The Best Middle Eastern and North African Restaurants in Abu Dhabi for 2024

Abu Dhabi is home to an exciting and diverse range of Middle Eastern and North African restaurants that bring together rich cultural flavors, vibrant atmospheres, and unforgettable dining experiences. From contemporary takes on classic dishes to sophisticated settings, here’s a look at the best spots to enjoy this delicious cuisine in Abu Dhabi.

Erth Restaurant – Winner

Tucked inside the iconic Qasr Al Hosn, Erth Restaurant offers fine dining with a twist. Featuring bold architecture, chic concrete interiors, and bespoke furniture, this Emirati eatery embraces local ingredients sourced from across the Emirates. The menu showcases dishes that honor traditional Emirati flavors, with favorites such as torched salmon crudo, Emirati spiced hasselback potatoes, and a refreshing kale, pomelo, and avocado salad. Whether you’re in the mood for an elegant dining experience or a taste of local heritage, Erth is an absolute must-visit.

Details:
Licensed. Qasr Al Hosn, erthrestaurant.ae (058 600 6922)

Em Sherif Café – Highly Commended

For an authentic Lebanese dining experience in Abu Dhabi, Em Sherif Café is a prime destination. Located along the Corniche, this charming café delivers an impressive menu filled with freshly prepared mezze, grilled meats, and vibrant salads. Highlights include Lebanese tabbouleh, creamy hummus with pine nuts, and hearty lentil salad. Enjoy a relaxing meal with excellent service, and if you’re in the mood, stay for a shisha to end your evening on a high note.

Details:
Unlicensed. West Bay Lounge, Corniche, @emsherifcafeabudhabi (02 691 9999)

TEAN – Best for Beachfront Dining

TEAN brings together the best of Lebanese and Turkish flavors, offering a relaxed yet stylish dining experience with an unbeatable view of the sea. This al fresco spot at Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort serves up some of the finest mezze in town, including a variety of hummus, prawn machboos, and lamb ouzi. Start your day with their fantastic Levantine breakfast, and enjoy the atmosphere that combines Mediterranean charm with Middle Eastern cuisine.

Details:
Licensed. Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort, Saadiyat Island, jumeirah.com (02 811 4342)

Alya – Shortlisted

Alya is a hidden gem on the waterfront, offering Mediterranean-inspired Lebanese cuisine in a rustic and cozy setting. Specializing in mezze and Turkish-style charcoal barbecue, this restaurant’s highlights include a trio of hummus, ceviche, baklava melt, and halloumi kebabs. While it has unfortunately closed, it previously earned a reputation as one of the best spots for upscale Lebanese dishes in the city.

Details:
Permanently closed. Beach Rotana Residences, @alyarestaurantuae (02 555 0018)

Beirut Sur Mer – A Taste of Lebanon by the Sea

Located near the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Beirut Sur Mer brings the best of Lebanese cuisine right to the water's edge. With a breathtaking view and a range of classic Lebanese dishes such as mezze and mashawi, this is the perfect spot for a relaxed lunch or dinner. Whether you’re enjoying the expansive terrace or the chic interiors, Beirut Sur Mer is a must for foodies craving a seaside meal with a Lebanese touch.

Details:
Licensed. Mamsha Al Saadiyat, beirutsurmer.com (054 395 4000)

Bushra by Buddha-Bar – Modern North African Dining

Located in Yas Bay, Bushra by Buddha-Bar blends Middle Eastern and North African flavors in a stunning, contemporary setting. The food here is bold and flavorful, offering dishes like muhammara, vine leaves, and batata harra, as well as traditional favorites like pide and shish tawook. The chic interior, featuring deep blues, earthy tones, and gold accents, adds to the experience, making it one of the hottest dining spots in the city.

Details:
Licensed. Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, bushra-abudhabi.com (050 601 1195)

Jawaher – Persian Meets Lebanese

Jawaher offers a unique culinary journey, combining Persian and Lebanese flavors with delicious results. With an extensive menu of juicy kebabs, freshly baked bread, and its signature dish – Jawaher, a rice dish with wild barberries and pistachios – this spot serves up mouthwatering meals. Don’t miss the lamb chops, shish taouk, or classic Persian stew, heimeh. For dessert, indulge in saffron ice cream or baklava for a sweet ending.

Details:
Unlicensed. The Walk at Al Seef, @jawaher_restaurant (052 147 9542)

Li Beirut – A Classic Lebanese Feast

Li Beirut has been delighting diners for over a decade with its exceptional Lebanese dishes and family-style dining. From the rich hummus Beiruty and lentil soup to slow-cooked lamb shank and shish taouk, this restaurant is the perfect place for a casual yet refined meal with family or friends. The views of the Arabian Gulf from the terrace are the icing on the cake, so be sure to book in advance for the best seats.

Details:
Licensed. Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, hilton.com (02 811 5666)

Mijana – Traditional Meets Contemporary

Located in the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal, Mijana offers a fusion of traditional Middle Eastern flavors with a modern twist. From hot mezze like falafel and kibbeh to grilled meat platters and fresh fish, the menu here celebrates the best of regional cuisine. Whether you’re enjoying a meal indoors or relaxing with a shisha on the terrace, Mijana offers a sophisticated dining experience.

Details:
Licensed. The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal, ritzcarlton.com (02 818 8203)

Tazal – International with an Arabic Twist

Tazal at Al Qana is all about global flavors with an Arabic influence. This all-day dining spot offers an impressive variety of international favorites, from seafood machboos to marbled Wagyu beef. With dishes like Iranian joojhe chicken skewers and crème brûlée kufana for dessert, Tazal is a standout for those looking to enjoy a luxe dining experience with a touch of Arabic flair.

Details:
Licensed. Al Qana, @tazaluae