From refined beachfront dining to modern farm-to-table fare, these new restaurants in Abu Dhabi are bringing fresh flavours and exciting concepts to the capital.
Abu Dhabi’s dining scene continues to evolve, and a fresh wave of openings is giving food lovers plenty of reasons to book a table. Across the capital, new restaurants are spotlighting everything from Korean fried chicken and slow-cooked Indian classics to artisanal pizza, modern Arabic cuisine, and ingredient-led cooking by the sea. Whether you are after a casual bite in Khalidiya, a polished dinner on Hudayriyat Island or a stylish meal in Saadiyat, these new restaurants in Abu Dhabi show just how diverse and dynamic the city’s culinary landscape has become.
Akawa
Akawa is a restaurant designed for golden-hour dinners. Set on Al Hudayriyat Island, the concept pairs beachfront fine dining with modern Arabic flavours, while the space itself is geared towards views, patio dining and a calm, coastal atmosphere. Executive Chef Omrane Ghafri leads the kitchen, and the menu is framed around regional flavours reworked with a contemporary touch. Early highlights include crispy Kataifi Prawns, Slow-cooked Lamb and Orange Blossom Ice Cream with Date Pudding, which sounds exactly as indulgent as it reads.
Where: Akawa, Bab Al Nojoum Hudayriyat Villas, Al Hudayriyat Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Open daily from 6:30am to 11pm
Contact: @akawa.abudhabi
Art of Dum
Art of Dum brings the romance of slow cooking to Reem Mall. The concept is rooted in Dum Pukht, the centuries-old cooking style associated with the royal kitchens of India, where food is sealed and cooked gently in its own juices. At Reem Mall, that heritage is translated into a more refined dine-in setting rather than a straight casual curry house. Signature orders include the rich Dal Makhani, Yakhni Dum Gosht Biryani, Butter Chicken and Lamb Bhavangiri Seekh.
Where: Art of Dum, Reem Mall, Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Open daily from 11am to 11pm
Contact: https://artofdum.com
Berenjak Abu Dhabi
Berenjak is officially opening in Abu Dhabi, bringing one of London’s most talked-about Persian restaurants to the capital. Set across two floors, Berenjak Abu Dhabi has been designed to feel intimate and rooted in Persian heritage. Inside, guests will find dark oak seating, aged brass tabletops, and timber-veneer ceilings, finished with Elodie chandeliers and hand-painted details. At the centre of the experience is the open kitchen, where diners can watch the chefs at work and catch a live view of the mangal, flanked by a four-seat chef’s table set on mosaic tiles. The menu celebrates the depth of Persian cuisine, drawing on family recipes and time-honoured cooking traditions. Signature dishes include hummus made with black chickpeas and sunflower seed tahini, Kashk-e Bademjoon with charred aubergine, garlic, onions, kashk, mint oil and walnuts, and the much-loved Koobideh Kabab, made with ground lamb, onion and black pepper before being grilled over the mangal.
Where: Berenjak, The House, Zayed The First Street, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi
Contact: @berenjak.uae
Blue Restaurant
Blue is one of Saadiyat’s more interesting openings because it does not chase obvious luxury cues. Instead, it leans into understated coastal elegance, with a garden overlooking the sea, a kitchen counter facing the chefs at work, and a menu shaped by seasonality, regional sourcing and Nordic preservation techniques. Head Chef Noah Muscat leads the team, while the kitchen draws on produce from Blue’s own Abu Dhabi farm. Dishes such as Citrus-cured Hamachi, Beef Tartare, Kofta Sandwich, and Grilled Wagyu Flank strike a balance between finesse and comfort, while desserts like Plum Tart keep the tone smart yet unfussy.
Where: Blue, Lilac 6, Mamsha Beach, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Open daily from 12pm to midnight
Contact: https://restaurantblue.ae
Falwa
Emirati cooking takes centre stage at Falwa, chef and restaurateur Faisal Alharmoodi’s new concept at Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts on Jubail Island. The restaurant draws on local traditions while giving familiar flavours a contemporary interpretation, with charcoal cooking and Emirati ingredients running throughout the menu. Highlights include Lamb Biryani layered with saffron, hashwa and slow-cooked lamb, alongside charcoal-grilled Hammour finished with an Emirati gazpacho. The Focaccia Khameer Hamsa Shrimp combines crisp khameer-inspired bread with spiced prawns, while Falwa’s take on Aseeda incorporates carrots, aromatic spices and local ghee. Even the name has cultural significance, deriving from the Arabic word for “little horse” and reflecting the restaurant’s equestrian setting.
Where: Falwa, Al Jubail Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: @falwa.uae
FLAVE by Chef Wali
Following its success in Dubai, FLAVE by Chef Wali has opened in Abu Dhabi’s Eastern Mangroves. The brilliant burger spot brings its no-fuss approach to the capital, focusing on bold flavours, premium ingredients and indulgent comfort food. Expect signatures such as the Millionaire burger with an Australian Wagyu beef patty, truffle aioli, caramelised onions and house pickles, alongside loaded Flave Fries, crispy sides and refreshing drinks. With waterfront views across the mangroves, the Abu Dhabi outpost offers a relaxed spot for walk-ins, late lunches and casual dinners.
Where: FLAVE by Chef Wali, Eastern Mangroves, Sheikh Zayed Street, Abu Dhabi
When: Open daily from 10am to 3am
Contact: @flavedxb
Isabel Mayfair Abu Dhabi
Isabel Mayfair has made its international debut in Abu Dhabi. Now open at The Galleria Al Maryah Island, the glamorous London import marks its first permanent address outside the United Kingdom. The venue retains the spirit of the Mayfair original, combining a late-night social energy with polished interiors by DBM Studio, featuring brass, Calacatta Viola marble, dark oak and midnight blue velvet. In the kitchen, French chef Vincent Visinet leads a refined Mediterranean menu rooted in seasonal produce. Highlights include onion-and-leek croquetas, heirloom tomato salad with verbena consommé, carabineros with kaffir lime, Beef Fillet Wellington, Red Berry Pavlova and warm Pistachio Madeleine.
Where: Isabel Mayfair, The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Open daily from 12pm to 3am
Contact: www.isabelabudhabi.com
Jaww Spot
A contemporary take on Emirati dining has arrived at Bloom Gardens in Al Muntazah. Jaww Spot comes from the team behind Meals on Me and describes its approach as neo-Emirati, combining local culinary references with Mediterranean, Levantine and wider international influences. The name comes from the Khaleeji word “jaww”, referring to atmosphere or mood, an idea that carries through the relaxed neighbourhood setting. The menu balances familiar ingredients with more playful preparations, from charred eggplant and labneh with pomegranate and za’atar oil to freekeh with roasted vegetables. More distinctive plates include Saffron Kunafa Prawns, Harees Croquettes and Camel Bites served inside crisp vol-au-vent pastry.
Where: Jaww Spot, Blooms Garden, Al Muntazah, Abu Dhabi
Contact: @jawwspot
Mama’esh
Palestinian bakery and restaurant Mama’esh has made its Abu Dhabi debut with a new branch at MBZUAI in Masdar City. Already well established across the UAE, the homegrown concept champions Palestinian ingredients and comforting recipes in a casual setting built around freshly baked breads. Mana’esh comes topped with combinations such as Palestinian za’atar and olive oil, Akkawi cheese, muhammara or dugga, while heartier dishes include Kofta in Tahina and oven-baked shakshuka. Signature favourites include Palestinian Musakhan Chicken Rolls filled with sumac-spiced chicken, onions and pine nuts, plus Nabulsi Cheese and Green Za’atar Fatayer. Palestinian olive oil appears throughout the menu, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to the flavours and culinary traditions that inspired it.
Where: Mama’esh, Al Ibda Street, Masdar City, Abu Dhabi
Contact: @mamaeshme
Pierre Hermé Paris
Pierre Hermé Paris has opened its first standalone UAE flagship at Marina Mall Abu Dhabi. Created by the French pâtissier often dubbed the “Picasso of Pastry”, the all-day dining destination will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner alongside the Maison’s celebrated pastries, macarons, chocolates and viennoiseries. Signature sweets will include the rose, raspberry and lychee Ispahan, Infiniment Vanille and the 2000 Feuilles. Savoury dishes will range from the Pierre Hermé Chicken Croque Monsieur to Avocado Toast with Confit Egg Yolk and Pan-Seared Beef Tenderloin. The opening expands Hermé’s Abu Dhabi presence beyond Majlis by Pierre Hermé at Rosewood Abu Dhabi.
Where: Pierre Hermé, Marina Mall Abu Dhabi, Al Kasir, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.pierreherme.com
Rosa’s Thai
Rosa’s Thai has opened its first Abu Dhabi restaurant at The Galleria Al Maryah Island. Marking the brand’s debut in the capital, the new opening brings its casual Thai dining concept to one of the city’s busiest lifestyle destinations. Designed for quick lunches, relaxed dinners and social gatherings, the restaurant features a warm, welcoming space and a menu of signatures including Pad Thai, Thai curries, wok dishes, salads, noodles and desserts. Founded by chef Saiphin Moore, Rosa’s Thai is known for simple, honest cooking built around the balance of sweet, sour, salty and spicy flavours.
Where: Rosa’s Thai, The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Open daily from 10am to midnight
Contact: https://rosasthaiarabia.com
Slice 45
Slice45 has finally given its cult following a permanent address in Khalidiya. What began as a successful drive-through operation inspired by New York slice culture has grown into a full restaurant with a relaxed trattoria feel and American-Italian flavours at its core. Founder Mohamed Al Mubarak remains closely involved, and that personal touch comes through in a menu built on memory, travel and a serious affection for a great base. Signature orders include the Ribbecca with slow-cooked ribs, the Umami Bomb, the Trifecta with brisket, truffle sauce and hot honey, and The Raging Bull with spicy honey and pepperoni.
Where: Slice 45, Khalidiyah Park, Al Khalidiyah, Abu Dhabi
When: Open daily from 5pm to 11pm
Contact: @slicefourtyfive
Solenn
After making a splash at Marsa Boulevard in Dubai, the popular Greek Mediterranean restaurant Solenn has opened at The Arcades at Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club. Backed by renowned chef Gregoire Berger, formerly of Ossiano and now behind Kraken in Dubai, Solenn focuses on fresh Mediterranean flavours and quality ingredients. Diners can look forward to dishes similar to its Dubai menu, including Marinated Artichoke Hearts, Truffle Arancini, Burrata and Heirloom Tomato Salad, Charred Octopus Skewers and Spicy Tuna Tartare. Natural woods, neutral tones and subtle Mediterranean touches encapsulate the restaurant’s relaxed, sun-soaked style, resulting in one of the best new restaurants in Abu Dhabi.
Where: Solenn, The Arcades, Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, Abu Dhabi
Contact: @hesolenn.ae
Supernova
London’s cult burger brand Supernova Burger has opened its first permanent UAE location at The House in Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi. Located next to Berenjak, the new outpost follows a successful Dubai pop-up and brings the Soho-born concept’s stripped-back approach to the capital. The menu focuses on smash burgers, hand-cut fries and nostalgic sundaes, with signature cheeseburgers stacked with double smashed patties, American cheese, house sauce and soft golden buns. In Dubai, Supernova Burger will continue with a truck at Al Jalila, with more locations planned. The brand is brought to the UAE by Belhasa Hospitality.
Where: Supernova, The House, Zayed The First Street, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi
Contact: @supernovaburger.ae
TETTO
TETTO is one of the more heartfelt new restaurants in Abu Dhabi because it grew out of a private supper club rather than a restaurant blueprint. Now open in MiZa, Mina Zayed, it still carries that intimate, chef-led spirit, with a concept shaped by the founders’ family meals and favourite dishes rather than fleeting trends. The dining room has been built for connection rather than spectacle. On the menu, Bluefin Tuna Tartare, Bulgogi Wagyu Lettuce Wraps, Sanchoku Wagyu Ribeye, Hoba Sea Bass and San Marzano Burrata Rigatoni offer comfort food with far more polish than the label suggests.
Where: TETTO, Miza, Zayed Port, Abu Dhabi
When: Tuesday to Sunday from 4:30pm to midnight
Contact: @tetto.ae
‘Za ‘Za
‘Za ‘Za arrives in Abu Dhabi with a ready-made fan base thanks to its New York-style artisanal pizza served by the slice, which has proved popular in Dubai. The Al Qana outpost keeps that formula intact, making it a strong fit for the area’s more casual dining rhythm. The menu covers the classics, including House Margherita and Pepperoni, but the signatures are what make it memorable: Tricolore with pink sauce and pesto swirl, Tartufo with truffle crema and confit garlic, and The Red finished with stracciatella and hot honey. There is also Alabama brisket pizza for those who like their slice with extra attitude.
Where: Za Za Slice, Al Qana, Abu Dhabi
When: Open daily from 10am to 1am
Contact: @zazaslice
Zoomak Korean Pub
Get a taste of Seoul’s nightlife at Zoomak Korean Pub on Abu Dhabi’s Eastern Mangroves Promenade. Inspired by South Korea’s neighbourhood pubs, the venue pairs Korean comfort food with premium soju, spirits and cocktails in a cosy, contemporary setting. Its name references traditional Korean taverns where travellers gathered to eat, drink and exchange stories, a sociable spirit reflected in the relaxed atmosphere. Gather friends around a selection of dishes, including the Zoomak Chicken Combo, Shake Shake Chips and Bulgogi Beef Corn Dog. Whether you’re stopping by for after-work drinks or settling in for a weekend catch-up, Zoomak offers a welcoming introduction to Korean pub culture.
Where: Zoomak Korean Pub, Eastern Mangroves Promenade, Al Kheeran, Abu Dhabi
When: Daily from 12pm to 12am
Contact: https://zoomakpub.com