The Best Dishes of the Year in Abu Dhabi: A Culinary Tour

Abu Dhabi’s culinary scene has never been more exciting, with a host of new restaurants serving up some of the most innovative and delicious dishes. From classic French flavors with a modern twist to Mediterranean delights, the city is brimming with fresh flavors and unique culinary experiences. Here are some of the standout dishes from new restaurants that opened in Abu Dhabi this year.

1. Onion Soup at Bord Eau

At Bord Eau, French fine dining meets global inspirations under the expertise of chef Nicolas Isnard. One of the standout dishes of the year is the Modern Onion Soup (Dh98), which reinvents the classic with a stunning modern twist. Forget the usual broth – this version includes fried onions, a burnt bread emulsion, shredded Comté cheese, caramelized onion broth, and, most surprisingly, onion ice cream. The dish is an unexpected delight, offering a blend of flavors that will leave you scraping the bowl for every last bite.

2. Florinis at Ilios Beach Club

Ilios Beach Club on Hudayriat Island offers a perfect Mediterranean dining experience, and the Florinis (Dh65) is one dish that truly stands out. These marinated red peppers from northern Greece are simply delicious. Paired with aged balsamic spheres and crispy confit garlic lumps, the dish exemplifies the simplicity and beauty of Mediterranean ingredients. The combination of sweet, savory, and slightly sugary flavors creates a dish that’s perfect for sharing.

3. Entrecote St Germain des Pres at Le Bistro by Salmontini

Le Bistro by Salmontini, which opened at Le Royal Meridien, brings a piece of French culinary tradition to Abu Dhabi. The Entrecote St Germain des Pres (Dh210) is a signature dish of Salmontini, featuring Australian Wagyu beef tenderloin, pommes frites, and a secret French sauce. While the sauce recipe remains a mystery, diners have guessed it might contain mustard or wasabi. The steak itself is melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the crispy pommes frites are the perfect accompaniment. This dish is an absolute must-try for any meat lover.

4. Fried Feta Filo at Mika

Mika, a Mediterranean restaurant on Yas Marina, has quickly gained popularity with its unique take on Mediterranean flavors. One of the most beloved dishes is the Fried Feta Filo (Dh40), which features gooey feta cheese encased in crispy filo pastry and drizzled with honey. The result is a salty and sweet combination that’s hard to resist. At such an affordable price, it’s the perfect appetizer, but be warned – you might find yourself fighting for the last bite.

5. Ravioli at Toto

Toto, the Italian fine-dining restaurant brought to Saadiyat Island by Rafael Nadal and Cristiano Ronaldo, has quickly become a favorite for its expertly crafted dishes. The Ravioli (Dh65) is one of the restaurant's bestsellers. The fresh ravioli is filled with spinach and ricotta, served with contrasting tomato and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese sauces. Simple yet packed with flavor, it’s the dish that consistently keeps diners coming back for more.

6. Manteh at Zali

Zali, a Lebanese restaurant in Al Bateen, offers a unique twist on traditional Armenian dishes. The Manteh (Dh87) at Zali is a standout, swapping thick meat dumplings for mini triangular meat sambousek. The crispy, light pastries are paired with fresh yogurt, making each bite an explosion of flavor and texture. This dish is a modern take on a classic favorite and is a must-try for anyone visiting Zali.