Best Places to Eat in Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates

Abu Dhabi’s Delicious Street Food Scene:

While not as traditionally renowned for street food as other cities in the region, Abu Dhabi has a burgeoning street food scene with flavors from around the world. Here are some of the best places to experience it:

Traditional Emirati:

  • Al Dhafra: This restaurant chain offers a range of traditional Emirati dishes in a casual setting.
    • Popular for: Emirati specialties like Machboos (spiced rice with meat), Harees (wheat dish), and Balaleet (sweet vermicelli noodles with eggs).
  • Mina Zayed Fish Market: Immerse yourself in the local tradition of fresh fish haggling. Not strictly “street food” but a fantastic experience for seafood lovers.
    • Popular for: Buying and selling fresh fish, seafood, and sometimes even has breakfast stalls offering Balaleet.

Street Food Markets & Events:

  • Taste of Abu Dhabi: This annual food festival brings together some of the best chefs and restaurants in the UAE, showcasing a variety of culinary experiences.

International Eats:

  • The Cheesecake Factory: A classic for a reason, this global chain offers delicious and diverse options from cheesecake (of course!) to American staples and beyond.
    • Popular for: Their namesake cheesecakes are a must-try, but the menu also boasts an extensive selection of international dishes, including a popular “shawarma” station that often appears at special events.

Local Eateries & Food Stalls:

  • Al Ain Oasis: While you won’t find traditional street food vendors here, many restaurants offer takeaway options like Shawarma and falafel.
    • Popular for: Affordable and tasty meals with a focus on local flavors.
  • The Village Market (various locations): This market often features stalls selling local delicacies.
    • Popular for:

Finding fresh fruit and vegetables, showcasing the best of what Abu Dhabi has to offer.

Street Food Markets & Events:

  • Emirates Palace: Enjoy a variety of Emirati cuisine at this luxurious hotel’s restaurants.

Note: The “street food” scene in Abu Dhabi is evolving, with more and more international cuisines gaining popularity.**

You can now find everything from traditional street food like shawarma and falafel to Indian street food favorites like chaat and pani puri, and Filipino dishes like adobo and lumpia.

Street Food Options:

  • Shawarma: This popular dish is a staple of the Middle East, with many variations available on the streets of Abu Dhabi.

    • Recommendation: Look for shawarma stands with long lines, as this often indicates high quality and popularity.

  • Falafel: Many restaurants in Abu Dhabi offer delicious and fresh falafel, especially at the local markets.**

Food Trucks & Markets:

  • Abu Dhabi Food Festival: This annual event highlights a variety of culinary experiences from across the globe, with many food trucks offering unique dishes and flavors.
  • The Market (Souk) at Manarat Al Saadiyat: This venue often hosts food truck events showcasing diverse cuisines and local vendors.

Street food is becoming more popular in Abu Dhabi, but it’s important to note that there are concerns about hygiene standards in some street food stalls. It’s always a good idea to exercise caution when eating at any street vendor and observe their cleanliness practices.

You can check online platforms like Zomato and Deliveroo to find reviews and information about their offerings.

It’s always best to choose dishes from reputable establishments that prioritize cleanliness and food safety.