If you are a foodie, Abu Dhabi is perfect for you. This city likes to experiment, and you will find lots of quaint, hole-in-the-wall places alongside mainstream restaurants.
The diverse nationalities of Abu Dhabi's residents have also opened gates to restaurants of different cuisines, from Lebanese, Egyptian, and Indian to Chinese, Korean, and Filipino restaurants. Wherever you are from in Abu Dhabi, you will surely get a taste of the world if you dare to explore.
Local dishes in Abu Dhabi
The UAE is a Gulf country, and so the local cuisine is a bit different from what people usually think of when they hear “Arabic food”.
If you're looking for traditional breakfast foods, Chebab and Regag are a must.
Chebab is basically the Emirati version of pancakes infused with flavors of cardamom and turmeric. Instead of maple syrup, it's paired with beautiful date syrup. You can experience breakfast like the locals do at Khemeer & Chebab.
Regag is more like a crepe and is either served as an accompaniment to eggs and cheese or made as a sandwich with cream cheese and honey. Mallah on Abu Dhabi's airport road has a great selection.
A main dish in the UAE is Thareed, a beef stew paired with potatoes and vegetables — the ultimate comfort food. Machboos is another popular dish across the Gulf countries. It's a spiced rice-based dish paired with lamb, beef, chicken, or shrimp and vegetables. Al Fanar restaurant has these authentic dishes and more.
Arabic street food in Abu Dhabi
Arabic street food is a must when in the region. This includes foods like shawarma, which is available on every street, but popular choices are Arnoon in Al Markaziyah and Zahrat Lebnan on Khaldiya Street. Arabic mixed grills are also a must-try. It is a selection of grilled meats like lamb, beef and chicken that comes with refreshing salads like fattoush and tabouleh with a basketful of homemade flatbread. Biryani is also a delicious must-try for those with a flair for Indian cuisine. For sweets, who can pass up kunaffeh and other delicious Arabic treats?
The best places for eating out in Abu Dhabi
Middle Eastern flavours
Li Beirut restaurant in Abu Dhabi is known as one of the best Lebanese restaurants in the country. Gad Restaurant, located in the Tourist Club Area, offers various Middle Eastern-style cooked meats and other dishes. The servings are huge, and the meats are always grilled to perfection — not too dry, always juicy. They also offer an unlimited amount of bread so be prepared to be stuffed to the brim.
A taste of Asia
If you fancy something Asian, Hankook Korean Restaurant is an authentic Korean restaurant that is always busy with customers. They serve delicious Korean cuisine that comes with ban cham or free appetizers that come along with the dishes that you order. To complete the experience, opt to sit in one of the rooms with Korean-style floor seating. They also offer Korean kimchi that you can take away to consume at home. If you want authentic Chinese takeaway or dine-in food, Oasis Garden Chinese Restaurant is the place to turn to. The noodles are delicious, as is their bestseller Spicy Crispy Beef. Be sure to order beforehand if you want food to be delivered, as they can be pretty busy during peak hours of the day.
Punjab Grill is a favorite Indian restaurant. Tripadvisor.com named it the top Indian restaurant in the capital, making it a must-visit for both residents and tourists.
International cuisine
Some international chain restaurants have also entered Abu Dhabi's restaurant scene. Famous names are The Cheesecake Factory, Shake Shack, Five Guys and popular bakeries such as The Magnolia Bakery at Al Maryah Island. One does not have to venture far away to get a taste of these famous restaurant chains. Fine dining establishments are also available in Abu Dhabi, especially in hotels where you can avail of brunches and buffet-style dining.
Useful links:
Visit Abu Dhabi: local cuisine
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