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Nouveau Cuisine in Abu Dhabi
High End
Etoiles $$$$
Emirates Palace +971 2 690 9000
For those occasions where you want to have a glitzy evening, get dressed in your best threads, feel like a celeb, then Etoiles is the place to feel bling. The stunning décor is impressive and the food is equally satisfying too, which is surprising for a restaurant/club outlet. But this is the Emirates Palace so standards are high (as are the prices). Gourmet international cuisine such as salmon and crab cakes and tuna tartare are just some of the extensive dishes on the menu. Service is immaculate but sometimes a bit too attentive. Etoiles attracts those who like to dine amongst a glitzy ambience and adjacent to a dance floor. In the cooler months, try the terraced seating with amazing views of the Palace. Works well for parties and groups but perhaps not a marriage proposal.
Flavours $$$
Sheraton Abu Dhabi, +971 2 697 0262
If you are really stuck for choice, Flavours has to be one of the best international buffets in the city. It has great quality and the variety of food available throughout the day and different themed nights during the week. Their seafood selection is top notch and their sushi is made to order at one of their many open plan kitchens. The restaurant is airy and ample seating in their many dining areas and sofas overlooking the poolside area - not bad at all for the price.
Mid Range
Al Fanar, $$$
Le Royal Meridien, +971 2 674 2020
You can’t get more touristy with Abu Dhabi’s first revolving restaurant. Views are spectacular and a real treat for every visitor to the city. The level of food quality can be mixed, as on one occasion we had a great experience and on another, not so great. Portions can be on the small side and service is a bit slow, but for the sake of the views we had to give it a mention! Friday brunches are also available.
The Yacht Club $$
Intercontinental, Abu Dhabi +971 2 666 6888
Picture outdoor seating and boats glistening in the harbour and you instantly have holiday vibe. This funky venue serves up a variety of tasty international cuisines, mainly European and Pan Asian with a good selection for vegetarians. If you don’t fancy a full on meal, sit outside on their cosy sofas by the marina with cocktails, mocktails and snacks. The Yacht Club is open from noon for hearty lunch goers, but for late evening dinner slots, you may want to dress more smart then casual as the place becomes lively especially at the weekends when the glitterati attend in groups and a DJ plays late into the night.
Budget
Amassi $
Al Hana Tower, Khalidiya +971 2 681 0099
Located in Khalidiya, this seriously ‘no frills’ independent café/ restaurant serves up a variety of international flavours from European, Mexican , Japanese and more. The food is good, portions great and prices super. The only negatives are service, which is incredibly slow and the non-hotel vibe. So if you’re not in a hurry and keen to try an independent eatery, give Amassi a go, it’s hardly a no-brainer when it comes to the money!
Grapeshisha Choice
Al Fanr $$
Manarat Al Saadiyat +971 2 673 5290
Al Fanr is a fantastic little find of a restaurant. Not to be confused with Al Fanar, the rotating restaurant in Le Royal Meridien, Al Fanr is located at the exhibition of Manarat al Saadiyat, this Arabic themed café type restaurant produces some of the freshest food in Abu Dhabi. Great for lunch or even breakfast, you will feel refreshed after eating in this airy restaurant. It’s a shame that this restaurant closes at 8pm, or we would be there all the time. Make sure you save some room for dessert. The Date and Toffee Pudding is to die for.