Discover the Best Authentic Emirati Food in Abu Dhabi
Looking for authentic Emirati cuisine in Abu Dhabi? From slow-simmered machboos to sweet, comforting aseeda, the city offers plenty of ways to discover traditional Emirati food. Whether you prefer a heritage dining room that feels like an Emirati home or a modern bistro putting a fresh spin on classic recipes, this guide highlights some of the best restaurants for a memorable meal with family and friends.
Meylas Emirati Restaurant:
Emirati Cuisine in a Homely Setting
Location: Al raha, Al muneera, Abu Dhabi
Price: 150.50 aed
Waiting time / Queue: 0 minutes
Food arrival time: 12
View the menu on the official Meylas website
Our Review and opinion of our experience:
Positive : There was no queue, and the wait between ordering and arrival was 12 min, which was relatively short. We ordered chicken machboos; the portion size is good for 2-3 people, making it extremely satisfying and filling. The traditional atmosphere made for a more authentic and comforting experience.
Negative : No comment.
Overall, what stood out at Meylas was the combination of generous portions and comforting surroundings. The chicken machboos was enough for us to share. It felt like a relaxed family meal.
The embroidered cushions and wooden furniture added to this feeling. The traditional setting made our meal feel more special. We enjoyed taking in the décor while sharing a filling meal.
Al Mrzab Traditional Restaurant
Location: Airport Road, behind the National Theatre – Abu Dhabi
Price: 65 aed
Waiting time / Queue: 30-50 minutes
Food arrival time: 5-7 minutes
Find more information on Al Mrzab’s Facebook page
Our Review and opinion of our experience:
Positive : We ordered chicken machboos, which arrived within 3–5 minutes. The dish tasted delicious, and the portion was enough for two people.
As soon as we sat down, the staff served complimentary saffron water and dates. In addition, the machboos came with hot sauces and ma’buj.
Finally, the welcoming staff and traditional furniture made the restaurant feel warm and nostalgic. It felt as though we had stepped back in time.
Negative : However, the main drawback was the queue. During our visit, we waited approximately 45 minutes to an hour outside before getting a table.
The welcome at Al Mrzab was one of the most memorable parts of our visit. After waiting outside, sitting down to complimentary dates and saffron water felt especially thoughtful. These small touches helped us settle in and enjoy the meal.
We also enjoyed trying the machboos with the different sauces served alongside it. However, anyone choosing this restaurant should consider the queue. The food arrived quickly once we ordered, but getting a table took much longer.
Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe
Location: The Fountains, Yas Mall – Yas Island – YS1 – Abu Dhabi
Price: 95 aed
Waiting time / Queue: 0 minutes.
Food arrival time: 20-30 minutes.
Explore the menu on the official Al Fanar website.
Our Review and opinion of our experience:
Positive : The food was delicious, especially their desserts, for which they are known.
The restaurant had a traditional atmosphere. The portion was enough for two people, and the setting was welcoming for families.
Negative : Despite the low number of customers, the food took a long time to come out. We struggled to find a waiter when we needed something.
Al Fanar had a traditional atmosphere. A camel figure and an old vehicle stood outside.
Inside, the décor felt warm and welcoming for families. We also enjoyed the aseeda, a traditional Emirati dessert served with ice cream. We enjoyed ending our meal with something different after the chicken machboos.
Erth Restaurant Al Hosn: A Modern Take on Emirati Cuisine
Location: North Parking – Qasr Al Hosn – Hamdan Bin Mohammed St – Al Hisn – W3 – Abu Dhabi
Price: 220 aed
Waiting time/ Queue: 0 minutes
Food arrival time: 40 minutes
Visit the official Erth website for menus and reservations
Erth also features in our guide to Michelin-starred restaurants in Abu Dhabi. Explore the guide for more dining options across the city.
Our Review and opinion of our experience:
Positive : The food tasted delicious and looked beautiful on the plate. The vibe of the restaurant was warm yet elegant. The service was fantastic; they were always there to help. The place was extremely warm and welcoming; the waiters constantly cleaned the table between courses.
Negative : The prices are high for the small portions. The restaurant was also a little hard to find, and reaching it required walking outdoors.
Erth offered a different atmosphere from the more traditional restaurants we visited. Its natural textures, cushioned seating, and courtyard views created an elegant setting. The careful presentation of the food added to the experience.
The attentive service also stood out. Staff remained available throughout our meal and cleared the table between courses.We would choose Erth for a special occasion. However, the prices are high, and the portions
