The best café, bars and restaurants in the capital.
If you’re looking for the best restaurants in the capital, we’re here to help. The eleventh FACT Dining Awards Abu Dhabi have taken place. The restaurant industry gathered, the nominations were announced, and the awards were handed out. Held on 30 October 2025 at InterContinental Abu Dhabi, the event was a sensational success.
Categories spanned everything from cafés to bars, and seafood to steakhouses. The winners were selected based on public votes and the opinions of critics. Each category has two awards: Best and Favourite. The latter is the result of a popular vote, while the former is the critics’ choice.
Congratulations to all of the nominees and winners.
All Day Dining Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2025
Best: Garage at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island
The all-day dining restaurant Garage is so popular that it has brought the FACT team back for more. Winner of Best All Day Dining at the FACT Dining Awards Abu Dhabi 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, Garage is most definitely a restaurant for culinary gourmands. Not only does the venue offer live cooking stations in a lively atmosphere, but the trackside location overlooks Yas Marina Circuit and is unrivalled in the capital.
GO: Visit www.marriott.com for more information.
Favourite: White at Jumeirah Saadiyat Island
White is a firm favourite in Abu Dhabi. The all-day dining restaurant is a breezy beachfront escape where pale timber meets the sugar-white sands of Saadiyat Island. The restaurant offers a multi-cuisine menu, sustainable dishes prepared at live stations, and a family-friendly atmosphere, all set within an oyster-shell-inspired interior. Look out for fantastic themed nights and a bombastic weekend brunch.
GO: Visit www.jumeirah.com for more information.
Breakfast in Abu Dhabi 2025
Best: Society at Mamsha Al Saadiyat
Step into Society, a chic café. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant cultures and natural landscapes of the UAE, the menu offers a bountiful selection of breakfasts, salads, flatbreads, and desserts. Every dish served is carefully crafted using locally sourced, fresh, and premium ingredients. If you’re seeking a revitalising place to start your day, Society’s carefully designed space promises to inspire and envelop you.
GO: Visit https://societyuae.com for more information.
Favourite: Love Vibe Café in Khalifa City
Located in Khalifa City, Love Vibe is the capital’s newest Instagrammable hotspot, offering a radiant all-day dining venue. Looming overhead are striking pink palm tree chandeliers, while a neon ‘Don’t Kill My Vibe’ sign sets the stage for a memorable meal. Love Vibe Executive Chef, Sagar Kumar, shines a spotlight on local ingredients through a menu that showcases both traditional Emirati fare and modern European cuisine. The signature dishes include Balaleet Eggs served with flat chebab pancake, cheese omelette and sweet balaleet.
GO: Visit www.lovevibecafe.com for more information.
Café in Abu Dhabi 2025
Best: tashas in Al Bateen
Come for the breakfasts (which are served until 6pm), and stay for the speciality coffee. The FACT team loves tashas, whether it’s for a virgin cocktail with friends or a spot of remote working; the ambience is oh-so chilled. The brand has been expanding its presence across the region with a new opening in Saudi Arabia. Plus, the breakfast option is one of the best in the UAE – the hummus toastie with rocket, avocado, roasted feta and poached egg hits the spot.
GO: Visit www.tashascafe.com for more information.
Favourite: NAC at Marina Mall
If you’ve been lucky enough to dine at NAC in London, Dubai or Riyadh, you already know it’s not your average café. NAC is all about laid-back sophistication, superb sharing plates, innovative beverages and an atmosphere that’s as vibrant as it is stylish. NAC’s menu is a treasure trove of delightful dishes, from a variety of egg dishes to an array of refreshing salads. Finish your dining experience on a sweet note with NAC’s unmissable desserts featuring Crushed Milk Chocolate Cookies with Frosties soft serve, French toast with raspberries and clotted cream, and the delightful Affogato.
GO: Visit https://nacdubai.com for more information.
Afternoon Tea in Abu Dhabi 2025
Best: Episodes at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental is back in sophisticated style. Episodes afternoon tea offers a traditional experience, which takes place in the heart of the palace. The menu features a selection of fine teas from around the world, along with various tea journeys to choose from. The gourmet sandwiches are crafted with seasonal ingredients, and the artisanal scones are freshly baked daily.
GO: Visit www.mandarinoriental.com for more information.
Favourite: Café Ginori at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort
Inspired by the iconic St. Regis ritual, the Ginori Afternoon Tea at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island is a refined tribute to elegance and timeless hospitality. Served on Ginori’s signature porcelain, this sophisticated affair unfolds with an exquisite array of delicate pastries, savoury finger sandwiches, and irresistible sweet treats, paired with a curated selection of premium teas and expertly brewed coffee.
GO: Visit www.cafeginorisaadiyatisland.com for more information.
International Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2025
Best: Flamingo Room by tashas in The Galleria Al Maryah Island
Flamingo Room by tashas has been bringing a touch of jungle chic to the Middle East. The restaurant can already be found in Dubai and Riyadh, and is the winner of Best International Restaurant in Abu Dhabi for the second year in a row. Located in The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, it showcases the food, fun and finesse of South Africa. Created by the South African restaurateur Natasha Sideris, her brands have a loyal following in the UAE – and this is no different.
GO: Visit www.flamingoroombytashas.com for more information.
Favourite: West Bay Lounge at Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort, Abu Dhabi Corniche
Nestled by the azure Arabian Gulf, West Bay Lounge paints a serene beachside vibe. You get to indulge in a wide selection of dishes from salads to sushi that are sure to elevate your al fresco experience. Don’t forget that over the weekend, this place turns into the ultimate toes-in-the-sand party hotspot.
GO: Visit www.radissonhotels.com for more information.
Beach / Pool Bar in Abu Dhabi 2025
Best: Glo at Rosewood Abu Dhabi
Glo in Rosewood Abu Dhabi oozes sophistication and offers marvellous waterfront views. By day, it’s sunbeds, cabanas and easy-going lunches; after dark, the sculpted arches glow and the skyline turns the terrace into a low-lit scene for sundowners. The bar combines classics with smart signatures, offering zero-proof options for a clean finish.
GO: Visit www.rosewoodhotels.com for more information.
Favourite: Café del Mar Abu Dhabi at Yas Bay
Taking a prominent position along the Yas Bay Waterfront, Café del Mar Abu Dhabi encourages revellers to immerse themselves in the rhythms spun by International DJs. This exclusive enclave is dedicated to adults seeking carefree amusement, where positive vibes and ambient tunes intertwine to form a haven of revelry. Whether lounging by the infinity-style pool astride a flamingo float, savouring beachside cocktails, or Mediterranean delights.
GO: Visit https://cafedelmarabudhabi.com for more information.
Pub in Abu Dhabi 2025
Best: Craft by Side Hustle in The Galleria Al Maryah Island
Craft by Side Hustle has been hitting the headlines with its blockbuster brewery. The passion for the project is evident, from the bartenders to the head chef. The team offer a surprising take on pints and pairings. The menu is inspired by southern-style smokehouses and prides itself on ageing and crafting the meats in-house. The menu spans starters, salads, sandwiches, smokehouse platters, sourdough pizzas, mains, sides and desserts.
GO: Visit https://brewery.ae for more information.
Favourite: McCafferty’s Irish Pub at Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island
A slice of Ireland can be found in Abu Dhabi. McCafferty’s Irish Pub is one of the most popular destinations for an after-work drink or a Sunday roast. The menu boasts pub classics: McCafferty’s Irish Chicken Curry, Proper Fish and Chips, and The All-Ireland Breakfast. Keep an eye out for the live events, which feature music acts.
GO: Visit www.mccaffertysyas.com for more information.
Bar in Abu Dhabi 2025
Best: Zuma in Al Maryah Island
Zuma is famous for its restaurant, but its bar is just as much of a dazzling destination. Located on Al Maryah Island, the venue showcases Japanese food and drink. Incidentally, the cocktails are influenced by Japan and include classics with a twist. Drinks include the Amami Punch, Hikari Spritz and Okinawa Highball. Don’t miss the Paloma – you can thank us later!
GO: Visit https://zumarestaurant.com for more information.
Favourite: Perlage in Al Maryah Island
Perlage in Abu Dhabi oozes old-school glamour. The décor feels like you’re stepping into a 1920s Hollywood star’s dressing room. In French, perlage translates to a string of pearls. The term describes the bubbly effervescence in sparkling drinks, especially in a glass of Champagne. The drink’s menu includes creative concoctions with playful names, including Born to Be Wild, which is a nod to the Steppenwolf rock song, and How ’bout Them Apples, which is a reference to the film Good Will Hunting. Oh, and guests will be served by bartenders in overalls.
GO: Follow @barperlageae on Instagram for more information.
Outdoor Dining Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2025
Best: Beach House at Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas
Experience the taste of Italy at the Beach House restaurant in Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas. This FACT award-winning restaurant offers an al fresco dining adventure inspired by the southern Italian coast. The menu is a seafood lover’s paradise, with daily fresh catches prepared family-style. Complement your meal with a carefully curated selection of cocktails. This serene oasis, tucked away from the city’s hustle and bustle, offers stunning views of Saadiyat Beach, making it a perfect spot to savour a taste of Italy under the Abu Dhabi sky.
GO: Visit www.hyattrestaurants.com for more information.
Favourite: Sontaya at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort
Sontaya boasts impressive views of the Arabian Gulf. Located at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, the venue includes private dining areas set among stunning water features. Guests can enjoy flavours from Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam. Translating to ‘sunset’ in the Thai language, this Southeast Asian restaurant is understandably popular for its setting among a series of floating pavilions that overlook the Arabian Gulf.
GO: Visit www.sontayaabudhabi.com for more information.
Fusion Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2025
Best: SUSHISAMBA Abu Dhabi at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers
SUSHISAMBA can be found across the world in Dubai, London, Miami, Las Vegas and Riyadh. Now, the world-famous restaurant has opened in Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers. Designed by Lazaro Rosa Violan, the first floor features a restaurant, while the second floor comprises a private dining room, a bar, the popular SAMBAROOM, and a terrace offering stunning sea views. The concept draws its inspiration from Brazil, Japan and Peru, and combines the flavours of each country across signature items such as Peruvian Anticuchos and seviche, and show-stopping sushi.
GO: Visit www.sushisamba.com for more information.
Favourite: Valgerand Nordic Grill at Mamsha Al Saadiyat
It’s not often you can enjoy Nordic-inspired cuisine and Estonian cooking techniques in the UAE. Valgerand’s menu features Chicken Liver Mousse, Grilled Bone Marrow and Toast, Potato Rosti, and Swedish Skagen Salad. Plus, there are hearty soups, which range from Creamy Roasted Carrot to Nordic Seafood. Many people come just for the salmon, which is superbly smoked in-house, hence the restaurant being crowned Favourite Fusion Restaurant in Abu Dhabi for the third year in a row.
GO: Visit https://valgerand.com for more information.
Seafood Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2025
Best: Ryba in Al Mina
Emirati chef Faisal Mohamed Alharmoodi created the homegrown seafood restaurant Ryba. Located in Souq Al Mina, the restaurant’s name translates to “fish” in Russian. The menu offers everything from simple fish and chips to flavour-filled paella. So, whether you prefer it grilled, steamed, or lightly fried to crispy perfection, Ryba, with its enviable seafront setting, offers a dining experience that marries contemporary flavours with Abu Dhabi’s rich heritage.
GO: Follow @ryba.ae on Instagram for more information.
Favourite: Fishmarket at InterContinental Abu Dhabi
Fishmarket at InterContinental Abu Dhabi is a longtime crowd-pleaser where the day’s catch takes centre stage. Step up to the iced display, choose your seafood by weight, then select a cooking style, from zesty chilli-lime to garlic butter, black pepper, or classic grill, and pair it with sides that keep things fresh and unfussy. Sunlit marina views and breezy, beach-hut touches set an easy, coastal mood, while servers guide the market ritual with practised ease. It’s the kind of place made for languid lunches, family celebrations, and seafood purists who value quality over fuss.
GO: Visit https://abudhabi.intercontinental.com for more information.
Pan Asian Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2025
Best: Hakkasan Abu Dhabi at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Hakkasan Abu Dhabi, a proud recipient of a Michelin Star and a consistent FACT award-winner, invites you to indulge in delectable dishes while taking in the Abu Dhabi skyline. The kitchen serves refined signatures, including delicate dim sum baskets, glossy black pepper beef, and the ever-popular roasted silver cod in honey. Drinks are dialled in, from thoughtful cocktails to premium teas. Service is polished, pacing unhurried, and the soundtrack suitably low-lit. Hakkasan remains a capital classic.
GO: Visit https://taogroup.com for more information.
Favourite: NURI Grill & Bar at Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island
NURI Grill & Bar has been setting the standards for Korean food. Located on Yas Island, the steak spot blends together a BBQ and fine dining experience. Make like the Editor-in-Chief, and opt for the omakase menu. Dishes are made with high-quality, ethically sourced meats, and the specialities include marbled steak and wet-aged meat.
GO: Visit https://nurigrillbar.com for more information.
Latin American Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2025
Best: Maté at Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas
It’s all about meat, glorious meat at the Argentinian steakhouse with a Lebanese twist. The funky décor features pictures of Che Guevara and Freida Kahlo, as well as an open kitchen with a fire cooking area. The menu features dry-aged beef, including ribeye, T-bone, and tomahawk cuts. Plus, the desserts range from an Argentine Cheesecake to a Dulce de Leche Volcano Cake.
GO: Visit www.hyatt.com for more information.
Favourite: Barbossa in Yas Bay
Situated in the pulsating heart of Yas Bay, Barbossa brings modern Mexican and Latin American cuisine to the capital. Spearheaded by Chef Mina Mouris Zaki, the menu features Barbossa Ceviche, Carne Asada Tacos, Guac & Chips, OG Sizzling Fajitas and Tuna Ceviche Tostada. Plus, there is a lively bar scene that transitions the venue from daytime dining to after-dark revelry.
GO: Visit https://barbossa.ae for more information.
European Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2025
Best: Taparelle at Manarat Al Saadiyat
FACT’s Restaurant of the Year in 2023, 2024 and 2025, NIRI Restaurant & Bar, is led by a talented team that includes Managing Director Imad Obeid and Chef Omaka Marie. Now, the dynamic duo have launched their latest venture: Taparelle. The restaurant at Manarat Al Saadiyat blends art, culture, and cuisine in a captivating space. There’s a Mediterranean-style dining area, a co-working table, and a dedicated outdoor garden area complete with a pizza oven and a bar serving cocktails and mocktails. The menu features standout dishes, including Burrata with Uzbek Tomatoes, Seabass Carpaccio, Scallops Grenobloise, and Wood-Fired Tomato, alongside comforting options such as Oxtail Ragu.
GO: Visit www.taparelle.com for more information.
Favourite: José by Pizarro at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers
José by Pizarro at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers brings Barcelona bar energy to the Corniche. The menu is a love letter to Spanish produce with croquetas that ooze, pan con tomate on crackling bread, and gambas al ajillo swimming in garlic oil. Larger plates and market fish arrive simply dressed, letting olive oil do the talking. The wine list leans toward Spain, with sherries and vermouths by the glass. Finish with a stiff cortado afterwards.
GO: Visit https://josepizarro.com for more information.
Middle Eastern and North African Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2025
Best: Em Sherif Sea Café at Rosewood Abu Dhabi
The name says it all – this restaurant is about enjoying Lebanese food by the sea. Blue-and-white tones, marble counters and a terrace set the scene for seafood done well. Start with bright mezze and a crisp raw selection, then move to charcoal-grilled catch with lemon, olive oil and tarator, samke harra with Aleppo heat, or sayadieh layered with caramelised onions and fragrant rice. Desserts lean classic with knafeh, mafroukeh, pistachio ice cream, best served with mint tea.
GO: Visit www.rosewoodhotels.com for more information.
Favourite: Mosaic Restaurant on Muroor Road
Mosaic Restaurant is Abu Dhabi’s dependable address for Levantine comfort. The room blends tiled floors with warm wood to create a cosy environment. Tables fill quickly with colourful mezze—smoky moutabbal, bright fattoush, zingy muhammara—arriving alongside pillowy, oven-warm bread. Charcoal grills are the draw, from tender shish tawouk to juicy lamb kofta, and mixed platters designed for sharing. Daily stews and stuffed specialities nod to homestyle cooking, while knafeh and syrup-kissed pastries close things sweetly.
GO: Follow @mosaic.restaurant on Instagram for more information.
Steakhouse in Abu Dhabi 2025
Best: Butcher & Still at Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island
Butcher & Still is a must-visit in Abu Dhabi and won FACT’s Restaurant of the Year in 2022. Regardless of whether you’re a steak person or not, the venue is so impressive with its 1920s Chicago speakeasy vibes. We’re talking soft leather seats, dark wooden floors and a flawless service to match. The menu includes prime cuts of American beef and Prohibition-era cocktails and the 34-layer Tribune Tower Chocolate Cake, which has to be seen to be believed.
GO: Visit www.fourseasons.com for more information.
Favourite: Hunter & Barrel in Yas Bay
Hunter & Barrel brings fire-first dining to the waterfront with a mood of timber, leather and flicker-lit grills. The menu majors in prime steaks, marinated skewers and coal-roasted seafood, backed by shareable starters and ember-cooked sides. Signature cuts like the tomahawk arrive with char and rosy centres, while sauces keep things classic. Cocktails are bold and barrel-influenced, with a tidy wine list for steak pairing. Service is upbeat and efficient, while the terrace comes alive at sunset with picturesque views of the marina.
GO: Visit https://hunterandbarrel.ae for more information.
French Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2025
Best: La Petite Maison Abu Dhabi in Al Maryah Island
Whenever we visit the multiple FACT Dining Award-winning La Petite Maison, it’s a masterclass in French fine dining. The brand has foodie fans across the world, as it has been serving customers in Dubai, Hong Kong, London, Riyadh, and Abu Dhabi. The Al Maryah Island restaurant is beautifully romantic and situated directly on the promenade, offering tranquil sea views.
GO: Visit https://lpmrestaurants.com for more information.
Favourite: Bord Eau by Nicolas Isnard – Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi
Bord Eau by Nicolas Isnard at Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri brings modern French finesse to Abu Dhabi. The room is intimate and softly lit, with linen-dressed tables, alabaster tones and a view across the waterways. Menus are seasonal and technique-driven, featuring delicate amuse-bouches, pristine seafood, slow-cooked meats with glossy reductions, and desserts that strike a balance between restraint and theatre. Expect precise plating, calibrated textures and sauces that carry depth. Service is warm and well-timed, with confident wine pairings that travel from Burgundy to the Rhône.
GO: Visit www.shangri-la.com for more information.
Indian Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2025
Best: Punjab Grill – The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal
Punjab Grill serves up delectable North West Frontier food. The team has mastered the art of serving a royal experience on a plate and is popular with critics as well as customers. Starters range from Goan Crispy Prawns to Naga Glazed Chilli Chicken. Mains include biryanis, grilled dishes and kebab options. Punjab Grill Abu Dhabi is a glamorous spot. The venue spans three sections: Aaranya, the main dining area; Lotus Bar, with a lounge for cocktails; and Peacock House, an intimate space that celebrates India’s national bird.
GO: Visit https://punjabgrill.me for more information.
Favourite: Pincode by Kunal Kapur at The Galleria Al Maryah Island
Located in The Galleria at Al Maryah Island, Pincode by Kunal Kapoor promises Indian flavours with a regional twist. The restaurant takes its name from the era of handwritten letters when family recipes were passed down through generations in raw, written form—sometimes in diaries—that mothers and grandmothers maintained. Kunal Kapoor borrows this name to share flavours from across India, as a love letter to the region’s diverse culinary offerings. The menu is filled with dishes like Dates and Olive Malai Paneer Tikka, Popcorn Soup, Chicken Malai Tikka Caesar Salad, Amritsari Fried Fish, and Saag Burrata, which are must-tries. The desserts take things up a notch with Rasmalai Tiramisu, Falooda Sundae and much more.
GO: Visit https://pincodebykunalkapur.com for more information.
Italian Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2025
Best: Villa Toscana at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi
Channelling the elegance of a Tuscan townhouse, Villa Toscana at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi features marble floors, vaulted ceilings and the soft glow of chandeliers. The menu honours the kitchens of Tuscany, Umbria, and Emilia-Romagna through silky, hand-rolled pastas, slow-cooked ragù, crisp-shelled fritto misto, and a perfectly charred bistecca. Seasonal truffles, aged balsamic and estate olive oils keep flavours honest and indulgent. The cellar features an Italian selection, with Chianti Classico, Brunello, and Super Tuscans available by the glass. Finish with feather-light tiramisu or a slice of torta della nonna.
GO: Visit www.villatoscana-abudhabi.com for more information.
Favourite: Dino’s Bistro Italiano at Pearl Rotana Capital Centre
Located at Pearl Rotana, Dino’s Bistro Italiano brings a slice of laid-back Rome to Abu Dhabi. Expect a warm, brick-toned dining room, an open kitchen, and service that keeps things personable and pacey. The menu leans classic with antipasti, hand-tossed pizzas with blistered crusts, and fresh pastas dressed in time-honoured sauces. Portions are generous, prices remain sensible, and the wine list favours crowd-pleasing Italian staples. It’s a dependable choice for weeknight suppers, relaxed date nights, or family gatherings that end with a silky tiramisu.
GO: Visit www.rotana.com for more information.
Japanese Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2025
Best: NIRI Restaurant & Bar at Mamsha Al Saadiyat
NIRI Restaurant & Bar is led by a trifecta of talent: Managing Director Imad Obeid, Head Chef and sushi master Yasuyuki Takemoto, and Chef Omaka Orubu. Probably the most elevated dining concept in Mamsha Al Saadiyat, it offers instant appeal from the moment you enter the stylish, minimalist interior. Make like FACT’s Editor-in-Chief, and order the clams, scallops or the wagyu tataki.
GO: Visit www.nirirestaurant.com for more information.
Favourite: Strawfire by Ross Shonhan at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Acclaimed chef Ross Shonhan of Netsu fame in Dubai has opened Strawfire at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. The restaurant introduces the capital to the ancient Japanese cooking technique known as warayaki. This method of cooking involves grilling over a roaring fire fueled by straw, creating a unique, smoky flavour. Strawfire’s menu offers a variety of options: à la carte, a signature tasting menu, and the Chef’s Omakase menu. With harvest-inspired décor, this sophisticated and luxurious dining experience promises to ignite all of your senses.
GO: Visit www.mandarinoriental.com for more information.
Saturday Brunch in Abu Dhabi 2025
Best: Zuma at Al Maryah Island
When the words “Zuma” and “brunch” are in the same sentence, our stomachs start rumbling. This FACT favourite excels at whatever it turns its chopsticks to, which is why we can’t help falling in love with its Saturday brunch. A must-visit in Abu Dhabi, the dishes are served straight to your table and include the famous miso-marinated black cod, jumbo tiger prawns, and spicy beef tenderloin.
GO: Visit https://zumarestaurant.com for more information.
Favourite: Nahaam at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers
Those with a taste for the finer things in life will want to try Nahaam’s popular brunch. The chic yet casual poolside venue comes to vibrant life each weekend. The restaurant prides itself on its extensive food offering, live entertainment and excellent service. Featuring a variety of dishes from the hotel’s dining destinations, including José by Pizarro, and live entertainment, you’re in for a fun afternoon out.
GO: Follow @nahaam2.0 on Instagram for more information.
Homegrown Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2025
Best: Marmellata in Al Mina
FACT loves homegrown concepts, and this year we’ve been impressed by Marmellata. The queue-worthy pizzas have been the talk of the town. If you want a slice of the action, the toppings range from popular pepperoni with garlic confit and spicy honey to kale and oyster mushrooms. Launched in 2019, the restaurant was founded by Raj and Sebastian Dagstani, a father-and-son duo. It wins the award of ‘best homegrown restaurant in Abu Dhabi’ for the second year in a row.
GO: Visit https://marmellatalove.com for more information.
Favourite: Antonia in Various Locations
When it comes to restaurants, queuing is one of the ultimate acts of devotion. Is the food so good, you’re prepared to wait? In an age where we can get (almost) anything at the touch of a button, few venues create FOMO. However, Antonia in Abu Dhabi is well worth the wait. The restaurants include Antonia in Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Antonia Trattoria in Al Zeina, and Antonia Chic in The Galleria at Al Maryah Island, which has an alcohol license and a swanky upgrade – hence, the addition of chic to the title.
GO: Visit www.antoniarestaurant.com for more information.
Emirati Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2025
Best: Erth Restaurant in Al Hosn
Erth Restaurant is a gastronomical game-changer. Not only does it put the country’s cuisine on the map, but it is also the world’s first Emirati restaurant to be awarded a Michelin Star. Located in Qasr Al Hosn, the menu boasts ingredients sourced locally from farms in Al Ain, Hatta and across the Emirates. The mains offer a modern twist on classics, from the Braised Lamb Machboos with teriyaki sauce to the Farid-inspired Ravioli Fusion.
GO: Visit https://erthrestaurant.ae for more information.
Favourite: Al Fanar Restaurant & Café in Yas Mall
Step into Al Fanar Restaurant & Café at Yas Mall, and you’ll journey back to the 1960s, reliving the days when Abu Dhabi was a charming coastal town. This branch exudes traditional Emirati culture and flavour. Wander through scenes of bygone eras as you dine amidst the ambience of history. Savour traditional delights like Raqaq, Khameer and Chebab with cheese and luscious date syrup. This place envelops you in the stories of the past, while the aromas of bakhoor linger in the air.
GO: Visit www.alfanarrestaurant.com for more information.
Newcomer in Abu Dhabi 2025
Best: Barbassi in Mina Zayed
From the team behind the FACT award-winning Marmellata, Barbassi has found its home in Abu Dhabi’s creative M39 zone. The packed spot keeps things simple — and seriously good — with a tight edit of focaccia sandwiches and desirable desserts. Highlights include the Bassi Boom, a decadent stack of veal ham, cheese and piccalilli, and the Bangga, where spicy beef meets apricot jam and Calabrian chilli for a hit of sweet heat. Pair your sandwich with a speciality coffee and settle into the minimalist, industrial-cool space.
GO: Follow @barbassiboom on Instagram for more information.
Favourite: Blu Pizzeriá in Saadiyat Island
BLU Pizzeriá has expanded from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, bringing its Neapolitan-inspired creations to the capital. The menu features classic and creative takes on pizzas, perfect for the more adventurous diner. The classics range from the Burrata with basil and cherry tomatoes to the Spicy Pepperoni, featuring cheese, Parmigiano Reggiano, and spicy salami. The creative options range from the Short Ribs, featuring Black Angus short ribs, caramelised onions, and truffle white sauce, to the Musakhan, served with chicken, cheese, and a sour cream sauce.
GO: Visit https://linktr.ee/blu_pizzeria for more information.
Restaurant of the Year in Abu Dhabi 2025
NIRI Restaurant & Bar at Mamsha Al Saadiyat
NIRI Abu Dhabi brings contemporary Japanese cool to Mamsha Al Saadiyat, pairing blond timber and soft stone with Gulf views. Settle at the sushi counter for precise nigiri and sashimi, or graze on crispy tempura, charcoal-kissed robata skewers and bright, yuzu-led salads. Winning Restaurant of the Year for a third consecutive year, NIRI Restaurant & Bar was founded by an experienced team that hails from some of the world’s finest restaurants. The FACT team loves the fine-dining yakitori concept.
GO: Visit www.nirirestaurant.com for more information.
