As the largest of the seven Emirates and the capital of the UAE, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Abu Dhabi. Boasting a diversity of vistas ranging from the breathtaking Corniche, home to Emirates Palace, to the sleek cityscape framed by the Etihad Towers, as well as architectural masterpieces like Louvre Abu Dhabi, there are plenty of iconic landmarks to feast your eyes on.
Alongside its memorable sights, Abu Dhabi is also home to an array of dynamic restaurants, with MICHELIN-recommended eateries dotted around some of the most picturesque locations. This article takes you on a culinary adventure, showing you how to explore Abu Dhabi one delicious bite at a time.
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Mazi
Near to: Saadiyat Island
Set on Saadiyat Island, translating to ‘Happiness Island’ in Arabic, MICHELIN-selected Mazi offers a tranquil Greek-inspired escape, surrounded by windswept dunes and turquoise waters. Located in the luxurious St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, the restaurant’s refined take on Greek cuisine is inspired by the tradition of sharing. Mazi, meaning ‘together’, invites guests to gather over contemporary dishes designed to be savoured with friends and family.Seated on the restaurant’s charming terrace, framed by olive and palm trees, guests can explore a menu inspired by co-founder Christina Mouratoglou’s childhood memories. Favourites like tzatziki, kavourosalata, and grilled calamari sit comfortably next to creative selections such as feta tempura, shredded lamb shoulder tacos, and sea bass tartare. Crafted with seasonal produce from sustainable sources, each dish is thoughtfully prepared to showcase authentic ingredients and pairs beautifully with a superb selection of Greek grape.
Mika
Near to: Yas Marina
Bib Gourmand restaurant Mika brings a taste of the Riviera to Yas Island, one of Abu Dhabi’s most iconic destinations. Located in the Yas Marina, Mika is the perfect pit stop for a Mediterranean-inspired bite after a day of exploring nearby theme parks or the legendary Yas Marina Circuit. If you’re lucky enough, race enthusiasts might even catch a practice run while they dine.Just as thrilling as the island’s attractions, Mika, led by chef-patron Mario Loi, has become a favoured spot amongst locals and visitors for its well-priced, flavour-packed Mediterranean menu. Standout dishes include the dry-aged wagyu steak and whole butterflied sea bass, both fresh from the wood grill. Meanwhile, the restaurant’s emphasis on fresh, quality ingredients shines through its house-made sourdough, focaccia, five-seed rye, and its in-house cured salmon.
Hakkasan
Near to: Emirates Palace and Qasr Al Watan
As one of the brand’s many award-winning outposts, one MICHELIN star Hakkasan Abu Dhabi brings the elegance of Cantonese cuisine to the majestic Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. Set on its own pristine beach, the resort is the pinnacle of luxury, blending Arabian hospitality with lush gardens, a lavish spa, temperature-controlled pools, and a private marina.The sensory journey begins from the moment guests enter Hakkasan through the grandiose Palace Lobby, where the restaurant greets you with its signature embroidered furniture and marbled Chinese forms, surrounded by backlit royal blue glass. Alternatively, venture onto the terrace for an elevated alfresco dining experience, featuring sweeping views of the resort’s grounds. Diners can look forward to a blend of signature dishes alongside destination-specific delights. Highlights include the jasmine tea-smoked wagyu beef ribs and the Peking duck dressed with caviar and gold-leaf har gau dim sum.
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Erth
Near to: Qasr Al Hosn
Fittingly located within Abu Dhabi’s Al Hosn cultural site, one MICHELIN star Erth is a love letter to Emirati cuisine, bringing often-overlooked flavours into the spotlight. Its setting only enhances its authenticity, situated across from Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi’s oldest stone building. Originally built as a single watchtower to guard the city’s only freshwater well, the fort expanded in 1793 and later served as a home for the ruling sheikh and a seat of government. Now restored as a museum celebrating the UAE’s history, it provides the ideal backdrop for Erth to honour the nation’s rich culinary heritage.Led by head chef Arivu Ravi, Erth’s ethos is simple: local and traditional with a modern twist. Sticking to its roots, the menu delights with dishes like the braised lamb machboos, featuring succulent, melt-in-your-mouth meat sitting atop fragrant Emirati-spiced rice. Even dessert gets a local twist: their Liwa dates sphere Batheeta comes with cremeux, dates cake, pop rock chocolate soil, and batheeta powder, served with caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream.
Ray’s Grill
Near to: Etihad Towers
Home to both prime views and prime cuts, MICHELIN-selected Ray’s Grill lets you savour Abu Dhabi from new heights. Perched on Level 63 of Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, this sleek steakhouse is a haven for meat lovers, serving a selection of top-quality cuts from Australia, Ireland, the USA, and beyond.The butcher’s block boasts everything from premium chateaubriand and tomahawk to flavour-packed flat iron, all perfectly paired with indulgent sides like truffle mash, lobster mac and cheese, or creamed spinach. Beyond the steaks, the smash burgers are a must-try, while seafood lovers can opt for the expertly prepared lobster or sea bass. As you dine, take in the sweeping 360° views of Abu Dhabi and the Arabian Gulf, where the glittering skyline and endless horizon elevate the experience to something truly unforgettable.
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Fouquet’s
Near to: Louvre Abu Dhabi
Housed within the architectural masterpiece that is Louvre Abu Dhabi, MICHELIN-selected Fouquet’s finds itself in a setting as refined and artistic as its own Parisian heritage. Much like the museum, which bridges cultures and eras with its world-class collection, the legendary brasserie brings a taste of France to the cultural heart of Abu Dhabi. Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel, the museum’s interplay of light and shadow mirrors the delicate artistry that goes into each dish at Fouquet’s, making it a fitting home for this celebrated culinary institution.A Parisian icon since 1899, Fouquet’s now graces Abu Dhabi with its signature blend of timeless elegance and contemporary flair. The brasserie stays true to its roots with plush red and black seating, mahogany wood panelling, and ornate chandeliers, all subtly influenced by the museum’s artistic ambience. The menu is a carefully curated showcase of French gastronomy, featuring Pierre Gagnaire’s famed tuna tataki, alongside indulgent classics like beef tartare, sole meunière, and the much-loved millefeuille.
Talea by Antonio Guida
Near to: Emirates Palace and Qasr Al Watan
Arguably one of Abu Dhabi’s most relaxed MICHELIN-starred restaurants, Talea by Antonio Guida stands out as one of the famed Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental’s most beloved dining venues. Located on the lower level of this iconic Abu Dhabi destination, Talea pays tribute to classic Italian design with its square columns, adorned with paintings of Venetian gondolas.Under the guidance of renowned chef Antonio Guida and his protégé Luigi Stinga, the restaurant brings ‘cucina di famiglia’—family-style cooking—to life. With a focus on quality over quantity, each dish is crafted using just a handful of fresh, seasonal ingredients. The lively open kitchen offers plenty of chances to watch the chefs at work, while the signature tiramisu, prepared tableside, stays true to tradition with layers of ladyfinger biscuits, a rich sauce of egg yolks, sugar, and mascarpone, and a final touch of medium to dark roast coffee and cocoa powder.
Illustration image: Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi
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