A little birdie told me you’ll be in Abu Dhabi soon for a Coldplay concert, is that right? Lucky you. But what’s a trip to the capital city without trying at least one of its most famous restaurants? It’s like going to an art museum and forgetting to look at any of the art. That’s where I step in. I’m here to show you some of the most highly recommended restaurants in Abu Dhabi, that you need to try at least once. And don’t worry, I know you’ve already dropped a bomb for your concert experience so I’ve picked the best spots to suit a variety of budgets. Come with me, and let’s eat our way through Abu Dhabi!
Restaurants Under AED 100 Per Person
1. Neighborhood Café & Bar
Located in Yas Creative Hub, this café focuses on wholesome, locally sourced food and drinks, including craft beer, cocktails, and natural wines. Their extensive menu is perfect for brunches, lunches, or casual dinners.
Average Price: AED 100
Location: Yas Creative Hub – Yas Island – Abu Dhabi
Reservation: Call 02 585 8065 or visit their website
2. Mysk
Mysk combines flavourful dishes with a unique atmosphere. Their menu, inspired by Levantine heritage and Australian influences, features exceptional bakery items, speciality coffee, and offbeat floral arrangements. It’s a delightful spot for those who love creative food pairings.
Average Price: AED 100
Location: New York University – Al Saadiyat Island
Reservation: Call 02 626 9343 or visit their website
3. James Café
This award-winning spot in Shams Boutik Mall, Al Reem Island, offers more than your average café fare. Think oysters, Spanish octopus, steak tartare, black truffle ravioli, and wagyu baos. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick breakfast, lunch, or a satisfying dinner, the luxurious yet casual vibe makes James Café an excellent choice.
Average Price: AED 50–100
Location: Al Reem Island – Shams Abu Dhabi
Reservation: Call 02 886 9949 or visit their website
4. Let’s
A charming blend of friendly service and elegance, Let’s Café serves Mediterranean and Italian dishes with an Emirati twist. They focus on organic ingredients and daily baked pastries and sweets. The all-day breakfast menu ensures you’ll find something delightful, no matter the time.
Average Price: AED 50–100
Location: Khalifa City – Sector 33 – Abu Dhabi
Reservation: Call 02 886 7740 or visit their website
5. Local
Local Café’s laid-back coffee bar serves expertly brewed coffee, sandwiches, and pastries, making it the perfect spot to unwind, meet friends, or get some work done by the beach.
Average Price: AED 100
Location:
Reservation: Call 02 555 3339 or visit their website
AED 100 – 200 Per Person
6. Antonia Trattoria
Not your average pizza joint! Antonia’s 72-hour fermented dough results in a light, crispy crust with incredible flavour. Their secret? A 50-year-old sourdough starter. Every bite tells a story of Italian tradition and innovation.
Average Price: AED 150
Location: Al Zeina Complex, Block C – Abu Dhabi
Reservation: Call 02 622 0480 or visit their website
7. Ryba
For seafood lovers, Ryba is a dream come true. This Bib Gourmand restaurant at Al Mina serves fresh and flavorful seafood dishes that are luxurious yet affordable. Bonus: They’re vegan-friendly, too (a perfect spot for keeping up with your Veganuary challenge)!
Average Price: AED 150–200
Location: Zayed Port – Freezone 2 – Abu Dhabi
Reservation: Call 02 584 5645 or visit their website
8. Turtle Bay Bar & Grill
Located at Saadiyat Rotana Resort, this restaurant offers a surf-and-turf experience like no other. Choose from outdoor seating by the pool or an elegant indoor setup while savoring charcoal-grilled meats, fresh oysters, and ceviche.
Average Price: AED 200
Location: Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas – Abu Dhabi
Reservation: Call 02 697 0000 or visit their website
AED 200 – 300 Per Person
9. Verso
At the Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi, Verso serves authentic Italian dishes made with the finest ingredients sourced directly from Italy. From creamy burrata to artisan pasta, this is a family-friendly spot perfect for sharing a hearty meal.
Average Price: AED 250–300
Location: Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl West – Abu Dhabi
Reservation: Call 02 510 1234 or visit their website
10. Talea by Antonio Guida
This Michelin-starred experience offers family-style Italian cuisine with a modern twist. Enjoy handcrafted carbonara, ossobuco, and chilled veal in a sophisticated yet relaxed setting, helmed by renowned chef Luigi Stinga.
Average Price: AED 250–300
Location: Al Ras Al Akhdar – Abu Dhabi
Reservation: Call 02 690 7999 or visit their website
11. Taon Korean Restaurant
For fans of Korean cuisine, Taon delivers an authentic experience with traditional dishes prepared using the finest ingredients and techniques.
Average Price: AED 250–300
Location: Corniche Road East Capital Plaza Complex – Abu Dhabi
Reservation: Call 058 682 0030 or visit their website
AED 300+ Per Person
12. Li Jiang
Set within The Ritz-Carlton, Li Jiang serves exquisite Southeast Asian dishes. Watch chefs in action behind glass screens while savouring specialities like Szechuan chilli lamb loin and wok-fried scallops.
Average Price: AED 300+
Location: The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal – Abu Dhabi
Reservation: Call 02 818 8203 or visit their website
13. Zeera by Buddha-Bar
Zeera offers a modern twist on Indian cuisine with a global flair. Enjoy sharing-style plates, tandoori grills, and innovative dishes in a chic, Buddha-Bar-inspired setting.
Average Price: AED 300+
Location: The Pier, Yas Bay Waterfront – Abu Dhabi
Reservation: Call 050 601 1193 or visit their website
14. COYA
Experience the magic of Peruvian cuisine at COYA. Located at Four Seasons Resort, this restaurant delights with fresh ceviches, tiraditos, and anticuchos. Its vibrant atmosphere and impeccable service make it a must-visit.
Average Price: AED 300+
Location: Four Seasons Hotel, The Galleria – Abu Dhabi
Reservation: Call 02 306 7000 or visit their website
