From traditional Emirati specialties to the latest in international cuisine, Abu Dhabi offers a wide range of delicious dishes. Whether you’re after a quick bite or an indulgent sit-down meal, here are 10 of the best places to eat in the capital of the United Arab Emirates.
- Among the Top 50 Restaurants in MENA
- 1 COYA, Abu Dhabi
- 2 Hakassan, Abu Dhabi
- 3 Butcher & Still, Abu Dhabi
- Other Must-Try Places in Abu Dhabi
- 4 Zuma Abu Dhabi – Contemporary Japanese
- 5 Cyan Brasserie – French Cuisine
- 6 Fouquet’s – French Cuisine
- Cafés in Abu Dhabi
- 7 Joud Café – coffee break
- 8 Du Roi – coffee break
- 9 Le Café – coffee with 24-karat gold flakes
- 10 Café 302 – lunch and coffee break
- Bonus: Best Food Trucks in Abu Dhabi
- 11 Al Hudayriyat Beach
- 12 Khalifa City
- 13 Al Shamkha
- 14 Meylas Emirati Restaurant
Abu Dhabi has become an international hotspot for food lovers, with three of its restaurants listed among the top 50 in the MENA region by industry experts. Discover 10 must-try spots—plus a bonus section.
Among the Top 50 Restaurants in MENA
1 COYA, Abu Dhabi
Located in the renowned Four Seasons Hotel, COYA blends Peruvian cuisine with Japanese, Chinese, and Spanish influences for a truly unique dining experience. Besides unforgettable dishes, a resident DJ provides expertly curated music through summer nights, creating an unforgettable ambiance.
2 Hakassan, Abu Dhabi
Hakkasan at Emirates Palace is a world-famous Michelin-starred restaurant delivering a modern take on Chinese cuisine. Chic and glamorous, Hakkasan fuses stylish design, contemporary Asian atmosphere, ambitious flavors, and impeccable service.
3 Butcher & Still, Abu Dhabi
Inspired by 1920s Chicago steakhouses, Butcher & Still is a must-visit for meat lovers. Savor cocktails reminiscent of the Prohibition era, and signature dishes like the 21-day aged tomahawk chop, their famed 99% crab cake, and the 34-layer Valrhona chocolate Tribune Tower cake—an homage to Chicago’s iconic skyscraper.
Other Must-Try Places in Abu Dhabi
4 Zuma Abu Dhabi – Contemporary Japanese
Opened in 2013, Zuma Abu Dhabi offers a memorable experience from arrival. Guests enter via a private glass elevator from exclusive Sowwah Square, with views of the main dining room and bar overlooking the waterfront. The city’s must-visit hotspot features resident DJs, a lively bar scene, and award-winning cuisine.
5 Cyan Brasserie – French Cuisine
Modern French cuisine with an Arabic touch. Cyan Brasserie presents a tasty selection of vegetarian, meat, and fish dishes to suit every palate.
6 Fouquet’s – French Cuisine
Famed for its artistic and cinematic connections, Fouquet’s sits at the heart of the Louvre Abu Dhabi and follows in the gastronomic footsteps of the historic Champs-Elysees original. Elegant, bold, and classic, the menu is crafted by Michelin-starred chef Pierre Gagnaire.
Cafés in Abu Dhabi
7 Joud Café – coffee break
Order your coffee here, and you’ll be asked which origin you prefer and how hot you want it. This cozy spot is famous for serving some of the city’s best coffee, and it’s often buzzing with young Emiratis.
8 Du Roi – coffee break
A favorite local meeting point, this old-school café offers classic coffee, cakes, croissants, and sandwiches. It’s the ideal place to stop for a quick break while strolling along the Corniche.
9 Le Café – coffee with 24-karat gold flakes
Walk through the gold-trimmed central dome of Emirates Palace for a cappuccino sprinkled with 24-karat gold flakes, or try the unique camelchino (espresso with camel milk). For a cool treat, order their 23-karat gold ice cream this summer.
10 Café 302 – lunch and coffee break
Just off bustling Hamdan Street, Café 302 in Al Maha Arjaan by Rotana is an inviting urban escape for both locals and tourists. Its stylish yet cozy interiors make it a flexible spot for a quick stop any time of day. In addition to great café fare, Café 302 is renowned for healthy, delicious options—fresh fruit and vegetable juices, customizable superfood bowls, and a shop selling organic products and kitchenware such as dried fruit and extra virgin olive oil.
Bonus: Best Food Trucks in Abu Dhabi
Want to discover Abu Dhabi’s food truck scene? Check out these local favorites around the city, including:
11 Al Hudayriyat Beach
A go-to spot for Abu Dhabi residents, Al Hudayriyat Island is packed with lively food trucks catering to every craving—from specialty coffee (try SHOT) to burgers and gourmet ice cream. Prefer to stay cool? Pull up, order from your car, then park and relax with a sea view!
12 Khalifa City
Khalifa City draws visitors from all over for its popular Truck Park, now a top destination for foodies wanting to sample the best of Abu Dhabi’s food trucks. If you’re craving pizza, make a beeline for Pizza Pie Factory—but come early, as there’s always a line.
13 Al Shamkha
The vibrant Al Shamkha suburb hides a tasty secret: an array of hidden food trucks offering some of the city’s most creative eats. Swing by this laid-back area and prepare to be amazed by the unique flavors on offer.
14 Meylas Emirati Restaurant
Housed in Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi, Meylas is an essential stop for authentic Emirati cuisine. Savor traditional specialties like shuwa (clay-oven-baked goat), mixed grills, and local seafood, all seasoned with regional spices and herbs. Friendly staff make you feel right at home, and the menu also features international dishes—ensuring there’s something for everyone.
