Finding the best Turkish restaurants in Abu Dhabi can be a challenge, given the city’s diverse culinary scene. Some places focus on tradition, serving time-honored dishes without modern distractions, while others blend innovation with heritage. Whether it’s sizzling kebabs cooked over charcoal, golden-baked künefe oozing with melted cheese, or a simple yet perfect pide, each restaurant tells its own story. The experience is not just about the food—it’s about the atmosphere, the hospitality, and the way flavors transport you to Turkey’s bustling streets. Below, you’ll find four standout spots, each offering a unique take on authentic Turkish cuisine.
BOSPORUS TURKISH CUISINE
Nestled within Abu Dhabi Mall, Bosporus Turkish Cuisine offers an authentic dining experience. The menu features a variety of traditional dishes, including kebabs and mezes. The restaurant’s interior reflects Turkish aesthetics, creating a warm atmosphere. Service is attentive, with staff knowledgeable about the menu. The Iskender kebab is a notable highlight, combining tender meat with rich tomato sauce. Additionally, the freshly baked bread complements the meals perfectly. For dessert, the baklava stands out, offering a sweet conclusion to the meal.
The location within the mall makes it convenient for shoppers. Seating arrangements cater to both small and large groups. Reservations are recommended during peak hours. The restaurant maintains high cleanliness standards. Prices are reasonable, considering the quality and portion sizes. Parking is available within the mall’s facilities. The ambiance is enhanced by subtle background music. Lighting is soft, contributing to a relaxed dining experience. The open kitchen design allows guests to observe meal preparations. Beverage options include traditional Turkish tea and coffee. The restaurant is family-friendly, with a welcoming environment.
Operating hours extend into the evening, accommodating late diners. The establishment accepts various payment methods for convenience. Customer feedback is generally positive, highlighting the authenticity of the cuisine. The combination of quality food and service makes it a noteworthy choice in Abu Dhabi. For those seeking genuine Turkish flavors, Bosporus Turkish Cuisine is a commendable option. Its central location further adds to its appeal among both locals and tourists.
PASHA TURKISH RESTAURANT
Hidden in the city’s bustling streets, Pasha Turkish Restaurant delivers a deeply rooted Anatolian experience. Unlike other spots, it doesn’t rely on exaggerated grandeur—its charm lies in authenticity. The aroma of grilled meat and fresh bread greets you before you step inside. From the moment you enter, the sight of an open charcoal grill sets the tone. The menu surprises with its breadth, featuring not only well-loved kebabs but also lesser-known regional specialties.
One standout is the Ali Nazik Kebab, where smoky eggplant purée meets tender lamb. Furthermore, the spicy Gavurdağı salad adds an unexpected contrast to the richness of grilled dishes. Lahmacun, thinner than most expect, arrives crisp and generously topped with fragrant herbs. Another underappreciated gem is the Çökertme Kebab, a delicate harmony of crispy potatoes, marinated beef, and garlicky yogurt. Additionally, Pasha’s homemade hummus, slightly tangier than typical variations, pairs effortlessly with their signature warm pide.
For those who prefer poultry, the Tavuk Şiş—charred yet juicy—delivers a well-balanced smokiness. Breakfast is an event here, featuring sizzling sucuk, honey-drizzled kaymak, and a menemen that oozes flavor. Tea is brewed in copper samovars, while Turkish coffee is presented with meticulous precision. Desserts, though not overwhelming in number, shine in quality. The fıstıklı baklava, noticeably richer, is best enjoyed slowly. Künefe, its cheese subtly stretching with each bite, balances crispness and sweetness masterfully.
Seating inside is cozy, but outdoor tables offer a livelier ambiance. While walk-ins are welcome, weekends demand reservations. Prices reflect quality, yet remain fair for Abu Dhabi’s dining scene. Pasha isn’t just a meal—it’s a sensory experience that lingers long after you leave.
CHAGH KABAB
A quiet corner in Khalidiyah Mall hides one of Abu Dhabi’s best-kept secrets: Chagh Kabab. No extravagant décor, no pretentious plating—just pure, unapologetic Turkish flavors served without unnecessary flair. The first thing that hits you is the scent—charcoal-grilled lamb, sizzling butter, and the unmistakable aroma of freshly baked pide. It’s a place where food speaks louder than branding, and the flavors are bold enough to make conversation unnecessary.
Their signature dish? The Iskender Kebab—thinly sliced lamb cascading over toasted bread, drowned in velvety tomato sauce, finished with a dollop of yogurt that adds the perfect contrast. But surprisingly, the real game-changer here is the Cheese Kebab. Melted cheese seeps into every bite of the juicy, spice-infused meat, an unexpected but welcome twist on the classic. For something lighter, the Fattoush arrives crisp and vibrant, kissed with sumac and drizzled with pomegranate molasses.
Then there’s the Mixed Grill, a carnivore’s dream that lands on the table with a sizzle, its smoky aroma weaving through the air. Each skewer, from the buttery Chicken Tawooq to the rich, pistachio-laced Lamb Kebab, tells its own story of spice, fire, and patience. The Pine Seed Kebab, often overlooked, brings a subtle earthiness that lingers long after the meal ends.
Sweet endings matter, and Chagh Kabab knows it. Their Künefe arrives golden and crisp, the cheese inside stretching in slow, indulgent ribbons as syrup seeps through its delicate layers. Hardly anyone leaves without savoring a second bite, even those typically indifferent to desserts find themselves enchanted.
The crowd here? A mix of locals in search of nostalgia and curious food lovers chasing authenticity. No extravagant pricing, no gimmicks—just honest food done right. Over and above that, if you’re looking for a place where every bite tells a story, Chagh Kabab doesn’t just serve meals—it serves moments.
NUSR-ET STEAKHOUSE ABU DHABI
The moment you step inside, there’s no doubt—you’ve entered a world of indulgence. The air hums with sizzling fat, the clink of knives, and the unmistakable aroma of prime cuts searing over an open flame. Everything here is larger than life, from the gold-leaf steaks to the perfectly aged Wagyu ribeye. You don’t just order a meal; you witness a performance.
A waiter approaches, theatrically slicing a steak before drenching it in a pool of molten butter. The famed “Nusr-Et Special” glistens under the restaurant’s dim lighting. Every bite is a collision of richness and charred perfection. Beyond the signature cuts, the Lokum tenderloin practically dissolves on the tongue, leaving behind whispers of salt and smoke. For those who crave extravagance, the Ottoman Steak—a monstrous Tomahawk—commands the table.
But Nusr-Et isn’t just about meat. Sides matter too. Creamy spinach with nutmeg, crisp golden fries dusted with truffle salt, and a tangy sumac salad offer moments of contrast. The baklava, flaky and drenched in honey, arrives with a flourish, crowned with a scoop of stretchy dondurma. The experience here is about excess, spectacle, and the undeniable magic of expertly prepared beef.
HUQQABAZ ABU DHABI
At first glance, Huqqabaz appears to be a stylish café, but that assumption fades quickly. Beneath the modern design, there’s an unmistakable undercurrent of Turkish heritage. The air is fragrant with slow-roasted lamb, warm pide, and hints of cardamom from freshly brewed tea.
The menu walks a fine line between comfort food and culinary craftsmanship. The Anatolian-style Lamb Shank, braised for hours, falls apart at the mere suggestion of a fork. Even something as simple as Pide—crispy yet soft, topped with bubbling cheese and spiced sausage—feels refined. The Fırın Köfte, oven-baked meatballs drenched in rich tomato sauce, delivers a nostalgic warmth. And just when the meal seems complete, the waiter appears with a steaming copper pot. “A special one,” he says, pouring thick, velvety Salep into delicate porcelain cups.
Desserts aren’t an afterthought here. Their Künefe arrives golden and crisp, its interior oozing with sweet, melted cheese. Those who prefer a lighter ending opt for the refreshing citrus sorbet, infused with a whisper of rosewater.
Service flows effortlessly—never rushed, never absent. Guests linger, sipping Turkish coffee while shisha smoke curls lazily in the air. It’s easy to lose track of time here, letting the conversation stretch long into the evening. Huqqabaz doesn’t just serve meals; it orchestrates an atmosphere where food and relaxation intertwine.
PATRON MEAT HOUSE
A place where the grill never rests, and the scent of charred perfection lingers in the air. Patron Meat House doesn’t just serve meat—it reveres it. The restaurant sits along A’l Bahar Beach, where the rhythmic sound of waves meets the sizzle of expertly seared cuts. Not surprisingly, this is a haven for those who appreciate the art of grilling.
Diners don’t simply order here; they embark on a journey through textures and techniques. The Asado Beef Ribs, slow-cooked until the fat surrenders effortlessly, melt at first bite. Yet, the Dry-Aged Ribeye might steal the show, its rich marbling intensifying under an open flame. The Smoked Tomahawk, meanwhile, arrives as a dramatic centerpiece—thick, smoky, glistening.
Side dishes complement rather than distract. Truffle-infused mashed potatoes, grilled corn bathed in butter, and fire-roasted vegetables round out the meal. Unexpectedly, a simple yet flavorful Macaroni Penne in Pink Sauce surprises guests with its creamy depth.
Desserts? Essential. The Baklava, soaked in golden syrup, offers nutty layers of satisfaction, while the Choco Lava Cake provides a molten, bittersweet contrast. A sip of Turkish tea or a frothy Ayran balances every indulgence.
The restaurant’s rustic wood-and-metal decor keeps the atmosphere laid-back, yet refined. Service is attentive but never intrusive. Walk-ins are welcome, though weekends demand reservations. Ultimately, whether seated inside or oceanside, the experience at Patron Meat House isn’t merely about eating—it’s about honoring the craft of fire and flavor.
MAZAJ BAB AL BAHR
The water glistens, catching the last golden rays of the evening sun. Mazaj Bab Al Bahr is more than a restaurant—it’s an experience where flavors unfold as the skyline reflects over the tranquil Khor Al Maqta. The atmosphere hums softly, somewhere between casual comfort and quiet sophistication.
Breakfast stretches into leisure here. Early risers ease into their day with a classic Lebanese spread—labneh, manakish, and eggs spiced with sumac. On the other hand, the Mediterranean breakfast platter layers flavors carefully—olives, cheese, smoked meats, and freshly baked bread. Those who linger over morning coffee find their cups refilled without a word.
Afternoons bring fresh seafood and charcoal-grilled meats, their smokiness weaving through the open-air garden. Notably, the Mixed Grill Platter presents a medley of tender lamb chops, juicy kebabs, and spiced kofta, all balanced by chilled yogurt dip. The Grilled Prawns, brushed with olive oil and herbs, taste of the sea itself. In the same vein, the earthy warmth of Moussaka comforts with every spoonful.
Evenings? Magical. The illuminated silhouette of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque reflects onto the waters, setting the mood. With a cocktail in hand and mezze on the table, conversations stretch into the night. Desserts arrive—a spoon breaking into a rose-scented Mahalabia, or a flaky Kunafa oozing with sweet cheese.
