Best Middle Eastern restaurants in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi’s dining scene offers a rich blend of flavors, with Middle Eastern cuisine standing out as a favorite. From elegant fine-dining spots to casual eateries, the city serves authentic Lebanese, Emirati, and Levantine dishes. Many places focus on tradition, while others bring a modern touch to classic recipes. Guests can experience warm hospitality, fresh ingredients, and carefully crafted meals. This selection highlights some of the best Middle Eastern restaurants in Abu Dhabi, each offering a unique culinary journey.

BEIRUT SUR MER

Nestled along Saadiyat Island’s pristine shores, Beirut Sur Mer offers a Lebanese dining experience that intertwines tradition with modernity. The restaurant’s ambiance reflects a harmonious blend of contemporary design and cultural elements, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests. Whether seated indoors amidst elegant décor or outdoors with a view of the sea, patrons are treated to a sensory journey that celebrates the essence of Lebanese hospitality.

Diners can indulge in a variety of authentic dishes, each prepared with meticulous attention to detail and presented with artistic flair. The menu showcases a rich selection of mezze, grilled specialties, and traditional desserts, all crafted to provide a genuine taste of Lebanese cuisine. Guests often praise the freshness of ingredients and the depth of flavors that characterize each dish, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.

The restaurant’s commitment to quality and authenticity has earned it a reputable standing among both locals and visitors. The attentive service further enhances the dining experience, making every visit memorable. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak times, to fully enjoy this culinary gem in Abu Dhabi.

ALMAYASS

Almayass, inside Abu Dhabi’s Galleria Mall on Al Maryah Island, blends Lebanese and Armenian culinary traditions. The ambiance balances elegance with cultural authenticity, creating an inviting atmosphere. Its location in the Galleria Mall makes it ideal for both shoppers and dedicated diners.

The menu includes diverse dishes, from traditional mezze to satisfying and flavorful mains. The restaurant’s kebabs showcase expertly balanced spices, delivering a rich and bold taste. Desserts, like Armenian baklava, offer a delightful end to the meal. The wine selection features both regional and international choices, complementing the carefully crafted flavors.

Almayass’s dedication to excellence earned it a Bib Gourmand mention in the Michelin Guide. Traditional recipes shine through modern presentation, appealing to a wide range of guests. Whether enjoying lunch or a special dinner, visitors embark on a memorable culinary journey in Abu Dhabi.

BYBLOS SUR MER

Byblos Sur Mer, situated within the InterContinental Abu Dhabi, offers a Lebanese dining experience with a contemporary twist. The restaurant’s ambiance combines modern elegance with traditional touches, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The outdoor terrace provides stunning views of the marina, enhancing the overall experience.

Guests can enjoy a variety of authentic Lebanese dishes, from mezze to grilled specialties. The menu features classics like hummus, tabbouleh, and mixed grills, all prepared with fresh ingredients. Live music adds to the vibrant atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists who appreciate good food with a lively setting.

Byblos Sur Mer has received positive reviews for its flavorful dishes and excellent service. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, offering a diverse menu to cater to different preferences. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a celebratory dinner, the combination of delicious food, beautiful views, and exceptional service makes it a standout choice in Abu Dhabi’s dining scene.

ERTH RESTAURANT

Erth Restaurant sits within the Al Hosn cultural site in Abu Dhabi and delivers an authentic Emirati dining experience. The bold architecture highlights traditional influences while enhancing its cultural surroundings. Inside, polished concrete interiors and bespoke furniture create a unique and inviting space.

Chefs craft a modern take on Emirati cuisine using locally sourced ingredients from farms across the Emirates. They prepare signature dishes like lamb machboos, slow-cooking tender lamb in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce with fragrant rice. Desserts, such as Liwa dates batheeta, blend tradition with innovation to provide a perfectly balanced finale.

Erth earned a Michelin star in 2024, further solidifying its culinary excellence. Its location in the cultural district attracts both food enthusiasts and heritage lovers. Guests should reserve a table to fully immerse themselves in this refined mix of tradition and modernity.

EM SHERIF CAFÉ

Em Sherif Café, located along Abu Dhabi’s Corniche Road in West Bay, is a testament to Lebanese hospitality and culinary tradition. Founded by renowned restaurateur Mireille Hayek, the café offers a menu inspired by family recipes, blending traditional flavors with contemporary flair. The café’s interior is designed to be both cozy and inviting, encouraging gatherings and leisurely meals.

Guests can indulge in a variety of dishes, from cold and hot mezze to hearty mains. Standout items include silken hummus, soujouk (beef sausages) with shakshuka, and classic tabbouleh salad. Since its opening in May 2022, Em Sherif Café has quickly become one of the finest Lebanese dining spots in Abu Dhabi, earning praise for both its food and ambiance.

The café is open daily from noon until late, making it a versatile choice for both lunch and dinner. The combination of warm service and well-crafted dishes ensures a delightful dining experience. For those seeking an authentic Lebanese meal in a relaxed setting, Em Sherif Café is a must-visit.

TEAN

Tean, nestled within the Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort, offers a culinary journey through Levantine cuisine with a contemporary twist. The restaurant’s ambiance is both elegant and relaxed, featuring modern décor that complements its beachfront location. Guests can enjoy a variety of dishes that showcase the rich flavors of the region, all prepared with a modern flair.

The menu features a diverse array of options, from traditional mezze to hearty mains. Notably, the restaurant’s kebabs are seasoned to perfection, reflecting a harmonious blend of spices. Desserts such as Armenian baklava provide a sweet conclusion to the meal, while the curated wine selection includes both regional and international options, thoughtfully paired with the cuisine.

Tean’s commitment to quality has earned it recognition, including a Bib Gourmand designation in the Michelin Guide. Whether for a casual lunch or a celebratory dinner, it offers a memorable dining experience. The combination of traditional recipes with modern presentation appeals to a wide range of palates, making it a standout choice in Abu Dhabi’s dining scene.

MOSAIC RESTAURANT

Mosaic Restaurant, located on Muroor Road in Abu Dhabi, offers an authentic Lebanese dining experience that has garnered a loyal following. The restaurant’s interior is warm and inviting, with décor that reflects Lebanese culture and heritage. Service is attentive and friendly, contributing to a dining experience that feels both special and homely.

The menu is extensive, featuring a wide array of traditional dishes that cater to both meat lovers and vegetarians. Guests can start with a selection of cold and hot mezze, including classics like hummus, baba ghanoush, and falafel. For the main course, options range from grilled meats to hearty stews, all prepared with fresh ingredients and aromatic spices that bring out the best of Lebanese flavors.

Mosaic Restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors seeking genuine Lebanese cuisine. The restaurant’s inviting atmosphere and commitment to quality have made it a beloved dining spot. Reservations are recommended, especially during weekends, to fully enjoy this authentic Lebanese experience.