From restaurants to bars, these are the best dining experiences in the capital.
The FACT Dining Awards Abu Dhabi 2024 saw 49 awards given out across 25 categories covering more than 150 hotels and independent restaurants.
The annual awards are a celebration of the capital’s vibrant food and beverage scene, where winners are awarded based on both public votes and critics’ opinions. Each category features two awards, the BEST and the FAVOURITE. The BEST is the editor’s choice, decided by the FACT editorial team and an independent panel of industry experts, whilst the FAVOURITE is determined through an online public vote.
Without further ado, here are your 2024 winners:
All Day Dining Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2024
Best: Garage at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island
The all-day-dining restaurant Garage is so popular, that it has team FACT come back for more. Winner of Best All Day Dining at the FACT Dining Awards Abu Dhabi 2021 and 2022, 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 reservations and more information.
Favourite: White at Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort
White is a firm favourite in Abu Dhabi. The all-day dining restaurant boasts international food, live stations, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Look out for themed nights, which include Seafood on Monday Nights, Arabic Nights on Wednesdays, Asian Nights on Fridays and a bombastic brunch on Saturdays.
GO: Visit www.jumeirah.com for reservations and more information.
Café in Abu Dhabi 2024
Best: tashas in Al Bateen
Come for the breakfasts (which are served until 6pm), and stay for the speciality coffee. The FACT team love 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 reservations and more information.
Favourite: Café James in Al Reem Island
Nestled in the heart of Abu Dhabi, Café James offers a sophisticated dining experience that blends global flavours with a modern twist. Known for its sleek ambience and impeccable service, this café is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The menu showcases a diverse range of dishes, from classic breakfast options to gourmet lunch and dinner selections. Whether you’re craving a hearty brunch or a casual coffee, Café James has something to satisfy every palate.
GO: Visit https://jamesabudhabi.com for reservations and more information.
Afternoon Tea in Abu Dhabi 2024
Best: Episodes at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental recently rebranded and is back in sophisticated style. Episodes afternoon tea is a traditioncafé’serience, which takes place in the heart of the palace. The menu includes a selection of fine teas from around the world, and the choice of different tea journeys. The gourmet sandwiches are created with seasonal ingredients, and the artisanal scones are freshly baked each day.
GO: Visit www.mandarinoriental.com for reservations and more information.
Favourite: Crystal Lounge at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi
Crystal Lounge at The St. Regis Abu Dhabi should be praised for its consistency. The afternoon tea includes a superb selection of savoury treats, like fancy smoked salmon with creamy creme fraiche. When it comes to sweets, imagine fluffy scones with plain, orange, and ginger flavours, topped with clotted cream and jams. Plus, the tea experts at the hotel are ready to prepare a special blend just for you.
GO: Visit www.marriott.com for reservations and more information.
International Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2024
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 it has now opened in Abu Dhabi. 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 reservations and more information.
Favourite: Broadway at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Broadway is a homegrown restaurant that combines the Old and New World. The venue wouldn’t look out of place at its namesake, Broadway, New York. Dinner and a show is a tried and tested formula in the UAE but it often feels like two supporting acts and no main event. Here, everything plays a leading role, from the dinner to the décor – look out for the magic show, too. The concept has been executed with old-school charm and class, and that never goes out of style. Encore, please.
GO: Visit www.mandarinoriental.com for reservations and more information.
Beach / Pool Bar in Abu Dhabi 2024
Best: Glo at Rosewood Abu Dhabi
Glo in Rosewood Abu Dhabi oozes sophistication. The cocktail menu includes the Blow Mai Tai, Spanish Sangria and Tijuana Negroni. Look out for the Agave Spirit Tasting experience, which takes place daily from 4pm to 10pm. The Head Mixologist brings together flavours from mezcal to tequila.
GO: Visit www.rosewoodhotels.com for reservations and more information.
Favourite: WET Deck at W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island
W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island knows how to put on a party, and that’s evident at the WET Deck. The pool bar has been created with the brand’s signature style and is great for swimming and schmoozing. Located on a rooftop, it boasts views overlooking Yas Marina Circuit, which are unrivalled in the capital. Oh, and DJ Mark Ronson once played at the venue.
GO: Visit www.marriott.com for reservations and more information.
Pub in Abu Dhabi 2024
Best: 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 places to go for an after-work drink or Sunday roast. The menu boasts pub classics: McCafferty’s Irish Chicken Curry, Proper Fish and Chips, and The All Ireland Breakfast. Look out for the live events, which include music acts.
GO: Visit www.mccaffertysyas.com for reservation and more information.
Favourite: Lock, Stock & Barrel in Yas Bay
Lock, Stock & Barrel is a cool hangout that is famous for its live music, delicious food and party vibes. With happy hours and buy-one-get-one-free offers, this is a great value-for-money option. Plus, it’s the kind of pub where we take our mates and a drink or two turns into an evening out.
GO: Visit https://lsbdubai.com for reservations and more information.
Bar in Abu Dhabi 2024
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. The cocktails are influenced by the country 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 reservations and more information.
Favourite: The Warehouse Wine & Tapas Bar at Pearl Rotana Capital Centre
Winner of Best Bar at the Fact Dining Awards Abu Dhabi 2020 and 2022, The Warehouse Wine & Tapas Bar offers a great reason to visit every day of the week, as there are offers to suit your budget and drinking needs. Settle in the industrial chic interiors and order terrific tapas, then you just have the tough decision about which glass (or, of course) bottle of wine to order.
GO: Visit www.rotana.com for reservations and more information.
Lounge in Abu Dhabi 2024
Best: Siddharta Lounge by Buddha-Bar in Yas Bay
Siddharta Lounge by Buddha-Bar knows how to raise the roof. Located on the rooftop at Yas Bay, the bar serves Mediterranean tapas and fun cocktails. Oozing a relaxed yet chic setting, it also boasts views of the waterfront. Backed by the renowned Buddha-Bar brand, you know it will be vibes.
GO: Visit www.siddhartalounge-abudhabi.com for reservations and more information.
Favourite: Stratos Revolving Lounge Bar & Grill – Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi
Stratos Revolving Lounge Bar & Grill has an exciting USP: it’s the only revolving restaurant in Abu Dhabi. The venue boasts superb skyline views, which can be appreciated from a 360-degree view. The dishes include steaks and charcoal-grilled dishes. Take your pick from the Corn-Fed Chicken Breast, Slow Braised Short Rib and Stratos Josper Wagyu Burger.
GO: Visit www.stratosabudhabi.com for reservations and more information.
Outdoor Dining Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2024
Best: Sand & Koal at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Sand & Koal explores the possibilities of fire cooking. The scenic beachfront setting changes beautifully from day to night. Come for casual lounging and leisurely lunches, and stay for the picturesque sunset drinks. On the menu are vegetable-based recipes, cuts of meat, grilled skewers, and delicious crudos.
GO: Visit www.mandarinoriental.com for reservations and 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 reservations and more information.
Fusion Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2024
Best: Buddha-Bar Beach Abu Dhabi at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort
If you’re in the mood for, well, everything, then Buddha-Bar Beach Abu Dhabi hits those spots. Experience a fusion of influences at this funky venue – Mykonos meets Maldives meets Asia and so on. Eastern and Western touches are brought together through its music, food, and drink. Ceviche, dumplings or sushi? Yes, yes and yes.
GO: Visit www.buddhabarbeachabudhabi.com for reservations and more information.
Favourite: Valgerand at Mamsha Al Saadiyat
It’s not often you can enjoy Nordic-inspired cuisine and Estonian cooking techniques in the UAE. Valgerand’s menu includes Chicken Liver Mousse, Grilled Bone Marrow and Toast, and 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.
GO: Visit https://valgerand.com for reservations and more information.
Seafood Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2024
Best: Finz at Beach Rotana
Chef German Huerta has created a fusion of seafood flavours. The menu spans small plates, small bowls, sharing plates, and catch of the day. The fish is sourced from the local market and can be served fried, grilled or steamed. The sharing dishes include a Halwayoo, Red Snapper and Seabass.
GO: Visit https://rotana.com for reservations and more information.
Favourite: 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. With its eclectic surroundings, Ryba has the potential to offer a dining experience that marries contemporary flavours with Abu Dhabi’s rich heritage.
GO: Follow @ryba.ae on Instagram for more information.
Pan Asian Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2024
Best: Dai Pai Dong at Rosewood Abu Dhabi
Dai Pai Dong is a master of modern Cantonese food. Chef Dong brings sixteen years of experience as well as passion to the restaurant. Cutting no corners, there is a dedicated hot pot, dim sum and vegan menu. If like us you want to try everything, we’d recommend the All You Can Eat Street Style Lunch on weekdays. Your stomach will thank us.
GO: Visit www.rosewoodhotels.com for reservations and 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, ethnically sourced meats, and the specialities include marbled steak and wet ageing meat.
GO: Visit https://nurigrillbar.com for reservations and more information.
Latin American Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2024
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 includes pictures of Che Guevara and Freida Kahlo, and an open kitchen with fire cooking. The menu includes dry-aged beef, ribeye, T-bone and tomahawk meats. Plus, the desserts range from an Argentinian Cheesecake to a Dulche De Leche Volcano Cake.
GO: Visit www.hyatt.com for reservations and 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 reservations and more information.
European Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2024
Best: Mika in Yas Marina
Abu Dhabi is awash with Mediterranean restaurants, and it’s hard to stand out from the culinary crowd. Mika on Yas Marina has achieved something surprising – it offers authenticity and affordability, all while still feeling like a luxurious location. Independently owned and operated by Chef Mario Loi, the menu spans snacks, raw, small plates, larger plates and desserts. Don’t leave without trying the Fried Feta Cheese – a slab of cheese encased in filo pastry.
GO: Visit https://mika.ae for more information.
Favourite: Oii in Al Qana
Oii has been making a name for itself in Abu Dhabi’s dining scene. The Portuguese restaurant was recently featured in the MICHELIN guide. Located in Al Qana, the décor boasts a clean, contemporary aesthetic. Plus, the dishes include Beef Cheek Milanese with saffron risotto, Lobster Piccata and Smoked Chicken Souvlaki.
GO: Visit https://oiiabudhabi.com for reservations and more information.
Middle Eastern and North African Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2024
Best: Erth Restaurant in Al Hosn
Erth Restaurant is a gastronomical gamechanger. Not only does it put the country’s cuisine on the map, but it was 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: Beirut Sur Mer in Mamsha Al Saadiyat
The name says it all – this is about enjoying Lebanese food by the sea. With an experienced team occupying the open kitchen, you can expect all the classics, from mezze to mashawi. Enjoy a culinary escape to the Levant inside a dining room filled with natural light, where foliage hangs from the ceiling or retreat onto the beachfront terrace. An ideal spot for post-cultural refuelling after visiting the nearby Louvre Abu Dhabi. Portions are generous and prices are reasonable.
GO: Follow @beirutsurmer on Instagram for more information.
Steakhouse in Abu Dhabi 2024
Best: Butcher & Still – 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.
GO: Visit www.fourseasons.com for reservations and more information.
Favourite: The Director’s Club – The WB™ Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection by Hilton
The Director’s Club sounds like it should be a gimmick, but it has impressed the FACT team. Located in the The WB™ Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection by Hilton, it hosts an impressive range of dining deals throughout the week. The Sunday Roast is a nostalgia fest, and The Director’s Club Brunch is a lavish affair.
GO: Visit www.thewbabudhabi.ae for reservations and more information.
French Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2024
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 is situated directly on the promenade with tranquil sea views.
GO: Visit https://lpmrestaurants.com for reservations and more information.
Favourite: Fouquet’s Abu Dhabi in Louvre Abu Dhabi
Fouquet’s Abu Dhabi has bought some je na sais qou to the capital. The original Fouquet’s was born in Paris in 1899, and the mastermind was Louis Fouquet. Branches of Fouquet’s can be found across the world in Cannes, Courchevel, New York and Saint-Barth. And, of course, Louvre Abu Dhabi. Romantic and refined – it is a must-visit for French food.
GO: Visit www.fouquetsabudhabi.com for reservations and more information.
Indian Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2024
Best: Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Be blown away by Martabaan, which dishes out contemporary classic Indian cuisine, all thanks to the genius Chef Hemant Oberoi. This place is nothing short of a regal dining room decked out in gold accents, vibrant artworks and vivid textiles that bring opulence. The menu includes Kursi Chaat, Can Can chicken, Martabaan Ka Meat and many more. For dessert, prepare to drool over Masala Chai Crème Brulée and Gulab Jamun Tiramisu.
GO: Visit www.mandarinoriental.com for reservations and more information.
Favourite: Zeera by Buddha-Bar in Yas Bay
Located in Yas Bay, Zeera by Buddha-Bar is a funky, fun restaurant. The menu takes traditional Indian dishes and adds a modern flair. The menu includes chaat, starters, soup, tandoor and grill dishes. The mains include a Malai Lobster, Patta Macchi sea bream, and Raan 24 Carat lamb leg. Plus, there are old-school desserts, which range from Carrot Halwa to Gulab Jamun.
GO: Visit www.zeera-abudhabi.com for reservations and more information.
Italian Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2024
Best: Talea by Antonio Guida – Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi recently opened Talea, and it has already been awarded one MICHELIN Star. Emirates Palace is a multiple FACT Dining Awards Abu Dhabi winner, and Talea has impressed us with its elegant Italian flair. With Antonio Guida at its helm, the highlights include burrata, chilled veal in tuna-caper sauce, ravioli and stewed veal shanks.
GO: Visit www.mandarinoriental.com for reservations and 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 and Antonia Trattoria in Al Zeina. And, it has opened 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 reservations and more information.
Japanese Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2024
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 into 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 reservations and more information.
Favourite: Zuma in Al Maryah Island
Zuma has notched up multiple accolades at the FACT Dining Awards in Abu Dhabi. If it’s good enough for FACT’s Editor-in-Chief, it’s good enough for you. Follow his lead and order the chutoro tarutaru kyabia zoe of fatty tuna belly adorned with Oscietra caviar and slathered across a buttery miso bun. You won’t regret it.
GO: Visit https://zumarestaurant.com for reservations and more information.
Saturday Brunch – Casual Dining in Abu Dhabi 2024
Best: Sofra bld at Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi
Sofra bld is bringing it with its brunch. The Gardens of Babylon Brunch draws inspiration from the ancient city of Babylon. Taking place every Saturday, it includes a brimming buffet, signature cocktails and live performances. The live stations will keep you coming back for seconds.
GO: Visit www.shangri-la.com for reservations and more information.
Favourite: Sim Sim at Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas
Sim Sim is a hip and happening spot for brunch. The offering ranges from Asian to Middle Eastern dishes, and live stations where you can watch the chefs at work. The brunch was one of the first places to put premium packages in a premium area, so you can feel like a VIP.
GO: Visit www.rotana.com for reservations and more information.
Saturday Brunch – Fine Dining in Abu Dhabi 2024
Best: Zuma – 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 reservations and more information.
Favourite: Nahaam – 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.
GO: Follow @nahaam2.0 on Instagram for more information.
Homegrown Restaurant in Abu Dhabi 2024
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, we’d recommend visiting its new location in Zayed Port. The toppings range from popular pepperoni with garlic confit and spicy honey to kale and oyster mushrooms.
GO: Visit https://marmellatalove.com for more information.
Favourite: Montauk in Yas Mall
Check out Chef Mariam’s mastery of Emirati cuisine at Montauk. Situated in the heart of Abu Dhabi, the restaurant combines authentic Emirati flavours with global culinary influences. Renowned for its fantastic fusion cuisine, it offers an elevated take on traditional dishes.
GO: Follow @montaukabudhabi on Instagram for more information.
Newcomer in Abu Dhabi 2024
Best: TOTÓ Abu Dhabi in Mamsha Al Saadiyat
Sport and food might not sound like a catchy combination, but it appears to have worked for footballer Cristiano Ronaldo and tennis superstar Rafael Nadal. The pair are behind the capital’s latest culinary concept, TOTÓ Abu Dhabi. Located on Mamsha Al Saadiyat, it draws inspiration from the golden era of Italian cinematography with its homage to the legendary film Cinema Paradiso. The menu showcases fine dining Italian food, and includes pasta, pizza, meat and fish.
GO: Visit www.totorestaurants.com for more information.
Favourite: 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, smokehouse platters, sourdough pizzas, mains, sides and desserts.
GO: Visit https://brewery.ae for more information.
Restaurant of the Year in Abu Dhabi 2024
NIRI Restaurant & Bar at Mamsha Al Saadiyat
NIRI Restaurant & Bar was created by an experienced team that hails from some of the world’s best restaurants. The FACT team loves the fine-dining yakitori concept. So, take a seat at the sushi counter or highball bar, and prepare to be seriously impressed.
GO: Visit www.nirirestaurant.com for reservations and more information.
