Zali Review: A Taste of Home at Abu Dhabi's Lebanese Gem

As someone who has been living away from Lebanon for over three years now, I often find myself yearning for the comforting flavors of home. While Abu Dhabi boasts a range of Lebanese restaurants, nothing quite hits the mark like the home-cooked meals my mother used to make. That was until I discovered Zali, a Lebanese restaurant that has quickly become a go-to spot for comfort food and wholesome Mediterranean cuisine. Zali transports me back to Lebanon, filling that void of missing family meals and flavors I crave.

A Warm Welcome and Cozy Ambience

Zali, which recently made its way from Bali to Abu Dhabi, is located in the Al Bateen area, offering a cozy and welcoming environment. Before even stepping inside, an Arabic phrase on the door caught my eye: “Ahla w sahla,” which translates to "Welcome" — words that instantly transported me back to my childhood in Lebanon.

The interior is a beautiful blend of sleek and rustic touches, with floor-to-ceiling windows letting in ample sunlight and offering a charming view of the marina. The ambiance is intimate, yet vibrant, and the friendly staff adds to the warmth, making it feel like home from the moment you walk in.

The Menu: Comfort Food Done Right

Zali offers a menu brimming with comforting Lebanese classics, and I’m delighted to say that it lives up to its promise of home-cooked meals. From mezze to mains, every dish I tried brought me back to the kitchen of my family home in Beirut.

To start, we went with the spiced meat hummus (Dh53), a creamy delight topped with minced beef and served with freshly baked saj bread. This dish alone is enough to hook you in — rich, savory, and full of flavor. Next, we tried the kafta fatteh (Dh53), a twist on the traditional fatteh. This dish combines tender kafta, tangy garlic yogurt, and crispy saj bread, making it a mouthwatering starter that packs a punch of flavors.

A light beet and feta salad (Dh55) followed, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the rich dishes. It was the perfect balance of earthy beets and creamy feta, making it a delightful side.

Main Courses: Pure Lebanese Comfort

The two main courses were where Zali truly shined. The beef shawarma bowl (Dh97) was a standout — not only because it was delicious, but because it was a healthier version of the beloved shawarma. The generous portions of beef, spicy batata harra (spicy potatoes), and a drizzle of aubergine moutabbal dip made it a comforting yet satisfying meal without the usual greasy feeling that often comes with shawarma.

However, the true star of the evening was the manteh (Dh87), a traditional Armenian dish that Zali reimagines in a lighter form. Instead of the usual thick meat dumplings, Zali serves mini sambousek pastries — crispy, golden triangles stuffed with tender meat, served with fresh yogurt. These light, crispy treats are worth every bite and easily the best manteh I’ve had in a long time.

Drinks and Dessert: A Perfect Finish

To wash everything down, we tried the desert llama juice (Dh39), a refreshing blend of coconut cream, green apple, and lemon. It was the ideal drink to cleanse the palate and provide a refreshing lift after the savory dishes.

As for dessert, Zali offers a selection of sweet treats, but on this occasion, I was so full from the main course that I opted to skip it — though I’ve heard good things about their offerings.

A Word from the Owner

I had the pleasure of chatting with Joelle Maalouf, the owner of Zali, who explained that the restaurant’s mission is to offer authentic, home-cooked Lebanese dishes rather than mass-produced food. The family-oriented nature of Zali is evident in every bite. Joelle also recommended other Lebanese staples like mudardara (lentils and rice) and the ever-popular kafta and batata served with vermicelli rice, both of which I’m eager to try on my next visit.

As the weather cools, Zali plans to add outdoor seating by the marina, making it the perfect spot for al fresco dining. I can already imagine myself sitting outside with a desert llama in hand, watching the boats go by as I savor another home-cooked meal.

Price Point and Contact Information

Zali’s menu is fairly priced, with dishes ranging from Dh35 to Dh113. Beverages are between Dh35 to Dh45, and desserts are priced from Dh35 to Dh59. The restaurant is open from 9 a.m. to midnight and is located in Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi. For reservations, you can contact Zali at +050 797 6951.

Final Thoughts

Zali is a hidden gem in Abu Dhabi, offering an authentic Lebanese dining experience that goes beyond the usual fare. Whether you’re homesick for Lebanese comfort food or simply looking for a delicious and wholesome meal, Zali is the place to be. The combination of a warm, welcoming atmosphere and expertly prepared dishes makes this restaurant stand out in the city’s vibrant food scene. For anyone looking for a taste of Lebanon, Zali is sure to feel like home.