Best Restaurants in Abu Dhabi: Where to Eat in 2025

With its glittering skyline, rich Emirati culture, and luxurious lifestyle, Abu Dhabi has quickly risen as a culinary capital in the Middle East. From opulent fine dining to hidden street food gems, the city offers an exciting variety of cuisines, settings, and flavors. Whether you’re a curious foodie or a seasoned gourmet, 2025 is shaping up to be a stellar year for eating out in Abu Dhabi.

In this Best Restaurants in Abu Dhabi guide, we highlight the best places to eat in Abu Dhabi in 2025—including new openings, iconic spots, hidden gems, and local favorites. Let’s dig in and visit the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi.

1. Hakkasan Abu Dhabi – Contemporary Cantonese Luxury

📍 Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
💰 Fine Dining | $$$$

Set in the palatial surroundings of Emirates Palace, Hakkasan Abu Dhabi remains one of the most glamorous dining experiences in the city. In 2025, the restaurant continues to impress with its elevated Cantonese cuisine and sultry atmosphere. It is one of the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi.

Must-try:

• Peking Duck with Caviar
  
• Crispy Duck Salad
  
• Dim Sum Platter
  
• Lychee Martini (cocktail)
  

🌟 Tip: Request a table on the outdoor terrace for stunning views of the palace and Corniche.

2. Zuma – Chic Japanese Dining

📍 Al Maryah Island
💰 High-End Casual | $$$

Zuma has long been a favorite in the capital, and it continues to hold its place in 2025 as one of Abu Dhabi’s top restaurants. The vibe is trendy and upscale, perfect for business dinners or date nights. It is one of the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi.

Must-try:

• Miso Black Cod
  
• Spicy Beef Tenderloin
  
• Ebi Tempura
  
• Assorted Sushi & Sashimi
  

🌟 Vibe: Energetic and stylish, with a live DJ in the evenings.

3. Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe – Authentic Emirati Flavors

📍 Yas Mall & Al Qana
💰 Casual Dining | $$

For a taste of true Emirati cuisine, Al Fanar is a must. Designed to evoke the UAE’s heritage with vintage decor and traditional dishes, it offers a unique journey into the country’s culinary roots. It is one of the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi.

Must-try:

• Machboos (spiced rice with lamb or chicken)
  
• Harees (wheat and meat stew)
  
• Chebab (Emirati pancakes)
  
• Gahwa (Arabic coffee)
  

🌟 Best for: Visitors looking for a cultural and culinary introduction to the UAE.

4. Catch at St. Regis – Seafood with a View

📍 St. Regis Abu Dhabi, Nation Riviera
💰 Upscale | $$$

With views of the Corniche and gourmet takes on seafood classics, Catch is still making waves in 2025. The ambiance is elegant and romantic—perfect for celebrations or a scenic dinner. It is one of the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi.

Must-try:

• Lobster Thermidor
  
• Yellowtail Carpaccio
  
• Charred Octopus
  
• Signature “CATCHamisu” dessert
  

🌟 Insider tip: Go at sunset for picture-perfect views.

5. COYA – Vibrant Peruvian Fusion

📍 Four Seasons Hotel, Al Maryah Island
💰 Fine Dining | $$$

COYA brings the energy of Latin America to the UAE with bold Peruvian flavors and lively interiors. In 2025, it remains one of the city’s most dynamic places to eat, drink, and socialize. It is one of the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi.

Must-try:

• Chilean Sea Bass with Lime & Garlic
  
• Tuna Tacos
  
• Ceviche Mixto
  
• Pisco Sour (cocktail)
  

🌟 Vibe: Lively and colorful—expect music, cocktails, and dancing by night.

6. Punjab Grill – Refined Indian Cuisine

📍 The Ritz-Carlton Grand Canal
💰 Fine Dining | $$$

For a luxurious Indian meal, Punjab Grill continues to dominate. Rich, complex flavors are elevated with modern presentations and fine-dining flair. It is one of the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi.

Must-try:

• Butter Chicken
  
• Lamb Rogan Josh
  
• Tandoori Broccoli
  
• Jalebi Caviar
  

🌟 Award-winning: The restaurant frequently tops regional “best of” lists for Indian cuisine.

7. Beirut Sur Mer – Levantine Chic on the Beach

📍 Mamsha Al Saadiyat
💰 Mid-Range | $$

This breezy Lebanese eatery combines casual coastal vibes with beautifully plated mezze and grills. It’s popular for its weekend brunches and sunset dinners. It is one of the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi.

Must-try:

• Hummus Beiruti
  
• Grilled Halloumi
  
• Mixed Grill Platter
  
• Rose Petal Ice Cream
  

🌟 Vibe: Beachy, relaxed, and perfect for group dining.

8. Tasha’s – Stylish All-Day Dining

📍 Al Bateen
💰 Casual Luxe | $$

Part of a stylish South African chain, Tasha’s blends global flavors with elegant interiors, making it a go-to for breakfast, brunch, or business meetings. It is one of the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi.

Must-try:

• Salmon Eggs Benedict
  
• Butternut & Halloumi Salad
  
• Chicken Espetada
  
• Pistachio Milk Cake
  

🌟 Best for: All-day dining with Instagram-worthy plating.

What’s New in 2025? Emerging Trends in Abu Dhabi’s Food Scene

Abu Dhabi’s restaurant landscape is evolving rapidly. Here are a few key culinary trends taking off in 2025:

• 🌱 Plant-forward menus and vegan dining options are growing.
  
• 🍽️ Chef-led pop-ups and limited-time tasting menus are in.
  
• 🧪 Molecular gastronomy and experimental cuisine gaining niche attention.
  
• 🥘 Homegrown UAE concepts are on the rise, celebrating local ingredients.
  
• 🍸 Mocktail culture is booming due to demand for sophisticated non-alcoholic drinks.
  

Tips for Dining Out in Abu Dhabi

• 🕒 Reservations are essential, especially on weekends and holidays.
  
• 👗 Dress smartly—most venues follow a smart casual dress code.
  
• 💳 Credit cards are widely accepted, and many places use digital payment apps.
  
• 🍷 Alcohol is served only at licensed venues (usually in hotels or high-end restaurants).
  
• 📆 Check for seasonal menus—many restaurants offer summer discounts or Ramadan specials.
  

Final Thoughts: A Culinary Evolution

Abu Dhabi has come a long way from a quiet coastal town to a world-class dining destination. With every passing year, the city refines its food scene, blending global flavors, local heritage, and cutting-edge culinary artistry.

So whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a cultural exploration, or just want to indulge in something unforgettable, Abu Dhabi’s top restaurants in 2025 won’t disappoint.