Explore Abu Dhabi Through Its Delicacies: A Food Trail Journey

Abu Dhabi is not only a city of stunning skyscrapers and luxurious malls but also a place rich in history, culture, and, of course, food. For those who want to dive deeper into the culinary fabric of the capital, 421 Arts Campus is offering a unique way to explore the city — through its food trails. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these food walks provide a rare opportunity to uncover hidden gems, taste traditional dishes, and connect with fellow food lovers.

A Unique Way to Discover Abu Dhabi

Food, as we all know, is one of the best ways to connect with a community’s culture and history. Mays Albaik, the Programs Manager at 421 Arts Campus, explains, “Food offers a direct connection to a community’s cultural fabric and history.” The Abu Dhabi Food Trails are designed to give food enthusiasts an authentic taste of the city’s culinary landscape. The series allows participants to not only explore delicious dishes but also understand the stories behind the food and the people who make it.

The First Session: A Culinary Journey Through History

The first food trail, held last month, took food lovers on a journey through some of the oldest and most iconic restaurants in Abu Dhabi. Led by guides Ayesha and Sanju, the participants were treated to a variety of mouthwatering dishes, including Sudanese foul and falafel at Abul Afwal cafeteria, one of the city’s oldest eateries. Known for its creamy, nutty foul, it quickly became a favorite among the group, who scooped up the dish with soft bread.

But the real highlight of the day came when the group arrived at Al Dhafra Restaurant, a true Abu Dhabi institution. Established by the late Sheikh Zayed, the father of the nation, Al Dhafra is renowned for its seafood, and it did not disappoint. The restaurant served a traditional Emirati dish called Jesheed, a minced baby shark dish served with rice. Alongside this, the participants enjoyed an assorted platter of grilled seafood, offering a taste of the freshest catches from the Arabian Gulf.

More Surprises: Kerala, Zaatar, and More

The food trail didn’t stop there. After sampling seafood at Al Dhafra, the group visited Calicut Paragon, where they tasted Kerala specialties such as porotta, beef, appam, and fish mango curry. The variety of flavors in these dishes introduced the participants to the diverse culinary influences that have shaped Abu Dhabi’s food scene.

Finally, the food trail ended at Olive Branch, where participants enjoyed traditional Palestinian fare, including zaatar, Palestinian olive oil, olives, and jams. This stop provided a refreshing and light conclusion to a day of rich, indulgent flavors.

More Than Just Food: A Journey of Connection

While the dishes were undoubtedly the stars of the show, the food walk offered much more than just a culinary experience. For Hiba Basheer, a participant, the best part was the opportunity to connect with like-minded foodies. “We started off as strangers and a silent bus, but by the end, we were a noisy lot that jammed over good food and fun conversations,” Hiba shared. The tour not only allowed her to bond with others over food but also provided a deeper understanding of the city she grew up in.

Through the food walk, participants learned about the development of Abu Dhabi, from its humble beginnings as a desert fishing community to the global city it is today. They also discovered the fascinating history behind the baby shark, which was once abundant in the waters off Abu Dhabi and has become a staple in many Emirati households.

Join the Next Food Walks: A Taste of Abu Dhabi’s Lesser-Known Dishes

The Abu Dhabi Food Trails are far from over. The next walk, scheduled for March 7, will focus on exploring some of the lesser-known cuisines and dishes in the emirate. Whether you’re interested in tasting new flavors or learning about hidden food treasures, this walk promises to offer something exciting.

Later in the month, on March 22, the Lunchbox Classics food walk will take participants down memory lane, showcasing nostalgic street food dishes like luqaimat (sweet dumplings) and roasted corn. It’s the perfect opportunity to indulge in some classic comfort food and reconnect with childhood favorites.

Why You Should Join the Abu Dhabi Food Trails

The Abu Dhabi Food Trails offer a unique opportunity to dive into the heart of the city’s culinary culture. From savory seafood to sweet treats, these food walks highlight the best of Abu Dhabi’s diverse food scene, making them a must-do experience for anyone interested in exploring the emirate through its food.

Whether you're a foodie looking to discover hidden gems or someone interested in learning more about Abu Dhabi's rich cultural history, these food trails provide an unforgettable experience. So, gather your friends or join the next group of food lovers and embark on a culinary journey across Abu Dhabi.