Best restaurants on Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi

Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi offers an impressive selection of dining experiences, blending global flavors with stunning surroundings. From authentic Japanese cuisine to rustic Italian dishes, every restaurant brings something unique. Coastal views and elegant interiors enhance the atmosphere, making each meal memorable. Fresh ingredients and expert chefs define the best restaurants on Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi, ensuring top-quality flavors. Whether craving Mediterranean seafood or Middle Eastern delicacies, this island has something for every palate.

NIRI RESTAURANT & BAR

NIRI Restaurant & Bar, nestled along Mamsha Al Saadiyat, offers an authentic Japanese dining experience in a refined yet welcoming setting. The ambiance is modern with a touch of traditional Japanese aesthetics, creating a minimalist yet warm atmosphere. Guests can enjoy expertly crafted sushi and sashimi, each piece meticulously prepared by skilled chefs. Robata-grilled specialties add depth to the menu, highlighting the rich flavors of Japanese cuisine with precise cooking techniques. Complementing the food, an extensive sake selection enhances the experience, offering a taste of Japan’s best brews.

The restaurant’s outdoor seating provides a serene sea view, making it an ideal spot for relaxed lunches or elegant dinners. Service is known for its attentiveness, with staff who are well-versed in the menu and happy to make recommendations. Due to its popularity, reservations are advisable, particularly on weekends. Whether you’re a sushi enthusiast or exploring Japanese cuisine for the first time, NIRI guarantees a memorable dining journey. With a commitment to premium ingredients and authentic flavors, it has garnered a loyal following. Parking is easily accessible, and the dress code is smart casual, in line with the restaurant’s upscale yet laid-back atmosphere.

MAZI ABU DHABI

MAZI Abu Dhabi reimagines Greek cuisine with a modern flair, offering a sophisticated yet approachable dining experience. Set within The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, the restaurant boasts a stylish interior that blends Greek heritage with contemporary elegance. Guests are invited to indulge in a variety of sharing plates, a dining tradition rooted in Greek culture. Signature dishes such as grilled octopus and spanakopita bring classic flavors to life with innovative touches. The curated Greek wine list enhances the experience, perfectly pairing with the menu’s Mediterranean delights.

Outdoor seating allows diners to enjoy their meals against the picturesque backdrop of Saadiyat Island’s natural beauty. Service is warm and attentive, with knowledgeable staff ready to guide guests through the menu. MAZI also caters to private events, offering tailored menus for intimate gatherings or celebrations. With accessibility features in place, the restaurant welcomes guests of all needs. Its location within a luxury resort makes it a go-to choice for both residents and visitors seeking a refined yet inviting Greek dining experience.

MATE

MATE, located in Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas, brings together the bold flavors of Argentina and Lebanon in a seamless fusion. The restaurant’s ambiance combines rustic charm with modern sophistication, creating a setting that is both relaxed and elegant. Wagyu beef empanadas and yerba mate-smoked beef tartare are standout dishes, showcasing the creative blend of both culinary traditions. A highlight of the menu is the grill selection, featuring premium cuts from Argentina, the US, and Australia, cooked to perfection over an open flame.

An open kitchen layout allows guests to witness the chefs at work, adding an interactive element to the dining experience. The beverage list boasts Argentinean wines and signature cocktails infused with Middle Eastern influences. Outdoor seating overlooks lush gardens and the Arabian Gulf, enhancing the atmosphere with a scenic touch. Service is warm and professional, ensuring every detail is attended to. Whether for a romantic dinner or a business meeting, MATE offers a refined yet approachable space for those seeking an elevated dining experience.

MARE MARE

Mare Mare, housed within Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort, captures the spirit of Italy’s coastal regions with its seafood-centric menu. The name, meaning “sea sea” in Italian, reflects the restaurant’s dedication to fresh, ocean-inspired dishes. Guests can savor Italian classics such as freshly made pasta and wood-fired pizzas, prepared with high-quality ingredients that emphasize simplicity and bold flavors. The Mediterranean charm is evident in the restaurant’s relaxed yet refined decor, echoing the beauty of Italian seaside towns.

A thoughtfully curated wine list showcases selections from across Italy, perfectly complementing the vibrant dishes. Outdoor seating offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf, making sunset dining particularly enchanting. Service is personalized and friendly, with staff passionate about providing an authentic Italian experience. The restaurant accommodates dietary preferences, offering vegetarian and gluten-free options. Whether enjoying a casual lunch or a romantic dinner, Mare Mare delivers a dining experience that feels both effortless and indulgent.

SONTAYA

Sontaya, meaning “sunset” in Thai, offers a captivating journey through Southeast Asian flavors within The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort. The restaurant’s setting is nothing short of magical, featuring floating pavilions surrounded by shimmering pools. The menu is a carefully curated selection of dishes from Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia, with flavorful curries, fragrant satays, and fresh spring rolls taking center stage. The sharing-style concept encourages communal dining, making it a perfect spot for group gatherings.

An extensive cocktail list showcases Asian-inspired beverages that complement the bold flavors of the cuisine. Service is graceful and attentive, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish. Sontaya also offers interactive cooking classes, allowing guests to learn the secrets behind their favorite dishes. Whether for a romantic evening or a special celebration, the restaurant’s enchanting ambiance and exceptional food make it one of Saadiyat Island’s most distinctive dining destinations.

BEIRUT SUR MER

Beirut Sur Mer delivers an authentic Lebanese experience with a contemporary twist, located along the pristine Mamsha Al Saadiyat beachfront. The restaurant’s decor merges Middle Eastern tradition with modern elegance, featuring warm tones, intricate patterns, and soft lighting. A feast of Lebanese flavors awaits, from fresh mezze platters to expertly grilled mashawi, each dish celebrating the country’s rich culinary heritage. An open kitchen concept adds a dynamic touch, allowing diners to watch the chefs in action.

Portions are generous, in keeping with Lebanese hospitality, making it an excellent choice for family-style dining. The beachfront terrace provides panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf, offering an idyllic setting for a leisurely meal. Whether sipping on Lebanese wine or ending with a perfectly layered baklava, every visit feels like a journey through Beirut’s vibrant food scene. With a warm ambiance and top-tier service, Beirut Sur Mer is a must-visit for those seeking an elevated yet traditional Lebanese dining experience.

ANTONIA – MAMSHA AL SAADIYAT

Antonia brings the charm of Rome’s street food culture to Abu Dhabi, specializing in Pizza al Taglio. This casual eatery, set in Mamsha Al Saadiyat, serves up pizza by the slice, using a 50-year-old sourdough starter that results in a light and airy crust. The dough undergoes a 72-hour fermentation process, ensuring a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Beyond pizza, the menu features homemade pasta, fresh salads, and classic Italian desserts, all crafted with high-quality ingredients.

The restaurant’s cozy and laid-back interior encourages guests to linger over their meals, embracing the relaxed Italian approach to dining. Whether grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a long meal with friends, Antonia delivers a true taste of Rome. Service is friendly and efficient, enhancing the overall experience. With its focus on authenticity and quality, it has quickly become a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

SI RISTORANTE ITALIANO & BAR

Si Ristorante Italiano & Bar, located at Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, presents a refined yet inviting take on classic Italian cuisine. Warm wood tones and contemporary lighting create a cozy, intimate ambiance. The open kitchen concept allows diners to witness the artistry behind each dish, from freshly rolled pasta to crispy, wood-fired pizzas. With a focus on seasonal ingredients, the menu is a celebration of Italy’s culinary traditions, delivered with a modern touch.

A curated selection of Italian wines and handcrafted cocktails make the bar an ideal pre- or post-dinner spot. Whether indulging in a multi-course meal or stopping by for an aperitivo, guests can expect impeccable service and attention to detail. The restaurant’s elegant yet relaxed setting makes it a prime choice for both romantic evenings and casual get-togethers. Si Ristorante remains a standout destination for those seeking an elevated yet comforting Italian dining experience on Saadiyat Island.