If you’re in Abu Dhabi and wondering where to eat next, this week brings a fresh wave of culinary excitement. Whether you’re craving Mediterranean magic, sizzling steaks, Asian fusion or laid-back brunches, the capital has something delicious to offer every tastebud.
Here’s your curated list of must-visit restaurants that are turning heads and filling plates in the most delightful ways. Make space in your schedule — and your stomach — for these crowd-pleasers.
NIRI Restaurant & Bar – Where Japanese Simplicity Meets Sophistication
Nestled in Mamsha Al Saadiyat, NIRI is everything a modern Japanese eatery should be: sleek, soulful, and deliciously fresh. From the moment you step in, the minimalistic interiors and open sushi counter set the tone for an authentic yet contemporary experience.
Their signature dishes like the black cod miso and wagyu sando are as artistic as they are flavour-packed. The ambiance is warm but refined, ideal for a quiet dinner or date night. If you’re into omakase-style tasting menus, this spot offers a well-curated chef’s journey that won’t disappoint.
Perfect for: sushi lovers, fine dining enthusiasts, date nights
Erth – A Proudly Emirati Culinary Experience Like No Other
Located near Qasr Al Hosn, Erth is an elegant tribute to Emirati culture and cuisine. It blends heritage and innovation with dishes inspired by the desert, sea, and mountains of the UAE. Think slow-cooked lamb, saffron rice, date-infused delights — all elevated with modern flair.
With a focus on sustainability and locally sourced ingredients, this restaurant is more than just a meal — it’s a story. The serene interiors and attentive service create a luxurious yet grounded atmosphere.
Perfect for: cultural explorers, foodies with a love for storytelling, visitors craving local authenticity
Zuma – The Global Sensation That Still Wows Locals
You might think of Zuma as a global name, but Abu Dhabi’s branch at The Galleria Al Maryah Island continues to offer one of the most dynamic dining experiences in the city. With its signature izakaya-style dishes, it’s hard to pick a favourite — from spicy beef tenderloin to their heavenly miso-marinated black cod.
Zuma is a vibe. Expect a buzzing crowd, stylish interiors, and consistently great service. Their bar menu is also an experience in itself, with some of the most inventive cocktails around.
Perfect for: upscale evenings, group dinners, special celebrations
Almayass – Armenian-Lebanese Fusion That Comforts and Surprises
A hidden treasure in the Sheraton Hotel, Almayass offers a warm blend of Armenian and Lebanese cuisines. It’s comfort food with a twist, packed with bold flavours, soft spices, and hearty textures. The kebbeh, hummus with soujouk, and moutabal here are unforgettable.
With family-style sharing plates and soulful service, it feels like being welcomed into someone’s home. Whether you’re discovering Armenian food for the first time or returning for more, you’ll leave full — and fulfilled.
Perfect for: family meals, nostalgic bites, comfort food lovers
Otoro – Where Minimalist Japanese Vibes Meet Bold Flavours
One of Yas Bay’s trendiest newcomers, Otoro knows how to impress. The décor is chic but understated, letting the food do the talking. Their toro tartare, tuna crispy rice, and charcoal-grilled meats are small plates packed with big character.
There’s a certain peaceful energy at Otoro. It’s cool without trying too hard. Come for the fusion-style presentation, stay for the meticulous attention to detail and explosive taste.
Perfect for: solo diners, stylish night outs, Japanese fusion fans
COYA – A Latin American Fiesta in the Heart of Abu Dhabi
COYA, perched at the Four Seasons, brings a lively Peruvian spirit to the city. It’s colourful, loud in the best way, and packed with flavours that dance on the tongue. Ceviche lovers will find their paradise here, while the anticuchos and lamb chops have developed a near cult following.
It’s more than a meal — it’s a vibe. Expect music, bold decor, and a celebration of life with every dish. Weekday lunch or weekend night, COYA always brings the energy.
Perfect for: vibrant gatherings, exotic flavours, weekend outings
Punjab Grill – Fine Indian Dining That’s Worth Dressing Up For
Located at The Ritz-Carlton Grand Canal, Punjab Grill is where North Indian flavours meet five-star finesse. This isn’t your average curry house — it’s an elevated experience with precision plating and luxurious ingredients.
The butter chicken is velvety smooth, the lamb chops are cooked to perfection, and even the naan has its moment to shine. Add in dramatic lighting and plush interiors, and you have one of the most memorable Indian dining spots in town.
Perfect for: Indian food aficionados, celebrations, date nights
BBQ Al Qasr – A Beachfront Grill Experience Like No Other
Few restaurants match the romance and grandeur of BBQ Al Qasr, set at the iconic Emirates Palace. With tables right on the beach and views of the shimmering sea, it’s dining with a dose of magic.
The menu celebrates grilled meats, fresh seafood, and indulgent sides. It’s not just about what’s on the plate, but also the ambiance: candles, waves, and five-star service all working in harmony. Make sure to reserve in advance — this one’s a sought-after experience.
Perfect for: anniversaries, proposals, luxury seekers
José by Pizarro – Spanish Soul Food, Straight from Seville
A delightful import by Spanish chef José Pizarro, this restaurant located at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers is all about Mediterranean soul and simplicity. The tapas-style menu bursts with freshness and authenticity — patatas bravas, croquetas, and grilled octopus are standout favourites.
The interiors are warm and rustic, with wood textures and soft lighting that transport you straight to the Iberian Peninsula. Whether you’re in for a quick lunch or a long dinner, José delivers on flavour and atmosphere.
Perfect for: Mediterranean food lovers, laid-back evenings, tapas trails
Talea by Antonio Guida – Italian Craftsmanship at Its Finest
If you’re craving elevated Italian cuisine, Talea is a must. Located inside the opulent Emirates Palace, this restaurant is helmed by Michelin-starred chef Antonio Guida. The focus? Cucina di famiglia — family-style Italian with haute cuisine presentation.
Fresh handmade pastas, creamy burrata, slow-cooked meats, and dreamy desserts — every dish feels personal, perfected, and passionately prepared. It’s an indulgent experience, but one that feels like a celebration of life’s finest moments.
Perfect for: Italian food fanatics, romantic dates, refined tastes
Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi – A Modern Twist on Indian Classics
Also inside Emirates Palace, Martabaan blends Indian heritage with modern culinary artistry. Celebrity chef Hemant Oberoi presents dishes like lobster curry, truffle naan, and dal matka in a whole new light — elevating traditional recipes with creative flair.
The restaurant’s luxurious setting matches the menu: sophisticated, rich in culture, and yet approachable. For those looking to explore Indian food beyond the expected, Martabaan is a delicious detour.
Perfect for: gourmet Indian cuisine, foodie adventurers, luxury diners
Beirut Sur Mer – Beachfront Lebanese Elegance
Set along Saadiyat’s shoreline, Beirut Sur Mer is a sunlit, breezy escape that serves up Lebanese classics in a dreamy beachfront setting. With its pastel interiors, lush plants, and ocean breeze, it’s the kind of place that feels like a mini-holiday.
Their mezze spread is generous and colourful — from crunchy falafel to creamy labneh and charcoal-grilled meats. It’s the kind of place you’ll keep coming back to, especially for long, lazy lunches that turn into sunset dinners.
Perfect for: laid-back weekends, groups of friends, casual luxe dining
Final Thoughts
Abu Dhabi’s dining scene continues to evolve at a rapid pace, blending international culinary stars with homegrown brilliance. Whether you’re after the theatrical flair of high-end fusion, the quiet charm of authentic local food, or the simple joy of well-cooked classics, this city delivers it all.
Make it your mission this week to explore at least one of these gems. Whether you go for spice, smoke, sushi or shawarma, you’ll leave with more than just a satisfied stomach — you’ll leave with a memory worth savouring.
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Dubai’s Hottest Dining Spots You Must Try This Week
