Best fine dining restaurants in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi’s dining scene blends tradition with bold innovation, offering more than just refined meals. Locals and travelers alike explore flavors that span continents and centuries, often in settings that impress as much as the food. From smoky grills to raw bar artistry, the city constantly reinvents indulgence with flair and detail. The search for the best fine dining restaurants in Abu Dhabi leads to venues that defy expectations and push culinary boundaries. Some craft memories with every course, inviting guests into experiences that linger long after the last bite.

HAKKASAN ABU DHABI

Nestled within the opulent Emirates Palace, Hakkasan Abu Dhabi delivers a unique dining experience. The restaurant blends contemporary design with traditional Chinese motifs. Intricate wooden lattices and soft lighting welcome guests into an intimate, moody space. The chefs present a modern take on Cantonese cuisine, with dishes like the signature Peking duck topped with caviar. Bartenders craft a wide range of cocktails, while the tea menu explores elegant infusions.

The outdoor terrace showcases panoramic city views that elevate the ambiance. Guests who seek privacy can reserve one of the exclusive dining rooms. Hakkasan earned a Michelin star for its unwavering dedication to culinary excellence. The team regularly curates themed brunches and tasting menus that draw repeat visitors. Diners often book in advance, especially on weekends, to secure a table.

Guests follow a smart casual dress code that fits the elegant yet relaxed setting. The valet team offers quick, seamless parking for convenience. Staff members consistently provide attentive, detail-oriented service to enhance the experience. Hakkasan opens its doors daily and stays open late on weekends. The pastry chefs craft refined desserts that bridge Eastern and Western styles. At the bar, mixologists design cocktails that highlight bold Asian ingredients and seasonal flavors.

COYA

Situated within the Four Seasons Hotel on Al Maryah Island, COYA brings the vibrant flavors of Peruvian cuisine to the heart of Abu Dhabi. The restaurant’s ambiance is a fusion of contemporary elegance and traditional Incan elements, creating an immersive dining environment. COYA’s menu is a testament to Peru’s rich culinary heritage, offering an array of dishes that blend indigenous ingredients with global influences. Signature offerings include a variety of ceviches, anticuchos (grilled skewers), and the renowned ‘Chilean sea bass rice iron pot’.

Complementing the food is an extensive selection of pisco-infused cocktails and Latin American wines. The restaurant also features a Pisco Bar and a dedicated lounge area, where guests can enjoy live music and art exhibitions, reflecting COYA’s commitment to cultural experiences. The outdoor terrace provides panoramic views of the city skyline, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to secure a spot in this popular venue. The dress code is smart casual, aligning with the restaurant’s upscale yet relaxed atmosphere. Valet parking is available for guests’ convenience. COYA operates daily, offering both lunch and dinner services, with special brunch events on weekends.

DAI PAI DONG

Nestled within the Rosewood Abu Dhabi on Al Maryah Island, Dai Pai Dong offers an authentic Cantonese dining experience. The restaurant’s design pays homage to traditional Hong Kong street food stalls, featuring dark wood interiors, intricate latticework, and ambient lighting that evokes a sense of nostalgia. The menu is a celebration of Cantonese cuisine, with a focus on dim sum, roasted meats, and seafood dishes. Signature items include the Peking duck, homemade noodles, and an assortment of handcrafted dim sum.

An open kitchen allows diners to witness the culinary artistry of the chefs, adding an interactive element to the meal. Dai Pai Dong also offers themed dining experiences, such as the ‘All You Can Eat’ dim sum lunches on weekdays and the ‘Yum Cha’ brunch on weekends, which have garnered popularity among locals and visitors alike. The beverage list features a curated selection of teas, Asian-inspired cocktails, and wines that complement the robust flavors of the dishes.

The restaurant provides both indoor and outdoor seating, with the latter offering views of the waterfront promenade. Reservations are advisable, particularly for weekend brunches and special events. The dress code is casual elegant, reflecting the restaurant’s balance of sophistication and comfort. Valet parking services are available for guests. Dai Pai Dong operates daily, serving lunch and dinner, with extended hours on weekends to accommodate late-night diners.

LI BEIRUT

Located in the Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, Li Beirut offers a refined exploration of Lebanese cuisine. The restaurant’s interior exudes sophistication, with contemporary décor accented by traditional Middle Eastern motifs. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide diners with captivating views of the Arabian Gulf, enhancing the dining ambiance. The menu is a harmonious blend of classic Lebanese dishes and modern interpretations, crafted with meticulous attention to detail.

Guests can indulge in an array of mezze, succulent grills, and signature dishes such as the ‘Kataifi Prawns’ and ‘Lobster Hommos’. An extensive wine list features selections from Lebanon’s renowned vineyards, thoughtfully curated to complement the menu offerings. The outdoor terrace offers an al fresco dining option, ideal for enjoying the pleasant Abu Dhabi evenings. Li Beirut has garnered acclaim for its culinary excellence, including recognition from prestigious dining guides.

Reservations are recommended to ensure a table, especially on weekends. The dress code is smart casual, aligning with the restaurant’s elegant setting. Valet parking is provided for guests’ convenience. Li Beirut operates daily, with dinner service commencing in the evening hours.

ZUMA

Situated in The Galleria on Al Maryah Island, Zuma brings a contemporary twist to the traditional Japanese izakaya dining concept. The restaurant’s design is sleek and modern, featuring natural materials such as granite and wood, creating a chic yet inviting atmosphere. Zuma’s menu is designed for sharing, offering a variety of dishes from its main kitchen, sushi counter, and robata grill. Signature items include the ‘Black Cod Marinated in Miso’, ‘Spicy Beef Tenderloin’, and an assortment of fresh sushi and sashimi. The beverage program is equally impressive, boasting an extensive list of sake, Japanese whiskies, and innovative cocktails.

The restaurant also features a vibrant lounge area, where a resident DJ sets the mood with eclectic beats, making it a popular spot for both dining and socializing. Zuma’s weekend brunches are particularly noteworthy, offering an indulgent selection of dishes and free-flowing beverages. The dress code is smart casual, reflecting the restaurant’s upscale yet relaxed vibe. Valet parking services are available for guests. The ambiance captures a blend of sophistication and energy, appealing to locals and international visitors alike.

Zuma operates daily, serving lunch and dinner, with extended hours on weekends to cater to the late-night crowd. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for brunch and evening dining. Whether you’re after sushi artistry or a buzzing evening out, Zuma balances both with confidence.

ERTH

Located within the historic Qasr Al Hosn compound, Erth offers a contemporary take on Emirati cuisine. The restaurant’s design seamlessly blends traditional architecture with modern aesthetics, creating an inviting atmosphere. Diners can observe chefs at work in the open kitchen, emphasizing the establishment’s commitment to culinary transparency. The menu showcases a variety of local dishes reimagined with innovative techniques and presentations. Signature offerings include the slow-cooked lamb harees and the saffron-infused seafood machbous.

An extensive selection of regional teas and mocktails complements the food, enhancing the dining experience. The outdoor seating area provides views of the historic surroundings, adding to the restaurant’s charm. Private dining rooms are available for special occasions or intimate gatherings. The restaurant has been recognized with a Michelin star, reflecting its excellence in Emirati cuisine. Attentive and knowledgeable staff guide guests through the menu, offering insights into the cultural significance of each dish.

Reservations are recommended, especially during weekends, due to the restaurant’s growing popularity. The dress code is smart casual, aligning with the establishment’s refined yet relaxed ambiance. Erth operates daily, offering both lunch and dinner services. The dessert menu features traditional sweets with a modern twist, such as the date pudding with cardamom ice cream. For those interested in exploring Emirati culinary heritage, Erth provides a comprehensive and immersive experience.

TALEA BY ANTONIO GUIDA

Located within the luxurious Emirates Palace, Talea by Antonio Guida offers an authentic Italian dining experience. The restaurant’s design harmoniously blends modern elegance with traditional Italian elements, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Chef Antonio Guida, renowned for his Michelin-starred establishments, brings his culinary expertise to Abu Dhabi, crafting a menu that showcases the rich diversity of Italian cuisine. Signature dishes include homemade pastas, such as the delicate ravioli filled with ricotta and spinach, and the succulent osso buco served with saffron risotto.

An extensive wine list features selections from Italy’s renowned vineyards, thoughtfully curated to complement the menu offerings. The open kitchen concept allows diners to observe the chefs at work, adding an interactive element to the dining experience. Private dining rooms are available for those seeking an intimate setting for special occasions. The outdoor terrace provides a picturesque view of the Arabian Gulf, enhancing the overall ambiance. Attentive and knowledgeable staff ensure personalized service, guiding guests through the menu and wine pairings.

The restaurant’s commitment to quality and authenticity has earned it a Michelin star, a testament to its excellence in Italian cuisine. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, due to its popularity among both locals and tourists. The dress code is smart casual, reflecting the restaurant’s upscale yet comfortable environment. Valet parking is available for the convenience of guests. Talea operates daily, offering both lunch and dinner services, with a dessert menu featuring classic Italian sweets like tiramisu and panna cotta.

99 SUSHI BAR & RESTAURANT

Situated in The Galleria on Al Maryah Island, 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant offers an upscale Japanese dining experience. The interior design combines modern aesthetics with traditional Japanese elements, creating a sophisticated atmosphere. Diners can observe chefs meticulously preparing dishes at the open sushi bar, highlighting the restaurant’s commitment to culinary artistry. The menu features a variety of sushi and sashimi, emphasizing freshness and quality. Signature dishes include the ’99 Jewel’, a selection of premium nigiri, and the ‘Golden Bricks’, crispy rice topped with spicy tuna.

An extensive sake and wine list complements the food offerings, catering to diverse palates. The restaurant has earned a Michelin star, reflecting its excellence in Japanese cuisine. Private dining options are available for intimate gatherings or special occasions. The outdoor terrace provides panoramic views of the Abu Dhabi skyline, enhancing the dining experience. The ambiance is further enriched by subtle lighting and minimalist décor, fostering a tranquil environment.

Reservations are recommended, especially during weekends, due to the restaurant’s popularity. Dress code is smart casual, aligning with the establishment’s upscale setting. Valet parking services are available, offering convenience for guests. The restaurant also offers a curated selection of desserts, blending Japanese flavors with contemporary techniques. Whether it’s a quiet evening or a special celebration, 99 Sushi Bar promises detail-driven dining in every sense.