspiration from the postal codes that identify different parts of the country, allowing regional dishes, street-food favourites and comfort classics to share the same table. The Lamb Tawa Seekh Masala is a signature, while butter chicken, dal makhani and dhaba-style lamb curry cover familiar territory particularly well. Chaat hummus and Kerala fried chicken offer more playful choices, alongside tandoori fish tikka and bun kebabs. The desserts take things up a notch with Rasmalai Tiramisu, Falooda Sundae and much more. The restaurant feels approachable despite Kapur’s celebrity credentials, taking the title of Favourite Indian Restaurant in Abu Dhabi for the second year in a row.
Where: Pincode by Kunal Kapur, The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: https://pincodebykunalkapur.com
French
Best: La Petite Maison Abu Dhabi
Consistency. That’s the word that customers and critics use about La Petite Maison. The chefs create the same quality around the world, whether you’re in Dubai, London, Mykonos or Riyadh – we know, as we have eaten at them. La Petite Maison has become an Abu Dhabi institution by resisting unnecessary change. Rooted in the flavours of the French Riviera and Mediterranean coast, the Al Maryah Island restaurant relies on excellent ingredients, confident cooking and a room that rarely lacks atmosphere. Make like FACT Magazine’s Editor-in-Chief, and order the Warm Prawns with Olive Oil and Lemon Juice or the Burrata with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil, which celebrates simplicity. Larger plates include the Marinated Baby Chicken, Salt-Baked Sea Bass and Lamb Cutlets with olives, aubergine caviar and pine nuts. And, no trip is complete without drinking the signature cocktail, Tomatini. Years after opening, La Petite Maison Abu Dhabi still feels relevant, proving that consistency can be more powerful than reinvention.
Where: La Petite Maison Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island Abu Dhabi
Contact: https://lpmrestaurants.com
Favourite: Bord Eau by Nicolas Isnard
French technique meets a more adventurous worldview at Bord Eau by Nicolas Isnard. The acclaimed chef has reshaped the Shangri-La restaurant around two culinary journeys, one rooted in French classics and another informed by his travels. Isnard’s Modern Onion Soup demonstrates how an instantly recognisable dish can be reworked with imagination, while artichoke soup with Parmesan and truffle showcases his preference for luxurious flavours. Scallops with caviar, Chilean seabass inspired by bouillabaisse and Wagyu Rossini continue the sense of occasion. Desserts include an elaborate interpretation of Black Forest cake. The dining room is intimate and softly lit, bringing French finesse to Abu Dhabi through linen-dressed tables, alabaster tones and a view across the waterways. Service is warm and well-timed, with confident wine pairings that travel from Burgundy to the Rhône.
Where: Bord Eau by Nicolas Isnard, Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Khor Al Maqta, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.bordeauabudhabi.com
Steakhouse
Best: Butcher & Still
Butcher & Still is a must-visit in Abu Dhabi and won FACT’s Restaurant of the Year in 2022. Regardless of whether you’re a steak person or not, step through the doors of Butcher & Still and the mood shifts to 1920s Chicago. The Four Seasons steakhouse leans wholeheartedly into the era, from leather seating and vintage-inspired details to a menu centred around exceptional beef. The 1.2kg Signature Tomahawk, aged for 21 days, is made for serious steak fans and sharing tables. Other favourites from Chef Marshall Roth’s marvellous menu include Prime Angus tartare, bone marrow and the restaurant’s substantial crab cake. Dessert is almost mandatory, especially the towering Tribune Tower, constructed from 34 layers of chocolate, which has to be seen to be believed.
Where: Butcher & Still, Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.fourseasons.com
Favourite: Hunter & Barrel
Fire sits at the heart of Hunter & Barrel. The Australian-born steakhouse at Yas Bay takes inspiration from the primal relationship between hunting, gathering and cooking over flames, resulting in a menu heavy on charcoal-grilled meats and smoky flavours. Steak is naturally the main event, with substantial cuts designed for both individual diners and sharing. The 1.3kg Angus Tomahawk makes a particularly dramatic centrepiece, arriving with accompaniments such as fries, mushrooms and chimichurri. Flame-grilled prawns and other charcoal-cooked dishes broaden the menu beyond beef. The industrial-style dining room, waterfront location at Yas Bay and straightforward approach to meat have made Hunter & Barrel a popular choice for carnivores looking for a relaxed and affordable steakhouse.
Where: Hunter & Barrel, Yas Bay, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: https://hunterandbarrel.ae
Middle Eastern & North African
Best: Soraya
Persian flavours are given a stylish contemporary home at Soraya. Located inside Yas Mall, the restaurant draws inspiration from Iran’s culinary traditions while surrounding diners with abundant greenery and a greenhouse-inspired design. Charcoal cooking is central to the experience, with Lamb Koobideh and Chicken Joujeh among the strongest orders. Ghormeh Sabzi offers the slow-cooked depth of one of Iran’s most recognisable stews, while crispy tahdig provides the essential golden rice crust. Other favourites include Parmesan Sibzamini and generous mixed grills made for the centre of the table. Desserts such as faloodeh and a baklava ice cream sandwich give familiar flavours a playful finish. Inviting, colourful and designed for sharing, Soraya will soon be opening in both Dubai and London.
Where: Soraya, Yas Mall, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.sorayarestaurant.com
Favourite: Mosaic Restaurant
Mosaic Restaurant is Abu Dhabi’s dependable address for Levantine comfort. The room blends tiled floors with warm wood to create a cosy environment. Tables fill quickly with colourful mezze—smoky moutabbal, bright fattoush, zingy muhammara—arriving alongside pillowy, oven-warm bread. Charcoal grills are the draw, from tender shish tawouk to juicy lamb kofta, and mixed platters designed for sharing. Kibbeh bil Laban offers the comforting combination of meat-filled kibbeh and yoghurt sauce, while Oriental Rice with Lamb works particularly well for sharing. Daily stews and stuffed specialities nod to homestyle cooking, while knafeh and syrup-kissed pastries close things sweetly.
Where: Mosaic Restaurant, Guardian Towers, Al Muroor Road, Abu Dhabi
Contact: @mosaic.restaurant
European
Best: Taparelle
Art and food make natural companions at Taparelle, the restaurant located within Manarat Al Saadiyat. Its menu sits between France and Italy, combining Mediterranean ingredients, traditional techniques and a contemporary café sensibility. The kitchen moves confidently from Diavola pizza and oxtail ragu to seafood risotto, sea bass and baby chicken, giving the menu enough breadth for everything from a casual lunch to dinner after an exhibition. The cultural setting is a significant part of the appeal, with the restaurant acting as an informal meeting place for Saadiyat’s creative community. Rather than chasing theatrical presentation, Chef Omaka Marie places the emphasis on recognisable dishes prepared with care.
Where: Taparelle, Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.taparelle.com
Favourite: Novikov Abu Dhabi
Novikov’s arrival in Abu Dhabi added another internationally recognised name to Al Maryah Island, but the restaurant has established an identity that extends beyond its famous London origins. Executive Chef Alberto Dorigo oversees an Italian and Mediterranean menu where premium ingredients and familiar flavours take priority. Lobster Linguini and Truffle Pizza sit among the signatures, joined by King Crab Salad, Beef Carpaccio and Mushroom Risotto. Seafood is particularly strong, with Dover Sole Meunière and salt-crusted seabass designed for diners seeking something substantial to share. The large dining room and energetic atmosphere suit everything from business lunches to celebratory dinners.
Where: Novikov Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.novikovabudhabi.ae
Latin American
Best: Maté
Argentina and Lebanon might not seem like obvious culinary partners, yet Maté demonstrates how naturally the two can work together. Located at Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas, the restaurant draws inspiration from Argentina’s fire-driven cooking while introducing Lebanese touches throughout the menu. Meat remains a major focus, supported by dishes such as hand-cut Wagyu empanadas and tenderloin carpaccio served with truffle chimichurri. Chef Belén Pracilio’s provoleta offers the molten cheese hit every Argentinian meal deserves, while hamachi and jalea ceviche provide a lighter counterpoint. The restaurant’s dramatic interiors and live-fire elements make dinner feel like an occasion, without distracting from the ingredients. Plus, the desserts range from an Argentine Cheesecake to a Dulce de Leche Volcano Cake.
Where: Maté, Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.hyatt.com
Favourite: Barbossa
Yas Bay has no shortage of lively restaurants, yet Barbossa manages to stand out with its combination of waterfront energy and bold Latin American cooking. Modern Mexican flavours dominate, supported by colourful interiors, upbeat music and a menu made for groups. The OG Sizzling Fajita remains a popular order, while the sea bass fillet and Al Pastor baby chicken provide substantial alternatives. Drinks are an equally important part of the experience, particularly once dinner gives way to a later-night atmosphere overlooking the waterfront. The beauty of Barbossa is that it understands that great Latin American dining is often as much about conviviality as cooking.
Where: Barbossa, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: https://barbossa.ae
Pan Asian
Best: Dai Pai Dong
Cantonese comfort food is treated with care at Dai Pai Dong, the signature Chinese restaurant at Rosewood Abu Dhabi. Inspired by Hong Kong’s traditional street-food stalls, the restaurant balances an upscale hotel environment with dishes grounded in familiar Cantonese techniques. Dim sum is a major reason to visit, alongside hand-pulled noodles, smoky barbecue dishes and glossy roasted meats. The open kitchen adds energy to proceedings, allowing diners to watch chefs work while the aromas of roasting and wok cooking fill the room. There is a strong sense of generosity to the experience, while consistent cooking and an inviting atmosphere have made Dai Pai Dong an enduring FACT favourite.
Where: Dai Pai Dong, Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.rosewoodhotels.com
Favourite: Hakkasan Abu Dhabi
Hakkasan Abu Dhabi has long been synonymous with contemporary Cantonese dining in the capital. Set inside Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, the restaurant combines moody interiors, intricate screens and a destination terrace with a menu filled with established Hakkasan signatures and Abu Dhabi-specific creations. The signature Peking duck remains a centrepiece, while the supreme dim sum selection is ideal for sharing. Larger plates include jasmine tea-smoked Wagyu beef ribs, charcoal-grilled black cod with eight-treasure rice and truffle, and Chilean seabass glazed with organic Emirates Palace honey. Wok-fried lobster adds another luxurious option. Service is polished, pacing unhurried, and the soundtrack suitably low-lit. Hakkasan remains a capital classic.
Where: Hakkasan, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, West Corniche Road, Al Ras Al Akhdar, Abu Dhabi
Contact: https://taogroup.com
Seafood
Best: Ibn AlBahr
With a beachfront terrace built for golden hour and stunning views along the shoreline, Ibn AlBahr has finally dropped anchor in Abu Dhabi. And with a name that translates to “son of the sea”, Ibn AlBahr makes its priorities clear. The Lebanese seafood restaurant at Makers District on Al Reem Island places the daily catch at the centre of the experience, with fish displayed on ice for diners to choose before deciding how it should be cooked. Red snapper, Sultan Ibrahim and lobster sit alongside generous mezze and charcoal-grilled seafood. Standout plates include Hummus Al Bahr topped with prawns, shrimp fatteh and chargrilled red snapper, while the menu also taps into Lebanon’s longstanding coastal cooking traditions.
Where: Ibn AlBahr, Makers District, Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.ibnalbahr.me
Favourite: Fishmarket
A fixture on Abu Dhabi’s dining scene since 1989, Fishmarket at InterContinental Abu Dhabi has earned its reputation through fresh seafood, Thai flavours and a distinctive market-to-table format. Rather than ordering from a conventional menu, diners choose their catch directly from the seafood display before selecting vegetables, sauces and a preferred preparation. Signature dishes include Tom Yum Kung, grilled tiger prawns, Omani lobster with lemon garlic sauce and hammour cooked with Thai herbs. Set beside the sea, the restaurant combines relaxed waterfront views with an interactive dining experience that has remained popular for more than three decades.
Where: Fishmarket, InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.abudhabi.intercontinental.com
Fusion
Best: SUSHISAMBA Abu Dhabi
Set across two levels at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, SUSHISAMBA Abu Dhabi combines Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian flavours with sweeping Corniche views. Executive Chef Obed Villegas leads a menu built around sushi, seviche, anticuchos and dishes from the robata grill. Signatures include the Wagyu Dhabi roll with Japanese A5 Wagyu and truffle aioli, Chilean sea bass anticuchos with white miso, lobster seviche with coconut leche de tigre, and black cod glazed with white miso. The lively dining room features open sushi and robata counters, while terraces and a first-floor bar add to the occasion. Colourful, theatrical and designed for sharing, SUSHISAMBA remains one of Abu Dhabi’s most distinctive dining destinations.
Where: SUSHISAMBA Abu Dhabi, Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.sushisamba.com
Favourite: Nalu Restaurant & Lounge
Surfing and dining meet at Nalu Restaurant & Lounge, an energetic restaurant overlooking Surf Abu Dhabi on Hudayriyat Island. The concept crosses Latin American flavours with Asian influences, resulting in a menu designed around social dining and a setting unlike almost anything else in the capital. Its calendar has grown to include Latin American brunches, surf-inspired business lunches, pizza nights and Sunday roasts, reflecting a restaurant comfortable moving between cuisines and occasions. The wave pool provides a dramatic backdrop from morning until night, while DJs and sundowner sessions strengthen its destination credentials. Rather than treating fusion as a gimmick, Nalu uses its multicultural menu to match the international surf culture surrounding it.
Where: Nalu Restaurant & Lounge, Surf Abu Dhabi, Hudayriyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.surfabudhabi.com/nalu
International
Best: Flamingo Room by tashas
Few restaurants in Abu Dhabi do glamour quite like Flamingo Room by tashas. The Al Maryah Island venue draws inspiration from African landscapes and wildlife, creating a striking dining room filled with sculptural details, warm hues and a strong sense of occasion. The food matches the surroundings with a menu focused on seafood, pasta and contemporary comfort dishes. Calamari Mozambique is a signature dish, served with lemon butter, peri-peri and shoestring fries, while Lobster Pasta is another crowd-pleasing choice. Prawn Arancini and Exotic Mushroom Open Lasagna add further variety, before the theatrical Baked Alaska provides a suitable finale. Created by the South African restaurateur Natasha Sideris, her brands have a loyal following in the UAE – and this is no different.
Where: Flamingo Room by tashas, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.flamingoroombytashas.com
Favourite: West Bay Lounge
Tucked beside the azure Arabian Gulf, West Bay Lounge paints a serene beachside vibe. The restaurant sits on the Abu Dhabi Corniche with direct beach access, sea views and one of the capital’s prime sunset positions. The laid-back venue leans into global flavours, with an outdoor grill, casual dishes – ranging from salads to sushi – and refreshing beverages designed to complement long afternoons beside the water. Hammocks, swings and sunbeds add to the holiday atmosphere and elevate the al fresco experience. Don’t forget that over the weekend, this place turns into the ultimate toes-in-the-sand party hotspot.
Where: West Bay Lounge, Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort, Abu Dhabi Corniche, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.radissonhotels.com
Outdoor Dining
Best: Sand & Koal
Few outdoor restaurants occupy surroundings as impressive as Sand & Koal. Set directly on the beach at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, the concept revolves around fire, smoke and cooking in the open air. Seafood, premium cuts and vegetables are treated over flames, with the kitchen exploring raw, smoked and charred preparations. Crudos and skewers suit sharing, while cocktails and a soundtrack from the resident DJ encourage diners to linger beyond dinner. The design channels an upscale beach-club aesthetic without competing with the palace or shoreline, leaving the Arabian Gulf as the defining feature. Sand & Koal demonstrates how food, atmosphere and location can work together particularly effectively, earning it accolade as best outdoor dining restaurant in the capital.
Where: Sand & Koal, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, West Corniche Road, Al Ras Al Akhdar, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.mandarinoriental.com
Favourite: Sontaya
Meaning “sunset” in Thai, Sontaya was always destined to make the most of its surroundings. The Southeast Asian restaurant at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort occupies floating pavilions surrounded by water, with terraces overlooking the Arabian Gulf. The menu travels around the region through Thai, Indonesian and other Southeast Asian influences. Papaya salad, Thai beef salad and king crab salad offer fresh openings, while Indonesian tuna tartare arrives with caviar for something more indulgent. The food lends itself naturally to sharing, especially when paired with a sunset table outdoors. Water features, tropical landscaping and Saadiyat’s sea breeze heighten the sense of escape, and Sontaya remains one of Abu Dhabi’s most romantic alfresco experiences.
Where: Sontaya, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.sontayaabudhabi.com
Bar
Best: Saikindō
Abu Dhabi’s bar scene found a new rhythm with the arrival of Saikindō. Inspired by Japan’s listening-bar culture, the intimate Four Seasons venue pairs a serious analogue sound system and vinyl collection with cocktails and contemporary Japanese food. Beverage Director Marco Corallo oversees the drinks programme, while Head Chef Slamet Wahyudi draws on more than two decades of Japanese culinary experience. Twelve music-inspired cocktails have been created using AI to map the rhythm and tone, determining what a song would taste like. Upside Down, inspired by Diana Ross, brings together Nikka From The Barrel whisky, St-Germain, toasted coconut and pineapple, while Big Poppa gives hip-hop a savoury edge with sotol, Campari, wasabi, tomato dashi and vanilla. Between its vibey listening bar, atelier, and private rooms, Saikindō offers a hip late night hangout on Al Maryah Island.
Where: Saikindō, Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: @saikindo
Favourite: Bla Bla Bar
Set against the yachts and waterfront views of Yas Marina, Bla Bla Bar is an energetic destination designed for dinner, drinks and late nights. The venue combines creative cocktails with an international food menu that moves between Mexican flavours, sushi and crowd-pleasing favourites. As evening settles in, DJs and live entertainment turn up the tempo, while indoor and outdoor seating allows guests to make the most of the marina setting. Weekly programming adds to the appeal, ranging from happy hours and ladies’ nights to weekend brunches accompanied by DJs and dancers. Social, spirited and rarely short on atmosphere, Bla Bla Bar has established itself as one of Yas Marina’s liveliest nightlife addresses, especially during F1 weekend.
Where: Bla Bla Bar, Yas Marina, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.yasmarina.ae
Pub
Best: Craft by Side Hustle
Craft by Side Hustle has rewritten the rulebook for Abu Dhabi pubs. Centred around an on-site brewery and open kitchen, the Al Maryah Island venue serves Southern American cooking with plenty of personality. The kitchen draws heavily from smokehouse and Louisiana traditions, with Cajun po’boys, jambalaya, shrimp and grits, smoked brisket and house-made pretzels all part of its appeal. The Chef’s Signature Smokehouse Platter piles brisket, Andouille sausage and chicken onto one plate for a substantial introduction to the menu. Much of the food is made from scratch, from buns and sauces to charcuterie and spice rubs. Add locally produced craft beverages and a relaxed atmosphere, and Craft has become one of the capital’s most individual drinking and dining destinations.
Where: Craft by Side Hustle, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: https://brewery.ae
Favourite: PJ O’Reilly’s
A long-standing fixture at Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi, PJ O’Reilly’s Irish pub has developed a fiercely loyal following through live sport, regular entertainment, hearty food and an atmosphere that rarely takes itself too seriously. The menu sticks to pub favourites, including golden fish and chips, juicy burgers and filling bar snacks that work equally well with a casual lunch or a late-night drink. Its outdoor spaces are particularly popular during the cooler months, while regular promotions keep the venue busy throughout the week. Familiar, friendly and dependable, PJ O’Reilly’s remains one of Abu Dhabi’s quintessential pubs.
Where: PJ O’Reilly’s, Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khalifa Street, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.pjspubabudhabi.com
Beach/Pool Bar
Best: GLO
Perched beside the pool at Rosewood Abu Dhabi, GLO oozes sophistication and offers marvellous waterfront views. The venue channels South American influences into a menu suited to sunny afternoons and leisurely evenings, backed by views across the Abu Dhabi skyline. Seafood features prominently, including seabream ceviche dressed with leche de tigre and a lobster and prawn roll, while beef tacos and corn ribs make strong sharing options. Larger appetites can tackle the Rosewood Wagyu Burger with Taleggio and truffle or a colourful poke bowl. As daylight fades, cocktails and music shift the mood towards something more energetic. The bar combines classics with smart signatures, offering zero-proof options for a clean finish.
Where: GLO, Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.rosewoodhotels.com
Favourite: Panache
Swap the city skyline for rolling desert landscapes at Panache. Found beside the pool at Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, the swim-up bar offers a relaxed counterpoint to the resort’s more formal dining experiences. Guests can order refreshments without leaving the water or settle beside the pool for casual dishes and drinks surrounded by the quiet of the desert. The food has previously included colourful, lighter choices such as buffalo cauliflower wings, Vietnamese spring rolls and açaí bowls, fitting naturally with the resort setting. Mocktails and cocktails complete the experience. With its distinctive location and effortless holiday feel, Panache proves that a memorable pool bar is as much about atmosphere as the menu, securing FAVOURITE Beach/Pool Bar.
Where: Panache, Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Abu Dhabi, Mshayrif, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.marriott.com
Afternoon Tea
Best: Café Ginori
Italian design meets one of hospitality’s most enduring rituals at Café Ginori. Located inside The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, the café is a collaboration with historic porcelain house Ginori 1735, meaning the tableware is every bit as photogenic as the food. The Ginori Afternoon Tea is served on the brand’s distinctive porcelain and includes Caprese sandwiches, beef cecina with melon, tuna with red onion and olives, and focaccia topped with roasted pepper and goat cheese. Scones arrive alongside mascarpone cream and homemade jam, followed by Sicilian cannoli, tiramisu, ricotta tart and raspberry lemon tart. Inspired by the iconic St. Regis ritual, the Ginori Afternoon Tea is a refined tribute to elegance and timeless hospitality, backed by Saadiyat views and serious design credentials.
Where: Café Ginori, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.cafeginorisaadiyatisland.com
Favourite: Osmo Lounge & Bar
Afternoon tea receives a regional twist at Osmo Lounge & Bar. Sitting inside Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, the relaxed lobby lounge transitions from morning coffees to evening cocktails, but its Pearl Afternoon Tea provides one of the strongest reasons to visit during the afternoon. Inspired by the Gulf’s pearling heritage, the experience arrives inside an eye-catching pearl-shaped presentation case filled with carefully made savouries, sweets and warm scones. Unlimited tea and coffee accompany the spread, alongside a seasonal welcome drink. The creative presentation gives a familiar ritual a welcome sense of place, while the comfortable lounge and Yas Bay setting make it ideal for catch-ups, celebrations or a slower afternoon away from the island’s attractions.
Where: Osmo Lounge & Bar, Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, Yas Bay, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.hilton.com
Cafe
Bres: tashas
Long before Abu Dhabi became crowded with lifestyle cafés, tashas established itself as one of the capital’s most reliable all-day destinations. Its Al Bateen location remains a FACT favourite thanks to an expansive menu, bright interiors and the kind of consistency that turns first-time visitors into regulars. Breakfast continues until late afternoon, with standouts including brioche French toast, mushrooms on toast and Mariachi scrambled eggs. Later in the day, diners can move onto chicken prego, salmon teriyaki, lemon chicken or mini beef burgers. Portions are generous and presentation is thoughtful without becoming fussy. The brand has been expanding its global presence in recent years, with new openings in London and Riyadh.
Where: tashas, Marsa Al Bateen Marina, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.tashascafe.com
Favourite: NAC
The London-born NAC has found a receptive audience in Abu Dhabi, where its Marina Mall location mixes café culture with comfort food and a lively social atmosphere. The menu has become a major part of the appeal, moving from breakfast and casual lunches to pastas, burgers and indulgent desserts. NAC’s menu is a treasure trove of delightful dishes, from a variety of egg dishes to an array of refreshing salads. Finish your dining experience on a sweet note with NAC’s unmissable desserts featuring Crushed Milk Chocolate Cookies with Frosties soft serve, French toast with raspberries and clotted cream, and the delightful Affogato. With a menu designed for sharing, lingering and repeat visits, NAC has quickly secured a devoted following in the capital.
Where: NAC, Marina Mall, Marina Village, Abu Dhabi
Contact: https://nacdubai.com
Breakfast
BEST: Society
Few breakfasts come with a setting quite like Society. Located at Mamsha Al Saadiyat, the homegrown café and bakery pairs an airy dining room with views towards the Arabian Gulf, making it an easy choice for leisurely mornings by the beach. Breakfast is the main attraction, spanning sweet and savoury favourites such as brioche French toast, pancakes, Turkish eggs, shakshuka and khachapuri. Lighter options include açaí bowls, Greek yoghurt and granola, while excellent pastries reinforce Society’s bakery credentials. The menu has enough variety for repeat visits without losing its identity, while attentive service and an attractive coastal setting seal the deal.
Where: Society, Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Al Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: https://societyuae.com
Favourite: Café 302
For an easy-going breakfast in central Abu Dhabi, Café 302 has long understood the assignment. The all-day café at Al Maha Arjaan by Rotana offers generous portions, approachable pricing and enough choice to please almost every morning appetite. Its breakfast selection moves between Belgian waffles and buttermilk pancakes to Eggs Benedict and heartier plates. The Taste of Arabia is particularly appealing, combining foul medames, falafel, grilled halloumi, zaatar croissant and Arabic bread, while plant-based diners are catered for with dishes such as tofu Benedict. Add speciality coffee, relaxed surroundings and a loyal local following, and Café 302 remains the kind of dependable neighbourhood venue diners return to repeatedly, earning it FAVOURITE Breakfast.
Where: Café 302, Al Maha Arjaan by Rotana, Saeed Bin Ahmed Al Otaiba Street, Al Danah, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.rotana.com